TP-Link RE450
Score: 71/100
Netgear EX6170
Score: 75/100Rankings
The Netgear EX6170 is a dual-band AC1200 Wi-Fi 5 extender with FastLane technology, external high-power antennas, and a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port, providing solid performance for up to 1500 sq ft. While it offers good speed, it lacks Wi-Fi 6 support and advanced features like MU-MIMO. Ideal for users needing reliable dual-band extension without wired backhaul.
The TP-Link RE450 is a dual-band AC1750 extender delivering up to 1750 Mbps and covering roughly 2000 ft², with three adjustable antennas and an intelligent signal light. Its main trade-off is reliance on the older Wi-Fi 5 standard and relatively high power draw. It suits users with existing AC routers who need a straightforward, budget-friendly coverage boost.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
185.81 sqmbest | 139.35 sqm | |
1,750 Mbpsbest | 1,200 Mbps | |
1best | 1best | |
3best | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 13 Wbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 0.34 kg | 0.13 kgbest |
2 yearsbest | 1 years |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(2) | ||
Coverage Area (sqm) | 185.81 sqm | 139.35 sqm |
Maximum Throughput (Mbps) | 1750 Mbps | 1200 Mbps |
Ports(1) | ||
Ethernet Port Speed | Gigabit | 10/100 Mbps |
Network(3) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 5 | 802.11ac |
Supported Frequency Bands | 2.4 GHz;5 GHz | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz |
Security Protocols | WEP;WPA;WPA2 | WPA/WPA2-PSK, WEP |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.34 kg | 0.13 kg |
Dimensions (H × W × D) (mm) | 66x162x76 mm mm | 55.17 x 67.17 x 39 mm mm |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 1 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the RE450 for its solid high-speed performance, intuitive installation, and useful Gigabit Ethernet port, earning PCMag's Editor's Choice and praise from B&H Photo for its signal-light placement aid. However, they note the device relies on the older Wi-Fi 5 standard and lacks energy-efficiency features, which may be a drawback compared to newer Wi-Fi 6 extenders.
Everyday users generally rate the RE450 positively, highlighting the simple setup process, strong signal extension that improves streaming and gaming, and the convenience of the Gigabit Ethernet port for wired devices. Some customers experience occasional coverage inconsistencies in difficult environments and mention the unit's bulkier size as a minor inconvenience.
