Best Wireless Access Point For Building a Network in 2023

A wireless access point or WAP is an important invention in the computer network industry. Choosing the best wireless access point will allow you to expand your network and enjoy a seamless connection over the whole area.

WAP devices are not only important for offices, businesses, and institutions but also for homeowners. If you have a large home, chances are that the Wi-Fi signal is not strong enough to reach every corner of your house. This problem can be solved with the help of a wireless access point.

A high-quality wireless access point can improve the overall network coverage and allow you to enjoy strong Wi-Fi signals in every room. It is the best solution to eliminate dead zones in your home or office.

If you are planning to invest in a new WAP device, you are in the right place. We have shortlisted some of the best wireless access point devices for your need.

7 Best Wireless Access Point Reviewed

For best performance, you should choose from the following wireless access points

#1. Ubiquiti Networks UniFi UAP-AC-PRO: Editor’s Choice

UniFi UAP-AC-PRO from Ubiquiti Networks is hands down the best wireless access point for home and office use. It is an efficient network device that is suitable for both outdoor and indoor setups. But what makes it the best choice is the connectivity speed. It is five times faster than other WAP devices of the same price range.

Why is it Unique?

UniFi UAP-AC-PRO has dual frequency band (2.4 and 5 GHz) support and 3×3 MIMO technology. It provides up to 5x faster connectivity than other WAP devices.

It features a versatile design and has a coverage area of up to 122 meters. Additionally, it can be connected to a third-party network switch for enterprise-level access.

The weather-resistant design makes it ideal for both outdoor and indoor use. It is built for efficient functioning and can restrict airtime access to boost the capacity of wireless devices.

The device is equipped with band steering technology that allows it to automatically optimize connection speed.

Buyer’s Experience

The UniFi AC Pro AP is a quality network device with dual-band support for 3×3 MIMO technology. However, these are only a few of the reasons behind the popularity of this device.

Unlike other WAP devices, UniFi UAP-AC-PRO is easy to install and use. You can manage the device using the UniFi Network mobile app.

This gigabit access point is an enterprise-grade device and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Best Fit For

With this enterprise-grade WAP device, you can enjoy a seamless connection at home or the office.

#2. NETGEAR Wireless Desktop Access Point (WAC104): Best Overall

We have to agree that Netgear is one of the top brands in the network device sector. It is known for its high-performance devices such as this WAP device. This dual-band wireless access point is one of the best-selling Netgear devices in the market. But before you consider investing in this device; let’s take a look at its features.

Why is it Unique?

The NETGEAR WAC104 is the best wireless access point device for small businesses and shops. You can also install it at your home.

It is a dual-band access point with a maximum range of up to 1000 sq. ft. and delivers speeds up to 1.2Gbps.

The good thing about this device is that it can accommodate a large number of devices. To be precise, it can connect up to 64 devices. Additionally, it has four gigabit Ethernet ports that allow you to connect it to computers, gaming consoles, printers, and storage devices.

It has one of the highest WAP2 wireless security protocols to protect all your internet devices.

Buyer’s Experience

Most buyers opt for WAC104 because it comes from a reputable brand like Netgear. Other reasons include faster speeds, dual-band support, and a large coverage area.

Netgear WAC104 has equipped all those features that you would want in a WAP device. Factory-tuned external antennas cover far-reaching areas and ensure superior signal throughout the premise.

The advanced security features provide complete protection to your devices. Plus, the device is easy to set up and configure.

Best Fit For

This amazing WAP device is ideal for small businesses, offices, and shops. It also makes a great choice for home use.

#3. TP-Link EAP225-Outdoor Wireless Access Point: Best Outdoor

If you are looking for a high-quality wireless access point within your budget, TP-Link EAP225 would be a great choice for you. It is equipped with the latest wireless technology, including beamforming, airtime fairness, and band steering. It is good to see how a product within a price bracket has so much to offer. Well, it’s only possible with TP-Link.

Why is it Unique?

TP-Link EAP225 is called the best wireless access point for nothing. It is built for speed and is equipped with MU-MIMO technology. This outdoor WAP device provides dual-band Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1200 Mbps to multiple devices at the same time.

The weatherproof design protects the device against harsh weather conditions. With a coverage range of up to 200 meters, it makes a suitable choice for both outdoor and indoor use.

