By Robin Owens 2 days ago, Photography Gear
Affordable and high-quality dual band WiFi access points.
If you want to have a speedy connection anywhere in your home, then you should get the best dual band Wi-Fi access point. It can enhance the performance of your router by taking the load from it. In such a way, you can prevent the appearance of dead spots in your reception that can cause various connection failures.
No matter why you are in search of WAP, we’ve created a selection of top models that are available in the market today. The short buyer’s guide focuses on important aspects you should pay attention to when choosing the most powerful wireless access point for your home or office.
Total Speed: 1750Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Connectivity: 2x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x USB 2.0
The Ubiquiti UAP-AC-PRO-US is relatively inexpensive, has an attractive design and small size, good performance and wide capabilities. To work, it requires a network cable, and to implement all the possibilities, it is necessary to use a controller in a local network.
The UniFi access points will look appropriate in a large home or office network to cover a large area and serve dozens of clients. At the same time, the control greatly simplifies the configuration and monitoring of the wireless network and provides data for evaluating efficiency and planning development.
Total Speed: 300Mbps | Standard: 802.11b/g/n | Connectivity: 1x Ethernet (RJ45) with Passive PoE
With TP-Link Wireless N300 TL-WA801ND, the user can easily create a wireless access point in an own apartment or a small office. The router boasts stable performance, good speeds, and many other interesting features.
One of the significant advantages of TP-LINK TL-WA801ND is PoE technology which helps to connect an access point and a modem in case the user cannot install an electrical outlet in a particular place. Thus, PoE replaces the outlet by supplying both signal and power directly through the Ethernet cable. According to official figures, the user can create a pairing at a distance of up to 30 meters (100 feet).
Total Speed: 2033Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/r/k/v/ac/ac-wave2 | Connectivity: 1x Gigabit LAN with 802.3af PoE+
The Ubiquiti UAP-NANOHD-US is a powerful dual-band Wi-Fi hotspot with full 802.11ac Wave 2 MU — MIMO support. For the 2.4 GHz band, the access point provides data transfer rates up to 300 Mbps (2x2 MIMO), and for 5 GHz — up to 1733 Mbps (4x4 MU-MIMO).
The Ubiquiti UAP-NANOHD-US supports numerous connections (125-200 people). Therefore, it is perfect for installation in cafés, restaurants, hotels, office buildings, shopping and entertainment centers, and cinemas. All UniFi point models are managed and configured using the UniFi Controller software. It can be downloaded for free from the manufacturer's website and installed on a computer running Windows, macOS or Linux.
Total Speed: 1166Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, 802.3u/at | Connectivity: 1x Gigabit LAN Ethernet with 802.3at PoE
The Linksys LAPAC1200C is a powerful enterprise solution that delivers high speeds. Despite the rather simple connection of the access point, advanced users can perform much more complex actions: detect rogue points, control access based on MAC addresses, and much more.
Thus, with the purchase of the Linksys LAPAC1200C, the user gets an excellent toolkit for creating a "smart" office with very impressive administrative capabilities.
Total Speed: 1167Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Connectivity: 4x Ethernet (RJ-45) with Auto MDI-X
The Netgear WAC104 Wi-Fi access point is an affordable, high-speed dual-band wireless network solution for both wired and wireless devices. The advanced security features provide excellent protection against hacking attempts and can be set up with ease by advanced users. This product is designed to simplify and control complicated networks that use complex technology to communicate.
The convenience of just one-touch operation makes it an easy transition from wired to wireless technology. With the easy-to-understand controls and wizard, even novices can easily operate this sophisticated wireless system.
Total Speed: 1750Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Connectivity: 5x (1 WAN & 4 LAN) Gigabit Ethernet, 1x USB 3.0
The Netgear R6700 router is based on the high-performance Broadcom platform, equipped with five Gigabit network ports, a dual-band access point supporting connection speeds up to 450 Mbps and 1300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands respectively. In addition, the model has one USB port and several additional built-in services.
The advantages of the Netgear R6700 device include the original appearance, the most powerful hardware, and high wireless speed. In addition, we note a relatively low level of CPU heating under load.
Total Speed: 1317Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/r/k/v/ac | Connectivity: 1x Gigabit LAN Ethernet
The Ubiquiti UniFi UAP-AC-LR-US is a dual-band Wi-Fi indoor access point with high-speed AC support and seamless roaming. The model features increased output power and an innovative antenna design that provide symmetrical communications and long-range WiFi coverage (up to 183 meters without obstructions).
The Uni Fi UAP-AC-LR-US is designed specifically for deploying HotSpot, a scalable, concurrent network in public areas.
Total Speed: 1317Mbps | Standard: 802.11/a/b/g/n/ac | Connectivity: 1x Ethernet (RJ45) with 802.3af PoE
The TP-Link AC1350 EAP225 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, Omada Mesh technology, Fast roaming, Omada controller. The EAP225 access point supports seamless WI-Fi roaming (Fast Roaming or 802.11k/v), which allows clients to switch to APs with the optimal signal, ensuring smooth switching while on the move. This creates an uninterrupted connection while using VoIP or video conferencing services.
The TP-Link AC1350 EAP225 is an extremely effective and efficient device. This is a good quality access point designed for indoor installation and work both as a stand-alone device and work within Mesh networks.
Total Speed: 1167Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/r/k/v/ac | Connectivity: 1x Ethernet (RJ45) with 802.3af/A PoE
The Ubiquiti UniFi AP AC Lite is an indoor access point for organizing a wireless network in a small office or cafe. Supports all modern communication standards, ensuring compatibility with numerous devices. The Ubiquiti UniFi AP AC Lite operates in 2.4 & 5GHz dual-band mode with aggregate data transfer rates up to 1167 Mbps, significantly reducing file download times.
