RouterFreak Reviews, Tips and Tools for Network Engineers
If you want to extend the coverage of your network at home or in your workplace, consider investing in a Wireless Access Point (WAP).
The best wireless access point operates using the WiFi 6 standard, offering coverage of at least 2,000 sq. ft, connecting to a minimum of 200 devices, and being compatible with a WAP ecosystem.
WAPs work similarly to WiFi extenders in that they provide a new local network for users to access, but crucially, they connect to the main router using a wired connection.
This improves local network performance, as the wired connection provides access to low-latency bandwidth.
WAPs are the optimal choice for network extension when you have a specific area in your home or workplace with weak or no access to the main network.
Our top choice for the best wireless access point is the Ubiquiti UniFi nanoHD. It is a Wave 2 4x4 MU-MIMO AC1200 wireless access point that can be powered using an 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE) source and comes with one Gigabit port. You can utilize the free UniFi Network Controller software (versions are available for Linux, macOS, and Windows) to manage the UniFi nanoHD, as Ubiquiti focuses on software-defined networks.
The Netgear WAX630E is equipped with the latest WiFi 6E technology that delivers ultrafast tri-band speeds of up to 7.8 Gbps. The new 6 GHz band offers more capacity for the latest high-performance WiFi 6E devices. It provides a coverage of up to 3000 sq. ft. and can support up to 456 client devices at the same time.
The TP-Link Omada EAP670 is an affordable access point that is equipped with the latest WiFi 6 technology which delivers up to 5.3 Gbps and uses both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands for demanding multi-user scenarios. Additionally, WiFi 6 features MU-MIMO and OFDMA which handles several clients across congested environments like hotels, office spaces, SMB businesses, and apartments.
As long as you can connect the WAP to the router via an Ethernet or network cable, you are good to go.
Our team of network engineers tested 21 different WAPs and narrowed down the choices to the top 7 products available in 2024.
Best Wireless Access Point (2024)
- Best Overall: Ubiquiti UniFi nanoHD
- Best WiFi 6E Access Point: Netgear WAX630E
- Budget Friendly: TP-Link Omada EAP670
- Best For Home Use: Ubiquiti UniFi FlexHD
- Best For Outdoors: TP-Link Omada EAP610
- Easy Setup: EnGenius EWS377
- Basic Wireless Access Point: TRENDnet TEW-823DAP
The reviews come with an explanation of their design, performance, user recommendation, advantages, disadvantages, and specifications of the WAPs.
The right access point for your internet needs should be easy to install, and provide you with better signals, flexibility, management, speed, and enough coverage.
Each review is also put in categories such as budget-friendly, home use, WiFi 6E, outdoors, and easy to set up.
1. Ubiquiti UniFi Nano HD (Editor’s Choice)
Design
The Ubiquiti UniFi nanoHD is a Wave 2 4*4 MU-MIMO AC1200 wireless access point that can be powered using an 802.3af Power over Ethernet source and comes with one Gigabit port.
You can use the free UniFi Network Controller software (versions are available for Linux, macOS, and Windows) to manage the UniFi nanoHD as Ubiquiti focuses on software-defined networks.
Performance
The Ubiquiti UniFi Nano HD comes with the best performance and better coverage for your devices.
The UNC dashboard shows all connected guests and clients, APS, and an overall percentage score for client WiFi experience.
Also, you can add a variety of wireless analysis and performance widgets with UNC providing no less than 35 to choose from.
The Settings page gives you access to all wireless management where you can create guest networks and add SSIDs.
There are extensive Captive portal features such as customizing the landing page and implementing card payment, voucher, Google, or WeChat authorization using the Hotspot option.
You should consider the UniFi Security Gateway (USG) and Ubiquiti’s PoE switches to get the best UniFi experience. The Switch allows you to power your WAP and monitor power draw and port usage.
The USG enables the UNC console to report on provider, gateway, and internet usage.
You can configure the firewall using custom rules and also perform deep packet inspection, app usage reporting, and intrusion prevention.
Who It’s For
The Ubiquiti UniFi Nano HD is recommended for individuals looking for a WiFi access point that delivers stunning wireless performance, classy features, free management, and top value.
Specs
- Speed: 2100 Mbps
- Wireless Standard: 11ac
- Range: 3000 sq. ft.
- Number of Supported Devices: 200 + concurrent users
- Ports: 1
Pros
- Great speeds.
- Impressive cloud-based management software.
- Great value.