What makes the device great is the support for the latest technologies such as mesh Wi-Fi, band steering, beamforming, and airtime fairness. These technologies help upgrade the performance of the device.

Buyer’s Experience

One of the many reasons that buyers opt for this device is because it is manufactured by TP-Link. It is one of the most advanced WAP devices made by the brand.

Despite the low price tag, EAP225 doesn’t fail to impress buyers with its performance. It is equipped with the latest technologies and can connect to multiple devices at the same time.

It also has an easy setup process, so you don’t have to struggle for hours to figure out how it works.

Best Fit For

This WAP device from TP-Link could be a good choice for your home or office. The discreet design makes it perfect for any interior setup.

#4. Zyxel True WiFi 6 AX3000 Multi-Gigabit Business Access Point: Best For Business

Zyxel True Wi-Fi6 Wireless Access Point is another device you can put your trust into. It offers powerful performance and advanced features at an affordable price. If you are looking for a new WAP device for your business, this could be the one for you.

Why is it Unique?

Zyxel True Wi-Fi6 is a dual-band wireless access point that is capable of providing a high data transmission speed of 3Gbps. The dual 4×4 antenna ensures that you get nothing less than that.

Advanced features like seamless roaming, smart mesh, WAP3 security, and a captive portal further improve the overall performance of the device.

With Zyxel True Wi-Fi6, you can easily switch between cloud-managed or standalone modes, and access your network from any location using the Nebula app.

Another great feature is the Quad Qualcomm 1 GHz A53, which provides more stable connectivity through the network.

Buyer’s Experience

Zyxel True Wi-Fi6 offers greater flexibility. You can either use a POE+switch/injector or AC power adapter and mount it to junction boxes or ceiling with the included bracket.

To make your purchase risk-free, the device is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Last but not least; the device is easy to manage with the Nebula app.

Best Fit For

Zyxel True Wi-Fi 6 wireless access point is perfect for handling greater workloads, making it suitable for office and business use.

#5. ASUS N300 WiFi Router (RT-N12_D1) 3-in-1 Wireless Internet Router/Access Point/Range Extender: Best For Gaming

There’s no denying that ASUS is one of the best brands for network devices. The company focuses on providing top-notch quality products within an affordable price range. This WAP device from ASUS is one of the best options for users who are into gaming or streaming.

Why is it Unique?

ASUS N300 is a single-band wireless access point with a decent speed of 300Mbps. It is known for providing stable and smooth network coverage.

To ensure maximum coverage, the device is equipped with two external antennas. These detachable antennas make sure that you get the same network connections throughout the area.

With ASUS online management, you can easily have full control over your network. Plus, you can access all the features you need.

Buyer’s Experience

Although ASUS N300 is a single-band WAP device, it has many other features that make it worth the investment.

It is a multi-tasking device that provides the benefit of an access point, router, and range extender all in one device. Additionally, it has two detachable 5dBi antennas for more powerful and wider coverage. If that’s not enough, it has 4 SSIDs to access control and manage bandwidth allocation.

Best Fit For

This device can be used in dorm rooms, apartments, offices, etc. It is a great WAP device for indoor use.

#6. EnGenius Technologies EAP1250 Wireless Access Point: Best For Indoor Use

If you are looking for a high-performance wireless access point for indoor usage, you should consider this model from EnGenius. Although EnGenius is not as popular as other brands in this list, they make high-quality products at budget-friendly prices. With that being said, let’s take a look at the features of this device.

Why is it Unique?

EnGenius EAP1250 comes with an innovative design that is perfect for all indoor environments. The compact circular design makes it easier to install and use.

With this device, you can enjoy high transmission speeds of up to 867Mbps at the 5.0 Ghz band and 400Mbps at 2.4 GHz.

It is a highly versatile device that can be used as an access point, repeater, range extender, or mesh. Plus, it has all the advanced technologies that you would expect in a WAP device.

It is equipped with MU-MIMO technology for improved performance. It enables the device to handle up to 256 client devices at the same time. On the other hand, beamforming optimizes antenna signal and reception.

Buyer’s Experience

EnGenius EAP1250 provides coverage in a range of up to 2500+ sq ft. Plus, it has multiple operation modes. Using the EnWiFi app, you can easily switch between different modes based on your requirement.

The device is TAA-compliant and adheres to the highest financial, ethical, and security standards established by the GSA.

Lastly, the device is easy to install and configure. Using the mobile app, you can easily change the settings from any location.

