If you are in the market for a Wi-Fi router, you have a major choice to make: between traditional routers and mesh Wi-Fi. A random choice does not work because people expect different things from their networks and do not want to spend a lot. So, how do you figure out whether a traditional router or mesh WiFi is suitable for your needs? Well, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
What Is Wi-Fi Technology?
Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that can create a network of connected devices in a local area. It is most widely used for internet connectivity. By connecting the Wi-Fi network to the Internet, all connected devices on the network will also have Internet connectivity.
Over the past decade, Wi-Fi has become the go-to method for Internet access for many. Sometimes, people tend to use the words internet and Wi-Fi interchangeably, but that is technically incorrect. Anyway, over the same period, Wi-Fi routers have become equally popular.
These routers are responsible for transmitting the Wi-Fi signals across the space so that devices can connect to the network and communicate. Like other wireless devices, Wi-Fi routers also face limitations in terms of performance and coverage. Based on these, they are put into categories: traditional router and mesh Wi-Fi.
Let’s now have an overview of traditional routers and mesh Wi-Fi systems.
Traditional Wi-Fi Routers
Traditional routers, simply called Wi-Fi routers, are individual devices that offer wireless connectivity across a room or house, depending on its capacity. A Wi-Fi router offers a single access point, and all devices can connect to the network for Internet access and other sharing options.
Most people find these devices plug-and-play so that you can easily connect them to your modem/ONT and access the Internet. It consumes minimal power resources but may offer features like parental controls, VPN, security, etc. The Wi-Fi range of a router depends on its frequency bands and processing power as well.
Like other Wi-Fi-enabled devices, routers also use different Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7. It will also determine the speeds you get from the router, but these speeds are mostly theoretical. The real-world speeds from a traditional Wi-Fi router depend on many factors, including obstructions and the ISP.
These days, many ISPs combine routers with modems. So, in most cases, you will have a single device that is connected via fiber-optic or coaxial cables. This single device will act as the access point for the Wi-Fi network as well.
Because traditional Wi-Fi routers have been the standard for decades, you have more options to pick from. As a result, you can get a decent Wi-Fi router for as low as $10 or $20.
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
Mesh Wi-Fi systems, also called mesh Wi-Fi routers, are new to the world of Wi-Fi devices. These devices are also used to create a local network of devices and provide Internet access, but it creates a mesh network. It is made possible through the use of multiple Wi-Fi nodes.
In addition to a central router module, a mesh Wi-Fi system will have multiple satellite modules that you can place in different parts of your home/office. So, you may keep the central module in the living room but get two more for your bedrooms. These devices work together to create a single Wi-Fi network.
Mesh Wi-Fi systems are also known for the strategic use of software-based controls. These devices are made to offer the best coverage across your home/office. So, the Wi-Fi nodes can shift between frequency bands and channels to get rid of Wi-Fi dead spots and other issues.
In addition to offering whole-home coverage, mesh Wi-Fi systems can pack more features, too. For instance, its roaming feature lets you stay connected to a single Wi-Fi network even as you move between rooms or spaces.
Because mesh Wi-Fi systems are decentralized, they need multiple Wi-Fi nodes, which increases the overall cost. So, you have to pay upwards of $100 for a decent mesh Wi-Fi system.
Mesh Wi-Fi vs. Router Comparison
Now that you know the basics about mesh Wi-Fi systems and conventional routers, we will compare the two options in some important respects.
Wi-Fi Coverage & Speed
- Wi-Fi Routers
Conventional Wi-Fi routers offer standard Wi-Fi coverage across your home or office. However, because the entire network is based on a centralized access point, distance makes a lot of difference. As you move away from the router, the signal and speed will deteriorate. You will also have Wi-Fi dead zones, where the devices cannot connect to the Wi-Fi because of poor signal.