- Extensive coverage.
- Advanced security features
Cons
- You need additional hardware investment to get the best out of it.
2. Netgear WAX630E (Best WiFi 6E Access Point)
Design
The Netgear WAX630E is equipped with the latest WiFi 6E technology that delivers ultrafast tri-band speeds of up to 7.8 Gbps.
The new 6 GHz band offers more capacity for the latest high-performance WiFi 6E devices.
The WAX630E provides coverage of up to 3000 sq. ft. and can support up to 456 client devices at the same time.
Performance
The Netgear WAX630E comes with a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port to achieve maximum speeds and create the fastest connections between the Netgear Switch and Access Point.
Additionally, you can use the 1G Ethernet port to connect wired devices for stable and strong connections.
The MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies enable you to stream more devices at the same time without interruption while the Beamforming technology concentrates the strength of the signal for better connections.
You can power the WAX630E using the optional PAV12V35 power adapter which is sold separately or have a simplified deployment using the PoE++.
When we tested the Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection, it worked effectively and was easy to set up.
The Netgear Insight app helps you to easily set up, configure, and control the WAX630E. You can remotely manage your network from anywhere using the 1-year free NETGEAR Insight subscription.
It comes with flexible mounting hardware which enables you to securely install it on a suspended ceiling or the wall.
The enterprise-level security allows you to set up to 8 WiFi SSIDs, control VLAN separately for each SSID, and protect your network using the latest WPA3 security standard.
Who It’s For
The Netgear WAX630E is ideal for users who own a router that operates WiFi 6E and are looking to extend the network at home or in the workplace.
Specs
- Speed: 7800 Mbps
- Wireless Standard: 11ax
- Range: 3000 sq. ft.
- Number of Supported Devices: 456 client devices
- Ports: 2
Pros
- Reliable performance.
- Excellent coverage.
- WiFi 6E support.
- Great web local interface.
- Plenty of AP-related features.
Cons
- Bulky design.
3. TP-Link Omada EAP670 (Budget Friendly)
Design
The TP-Link Omada EAP670 is equipped with the latest WiFi 6 technology which delivers up to 5.3 Gbps and uses both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands for demanding multi-user scenarios.
Additionally, WiFi 6 features MU-MIMO and OFDMA which handles several clients across congested environments like hotels, office spaces, SMB businesses, and apartments.
Since the EAP670 supports the 802.3at Power over Ethernet, you do not need to install extra wiring, just plug in the current Ethernet cables and you are ready to go.
Performance
The 2.5G Ethernet port with PoE makes installing the TP-Link EAP670 easy. Additionally, the port boosts the total internet throughput and delivers exceptional multi-gig performance for better, faster WiFi.
The EAP670 has a refined industrial design which makes installation easy with two easy steps: push up, rotate and it gets locked in place.
The Omada SDN controller allows you to use the Omada Mesh technology to expand the WiFi signal wirelessly instead of using redundant cabling. Additionally, the mesh technology optimizes the best path between WAPs.
Seamless roaming automatically switches your devices to the WAP with the best signal even when you are moving. This enables sensitive applications such as video conferences and VoIP to go uninterrupted.
The Omada app and Remote Cloud access create centralized management for your whole home network and allow you to control different sites using a single interface.
Omada SDN uses a Cloud-Based controller, Software controller, or Hardware controller to integrate various network devices like switches, gateways, and access points.
The EAP670 features advanced wireless tech including Load Balancing, Beamforming technologies, Airtime Fairness, and Band Steering.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link Omada EAP670 is recommended for users who are looking for an access point that is affordable but still comes with high-end features and better performance.
Specs
- Speed: 5400 Mbps
- Wireless Standard: 11ax
- Range: Up to 3000 sq. ft.
- Number of Supported Devices: Up to 70
- Ports: 1
Pros
- Easy to install.
- Has QoS for device prioritization.
- Has a multi-gig port.
- Faster WiFi speeds.
- Handles more devices.
Cons
- Security issues.
4. Ubiquiti UniFi FlexHD (Best For Home Use)
Design
The Ubiquiti UniFi FlexHD has a sleek, small design and compact form factor making it easy to be deployed outdoors or indoors.
The flexible mounting options enable it to be deployed on ceilings, poles, walls, and tabletops.
The UniFi AP FlexHD is equipped with the 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology which allows it to communicate with multiple clients simultaneously, hence significantly increasing the overall user experience and multi-user throughput.