Best Fit For

This device is ideal for indoor use so you can install it anywhere in your home, apartment, office, dorm room, etc.

#7. Cisco Business 145AC Wi-Fi Access Point: Best Compact Design

Lastly, we have Cisco Business 145AC Wireless Access Point. It is an ideal device for users who are looking for a compact WAP device for home use. While it may be smaller in size, it is bigger on the performance scale. It includes all the features that a high-end WAP device should have.

Why is it Unique?

Coming from a brand like Cisco, buyers automatically have high expectations of the product. Thankfully, you will not be disappointed with the performance of this device.

This enterprise-grade WAP device is equipped with MU-MIMO technology for enhanced performance. It delivers reliable and secure wireless connectivity for small businesses.

It provides flexible deployment with a wall or ceiling mount. Additionally, you can mix and match it with other Cisco mesh extenders and business wireless access points to increase your network coverage.

Buyer’s Experience

There are many reasons why buyers opt for this WAP device over other models. First of all, it can be set up in minutes. Unlike other devices, you don’t have to spend hours figuring out their functions. With the help of the Cisco Business Mobile app, you can easily complete the setup process within no time.

Secondly, the device has advanced enterprise-class security to protect it against phishing, malware, and other cyber threats. Plus, you can prioritize network access based on use cases or guest privileges.

Best Fit For

This amazing wireless access point from Cisco is perfect for business use. It has all the features you need to extend your network and enjoy a seamless connection.

What Factors Should You Take Into Account Before Choosing The Best Wireless Access Point?

If you are buying a wireless access point for the first time, chances are that you don’t have much idea about it. But no worries, we have got your back. To help you buy the best wireless access point, we have provided a buyer’s guide below. Check out all the important factors that need to be considered at the time of purchase.

1. Antennas and Signal Gain

There’s an ongoing debate about low signal gain and high signal gain. Well, both signal gains are important as they serve different needs. You must choose the one based on your requirement.

A WAP device with a high signal gain is capable of transmitting data over long distances. But the problem is that they have poor coverage areas.

On the other hand, WAP devices with low signal gains are good for covering large distances and they have a superior coverage area.

This is where you need antennas to cover longer ranges. If you want a WAP device for your home, low signal gains would be good. But for larger workplaces, you will need high signal gains.

2. Weather Resistant

You can use a wireless access point indoors as well as outdoors. Now choosing an outdoor WAP device is a bit challenging as you need a device that is all-weather resistant.

Look for a WAP device that is waterproof and weatherproof. It should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. The good thing about buying such a device is that you can use it indoors as well. But if you get an indoor WAP device, you won’t be able to use it outdoors.

Related Post | 7 Best Outdoor Access Point Reviews (Reviews & Buying Guide)

Weather conditions like rainfall, high humidity, cold, and storms are the biggest enemies of any electronic device. This is why, it is important to choose a fully weatherproof device.

Luckily, many brands offer weather-resistant WAP devices. Go for a reputable brand like the ones listed in the post to get the best performance.

3. Coverage

The next important thing is the coverage area provided by the wireless access point. If you want a WAP device for your home, you shouldn’t aim for a high-coverage device.

In such a case, a wireless access point with a 450 sq ft coverage range will be fine. Anything beyond that might be overkill for you.

However, if you need a wireless access point for your business or office, go for the ones with unidirectional antennas for seamless connectivity.

4. Easy Setup

When buying a new wireless access point, you should check its installation steps. After spending a bunch of money, you wouldn’t want a device that will give you a hard time with the setup process.

Most WAP devices are provided with installation guides. All you have to do is follow the instructions and it should be done. Brands like Netgear, TP-Link, and Ubiquiti are known for their easy setup procedures.

It should be noted that this factor has nothing to do with the performance of the device.

5. Warranty

Last but not least; you should also check the warranty duration of the product. Most WAP devices are backed by 1 or more years of warranty.

Go for a device that has a longer warranty period. This way you can make your purchase risk-free.

FAQs On Best Wireless Access Point

Conclusion on Wireless Access Point

Having the best wireless access point allows you to enjoy uninterrupted network connections at your office, home, shop, etc. These devices are designed to extend your network, so you can catch strong Wi-Fi signals all over the area. If you are planning to buy a new wireless access point, you already know which devices to choose. You can pick any of the models mentioned in the post without worrying about their quality or performance.