8 Best Outdoor WiFi Range Extenders
Most homes have decent access to WiFi indoors, but it’s not the same outside. This guide looks at choosing the best outdoor WiFi extender and the reasons you might want one. It’s not only about the joys of working on a laptop on a warm summer’s evening. The demand for a strong WiFi signal outside the exterior walls grows as smart homes become more commonplace.
WiFi range extenders also go by the names of wireless repeaters, boosters, and wireless access points. The concept is simple, but you still need to make sure your product delivers what you need.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| TP-Link Long-Range Transmitter |
| 4.5/5.0 |
| Type: Outdoor WiFi Transmitter |
| Wireless Range: 3+ miles |
| Advanced antennas, 5km data transmission, CMS, reputable brand. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Tupavco Omni Extender |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Type: Omnidirectional antenna |
| Wireless Range: 1 mile |
| Long 3ft antenna, max 1-mile range, supports all wireless standards. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| WAVLINK Range Extender |
| 4.6/5.0 |
| Type: Omnidirectional antenna |
| Wireless Range: – |
| Multiple modes, built-in lightning arrester, Passive PoE Support, security, LEDs. |
| Check Amazon |
How a WiFi Range Extender Works
The job of a Wi-Fi range extender is to boost your internet connection to the outside. It lets you use your internet-connected computers and gadgets in sheds, barns, and garages, etc. The best extenders allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously over a long-range. Some of your indoor WiFi (the host network) leaks through the walls to the outside.
So, the WiFi range extender becomes a booster that “repeats” the host signal to increase its coverage. You can look at it as a bridge that rebroadcasts your indoor signal to places where there is none. It’s a simple concept and one that works very well when set up correctly.
How to Choose the Right Product
Not all WiFi extenders are equal in price, quality, range, or functionality. There are four things to consider before you buy a new product:
- Must be compatible with your router
- The strength of your indoor wireless setup
- The outdoor area(s) you want to cover
- Build-quality and proofing
The extender must be compatible with your current router if it’s to work. Some of the newer products are universal. Also, a powerful device can’t strengthen a weak signal. If the indoor WiFi is subpar, then it can only expand that below-average signal outdoors. If you have a strong connection inside, then the extender can repeat that outdoors to within its range, albeit a little weaker.
Tip: Check that the extender’s maximum range meets your needs before you buy anything.
IP Ratings Defined
Make sure the extender is specifically for outdoor use. That means it must be resilient and able to withstand weather and temperature extremes. All products should display something called an IP (ingress protection) rating in the specs. An IP rating tells you how resistant the product is against dust and water. The first digit after IP is for solids and the second for water.
Solid protection goes from 1–6, and for water, it’s 1–8. The higher the numbers, the better the outdoor protection. Thus, the highest rating of all is IP68 (6+8). The first WiFi range extender reviewed in this guide is rated IP65. That makes it dust-tight and able to withstand water jets from all angles. This level of dust-proofing and water-resistance is perfectly okay for an outdoor WiFi extender.
Mesh WiFi Systems
Mesh WiFi systems are an interesting concept. They include the main router and two or more nodes or satellite modules placed in different locations. Your laptop or other internet-ready device connects to the nearest mesh to ensure the best signal. When you have a WiFi extender, you have two mesh networks. One network talks to the router and the other to the extender. That means no switching.
A quality indoor mesh WiFi system may offer enough outdoor coverage without the need for an extender. It can encompass an area of 5000 sq./ft. or even more. That should give ample signal leakage for nearby outdoor WiFi.
About My ‘Outdoor WiFi Range Extender’ Guide
There wasn’t much research to do as outdoor home WiFi range extenders are not in abundance—yet. However, it’s vital to choose those that have proper protection from the elements. Also, some are more reliable than others, and I’ve found 8 products worthy of review. The first three are for the Best Budget extender, followed by the Best Value, and the Top Pick.
