Reasons Not to Use Mesh Wi-Fi

1. Maybe You Just Need a Better Router

Image Credit: TP-Link

Mesh routers come into their own when your house is larger than 1,500 square feet or multi-storied. Anything smaller than that (say a studio apartment), you’re better off with an old-fashioned single router setup. If your current router is proving troublesome even in a small area, consider upgrading to something like TP-Link Archer C7. It’s a dual-band, three-stream 802.11ac router that has amazing range and it’s under $90. A fraction of the cost of a mesh router starters kit.

2. They’re Still Quite Expensive

You’ll get an awesome standalone Wi-Fi router from TP-Link or Netgear for around $100. Eero’s starter pack is $399 (three units), Google Wifi is $299 (three units), and Netgear Orbi is $399 (two units). That’s a significant cost. Worth it if spotty Wi-Fi coverage is getting in the way of your productivity. Not so much if the worst thing that happens is you lose a bar when you’re out in the backyard.

3. They’re Not Exactly Pro Tools

If you’re a power user who wants complete control over their own network, including customization tools, the current crop of mesh networks aren’t for you. You’d be better off creating your own multi-device wireless system using high-end routers and repeaters. While mesh routers are faster and more reliable than single router setups, they still don’t hold a candle against a wired network solution. They usually lack a web configuration tool and rely solely on mobile apps.

Image Credit: UniFi

Then there’s a crop of (similarly priced) enterprise level multi-device wireless routers from Ubiquitithat the Ars Technica writers have taken a liking towards for their reliability and customization options. You connect each unit using Ethernet and they provide their own Wi-Fi coverage in their own area. So the actual internet connection isn’t traveling through three connecting devices — it’s coming straight from the Ethernet port, no matter where you are.

Recommended Mesh Wi-Fi Routers

eero Home WiFi System — The router that started it all is still the reviewer’s darling. The entire setup and user experience is thoughtfully designed, it’s extensible and the networking is reliable.

Google Wifi — Google Wifi is similar to Eero and a bit cheaper. The satellites are quite small and fashionable enough that you won’t mind having them up on display in your living room. If you’re all into Google’s ecosystem, it makes sense to go with Google Wifi. In future, it’s bound to receive features that will make it work better with Android, Chromecast, and Google Home.

Orbi Home WiFi System — Netgear Orbi is not as sexy as Eero or Google Wifi and its starter kit only comes with two satellites. But what’s interesting about Orbi is its tri-band system. Other than the two frequencies for internet access, it has another that’s just for the mesh network. Which means that while Orbi satellites are talking to each other, strengthening your Wi-Fi system, it’s not actually taking away from available internet bandwidth.

Mesh Wi-Fi is big on potential, as well as internet coverage. Mesh offers a realistic Wi-Fi solution for large houses, and while the initial outlay is somewhat eye-watering, it represents a good choice for basic and advanced users.