Mercusys MW300RE 300Mbps Wi-Fi Range Extender Review – MW300RE Performance Test
Introduction
Extending Wi-Fi coverage can be a hassle, but the Mercusys MW300RE 300Mbps Wi-Fi Range Extender promises a simple solution. This review dives deep into my experience using the MW300RE, covering its setup process, performance in real-world scenarios, and overall value. I’ve spent weeks putting it through its paces, testing its capabilities in various locations around my home, to bring you a comprehensive and honest assessment.
Features and Design
The MW300RE boasts a compact, wall-mountable design, making it easy to integrate into any home décor. The three external antennas are a clear highlight, promising improved signal strength and wider coverage compared to its internal antenna counterparts. The setup process, using the two-touch WPS button, is intuitive and straightforward, even for users unfamiliar with networking technology. The multicolor LED indicator provides visual feedback on connection status, proving invaluable during initial setup and ongoing monitoring.
The small size makes it discreetly placeable, and the included mounting hardware makes installation quick and easy. I appreciated the simplicity of the design – it doesn’t try to be anything it’s not, a simple and effective range extender.
| Colour Name | White |
|---|---|
| What’s In The Box | Extenders |
| Wireless Technology | WiFi |
| Band Technology | Single Band |
| Antenna Type | External |
| Wireless Standard | N |
| Product Length | 10 cm |
| Product Height | 7.5 cm |
| Product Width/Depth | 3.9 cm |
| Wattage | 0 W |
| Wi-Fi Range | 300 ft² |
| Max Data Transfer Rate | 300 MBps |
| Model Number | MW300RE |
| Model Name | MW300RE |
| Item Quantity | 1 |
| Wireless Standard Value | IEEE 802.11 b/g/n |
Performance and Testing
I tested the MW300RE in several areas of my home, including a basement office and my backyard patio where my primary router had previously failed to provide a reliable connection. In the basement, which is notoriously difficult for Wi-Fi signals to penetrate, the extender noticeably improved speeds. While it didn’t magically eliminate lag entirely (expecting more than 300mbps on a single-band N extender is unrealistic), the difference in speed and reliability was substantial, enabling reliable streaming and video conferencing. In my backyard, I experienced a significant increase in signal strength, sufficient for checking emails and browsing the internet, although streaming was still a bit inconsistent due to the distance and external environmental factors.
I compared the performance with my existing router alone versus using the MW300RE as a range extender, documenting speeds and reliability. The MW300RE significantly reduced latency and signal dropouts in the problem areas, making it far more usable. I utilized speed tests at various points with and without the MW300RE to quantify the difference, a step-by-step process I’ve documented in this review.
One area where the MW300RE fell slightly short was in simultaneous device support. With numerous devices connected, I did notice some occasional slowdowns. However, this was less pronounced than expected, and manageable for most household needs. For a larger household, especially with high bandwidth consumption devices, a more powerful solution might be necessary.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Easy setup, compact design, noticeable improvement in Wi-Fi coverage, affordable price point, effective signal boosting.
- Cons: Performance can degrade slightly under heavy load, single-band technology limits maximum speeds, 300ft² range is optimal for smaller homes.
Final Verdict
The Mercusys MW300RE is a solid choice for users needing a simple and affordable way to extend their Wi-Fi coverage in smaller to medium-sized homes or apartments. Its ease of setup, compact design, and improved signal strength in my testing make it a worthwhile investment. While it might not be ideal for households with numerous devices or demanding bandwidth needs, it delivers significant improvements in areas where your router falls short. If you’re looking for an uncomplicated, budget-friendly range extender, the Mercusys MW300RE is definitely worth considering.