Performance
The Ubiquiti UniFi FlexHD has a nondedicated software controller that can be deployed on a Linux machine, Mac, or an on-site PC: in a public cloud service or a private cloud.
Additionally, you have the option of using the built-in software to deploy the compact UniFi Cloud Key.
The intuitive UniFi controller software enables you to manage and configure your APs using a user interface that is easy to learn.
It only takes five minutes to install the UniFi FlexHD as there is a quick-start wizard that helps you to secure administrator access, create wireless networks, and provision APs.
We tested the UniFi interface and were impressed with its simplicity and capacity to easily manage the WAPs.
The free centralized cloud management allows you to add your UNC hosts to the online portal after you have created your account.
You can browse all your access points and access their respective web consoles with just one click.
The unlimited scalability of the UniFi FlexHD enables you to build a wireless network as small or as big as needed.
Begin with one (or upgrade to a three-pack) and expand to hundreds but still maintain one unified management system.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a wireless access point that is suitable for home use, the Ubiquiti UniFi FlexHD is the option for you as it offers lots of deployment options and has free wireless management services.
Specs
- Speed: 2100 Mbps
- Wireless Standard: 11ac
- Range: 1800 sq. ft.
- Number of Supported Devices: 250+ devices
- Ports: 1
Pros
- Supports multiple streaming.
- Increases the overall throughput.
- The user interface is easy to learn and use.
- Powerful hardware.
- Has flexible mounting options.
- Clever compact design.
Cons
- Issues when powering it.
5. TP-Link Omada EAP610 (Best For Outdoors)
Design
The TP-Link Omada EAP610 is designed with the latest WiFi 6 technology featuring OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and 1024-QAM for improved, multi-device performance.
It can achieve internet speeds of up to 1800 Mbps and uses both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for demanding multi-user scenarios.
The EAP610 is designed for both indoor and outdoor use.
The IP67 weatherproof enclosure is durable to protect the EAP610 from harsh outdoor conditions and comes with dedicated high-gain antennas for higher performance, longer coverage, and lower interference.
Also, the discreet appearance makes it perfect to be used indoors.
Performance
You can use the TP-Link Omada EAP610 to extend the coverage of your current wireless by repeating the wireless signal using the WiFi Range Extender mode. This can be set up using the Omada app or standalone mode.
Omada’s SDN (Software Defined Networking) platform uses the various control options provided including Omada cloud-based controller, Omada software controller, or Omada hardware controller to integrate network devices such as gateways, switches, and access points.
Omada app and remote Cloud access allows for centralized cloud management of the entire network from different sites which can be controlled from one interface anytime, anywhere.
The EAP610 supports advanced wireless tech including seamless roaming, Mesh WiFi, load balancing, band steering, Beamforming technologies, and Airtime Fairness.
It supports both 802.3at PoE and 48V/0.5A Passive PoE power supply and can either be powered by the provided PoE adapter or a PoE+ switch, making deployment flexible and effortless.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link Omada EAP610 is suitable for users looking for a wireless access point for the outdoors as it can be used in standalone mode to provide long-range coverage outside your home.
Specs
- Speed: 1800 Mbps
- Wireless Standard: 11ax
- Range: 2200 sq. ft.
- Number of Supported Devices: 150+ devices
- Ports: 1
Pros
- Has flexible mounting options.
- Low interference and higher performance.
- Long-range coverage.
- Ultra-fast internet speeds.
- Designed for the outdoors.
Cons
- Issues with the firmware.
6. EnGenius EWS377 (Easy Setup)
Design
The EnGenius EWS377 features the dual concurrent 802.11ax architecture and is backward-compatible with 11ax/a/b/g/n client devices. It supports up to 1148 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 2400 Mbps in the 5 GHz band.
The 2.5 GbE supports 802.3at and 48V Power over Ethernet input for flexible installation over 100 meters and achieves greater throughput.
Performance
The EnGenius EW377 has a downlink and uplink of OFDMA which improves transmission to client devices and APs as well as a downlink and uplink MU-MIMO for reception reliability and optimal signal for up to 2 devices.
Beamforming technology concentrates signals for better performance and the 1024 QAM significantly increases the throughput of the access point.
The VLAN ensures that there is improved network segmentation for secure data isolation and transmission, resulting in protection against unauthorized access.
The WPA3 provides 192-bit key-based encryption for protection against brutal force attack, and offline attacks, and improve the security of your WiFi.
The Instant App Alert offers real-time notifications for network abnormalities, enabling proactive management and immediate response.