Outdoor WiFi Range Extenders Comparison Table
| Make and Model | IP Rating | Max Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Long-Range Outdoor Wifi Transmitter | — | 3+ miles | Check Price |
| Tupavco WiFi Outdoor Omni Antenna Extender | — | 1+ mile | Check Price |
| WAVLINK AC1200 WiFi Range Extender | IP65 | Not specified | Check Price |
| TUOSHI Outdoor WiFiExtender Antenna | IP65 | 1.13 miles | Check Price |
| Bearifi WiFi BearExtender for Outdoors | IP65 | 0.05 miles | Check Price |
| COMFAST AC1200 Outdoor Access Point | IP66 | 0.06 miles | Check Price |
| G2424 Ultra Long Range WiFi Extender | — | 8 miles | Check Price |
| NETGEAR Orbi | Satellite WiFi Extender | IP66 | 8.96 miles | Check Price |
1. TP-Link CPE210 Outdoor WiFi Transmitter | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The Best Budget pick goes to the TP-Link, 2×2 dual directional polarized MIMO antenna. It’s a cost-effective solution for those who want to extend their home wireless network outside.
- Best feature 1: Affordable solution for outdoor wireless networks
- Best feature 2: Functions well in all climates and weather extremes
- Plus points: Advanced antennas, 5km data transmission, CMS, reputable brand
- Minus points: Poor instructions, complicated to set up for first-timers
TP-Link CPE210 Long-Range WiFi Extender Highlights
TP-Link is a reputable brand, and that’s always a good start. Its powerful outdoor directional antenna performs exceptionally well for an extender in its class. This product is stable and super easy to manage, thanks to the Pharos Control Centralized Management System. The CPE210 offers a 3.1-mile (5km) range in ideal conditions. The advanced system has a built-in high gain dual-polarized antenna.
Other highlights include a dedicated metal reflector, adjustable transmission power, and remote reset. You can use it in virtually any climate, including extreme high and low temperatures.
The Not So Good
The instructions included with this product are its biggest letdown. They’re far too technical for first-timers. Novice users are better off searching for YouTube videos than relying on the paper guide. Even with patience, the setting up procedure seems unnecessarily complicated. The TP-Link CPE210 is a decent extender at a reasonable price. It would have been near perfect if it were easier to install.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: TP-Link |
| Model: CPE210 |
| Color: White |
| Type: Outdoor WiFi Transmitter |
| Wireless Range: 3+ miles |
| Operating Temperature: -40°F, 158°F |
| Connectivity Technology: Built-in WiFi |
| Frequency Range: 5.15–5.85GHz |
| Wireless Compatibility: 802.11bgn |
| Product Weight: 1.02 lbs. |
| Dimensions: 8.82 x 3.11 x 2.36” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Affordable product for WiFi networks |
| Functions in all weather extremes |
| Easy to manage |
| 5km data transmission |
| Advanced antenna System |
| Pharos Control CMS |
| Excellent value |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Poorly written instructions |
| Complicated set up |
2. Omni Outdoor Antenna Wireless Extender | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
Tupavco gets the Best Value slot with its TP551 Omni Outdoor Antenna Wireless Extender. It broadens a wireless network using an omnidirectional long-range antenna.
- Best feature 1: Fully weatherproof fiberglass material
- Best feature 2: Hassle-free installation
- Plus points: Long 3ft antenna, max 1-mile range, supports all wireless standards
- Minus points: Unpainted and exposed to UV, exaggerated range
Omni TP551 Outdoor Wireless Extender Highlights
Consider the Omni outdoor antenna if you want to create a personal or public WiFi hotspot. The product is made from fiberglass radome material to make it entirely weatherproof. Mounting it is easy with the preinstalled N female connector and mounting accessories. The 3ft long, vertical space-saving design makes it ideal for use on roofs, parked-up RVs, boats, indoors, or wherever you need it.
The TP551 does a great job of extending an existing wireless network, with coverage up to 1 mile. That allows you to maintain a secure connection a long way from the home router.
