Using an internet connection is the need of every single person. But when it comes to using the internet efficiently, you need to choose between which kind of networking device you need, and which device can be best for you according to the place you are living in.
According to our research, Mesh Wi-Fi and traditional routers are both common home networking options, but what’s the difference? And which one is best for you?
The main difference between Traditional routers and Mesh Wi-Fi network is that Traditional routers have less wireless coverage area while the Mesh Wi-Fi system covers a wide area probably more than 2000 sq feet. Mesh Wi-Fi systems are a kind of new entrant in the market having multiple interconnected nodes/satellites over the same network, but they are also expensive at the same time.
If you have a big house or working area, a Mesh Wi-Fi network is the one you will need.
Also Read: How to Reset You Charter Spectrum Modem And Router
Mesh Router Wi-Fi System
Mesh Wi-Fi systems use multiple nodes to create a mesh network that blankets your home in Wi-Fi. This means better coverage and fewer dead zones which makes it a great opportunity to avail yourself if you usually suffer from signal loss problems. They also tend to be more reliable than traditional routers, since if one node goes down, the network can still function.
In a Mesh Wi-Fi router, you can connect your devices to the internet through multiple access points which can turn your browsing experience phenomenal.
Also, the central hub technology of the Mesh Wi-Fi router system makes it connect itself to the modem and distribute the signals equally everywhere.
It’s like a plug-and-play system but you may need a technician for its configuration and setup if you are not even a simple DIY tech guy.
it’s easy to configure with just a matter of a few clicks in the wizard setup of the given software or mobile app.
But at the same time, it has some downsides as well. The cost of implementing this system is a bit high because it requires a lot of routers for the creation of a complete network pool of multiple access points.
Traditional Router System
The traditional router system uses a single router to broadcast Wi-Fi signals in all directions. The traditional router system is not scalable because it often leads to dead zones and spotty coverage.
Imagine if you are using a lot of devices in the home and all of them don’t get the proper bandwidth, what will happen then?
Yes, the hardware capacity of your router may overconsume and cause the failure of Wi-Fi signals distribution properly. The disrupted bandwidth causes you to compromise on internet speed, quality, signals strength, and a lot more.
The distorted network signals can disturb your internet browsing experience sometimes. They can also be more prone to interference from other devices and appliances in your home.
Still, if you are just a single internet user or need very limited devices connectivity, a single router could serve the purpose. You won’t need to spend huge bucks on the Mesh Wi-Fi system if that’s the case.
Also Read: Top 6 Best Spectrum Compatible Modems — Self Tested Picks
Difference between Mesh Wi-Fi System and Traditional Router
There main difference between mesh Wi-Fi routers and traditional routers is that mesh Wi-Fi routers offer a better range and coverage than traditional routers.
With a mesh Wi-Fi router, you can get a signal in more places in your home, whereas with a traditional router, the farther away you are from the router, the weaker the signal will be.
So, the devices which are far away from the router may experience a bad signal quality and speed than those which are near to it
Antennas:
Mesh Wi-Fi systems also come with multiple antennas, which helps with distributing the signal more evenly. Traditional routers only come with one or two antennas, so if you are not in the direct line of sight to the router, your signal will be significantly weaker than someone who is.
Access Points:
Mesh Wi-Fi routers also have multiple points of access, whereas traditional routers only have one point of access. This means that with a mesh Wi-Fi system, you can get a signal in more places in your home than you can with a traditional router.
It will give you a great real-world experience of enjoying the internet with the fast real-time speed in most cases.
Best Armstrong Approved Modems Review In 2022 – Updated List Of Self Tested Modems
Price:
Mesh Wi-Fi routers are often more expensive than traditional routers. However, if you are looking for the best range and coverage, then a mesh Wi-Fi router is the way to go.
Speed:
With a traditional router, all wireless traffic is going to rely on that single point of access, which can lead to congestion and slow speeds if there are too many devices connected.
But it does not mean that the Mesh system is the winner here.
Because the new Wi-Fi 6 technology can offer a substantial signal range for both types of systems. Especially if you opt for a traditional router, it will increase both the speed and range of the Wi-Fi signals.
Top 9 RCN Approved Modems (Detailed Guide In 2022)
Processor:
As far as I have observed, most mesh Wi-Fi systems have less processing power and lower gigahertz as compared to traditional routers.
So, a traditional Wi-Fi router can deliver a better internet speed to a device due to high processer hertz as compared to if the same device is connected to a Wi-Fi mesh system (Provided that the internet speed package by ISP is similar in both cases)
However, if we exceed the connected device limits then the bandwidth distribution becomes an issue for the traditional router. Here, the mesh Wi-Fi system takes the lead by providing equal bandwidth and speed.
Which option is better for you? Single router or Mesh Wi-Fi router network?
That’s a tough question to answer. They both have their pros and cons. But, at the end of the day, it all comes down to what your needs are.
If you have a large home with many dead zones, or if you frequently experience interference, mesh Wi-Fi is likely a better choice. If you have a small home or a single-story home, traditional routers may be better.
If you have a big house with multiple levels, or if you have a lot of devices that need connecting, then a mesh system is probably better for you.
Traditional routers can only handle so much bandwidth before they start to struggle. If you have a lot of users in your home, then a mesh system is also ideal. It will give each device its dedicated bandwidth and prevent any signal congestion.
Talking about personal experience, most of our team members are using a lot of smart devices within their homes and all they need is a strong Wi-Fi signal with 100% uptime internet connectivity.
Imagine if you need to connect your multiple mobile phones, a smart doorbell, a smart thermostat, and even a smart vacuum, what would you need? A traditional router or a mesh Wi-Fi system?
Yes, this time a mesh Wi-Fi system will be your choice.
So, it all depends on your specific situation. Do some research and see which system would be the best fit for you!
Top 5 Wave Compatible Modems – Best Picks To Consider
Conclusion
In my opinion, if you’re looking for a better and more reliable home internet connectivity that can cover a large area, go for mesh Wi-Fi routers.
However, if you have a small household or work area with a smaller number of devices, traditional routers will do just fine, and they are less expensive as well. Just make sure to purchase the one which is according to your home needs.