While testing the product, this feature proved very helpful in identifying network issues.
On-Prem management keeps the data within the physical infrastructure, ensuring security, compliance, control, and integration.
If you have a small business, FitXpress provides you with streamlined and essential cloud network management tools.
The visualized diagnostic tools enable non-tech-savvy users to easily manage and monitor their network.
The EW377 is easy to set up as you just need to power the device, connect to the router for internet connection, and scan the QR code of your smartphone to get onboard.
Who It’s For
The EnGenius EW377 is suitable for users who are looking for a wireless access point that is easy to set using simple instructions. It is recommended for individuals who do not have much tech information.
Specs
- Speed: 3600 Mbps
- Wireless Standard: 11ax
- Range: 2000 sq. ft.
- Number of Supported Devices: 200+ devices
- Ports: 1
Pros
- Powerful and reliable connections.
- Has improved throughput.
- Better security features.
- Easy to set up, control, and manage.
- Allows for simultaneous streaming.
Cons
- The web interface is very basic.
7. TRENDnet TEW-823DAP (Basic Wireless Access Point)
Design
The concurrent 400 Mbps WiFi N and 867 Mbps WiFi AC combined with Repeater and Access Point modes enable the TRENDnet TEW-823DAP to support multiple applications.
The 802.11k delivers a WiFi roaming environment that is more efficient by transferring mobile clients off to the next best access point and intelligently managing neighboring WAPs.
The 802.11r allows for seamless and fast transition by pre-authenticating the WiFi clients with neighboring WAPs.
Performance
The TRENDnet TEW-823DAP features MU-MIMO technology which enhances the WiFi performance when several devices are connected to the network by processing multiple streams of data at the same time.
The MU-MIMO antenna technology extends the wireless coverage of this access point.
The Gigabit Power over Ethernet LAN port ensures that your devices have high-performance connections to the wired network.
Additionally, the PoE support saves setup costs and installation time by delivering data and power over one set of cables.
To ensure that your network is safe and secure, the TEW-823DAP supports the latest WPA3 wireless encryption.
The band steering seamlessly transitions wireless devices between the 5 GHz band and 2.4 GHz bands to eliminate network congestion.
The low-profile design makes this access point blend easily into most environments.
It comes with ceiling and wall mounting plates which makes installation easy.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a basic wireless access point that can deliver better WiFi performance and extensive coverage, the TRENDnet TEW-823DAP is for you.
Specs
- Speed: 1300 Mbps
- Wireless Standard: 11ac
- Range: 1500 sq. ft.
- Number of Supported Devices: 75+ devices
- Ports: 1
Pros
- Better performance.
- Good security features.
- Built for busy environments.
- Faster and reliable speed.
- Has Power over Ethernet support.
Cons
- Requires lots of rebooting to reconnect to clients.
Factors To Consider When Looking For The Best WiFi Access Point
WiFi Speed
When scanning the market for the best WAP, the WiFi speed is a key consideration. WiFi speed is largely dictated by the WiFi standard built into the AP. The most common standards available for APs are WiFi 5, 6, 6E, and 7.
WiFi 5 (802.11ac) WAPs are universally compatible with client devices as the standard has been available since 2014. WiFi 5 WAPs are best valued on lower-speed internet plans of 500 Mbps and below.
WiFi 6 (802.11ax) WAPs offer faster speeds, technological advancements such as MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and Beamforming, and are equipped to handle gigabit internet plans.
This is due to the increased channel bandwidth of 320 MHz, which allows for faster data transmission.
WiFi 6E (802.11ax) offers a theoretical speed of up to 10 Gbps due to the addition of the 6 GHz frequency band which offers minimal interruption and vast data transfer capacity.
The downside is that WiFi 6E WAPs are only compatible with a WiFi 6E router and compatible client devices.
WiFi 7 is the latest and greatest WiFi standard with compatible WAPs now being released. WiFi 7 offers an incredible theoretical speed of up to 40 Gbps.
There are not many client devices currently compatible with this standard, but WiFi 7 WAPs are also backward compatible with WiFi 6 and WiFi 5.
Wireless Coverage & Range
Possibly the main reason for purchasing a WAP is to improve the network coverage to reach all areas of your home.
Reviewing the coverage of individual WAPs is crucial to ensure you get the right product for your home setup.
The coverage advertised on a specific product is theoretical and does not factor in various nuances within the home that can impact the coverage.