The Not So Good
This product is weatherproof but it’s unpainted and doesn’t seem to have any Gelcoat cover. That means it may deteriorate over time if exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. It would be wise to apply some exterior paint to prevent any potential decline. The 1-mile range is an exaggeration. The description does say it’s only possible in ideal conditions, though most users won’t check that box.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Tupavco |
| Model: TP551 |
| Color: Brown/bronze |
| Material: Fiberglass |
| Type: Omnidirectional antenna |
| Wireless Range: 1 mile |
| Frequency: 2.4Ghz |
| Product Weight: 3.75 lbs. |
| Dimensions: 39 x 4.5 x 2.5” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Suitable for outdoors and inside |
| Weatherproof fiberglass material |
| Hassle-free installation |
| Includes all mounting accessories |
| 3ft vertical antenna |
| Up to 1 mile coverage |
| Supports all wireless standards |
| Well-priced |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Unpainted surface |
| Exaggerated range potential |
3. WAVLINK AC1200 WiFi Range Extender | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
WAVLINK’s AC1200 High-Powered Outdoor Wi-Fi Range Extender makes the Top Pick. It’s a well-made product with an IP65 weatherproof rating and a built-in lightning arrester.
- Best feature 1: Fully weatherproofed housing (IP65)
- Best feature 2: Dual speeds
- Plus points: Multiple modes, built-in lightning arrester, Passive PoE Support, security, LEDs
- Minus points: Can be tricky to set up, LEDs are hard to see in bright sunlight
WAVLINK AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Highlights
The WAVLINK AC1200 promises flawless performance over long distances. This product’s 3 operating modes give you flexible wireless solutions. They include Wireless Range Extender, Wireless Router, and Wireless Access Point. The dual-band speeds are 2.4GHz/150Mbs and 5.8GHz/867MBS. Ethernet (POE) support allows for flexible deployment. And security is maximized with 802.1X/WAP/WPA2.
This is an decent extender for homes and other structures that have weak or dead spots. There should be no space left uncovered with proper placement and installation.
The Not So Good
This extender works but can be fiddly to set up, and the more obstacles there are, the more difficult it gets. It may be too sensitive to obstructions, especially large trees, and walls. Either that, or it’s overly directional. It’s best to find a sweet spot and leave it there. Some users might fare better by mounting it onto a pole. Another gripe is that the signal strength LEDs are difficult to see under bright sunlight.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: WAVLINK |
| Model: AC1200 |
| Color: White |
| Type: Omnidirectional antenna |
| Wireless Range: Not specified |
| Connectivity Technology: Wireless |
| Modes: Router, Repeater, AP, WISP |
| Frequency: 2.4GHz, 5.0GHz |
| Signal Strength Indicators: 3 x LED |
| Security: 802.1X, WAP, WPA2 |
| Product Weight: 1.4 lbs. |
| Dimensions: 14.2 x 4.9 x 2.9” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| IP65 weatherproofed housing |
| Built-in lightning arrester |
| Built-in high-power amplifiers |
| Dual-band speeds |
| Multiple modes |
| Passive PoE Support |
| Maximum security |
| Signal status LEDs |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Can be fiddly to set up |
| LEDs hard to see in bright sunlight |
4. TUOSHI N4000 Outdoor WiFi Extender Antenna
Editor’s Rating: 4.2/5
Meet the TUOSHI 2.4Ghz Long-Range WiFi Antenna Extender. It’s a compact and affordable product. Users can expect a range up to 4 times greater than the built-in antennas of laptops and phones.
- Best feature 1: Affordable extender, excellent value for money
- Best feature 2: Straightforward, plug-n-play installation
- Plus points: Flexible mounting, IP65-rating, long, shielded USB cable, directional antenna
- Minus points: Can be fiddly to set up, vague instructions for novice users
TUOSHI Outdoor N4000 WiFi Extender Highlights
Don’t be put off by the low cost because the N4000 works as advertised. Consider this TUOSHI model if you want your Windows or Mac computer to connect with long-distance WiFi signals. The higher the antenna, the better the results. Thus, a rooftop is likely to be the optimal location. It’s a directional aerial, so you must point it in the correct direction for best results.
