Though Wi-Fi boosters and Wi-Fi extenders are used to improve Wi-Fi signal coverage, they are completely different. They are designed differently as well as function differently. So, you should choose them carefully.

Many people pick any of the two options as their objectives are the same. But you shouldn’t do this. With the wrong selection, you and your organization might suffer severely.

Why do people do this? It’s because they don’t know the difference between a WiFi booster and a WiFi extender. In this post, we will discuss the differences to help you make the right selection.

What is a Wi-Fi booster?

Also known as a wireless range extender, a Wi-Fi booster is used for modification in the range of Wi-Fi networks. It is established on the Wi-Fi router and not between the Wi-Fi router and the user device. The Wi-Fi booster is used as an antenna in the Wi-Fi router, extending the range of the network and making it more powerful.

How do Wi-Fi boosters work?

The booster receives the signal from the router and transmits it at a higher power, extending the reach of the signal. Other than this, the booster improves the quality of the signal and makes it more reliable and less likely to drop out. This is an invaluable tool if you want to improve your WiFi coverage.

What is a Wi-Fi extender?

As a networking device, a Wi-Fi extender is used to extend the range of the already connected Wi-Fi network. The extender is basically used when there is a drop in the signal of the network. When installed, the extender increases the amplification of signals. For using an extender, is established between the Wi-Fi router and the user’s device. It works by strengthening the signals coming from the router whenever the signal is down.

How do Wi-Fi extenders work?

The extender receives the signal from the router and amplifies it before transmitting it back to the router. This extends the reach of the signal and improves coverage in your coverage. Other than this, the Wi-Fi extender improves the connection speed and reduces interference from other devices. If you want a tool to get the most out of your wireless network, choose a Wi-Fi extender.

When should you use a Wi-Fi booster/extender?

• When there is no Wi-Fi signal in some areas of your organization
• When Wi-Fi speed in some areas of your organization is low
• When you want the fastest Wi-Fi possible
• When your organization is large
• When you want Wi-Fi outside

Differences between Wi-Fi booster and Wi-Fi extender

1. Role of the devices: A Wi-Fi booster extends the range of Wi-Fi networks by eliminating dead spots to reach the signals to the destination, while a Wi-Fi extender extends the range of the existing Wi-Fi network by increasing the signal strength to reach the destination.
2. Placement of the devices: A Wi-Fi booster is established on the Wi-Fi router, while a Wi-Fi extender is established between the Wi-Fi router and the user’s device.
3. Places to use the devices: A Wi-Fi booster is used in large organizations for range improvement, while a Wi-Fi extender is used in private organizations for range improvement.
4. Primary location of the devices: A Wi-Fi booster is used where Wi-Fi signals reach but are weak, while a Wi-Fi extender is used where Wi-Fi signals cannot reach at all.
5. Speed offered by the devices: A Wi-Fi booster offers faster speed and supports more devices at once, while a Wi-Fi extender provides less speed than a Wi-Fi booster.
6. Cost of devices: A Wi-Fi booster is less costly as it is easy to install, while a Wi-Fi extender is costlier as its establishment is very complex.
7. Result of using the devices: the Wi-Fi booster transforms the existing coax cabling into a quick, dependable network connection with increased signal strength, while the Wi-Fi extender doesn’t strengthen the signal but amplifies it.

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What are the Top 3 Wi-Fi boosters and Wi-Fi extenders?

Wi-Fi boosters

• TP-Link Archer T4U Plus USB Wireless Network Adapter—Best USB Wi-Fi booster
• Netgear EX7300 Wi-Fi range extender—best dual-band Wi-Fi booster 
• TP-Link Omada EAP225 Outdoor Access Point—Best outdoor Wi-Fi booster

Wi-Fi extenders

• TP-Link RE605X: Overall best extender 
• D-Link Eagle Pro AI: Best balance of performance and value-giving extender
• Asus RP-AX56: Great performing extender

What should you consider before buying a Wi-Fi booster and Wi-Fi extender?

Now, you very well know the difference between a Wi-Fi booster and a Wi-Fi extender. Next, it’s time to make a choice. If required, you can have both in your organization. But, truly speaking, it will be a waste of money. So, you should pick one of the best options between the two.

• The first factor to consider when choosing the device is the range you need to cover. If your organization is large, opt for a Wi-Fi extender. It will extend the range of your existing network without the need to boost the signal. But if your organization is small, choose a Wi-Fi booster.
• The second factor to consider is the speed of your internet connection. If the speed of your internet connection is high, you should choose a Wi-Fi extender. It will make sure that your devices are taking full advantage of your connection.
• The third and last factor is the cost of the device. If you are concerned about the cost, choose a Wi-Fi booster as it is comparatively cheaper than a Wi-Fi extender. On the other hand, choose a Wi-Fi extender if money is the issue.

Author: TechBlonHub

As a passionate blogger, I'm thrilled to share my expertise, insights, and enthusiasm with you. I believe that technical knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. That's why I take the time to craft detailed, well-researched content that's easy to follow, even for non-tech. I love hearing from you, answering your questions, and learning from your experiences. Your feedback helps me create content that's tailored to your needs and interests