Mesh options - 3 options, any thoughts ?

[mattwh]

The Deco E4, Tenda MW5S and BT discs are all similarly priced and all AC1200.

Any opinions on which one is 'better' or any to avoid ?

3 units will cover the areas I need indoors but I would also like to reach the workshop - which is 30m from the house - maybe too far ?

Only one unit (next to BT HomeHub) will be hard wired.

Thanks !

[DoctorX]

The problem with this is everyone is different, depending on house layout, wall thickness etc. I never had any issues with the BT discs but I’d probably just order one type from Amazon, see if they do the job and return if they don’t. Then move to the next.

I think the 30 metre gap may be a tough ask though. I’ve got some Netgear Orbis now which seem to have a big range (they don’t usually daisy chain back to the router, even the furthest one) but they’re considerably pricier.

[Sixpackpert]

DoctorX said:

The problem with this is everyone is different, depending on house layout, wall thickness etc. I never had any issues with the BT discs but I’d probably just order one type from Amazon, see if they do the job and return if they don’t. Then move to the next.

I think the 30 metre gap may be a tough ask though. I’ve got some Netgear Orbis now which seem to have a big range (they don’t usually daisy chain back to the router, even the furthest one) but they’re considerably pricier.

Another vote for Orbi here. Have the main unit and 2 satellites. Solid bit of kit.

[GAVGOLF]

I rate the deco’s - but have just gone and hardwired everything so have got 5 x deco m5’s up for sale on the bay - might work for you ?

[tapandunwrap]

I've done a couple of houses with the Google wifi. Would definitely recommend, particularly for the app / remote access. Probably not as many advanced settings as the others you mention.

[nyt]

I used Deco P9s (WifI & powerline mesh) in a substantial property and had excellent results.

Limited configuration should you want to do clever things (DMZ etc) but perfect for a typical install

[dmsims]

tapandunwrap said:

I've done a couple of houses with the Google wifi. Would definitely recommend, particularly for the app / remote access. Probably not as many advanced settings as the others you mention.

and that's the one I would completely discount

[MarkGArgyle]

nyt said:

I used Deco P9s (WifI & powerline mesh) in a substantial property and had excellent results.

Limited configuration should you want to do clever things (DMZ etc) but perfect for a typical install

Yes this. 3500ft2 and they have provided crisp WiFi across the house. How did we live without these before!

[DuckSauce]

I've got the Google ones (original versions) and whilst they are great for scheduling when the kids devices stop working, the rest isn't great. The WiFi signal isn't that strong, I've got 2 discs in a 3 bedroom house and I still can't get WiFi in the bathroom, despite the Puck being in my bedroom across the hall. The app is good though

I need something with a feature that will restrict a devices usage, but doesn't completely stop it

[HairyMaclary]

I have a Tenda mw6 mesh against a 1gbs FTTP. It's connected by a 1gps port but I can only speed test 100mbs or so each way. Directly off the router via wifi is about 550.

Going to be expensive to replace the mesh with something capable of the line speed but other than bragging rights I don't think I would notice the difference.

So for now I'll keep the mw6s. Would recommend them. Full signal all over the house and very stable.

No way will it do a 30m gap. I have 4 boxes and no signal much past the drive circa 20m.

[s2kjock]

I have set up Deco E4s in both a modern flat and an old stone house with thick walls - worked much better than expected in both sites in terms of range and reliability (the latter of which has been completely solid, ISP outtages notwithstanding).

TP Link have also recently brought out a mini version of their mesh units (M3W) that plugs directly into the wall (like a range extender), but works as another mesh unit to extend coverage in any weak spots. I have bought a couple, but not installed them yet - could be a cheaper option depending on your property, although you will need at least one "full size" unit as a starter.

[mattwh]

Just to update - got 3 Tenda MW6 units brand new from the 'bay. Very pleased with the result. They reach out to the garage and then some ! Solid signal throughout house (internal brick walls) so thumbs up for Tenda from me.

Question for the mesh heads - I am running this out of a BT HomeHub - do I NEED to switch off wifi on that ? If I left it on (connected to smart switches and lights) am I missing a trick ? The main gripe I had with the old powerlines and extenders, which I have solved, was having to reconnect phones and tablets as we went about our business but my lights and switches don't wander around !

Thanks.

[DoctorX]

mattwh said:

Just to update - got 3 Tenda MW6 units brand new from the 'bay. Very pleased with the result. They reach out to the garage and then some ! Solid signal throughout house (internal brick walls) so thumbs up for Tenda from me.

Question for the mesh heads - I am running this out of a BT HomeHub - do I NEED to switch off wifi on that ? If I left it on (connected to smart switches and lights) am I missing a trick ? The main gripe I had with the old powerlines and extenders, which I have solved, was having to reconnect phones and tablets as we went about our business but my lights and switches don't wander around !

Thanks.

Change the SSID so it’s the same as the router, then turn off WiFi on the router. Everything should still work.

[dmsims]

DoctorX said:

Change the SSID so it’s the same as the router, then turn off WiFi on the router. Everything should still work.

and make sure you have the Tenda in Bridge mode