TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450) Review: PCMag Editor’s Choice – Up to 1750Mbps
Table of Contents
Introduction
Extending your Wi-Fi network’s reach can be a game-changer, especially in larger homes or areas with poor signal penetration. The TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450), a PCMag Editor’s Choice winner, promises to deliver just that. Over the past few weeks, I’ve thoroughly tested the RE450 in my own home, putting it through its paces to determine if it lives up to the hype. This review will detail my experience, exploring its performance, features, and overall value.
Features and Design
The RE450 boasts a sleek, compact design, making it unobtrusive in any setting. Its three adjustable external antennas offer excellent flexibility in optimizing signal reception and transmission. Setup was surprisingly easy, thanks to TP-Link’s intuitive Tether app. The app allows for easy configuration, network management, and monitoring of signal strength. The inclusion of a Gigabit Ethernet port is a significant advantage, allowing you to connect wired devices such as a smart TV or gaming console for a more stable connection. The signal strength indicator lights are also a helpful feature, guiding you towards the optimal placement for maximum coverage.
| Colour Name | White |
|---|---|
| Connection Type | Wireless |
| Wireless Technology | WiFi |
| Band Technology | Dual Band |
| Connector Type | RJ45 |
| Antenna Type | External |
| Wireless Standard | AC |
| Features | Personal, Business, Indicator Lights, Ergonomic |
| Model Number | RE450 |
| Model Name | RE450 |
| Item Quantity | 1 |
| Wireless Standard Value | 802.11 |
Performance
I tested the RE450 in various locations within my home, experiencing significant improvements in signal strength and speed in areas previously plagued by weak Wi-Fi. The dual-band capabilities (2.4GHz and 5GHz) ensured optimal performance for various devices. Streaming 4K video and online gaming experienced a noticeable improvement with minimal buffering or lag. Even in areas furthest from my router, I maintained consistently strong signal strength, eliminating those frustrating dead zones. The Gigabit Ethernet port also proved invaluable, providing a rock-solid connection for my gaming console, completely eliminating any lag issues I’d previously experienced.
While performance was largely impressive, I did notice a slight reduction in overall speed compared to a direct connection to the router. This is expected with any range extender and wasn’t significant enough to be a major concern in my case. Overall, speed performance met expectations for its advertised range and capabilities.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Easy setup, strong signal boost, dual-band capabilities, Gigabit Ethernet port, attractive design, reliable performance for most applications.
- Cons: Slight speed reduction compared to direct router connection (as expected with extenders), occasional minor connection drops in areas with heavy interference.
Final Verdict
The TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450) is a reliable and effective solution for extending your Wi-Fi network’s reach. Its ease of use, strong performance, and helpful features make it a compelling choice for most users. While a small speed reduction compared to a direct connection is expected, the overall benefits far outweigh this minor drawback. I would confidently recommend the RE450 to anyone looking to improve their Wi-Fi coverage and eliminate dead zones. Its PCMag Editor’s Choice award is well-deserved.