The device is configured using the web interface and the UniFi Controller program, which has the following functionality: seamless roaming, hotspot setting, rate limiting for each client, creating isolated virtual Wi-Fi networks, supporting more than 200 clients at the same time.
Total Speed: 300Mbps | Standard: 802.11b/g/n | Connectivity: 5x Ethernet RJ45 (1 WAN, 4 LAN)
The ASUS RT-N12-D1 is aimed at the mainstream segment for home use at a more than affordable price point. Thanks to its pleasant appearance, it will easily fit into any design. The RT-N12-D1 is able to provide comfortable work with fast Internet access for a variety of devices.
The router makes a very positive impression. It has excellent router functionality, a well-thought-out web interface with many parameters/settings, and fairly efficient hardware that copes with even the most difficult tests. In addition, it easily passes the performance test for downloading a lot of data over a Wi-Fi network with four devices at the same time.
Total Speed: 3000Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/i/n/ac | Connectivity: Router: 3x Gigabit Ethernet (LAN), 1x Gigabit Ethernet (WAN); Satellite: 4x Gigabit Ethernet (LAN)
The Netgear RBK50 2 pack seems to be relatively simple. But unlike many WLAN products with external antennas, the RBK50 fits seamlessly into modern interiors. You do not have to hide the access point or satellite in the corner, the device can be placed in a conspicuous place. LED indicators let you know the current status at a glance. Even inexperienced users can handle the installation and configuration of the system.
The router/access point can be installed next to the DSL modem, and the satellite can be taken out into the living room or any other room where stable WLAN reception is required. In addition to a high-speed WLAN network, Ethernet ports are available, so some devices can be connected with a cable, removing the load from the WLAN.
Total Speed: 1750Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Connectivity: 1x Gigabit Ethernet PoE
The TP-Link AC1750 EAP245 has a pleasant and elegant design, so it will easily fit into a modern interior. Wall- or ceiling-mountable offers several benefits: improved wireless coverage, easier site selection, and anti-vandal protection (even includes a Kensington slot for increased safety precautions).
For convenient configuration and monitoring of the access point, there is an easy-to-learn and fairly functional EAP Controller web interface. As for performance, there are internal universal antennas with support for MIMO technology and the implementation of 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi standards in dual frequency bands. The device can really be a useful tool when organizing wireless access in hotels, restaurants, libraries, offices, and other government or commercial organizations.
Total Speed: 450Mbps | Standard: 802.11b/g/n | Connectivity: 5x Ethernet RJ45 (1 WAN, 4 LAN)
Visually, the TP-Link TL-WR940N has a very nice and thoughtful design. Functionally, the model has an increased bandwidth of up to 450 Mbps, while the competitors have it at the level of 300 Mbps. In addition, the model has three rather powerful omnidirectional antennas that promise a stable connection and effective coverage.
The device supports WPS technology for quick setup of a wireless connection, a proprietary web interface with flexible settings, and a TP-Link Tether mobile app for monitoring/configuration from a smartphone. If you are buying the N450 router, and you do not need a USB port to connect additional peripherals, then TP-Link TL-WR940N will delight you with both a stylish design and a necessary functionality.
Total Speed: 3000Mbps | Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Connectivity: 2x Gigabit Ethernet PoE+
The Netgear WAC540PA tri-band Wi-Fi modem is designed to provide robust data transmission over short and long distances at superior speeds. The Wi-Fi access point gateway gives users a simple and affordable choice for connecting to the World Wide Web, especially in areas where mobile connectivity is a concern. The device utilizes the industry-standard Ethernet port technology to connect to the local area network.
The Netgear WAC540PA Wi-Fi gateway offers excellent performance for both downloading and uploading of files, web pages and media content. It offers the latest firmware upgrades and automatic updates that ensure the best user experience. The modem also provides the required security and protection for confidential information. The LAN setup utility allows easy configuration and auto firewall to ensure that no viruses get into the system.
IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
---|---|---|---|
Ubiquiti UAP-AC-PRO-US
Our choice
|
CHECK PRICE → | ||
TP-Link N300 TL-WA801ND
Best price
|
CHECK PRICE → | ||
Ubiquiti UAP-NANOHD-US
Compact
|
CHECK PRICE → |
Every wireless router uses radio frequencies to transmit a signal to various devices. The most common band frequencies are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Dual-band uses both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. The 5 GHz provides a speedier and more qualitative connection. So even individual networks (gaming and video, for instance) can successfully operate simultaneously.
Internal antennas are a better choice for home use, whereas external antennas are more suitable for commercial, industrial, and tax industries. Access points are fitted with integrated antennas or radiofrequency ports for connecting external antennas that enhance your coverage greatly. We recommend using directional antennas for point-to-point communications. External omnidirectional antennas ensure a more extensive indoor/outdoor point-to-multi-point wireless network coverage.
The 802.11ac standard provides up to 3 times speedier connections than 802.11n. Whereas an N-access point can provide a reasonable bandwidth for no more than 30-35 users, an AC-access point doesn’t have such restrictions.
When choosing the best dual band Wi-Fi access point, it is important to consider the technology it supports. MESH ensures stable Internet connection across your home, office, or even a city, using connection boxes. The full mesh topology consists of devices or workstations (nodes) that are directly linked to each other. A partial mesh topology comprises nodes, which are connected to each other directly, as well as other workstations that are only linked to their data-exchange partners.
MIMO technology can prevent scattered signals that cause various connection errors and slow down wireless Internet and other digital communication data rate. Position antennas and several signal transmissions at both the source and end to decrease the negative multipath wave transmission. Considered as a highly efficient low-power long cabling technology, PoE can distribute a signal up to 100 meters. Because of its low power, the technology can eliminate electrical hazard risks.