According to recent studies, the average household now has over 10 connected devices, highlighting the importance of a strong wireless network infrastructure. Wireless access points (WAPs) offer extended coverage, improved performance, and scalability. These are ideal for addressing dead zones and accommodating a growing number of connected devices.
Here are three key Factors to consider:
- Speed and Range: Look for WAPs with high-speed capabilities, supporting the latest Wi-Fi standards such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax. Additionally, opt for models with extended range to ensure coverage throughout your home or office space.
- Scalability and Flexibility: Choose access points that offer scalability to accommodate growing network demands. Features like mesh networking and seamless roaming ensure a consistent connection as you move between access points.
- Security and Management: Prioritize WAPs with robust security features, including WPA3 encryption and advanced threat detection. Centralized management options, such as cloud-based platforms, make it easier to monitor and control your network from anywhere.
For a comprehensive “Buying Guide” and top product recommendations, check out our complete list next to this introduction.
Also Check: Best Outdoor Access Point
Best Wireless Access Point – Table
| Best Wireless Access Point | WIRELESS TYPE | WIFI Speed | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-LINK Wireless Access Point | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g | 1350 Mbps | Check On Amazon |
| NETGEAR Wireless Access Point | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g | 867Mbps | Check On Amazon |
| Ubiquiti Wireless Access Point | 802.11ac | 1300 Mbps | Check On Amazon |
| Aruba Wireless Access Point | 802.11ax | 1774 Mbps | Check On Amazon |
| Linksys Wireless Access Point | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 1750 Gbps | Check On Amazon |
| Zyxel True Wireless Access Point | 802.11ax | 3000 Mbps | Check On Amazon |
| Cudy Wireless Access Point | 802.11ac | 867 Mbps | Check On Amazon |
| Cisco Wireless Access Point | 802.11ac | 867 Mbps | Check On Amazon |
Best Wireless Access Point Reviews
1. TP-LINK EAP225 V3 Wireless Access Point
Starting the list from the most trustable brand in this industry, TP-Link. For ages, the company has provided seamless services to its customers. And its EAP225 V3 would be one of the perfect reasons behind it. Let’s have more insight into it.
The foremost thing about the Wireless Access Point is it doesn’t cost you a fortune and provides you with the maximum features. Starting with the ease of connectivity. Here you get both 802.3af PoE and passive PoE for convenience.
You can easily expect a high-speed data transmission of 450Mbps and 867Mbps in the 2.4Ghz and 5.0Ghz respectively. Having such a speed under your arsenal is enough to take care of your profession for general purposes.
With the support of the latest MU-MIMO technology, you’re getting one of the most advanced data-sharing access points. The device will easily be able to transfer data to multiple devices at once. A complete VLAN can be set up with such power.
One of the most adorable features you get here is TP-Link’s cloud management services. It allows you to gain complete control over the VLAN. Now, you can easily make changes with several touches. It also allows you to track the guest’s activity for complete transparency.
Things We Liked:
- Provides 450Mbps and 867Mbps in the 2.4Ghz and 5.0Ghz respectively.
- The cloud management software is easy to use
- You get 802.3af PoE and passive PoE for convenience.
- Flexible PoE options for easy installation.
- Advanced wireless technologies for optimal performance.
- 5 Years Warranty
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- Limited compatibility with non-SDN controllers.
2. NETGEAR Wireless Access Point
The second on the list is another big dog in the market, NETGEAR. And there’s no need for me to tell the authority of this brand. The years of service convey the whole story. And this time, its AC1200 Wireless Access Point has quickly gained thousands of satisfying customers on the Amazon platform
Starting with the feature that makes it stand apart. The NETGEAR AC1200 provides you with four Gigabit Ethernet ports. This is the maximum number you’re getting here. Now, you’ll not have to compromise connecting devices with this Wireless Access Point.
Just like the previous one, the sole purpose of this NETGEAR AC1200 is to provide the best thing within the budget. The company has mainly focussed on the household and small business needs here.
This dual-band Wireless Access Point comes with 300mbps of speed in 2.4Ghz and provides 867bps of data transmission speed in 5.0Ghz. With such power, you can easily bear your professional and gaming needs. To back this up, the two external antennas are also attached for both bands respectively.
