The TP-Link RE715X AX3000 Mesh WiFi 6 Extender is a versatile device designed to enhance Wi-Fi coverage in your home. It offers dual-band Wi-Fi 6 speeds, with up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, ensuring smoother streaming, gaming, and downloading experiences.
Design and Features
The TP-Link RE715X AX3000 Mesh WiFi 6 Extender boasts a straightforward, wall-plug design. While convenient for many, its somewhat bulky size may block adjacent outlets, which can be inconvenient in areas with limited socket availability. Unfortunately, it lacks a pass-through socket, making outlet space even more constrained.
This extender is equipped with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 technology, providing speeds of up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. Additionally, it supports TP-Link’s OneMesh technology, enabling it to seamlessly integrate with compatible routers to create a unified mesh network. However, OneMesh currently supports only wireless backhauling, which could affect performance compared to a wired setup.
Performance
The RE715X delivers solid performance for extending Wi-Fi coverage in medium to large homes. When used in standard extender mode, its wireless connection to the router can result in reduced speeds, a common issue with wireless repeaters. This can impact bandwidth-heavy activities such as gaming or streaming in 4K.
However, the RE715X truly shines when configured as an access point using a wired Ethernet connection. In this mode, it provides reliable, high-speed connectivity, making it an excellent choice for homes with existing Ethernet wiring.
Things to Consider
- Wireless Backhaul Limitation: While the OneMesh feature is convenient, its lack of support for wired backhaul could be a drawback for users looking for maximum performance.
- Design Constraints: The bulky wall-plug design may block adjacent outlets, and the absence of a pass-through socket limits its practicality in areas with few power sockets.
- Bandwidth Halving: As with most wireless extenders, using it in repeater mode halves the available bandwidth, which could hinder performance during high-demand tasks.
Final Thoughts
The TP-Link RE715X AX3000 Mesh WiFi 6 Extender is a solid choice for users seeking to extend their Wi-Fi coverage, especially those already within the TP-Link ecosystem. Its support for Wi-Fi 6 and OneMesh integration adds significant value. While its performance in extender mode has some limitations, configuring it as a wired access point unlocks its full potential.
For optimal results, this extender is best suited for homes with Ethernet wiring or users willing to trade some bandwidth for convenience in wireless repeater mode. It’s an effective, feature-rich solution that balances modern technology with practical use cases.