There are three ways to mount the N400, i.e., bracket, pole, or wall. TUOSHI’s N400 needs the R300 wireless router to function, which costs around 30 dollars. It doesn’t work with third-party devices.
The Not So Good
It’s an economy product, so take the “high-powered” description with a pinch of salt. It works as advertised, but some users may need to play around to get the desired coverage. Also, the download speeds tend to be inconsistent. There were no signal drops during testing, though. Lastly, TUOSHI didn’t write the instructions with the novice in mind as they’re too vague in parts.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: TUOSHI |
| Model: N4000 |
| Color: White |
| Type: Directional WiFi antenna |
| Technology: MIMO, CCA |
| IP Rating: IP65 |
| Wireless Range: 6000ft |
| Shielded USB Cable Length: 32ft |
| Frequency: 2.4Ghz. |
| Product Weight: 1.92 lbs. |
| Dimensions: 7.7 x 6.3 x 1.6” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Affordable WiFi range extender |
| Flexible mounting options |
| Use indoors or outside |
| IP65 weatherproof rating |
| Windows and Mac compatible |
| Long, shielded USB cable |
| Directional antenna |
| Uses MIMO & CCA technology |
| Value for money |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Can be fiddly to set up |
| Inconsistent download speeds |
| Vague instructions |
5. Bearifi WiFi Bear Extender for Outdoors
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
The fifth review is for the affordable Bearifi PB-P9Q1-HU02 BearExtender. It’s an indoor/outdoor RV & Marine USB WiFi extender for use with a single Windows computer.
- Best feature 1: IP65 Certified for use outdoors
- Best feature 2: Easy to install
- Plus points: Long USB cable, UV and anti-corrosion protection, 3 mounting options
- Minus points: Cheap stand, restricted use, metal parts prone to rusting
Bearifi Outdoor WiFi Bear Extender Highlights
Bearifi’s BearExtender connects to your computer using the included 16ft USB cable. It doesn’t need an AC power source. You get a 2.4GHz boost from its built-in 10dBi antenna. There are three ways to mount the device, i.e., tabletop tripod, metal pole band, and Velcro pole strap. The product’s IP65 certification makes it suitable to use outdoors. It’s also pretreated with an anti-UV coating.
The antenna is directional. That means it needs to point in the right direction to pick up the strongest signal. Higher placement generally results in a better outcome.
The Not So Good
The detachable desktop tripod stand is welcome, but it’s also fragile and could break easily. The extender has restricted use and only works with Windows computers. It’s not a product for Apple computers and devices, Android, or Windows RT tablets, etc. The metal on the back of the antenna and the pole mounting band is sure to rust without treatment. The housing is well-protected, though.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: BearExtender |
| Model: PB-P9Q1-HU02 |
| Color: Pale blue |
| Type: Directional antenna |
| IP Rating: IP65 |
| Wireless Range: 100–300ft |
| Frequency: 2.4 GHz. |
| Product Weight: 0.75 lb. |
| Dimensions: 8 x 1 x 4.2” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Works indoors and outside |
| IP65 Certified |
| Easy to install & use |
| No AC power needed |
| Long USB cable |
| UV & anti-corrosion protection |
| 3 mounting options |
| Included desktop tripod |
| Great value |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Cheap stand |
| Restricted use |
| Metal parts prone to rusting |
6. COMFAST AC1200 Outdoor Wireless Access Point
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
This review looks at the COMFAST AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Range Extender. It has multiple operation modes and is a rugged product for use outdoors in all weathers (IP66).