The intriguing part about this Wireless Access Point is its friendly compatibility. You can easily integrate this device with the other N150, N300, N600, and AC devices. On top of that, the latest IPV6 technology ensures the most powerful protocol connections.
Things We Liked:
- Four Gigabit Ethernet port
- Compatible with other N150, N300, N600, and AC device
- Advanced security features for enhanced protection.
- Easy setup with WiFi Protected System (WPS) button.
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- Limited customization options in settings.
3. Ubiquiti Networks Wireless Access Point
The Ubiquiti brand has provided some of the best players when it comes to network devices. And its UniFi UAP-AC-PRO is one of the worthy successors that provides the same authority. It demands a bit more but it’s worth investing in it.
Starting with the physical appearance that’ll easily grab anyone’s attention in the glimpse of an eye. The white circular compact design looks great and aesthetic. It’ll surely add more value to the interiors of your house or workplace.
At the same time, the company has paid much attention to the durability and firmness of the device. The facts will blow your mind. This compact-looking Wireless Access Point can bear up to harsh weather conditions. The device will keep working between the -10 and 70°C temperature range. And the same durability goes against humidity as well.
Another intriguing feature is its fast access point. This dual-band Wireless Access Point comes with 3 X 3 technology for maintaining a powerful data connection among multiple devices. Moreover, this Wireless Access Point also comes with 802.11AC standards.
The basic information about the UAP-AC-PRO is also up to the mark. You can expect a decent speed of 450 Mbps and 1,300 Mbps in 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands respectively. In addition to this, app management is useful and allows you to have complete control over the device.
Things We Liked:
- Dual-radio 3×3 11AC MIMO technology for high speeds
- UniFi controller for intuitive configuration
- Gigabit Ethernet ports for versatile connectivity
- Smart Mesh and 802.3af PoE support for flexibility
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- Signal strength may vary at longer distances.
4. Aruba Instant On AP22 Wireless Access Point
Aruba has been one of the hidden gems for the US since 2002. It’s providing seamless services to the people and keeps surprising them from time to time. And this time, a worthy pick for you would be their Instant-On AP22 for hefty workloads.
Aruba is equipped with advanced 802.11ax standards. Thus, the device is completely reliable for your future needs as well. On top of that, the powerful ethernet of 802.1af Class 2 is also there to back you up.
Another intriguing feature about this Wireless Access Point is two-factor authentication for utmost security. Here, you can make sure no intruder device is being able to access the benefits of your network.
Coming to the speed throughput that’s pretty adorable here. The Aruba Instant On AP22 provides you with 1200 MBps of high transmission speed at 5.0Ghz and 574 Mbps for the 2.4 GHz band. Now, there’s nothing to worry about slow data speed.
Things We Liked:
- Comes with advanced 802.11ax standards.
- Wi-Fi 6 technology for high-speed connectivity.
- Built-in gateway enhances security.
- Smart Mesh support for extended coverage.
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- Speed may vary at greater distances.
5. Linksys Wireless Access Point
It’s so intriguing the new companies are gaining trust in the market. And providing people with more worthy options. Linksys play an important role in such scenarios. And its AC 1700 Wireless Access Point would be the primary reason behind it.
The budget of this Wireless Access Point is a bit high. Thus, it mainly focuses on the business and professional workloads. Its adorable white design will not degrade the interiors of any location. On top of that, there’s a small blue LED below the company’s logo that looks great while working.
Coming to the controlling of the device. Linksys provides you with one of the user-friendly cloud management apps. This will allow you to have complete control over the network. Not only this, the features you get here are comparatively higher than most of the other brand’s application
The app even provides you with powerful control and tracking over the multiple devices in the network. Here you can easily generate real-time statistics about the devices to track them with complete transparency. Another intriguing feature also includes network health. Although, you’ll have to pay a bit extra for this software in a five-year subscription plan.
This Wireless Access Point is equipped with all the advanced standards that help you generate trust over the product. On top of that, the data transmission rates have no disappointments as well. You can easily expect 1300 Mbps (for 5 GHz band) and 450 Mbps (for 2.4 GHz) of transmission speed.