Obstructions between your Wi-Fi router and devices also matter a lot. The 2.4GHz frequency band can get through obstructions, but it offers lower speeds. On the other hand, 5GHz and 6GHz bands can handle more throughput, but they have a short range. As a result, the Wi-Fi coverage and speed of conventional Wi-Fi routers can be a little complex to deal with, especially if you have a larger house.
You can use Wi-Fi extenders to improve the coverage of the Wi-Fi network, but they may cost a bit and fail to offer the same speeds.
- Mesh Wi-Fi
Because mesh Wi-Fi systems are decentralized, the central nodes and Wi-Fi nodes can talk to each other. It thus offers whole-home coverage that you can enjoy even when you move between rooms or floors. More importantly, a mesh Wi-Fi system will ensure that Wi-Fi dead spots are minimal. It uses dynamic frequencies and channel management to acquire this.
Because you are using a mesh network, these devices offer improved speeds as well. If you are looking for a speed boost, you can also connect an Ethernet backhaul to one of the satellite nodes. So, if coverage across your multi-story building is your primary concern, a mesh wireless system can offer more value. You can also explore multiple placement combinations.
Mesh Wi-Fi systems essentially remove the need for extenders. Since we have a whole-home network, there is no need for additional tools, either.
Setup and Controls
- Wi-Fi Routers
With Wi-Fi routers, the setup process and control options are straightforward but limited. For instance, you can place the router close to the power/ONT outlet and expect decent coverage across the home. The setup is also straightforward and plug-and-play for most devices. So, you can stay worry-free there too.
If you get a Wi-Fi router from the Internet Service Provider, they will likely be pre-configured. So you don’t have to worry about the setup at all. These devices are easy to replace. However, these limited options can prevent how customizable your network infrastructure is.
- Mesh Wi-Fi System
A mesh Wi-Fi system gives you more freedom when it comes to placement and controls. However, you must have at least two satellite nodes to explore these options based on the number of rooms and floors. These devices are also known to offer some additional options for parental control and Quality of Service.
Compared to the setup process of a conventional router, mesh Wi-Fi systems require a complicated setup. They almost always require an app, such as Google Home or Deco. Most of the controls are available through such apps.
Cost Analysis
- Wi-Fi Router
With a conventional Wi-Fi router, the upfront costs are minimal. As I said, you can get a decent Wi-Fi router for under $50. If you can spend around $150, you can easily get a Wi-Fi 7 router with advanced features. So, you can expect a good deal in this regard. However, you may need to purchase additional access points or Wi-Fi extenders if you want to improve the overall coverage of the network. So, you should be ready for it.
- Mesh Wi-Fi System
Mesh Wi-Fi systems are comparatively more expensive, and you need to pay around $150 to get a decent Wi-Fi system to begin with. If you want more satellite nodes, the price will increase. However, if you get one of the Wi-Fi 7 mesh systems, you don’t have to worry about coverage issues for years. These devices take care of themselves and receive punctual updates for continuous performance improvement.
In summary, while mesh Wi-Fi systems are expensive, they tend to offer more value in the long run. This is the case, especially when you have too many devices on the network.
Which Is Best For You?
Based on the points we have discussed, I will give you some quick recommendations.
You should go for a conventional router if you don’t have a high budget and hate complex setup processes. You can get these devices and set them up in a few minutes. Plug-and-play routers can offer decent speed as well if you are wondering. Because of the limited coverage, you may have to purchase some additional equipment, though.
Mesh Wi-Fi systems make more sense if you appreciate better freedom for router placement. They are best suited for multi-room and multi-story spaces where you need uninterrupted internet access. Mesh systems are expensive, but you can still find some good deals in the market. Along with better coverage, mesh Wi-Fi systems can also offer better parental control and customization options.
Conclusion
You should consider your demand for coverage, speed, and ease of setup while choosing between mesh Wi-Fi systems and conventional routers. However, unless you have specific hardware requirements and are okay with spending a bit, I’d recommend going for a mesh router. These devices have been a great addition to my sanity and expenses. Trust me, you are going to thank the simplified coverage you’ll get.