- Best feature 1: Multiple operation modes
- Best feature 2: Frequencies 2.4GHz & 5GHz
- Plus points: IP66-rated, high gain antennas, built-in power amplifier, excellent value
- Minus points: Poorly translated instructions, exaggerated speeds
COMFAST AC1200 Outdoor Access Point Highlights
The COMFAST AC1200 supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard. That’s significant as 802.11ac claims three times faster speeds than the older Wireless-N. This device can boost existing coverage with speeds up to 867 megabits per second (Mbps) on 5GHz. The high-gain antennas give 360° coverage. It’s a decent product for anyone who wants to extend their central WiFi to the garden, pool area, or garage, etc.
Power amplifiers help to improve the 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz wireless reception and transmission. Harsh outdoor conditions do not affect the functioning of the COMFAST AC1200, either. It’s fully-protected against water, dust, freezing, and high temperatures.
The Not So Good
Some new users are sure to find the included instructions vague and hard to follow. It looks like the classic case of poor translation from Chinese to the English language. The boosted speeds are impressive but exaggerated. Makers of these products always base rates on perfect conditions, but that’s unrealistic for most. Still, it’s only a problem if you expect to achieve the max speed claims.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: COMFAST |
| Model: AC1200 |
| Color: White |
| Shell Material: ABS |
| Type: Omni-directional |
| IP Rating: IP66 |
| Wireless Range: 328.084ft |
| Connectivity Technology: Xxx |
| Frequency: 5.180GHz–5.825GHz. |
| Transmit Power: 500mW (27dBm) |
| Receiving Sensitivity: -96dBm |
| Product Weight: 1.15 lbs. |
| Dimensions: 13.9 x 3.3 x 1.7” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Multiple operation modes |
| Dual-Band (2.4GHz & 5GHz) |
| Protected against weather extremes |
| High gain antennas w/ 360° coverage |
| Supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard |
| Built-in power amplifiers |
| Excellent value |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Poorly translated instructions |
| Exaggerated speeds |
7. G2424 Ultra Long Range Wi-Fi Extender
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The penultimate review is for an ultra-long-range directional parabolic antenna. It promises consistent high-speed connections and claims a distance of 8 miles in ideal conditions.
- Best feature 1: Ultra-long-range WiFi extender
- Best feature 2: Grid design
- Plus points: Well-made product, ultra-directional, U-bolt for pole mounting, weatherproof
- Minus points: Exaggerated range; instructions could use better images
G2424 Long Range WiFi Extender Highlights
The G2424 is a rugged and powerful parabolic WiFi grid for use outdoors. It’s a long-range antenna with a wide 7-degree radiation cone. This model is capable of long-distance performance with fast send/receive speeds. The narrow signal pattern requires the user to aim the antenna directly toward the host WiFi location. The result is an instant boost to WiFi speeds and performance stability.
The reason for the grid design is so that it performs uninterrupted in high winds. Consider this extender antenna for use outside the home, office, and RVs, etc. It mounts easily onto most masts and poles using the included U-Bolt system.
The Not So Good
The company has grossly exaggerated the range capability. That’s unless you happen to live on a flat plain with zero obstructions. It’s an excellent performer, but don’t expect the 8-mile range in the description. The 2D pictorial instructions are in step format, which is good. But they’d be easier to follow with 3D illustrations. Thus, the guide may give some assemblers an IKEA experience.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Antenna World |
| Model: G2424 |
| Color: Gray |
| Type: Directional parabolic grid |
| Wireless Range: 8 miles |
| Frequency: 2.4Ghz. |
| Product Weight: 6 lbs. |
| Dimensions: 12 x 39 x 24” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Rugged, well-made extender |
| Fully weatherproof |
| Parabolic grid design |
| Powerful & ultra-directional |
| Flexible uses |
| Ultra-long WiFi range |
| U-bolt for pole mounting |
| Made in the USA |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Exaggerated range |
| Instructions could use more detail |
8. NETGEAR Orbi | Outdoor Satellite WiFi Extender
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
Last of the current reviews go to the NETGEAR Orbi. It’s a small, portable WiFi Mesh Extender that you can use indoors or outside. It’s not a WiFi extender as such, but the principle is the same (see review).