Things We Liked:
- The high transmission speed of 450Mbps (2.4Ghz) and 1300Mbps (5.0ghz)
- Five-year free subscription plan for its cloud management software.
- Zero-touch provisioning for rapid deployment.
- Dual-band operation for optimal performance.
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- Limited support for advanced configurations.
6. Zyxel True WiFi6 Wireless Access Point
Are your data transmission needs too high? If so, Zyxel True WiFi6 Wireless Access Point will blow your mind. The device does cost a bit more than usual, but it’s worth investing in it. In exchange, you’ll get powerful and advanced features to make your life easy.
Starting with the basic features. This dual-band Wireless Access Point is capable of providing a high transmission throughput. Expecting a data transmission speed of 3Gbps in total. Its Dual 4×4 5GHz + 2×2 2.4GHz antenna makes sure you get nothing less than this.
Another amazing feature about this Wireless Access Point is it comes with a Quad Qualcomm 1Ghz A53 CPU. you’ll observe more stable and smooth connectivity through the network. The same will apply to the other devices within the network as well.
With the help of the dual-mode, you can save a good amount of money every month. In case you’re not ready for cloud management, the NWA210AXserie offers you a stand-alone feature. With this, you’ll be able to configure each access point via its local user-friendly web interface and setup wizard.
Things We Liked:
- Powerful True WiFi 6 capabilities.
- Advanced features for enhanced performance.
- Flexible deployment with NebulaFlex technology.
- Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- The web interface can be slow and less intuitive
7. Cudy AC1200 Gigabit Wireless Access Point
Improve your connectivity with this feature-rich access point, driven by cutting-edge 802.11ac Wave 2 technology. Experience reliable and swift dual-band Wi-Fi, achieving speeds of up to 867 Mbps + 300 Mbps.
It can accommodate over 100 devices simultaneously, furnishing a smooth and uninterrupted network suitable for both residential and commercial settings. With various power options such as 802.3af/at PoE, Passive PoE, or DC 12V, installation becomes effortless, offering versatility in deployment.
Designed with advanced functionalities, the Cudy AP1300 facilitates seamless roaming, MU-MIMO technology, and a captive portal, enriching your network’s efficiency and safety. Incorporating mesh support (802.11k/v), it ensures uninterrupted connectivity even during transitions between access points.
Things We Liked:
- Multiple power options for flexible installation.
- Easy installation with included mounting kits.
- Superior AC1200 dual-band speeds.
- Smart Mesh support for seamless coverage extension.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Limited documentation for advanced configurations.
8. Cisco Wireless Access Point
Cisco is a well-known industry player that’s famous for providing top-notch solutions to businesses. And the Cisco Business 145AC Wireless Access Point follows the same vision as well. If you’re looking for a Wireless Access Point for hefty workloads and are more concerned about brand quality, this seems to be a perfect pick.
One of the best features that make Cisco 145AC stand apart is its powerful connectivity. The company provides you with four 4 GbE Ports for convenience. Thus, you’ll have powerful ethernet support under your arsenal.
The major advantage that the company’s proud of is, its easy deployment process. There are necessary brackets included with the package that provides a hassle-free mounting process. Here, you’ll face no difficulties mounting it on a wall or even on a ceiling.
What makes a device worth considering? It’s friendly customer support. This is why the company provides you with one year of technical support. As an add-on, you also get a limited lifetime warranty as well.
Things We Liked:
- Suitable for hefty workloads
- Four ethernet ports
- Flexible deployment options for versatile setups.
- Mix-and-match capability for scalable coverage.
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- Ethernet ports functionality may vary.
Buying Guide for Wireless Access Point
There’s a high chance that you might’ve got confused so far(by looking at such competitive products). This is the main reason, why we’ve included a buying guide to this article. The guide includes all the necessary factors (in detail) so that you can have a clear idea about the whole inverter thing.
1. Wi-Fi Speed
The speed of your wireless access point is a critical factor influencing the overall performance of your network. It’s not just about having a fast internet connection; your access point must be capable of delivering those speeds wirelessly to connected devices. Here’s what to consider:
- 802.11 Standards: Look for access points that adhere to the latest 802.11 standards, such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). These standards bring advancements in speed, capacity, and efficiency.