Generally, WAPs should reach up to 2,000 sq. ft in coverage, provided they are installed in a location where there is minimal interference or obstructions.
We recommend installing the device on the ceiling to achieve the best possible coverage.
Coverage is also dependent on the frequency band available; the lower the frequency band the better the coverage. For example, the 2.4 GHz frequency offers the best coverage while the 6 GHz band offers the weakest coverage.
If you are having coverage issues, changing the frequency band you are connected to may improve the performance.
Number Of Access Points Needed
For the majority of homes and workplaces, investing in one WAP will be sufficient to enable coverage to every corner of the location.
In these cases, simply choose the WiFi standard and features you prefer and ensure they align with your router.
Most WAPs require individual unit management which should be manageable if you only have a single unit.
For these cases, it is preferable to have a locally managed setup, rather than needing to log into a web portal to manage it remotely.
Managing individual WAPs from different brands can be a pain so try to avoid this setup if you want multiple WAPs.
Instead, you should opt for products that operate with an ecosystem so that you can centrally manage it. Good ecosystem WAP setups include the UniFi from Ubiquiti or Omada from TP-Link.
While other ecosystems are available, the advantage of these ecosystems is that no ongoing subscription is required.
WiFi Access Point vs Mesh System vs WiFi Extenders
WAPs, mesh systems, and WiFi extenders are all options to improve network coverage at home.
WAPs create an isolated WiFi network to which users connect. The network is created by connecting the WAP to the router via an ethernet or network cable.
Through this wired connection, the WAP can access low-latency bandwidth and transmit fast and reliable signals.
However, establishing the wired connection can be a pain and users have to log in to the network separately from the main network.
Mesh systems create a seamless WiFi network throughout the home by connecting a main router to nodes (satellites) which are then strategically placed throughout the home.
The AI-mesh technology hands off connections between devices based on the user’s location to ensure are always accessing the nearest WiFi access point. The downside is that mesh systems are pricey and can be complex to set up.
WiFi extenders are the most affordable and simplest solution to extending WiFi coverage at home. These devices need to be plugged in and then connected to the main router.
Once connected, the extender creates a new local network for users to connect to. The downside of WiFi extenders is that extender can use up to 50% total network bandwidth per device, while users also need to log to a separate network.
Ultimately, the ideal choice out of the three options is dependent on your budget, property size, and number of internet users.
WAPs might be best for those who are hosting an Airbnb, Mesh systems are best for large properties with a big budget, while extenders may be best for smaller properties with multiple users.
Wireless Access Point FAQs
What Is A Wireless Access Point?
A wireless access point (WAP) is a device that extends your household network coverage and works similarly to a WiFi Extender with one key difference: the AP connects to the router through a network cable and not wirelessly.
This wired connection is significant as the WAP can access low-latency bandwidth compared to WiFi extenders which take up to 50% of network bandwidth per device.
What The Difference Between A Wireless Access Point And A Router?
Routers offer wireless or wired connectivity for many end-users, while a WAP is designed to serve wireless users only.
The WAP offers additional wireless connection capacity to the existing router network.
When Should I Use A WiFi Access Point?
A WAP is best deployed in a scenario where you have multiple users in a part of the home or workplace wanting access to the internet, which has weak or no access to the main router network.
Provided the wired connection is feasible, the WAP can be installed in that section of the property so that users can access the extended local network.
How To Setup A Wireless Access Point?
To set up a WAP follow the steps below.
- Step One: Find the ideal location for the device. This should be in a spot that is accessible via a wired connection to the router but also has minimal obstacles.
- Step Two: If the device requires connection to a power source, plug it in. If it uses PoE connection proceed to step three.
- Step Three: Connect the WAP to the router via an ethernet or network cable via the LAN port.
- Step Four: Once the devices have acknowledged each other’s presence, the WAP should be ready to use. WAP settings can be altered on the computer using the IP address listed in the product manual.
Final Words
Hopefully, you can now decide which wireless access point to get for your home or workplace.
Our editor’s choice for the best wireless access point is the Ubiquiti UniFi nanoHD. It is a Wave 2 4*4 MU-MIMO AC1200 wireless access point that can be powered using an 802.3af Power over Ethernet source and comes with one Gigabit port.
You can use the free UniFi Network Controller software (versions are available for Linux, macOS, and Windows) to manage the UniFi nanoHD as Ubiquiti focuses on software-defined networks.
Refer to the buying guide for more information that will help you in the decision process.