- Best feature 1: Small and portable, indoor/outdoor
- Best feature 2: Weather-resistant, IP66
- Plus points: Easy to use, works with all WiFi routers, ideal for smart homes
- Minus points: Instructions are not beginner-friendly
NETGEAR Orbi WiFi Extender Highlights
The NETGEAR Orbi Outdoor satellite WiFi extender is not cheap but offers a lot of value. It works seamlessly with any brand of WiFi router or gateway and even rented ISP equipment. The IP66 gives it full protection against harsh conditions, whether it’s wet, freezing, or blazing hot. It can extend your outdoor WiFi coverage up to 2500 sq. ft. when used with an existing router.
NETGEAR’s Orbi delivers the fastest internet speeds possible. That’s thanks to the tri-band (3 wireless bands) mesh WiFi technology. The beauty of a high-end product like this is seamless WiFi for multiple internet-connected devices. That means you can move around the home, inside or out, with no noticeable drop in performance.
Orbi 2×2 Router Vs. a WiFi Range Extender
A WiFi extender repeats a router’s signal to extend its range. The NETGEAR Orbi is a base station with a wireless connection to satellites. It can extend the range of all WiFi equipment. The Orbi handles 2 streams of data simultaneously to an extender’s 1. The purpose of both products is to increase the WiFi range. You can also use an extender with the Orbi if you need more coverage.
The Not So Good
The paper instructions may confuse the technically challenged and some first-timers. My advice is to head over to YouTube if you get stuck. Those who know about these things, though, will find the written guidance straightforward. The Netgear Orbi is quite expensive at around 340 dollars—at the time of writing. Still, it’s a worthwhile investment for any modern, multiple device smart home.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: NETGEAR |
| Model: RBS50Y-200NAS |
| Color: White |
| Type: Satellite WiFi extender |
| IP Rating: IP66 |
| Wireless Range: 2500 sq. ft. |
| Connectivity Technology: Ethernet |
| Frequency: 2.4GHz, 5.0GHz. |
| Product Weight: 2.94 lbs. |
| Dimensions: 8.3 x 2.7 x 10.6” |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Small, portable, wall-mountable |
| Easy to use w/ one WiFi network |
| Ideal for indoor and outside use |
| Works with all routers or gateway |
| Perfect for the modern smart home |
| Fully weather-resistant |
| Award-winning Tri-Band Wi-Fi |
| Guest Network option |
| Handles multiple connections |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Some first-time users may find the instructions vague. |
| Expensive product |
Contents
- How a WiFi Range Extender Works
- How to Choose the Right Product
- IP Ratings Defined
- Mesh WiFi Systems
- About My ‘Outdoor WiFi Range Extender’ Guide
- Outdoor WiFi Range Extenders Comparison Table
- 1. TP-Link CPE210 Outdoor WiFi Transmitter | Best Budget
- TP-Link CPE210 Long-Range WiFi Extender Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 2. Omni Outdoor Antenna Wireless Extender | Best Value
- Omni TP551 Outdoor Wireless Extender Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 3. WAVLINK AC1200 WiFi Range Extender | Top Pick
- WAVLINK AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 4. TUOSHI N4000 Outdoor WiFi Extender Antenna
- TUOSHI Outdoor N4000 WiFi Extender Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 5. Bearifi WiFi Bear Extender for Outdoors
- Bearifi Outdoor WiFi Bear Extender Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 6. COMFAST AC1200 Outdoor Wireless Access Point
- COMFAST AC1200 Outdoor Access Point Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 7. G2424 Ultra Long Range Wi-Fi Extender
- G2424 Long Range WiFi Extender Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 8. NETGEAR Orbi | Outdoor Satellite WiFi Extender
- NETGEAR Orbi WiFi Extender Highlights
- Orbi 2×2 Router Vs. a WiFi Range Extender
- The Not So Good