Why You Can Trust CNET Get a Zyxel WRE6606 wireless range extender for $54.95
Normally $70, this versatile AC1300 extender can also serve as an access point or client. It can go mobile, too. Plus: two bonus deals!
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A $55 fix for your Wi-Fi woes. Hopefully. Maybe?
I count myself very lucky that my home Wi-Fi has no trouble reaching all corners, because I've been in plenty of homes where it can barely reach outside one room.
If you're in that boat, you have a couple options. One is a mesh network, but the hardware will cost you anywhere from $300-500. Another is a Wi-Fi extender, which is a bit more of a gamble, and sometimes a hassle -- but way more affordable.
Locating local internet providers
Case in point: For a limited time, and while supplies last, B&H Photo has the Zyxel WRE6606 AC1300 dual-band MU-MIMO wireless range extender for $54.95 shipped. Price elsewhere: at least $70, and over $80 at many stores.
I'm guessing this is a pretty new product, because I can't find a single review -- not on Amazon, not on Newegg, and obviously not on B&H.
Locating local internet providers
I'm also going to profess my ignorance when it comes to terms like AC1300 and MU-MIMO. The former is a wireless speed rating, the latter a fairly new technology designed to help routers efficiently divide bandwidth among devices. But are these things superfluous if your actual router doesn't support them? I dunno. You pick up the Google baton from here.
I can tell you the WRE6606 offers push-button switching between its three modes of operation (access point, client and extender) and that it can connect to a mobile charger if you want to use it someplace where there's no outlet.
One thing I do know is that extenders like this tend to work better with fixed (i.e. non-moving) devices like desktops and streaming boxes. If you have, say, a tablet that you take with you around the house, it might keep connecting to the extender when there's a better signal available from the router, or vice-versa. That's where things get a little hassle-y.
Even so, if you're looking for an affordable, plug-and-play remedy for your Wi-Fi woes, this might be worth a try. There are cheaper extenders to be had, but few as advanced as this one.
Your thoughts?
No more laying down on the job, phone!
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Seems like this would easily accommodate small tablets as well. The reviews are glowing, and they're nearly all valid, according to Fakespot. (Review grade: 'A,' which is awfully rare.)
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