- Dual-Band or Tri-Band: Opt for dual-band or tri-band access points. Dual-band operates on 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, providing flexibility and reducing interference. Tri-band adds an additional 5GHz band, suitable for handling more connected devices simultaneously.
- MU-MIMO Technology: Multi-user, Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) technology is crucial for efficient data transfer to multiple devices simultaneously. It ensures a smoother and more responsive network experience.
2. Ports: Connecting the Dots
The number and type of ports on your wireless access point are vital for connecting various devices and expanding your network capabilities. Here’s what you should look for:
- Ethernet Ports: Consider the number of Gigabit Ethernet ports available. These ports enable wired connections for devices like computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles. More ports allow for more wired connections, offering stability and often faster speeds.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE): PoE is a convenient feature that allows both power and data to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable. It simplifies installation, especially in locations where power outlets are limited.
- USB Ports: Some advanced access points come with USB ports, offering additional flexibility. You can use these ports for connecting external storage, printers, or other USB-enabled devices.
3. WIFI standards
One of the important factors to look for in a wireless Access Point would be its IEEE standards. Every wireless Access Point comes with a particular IEEE standard that allows one to have an overall insight about the device. Moreover, you can have a better idea of what the device is capable of.
Now, these standards are expressed in 802.11X format. Here, the X is replaced by other values (b, g, n, or AC), according to the speed of the device. Out of this, the 802.11AC is the most latest technology. However, you’ll notice many of them also include 802.11b (and other versions) with the latest version.
The bottom line here to aim for is, 802.11n or 802.11AC. Anything below this might fail to provide you with a satisfying networking utility experience.
4. Coverage
There are still a few things left you to need to see at the coverage factor. You shouldn’t aim for high distance coverage wireless Access Point if your needs are just for home-purpose.
In such a case, a wireless Access Point with an omnidirectional antenna of around 450ft (maximum) will be more than enough. Anything beyond this might become an issue for you.
However, if you’re required more than the given distance, opt for the unidirectional wireless Access Point for seamless connectivity.
5. All-Weather Resistant
There’s no doubt why a Wireless Access Point should be durable and able to bear all harsh conditions. It doesn’t matter at which location you install it, chances are the weather will easily find it.
Moreover, high humidity, heavy rainfall, storms, and extreme cold are the biggest enemy of any tech device. In such cases, it becomes even more important that you should only consider a Wireless Access Point from trusted and quality brands.
Fortunately, the list you saw above only contains the well-known players of the industry. However, you should make sure the wireless Access Point is not exposed to rainfall. It wouldn’t be wise to take that risk.
If you’re more concerned about the durability of the device. Consider buying a separate protective case for your Wireless Access Point.
6. Easy Setup
It will cause you great relief if the wireless access point you’re considering is easy to set up. Generally, the installation and setup process varies from brand to brand. And some can even challenge you with a tough time with this.
Some of the brands famously known for easy setup are- TP-Link, Netgear, and Ubiquiti. On the flip side, Cisco, Aruba might demand some more hassle and time from you.
However, this factor doesn’t affect the quality of the overall product. The bottom line is you should be prepared for doing so.
There are some chances where you’ll have to configure the Wireless Access Point into a client router, or a bridge. In such a situation it’ll need some expert help. A small price to access more powerful features.
Conclusion
Choosing the best wireless access point is for establishing a robust and seamless network experience. After thoroughly reviewing various products, three standout options cater to different user preferences, each excelling in specific aspects.
- Tp-link EAP225: If you prefer a reliable, feature-rich access point that seamlessly integrates into your network, the TP-Link EAP225 is a top choice. With superior speeds, cloud access, and advanced wireless technologies.
- Ubiquiti UAP-AC-PRO: For those prioritizing performance and coverage, With 3×3 MIMO technology and a weatherproof design, it ensures maximum performance indoors or outdoors.
- Aruba Instant On AP22: If your focus is on Wi-Fi 6 technology, advanced features with easy setup, built-in gateway functionality, and smart mesh support, it’s a future-ready solution for small and growing businesses.
