TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender Review

The TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender is an excellent solution for those looking to boost their Wi-Fi coverage without breaking the bank. Designed to eliminate dead zones in your home or office, this extender promises enhanced signal strength and improved network stability. With dual-band support, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a user-friendly setup process, it offers a blend of performance and convenience. In this review, we will dive into its features, performance, pros, cons, and help you decide if it’s the right choice for your networking needs.

Introduction to the TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender

The TP-Link AC1750 RE450 is a dual-band Wi-Fi range extender that extends the reach of your existing Wi-Fi network. With speeds up to 1750Mbps and support for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, the RE450 ensures faster and more reliable internet connections in areas of your home that may otherwise have weak signals. Whether you’re streaming high-definition content, playing online games, or simply browsing the web, this device promises to bring stronger and more consistent Wi-Fi coverage across a larger area.

Let’s explore the features, performance, and overall value of the TP-Link AC1750 RE450.

Key Features of the TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender

1. Dual-Band Wi-Fi with Speeds Up to 1750Mbps
   The RE450 supports both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands. The 2.4GHz band offers stable speeds for browsing and light tasks, while the 5GHz band provides faster speeds for high-demand activities like HD streaming and online gaming. With a combined maximum speed of 1750Mbps, it’s ideal for users who need both speed and coverage.

2. Gigabit Ethernet Port
   The inclusion of a Gigabit Ethernet port allows users to connect wired devices such as smart TVs, gaming consoles, and desktop computers. This feature ensures a fast and reliable wired connection, especially for high-performance devices that require a stable connection.

3. Three External Antennas for Improved Coverage
   The RE450 is equipped with three external antennas that help extend Wi-Fi coverage to even the most distant corners of your home. These antennas are designed to enhance signal strength and improve performance, ensuring that you get consistent coverage across a larger area.

4. WPS Button for Easy Setup
   Setting up the RE450 is as easy as pressing the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button. The device automatically connects to your router with just a single press, eliminating the need for complicated software or manual configuration.

5. Signal Strength Indicator
   The RE450 features a signal strength indicator light, which helps you find the best location for optimal Wi-Fi coverage. The LED indicator changes color based on signal strength, guiding you to place the extender where it can work most effectively.

Performance and Efficiency

In real-world tests, the TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender delivered solid performance, particularly when extending the Wi-Fi coverage to areas that were previously experiencing weak or no signal. On both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, the RE450 provided fast, reliable connections for streaming, gaming, and browsing.

The three external antennas did a great job at improving the range, ensuring that the signal strength remained strong even at a greater distance from the router. The Gigabit Ethernet port was another highlight, providing a stable wired connection for devices that require higher bandwidth and lower latency.

The easy setup process, facilitated by the WPS button, made it simple to connect the extender to a router. Once connected, the RE450 worked seamlessly with a variety of routers, providing reliable and fast internet access throughout the home.

Pros of the TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender

• Dual-Band Wi-Fi with High Speeds: The RE450 offers a combined speed of up to 1750Mbps, supporting both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies for a seamless experience.
• Gigabit Ethernet Port: The inclusion of a Gigabit Ethernet port provides a fast, stable connection for wired devices like gaming consoles, TVs, and desktops.
• Improved Coverage with Three External Antennas: The external antennas help extend Wi-Fi coverage, making the RE450 a great option for larger homes or spaces with thick walls.
• Easy Setup with WPS: The simple WPS button setup process ensures a hassle-free installation, even for users who aren’t tech-savvy.
• Signal Strength Indicator: The LED light indicator helps users find the optimal location for placing the extender, ensuring the best possible performance.

Cons of the TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender

• No USB Ports for Storage Sharing: Unlike some other range extenders, the RE450 lacks USB ports, which means you can’t share files or media over your network using external storage devices.
• Not a Standalone Router: The RE450 is strictly a range extender and cannot function as a standalone router. You’ll need an existing Wi-Fi network to use this device.
• Bulky Design: The design of the RE450 is larger compared to some other range extenders, which may not be ideal for users looking for a more compact device.
• Signal Loss in Larger Areas: While the RE450 works well in medium to large homes, signal strength can still degrade in very large spaces or multi-floor homes, particularly when the extender is placed too far from the router.

How to Get the Best Performance Out of the TP-Link AC1750 RE450

1. Place the Extender in a Central Location: For the best results, position the RE450 halfway between your router and the area where you need stronger Wi-Fi. Use the signal strength indicator to help you find the ideal placement.
2. Use the 5GHz Band for High-Performance Devices: For demanding activities like online gaming or 4K video streaming, connect devices to the 5GHz band for faster speeds and reduced interference.
3. Connect Wired Devices via Ethernet: Take advantage of the Gigabit Ethernet port by connecting devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs, and desktop computers directly to the extender for a stable, high-speed connection.
4. Avoid Obstructions: Position the extender away from walls, metal objects, and other obstructions that can block or interfere with the signal.

Conclusion

The TP-Link AC1750 RE450 Range Extender is a solid and affordable option for extending your Wi-Fi coverage. It offers high-speed dual-band performance, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and easy setup, making it a great choice for those who need a reliable solution for improving their Wi-Fi signal. The RE450 excels at delivering consistent coverage in larger homes or areas with weak signal strength. While it doesn’t have advanced features like USB ports for file sharing, it offers excellent value for its price. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or just browsing the web, the TP-Link AC1750 RE450 ensures you enjoy a smooth and reliable internet experience.