TP-Link's Archer C7 is a popular budget router that can tackle standard Wi-Fi needs, and it does have relatively impressive range. However, many factors can play a part in reducing that range, and if you're having issues hitting back corners of your home you might be interested in a Wi-Fi extender. We've rounded up here a list of the best for your Archer C7 in a variety of scenarios.
Light load
TP-Link RE200
Those with a light load on their router can save a load of cash by going with this $30 extender. It has theoretical AC750 throughput over 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radios, but you can use the 2.4 GHz band for dedicated backhaul when streaming or gaming. Easy setup and a single Ethernet port add a bit of motivation to this budget buy.
Dedicated backhaul
NETGEAR Nighthawk X6S
Most range extenders effectively cut your speed in half due to backhaul traffic sent back to your Archer C7. This extender eliminates that problem with a dedicated radio that handles backhaul traffic, meaning better overall performance for devices that use the extender. It also uses the same SSID as the C7, meaning no need to change networks when moving about your home.
Excellent throughput
TP-Link RE450
This Wi-Fi extender has the same theoretical AC1750 throughput as the Archer C7, and its three antennas offer great range for your hard to reach devices. An Ethernet port on the side is handy for wired devices, and a two-year warranty and 24/7 tech support give you some peace of mind.
Powerline
TP-Link TL-WPA8630
Those with a large home with many devices might want to take advantage of a powerline adapter. This TP-Link option has theoretical AC1350 throughput, it performs well with plenty of devices connected, and it can be used outside of the range of the Archer C7 thanks to a connection through your power lines. Three Ethernet ports on the bottom allow for plenty of connectivity to wired devices.
Great value
NETGEAR EX6120
This extender keeps cost down while still offering theoretical AC1200 throughput over 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radios. Two antennas offer great additional range, and an Ethernet port on the side allows for connecting a wired device that's not near your Archer C7.
Extra Wi-Fi range
If your TP-Link Archer C7 isn't quite hitting the far corners of your home, or if you feel like signal strength could be far better, one of these Wi-Fi extenders should do the trick. In most cases you can save a good chunk of cash, but if you're looking for way better performance over a way larger area, a mesh Wi-Fi system is likely a better idea.
