A wireless access point (WAP) is crucial for any home, office or institution that needs to support multiple wireless internet users.
Unlike traditional wireless routers, WAPs offer a broader transmission range and flexible networking. They also allow multi-access point interconnections if you want to extend your wireless network.
When you are shopping for a wireless access point, you should consider the WAP’s speed and range. Additionally, you’ll benefit from a model that offers simple installation and a reasonable antenna gain.
With many products on the market, picking the right one for your needs can be a balancing act. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best wireless access points to simplify your shopping experience.
Top Wireless Access Points
The WAPs we’ve listed below are highly rated and powerful. They are available in various price ranges, so finding one that suits your budget should be easy.
1. Ubiquiti Wave2
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Ubiquiti Wave2
Four stream 802.11AC Wave2 technologySupports 200+ concurrent users
The Ubiquiti Wave2 is an exceptional WAP that bundles unlimited performance and scalability to match a large organization’s needs.
This device’s UniFi Network Controller software provides high-density client deployments with low latency for high uptime performance.
Better yet, the software allows you to configure and administer your WiFi network in minutes, even if you’re a first-time user.
If you’ve never installed a wireless access point before, don’t worry. The Wave2 is super easy to install. It even comes with mounting hardware.
In addition, the robust, industrial design promises to handle the rigors of everyday use.
Other notable highlights include advanced security options, user application program (UAP) device detection and real-time status reports.
Key Features:
802.11ac technologyWLAN groups4×4 spatial streamsDual Gigabit EthernetPower Over Ethernet (PoE) standardMulti-site managementGuest portal/hotspot supportReal-world performance
Pros:
Compact designHigh-performance protocolsReasonably pricedPowerful antenna
Cons:
Needs frequent reconfigurations
2. TP-Link EAP225 V3
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TP-Link EAP225 V3
Superior Speeds with MU-MIMO — Designed with the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology, the EAP225…Integrated into Omada SDN — Omada’s Software Defined Networking (SDN) platform integrates network…
The TP-Link EAP225 V3 is a good wireless access point if you’re on a tight budget.
It packs a punch despite its modest pricing. This WAP runs on the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) technology to support multiple users and provides impressive WiFi speeds of up to 1350Mbps.
To allow seamless wireless roaming between access points, it comes with an integrated Omada controller.
In addition, you can access this WAP remotely from the cloud using the Omada app. This way, you can manage the entire network from a single interface, anywhere, anytime.
Furthermore, the unit supports seamless roaming for uninterrupted video streaming and video calls as users move between locations. It even boasts multiple PoE options for quick installation.
For added peace of mind, this WAP comes with a limited lifetime warranty and free 24/7 support.
Key Features:
Virtual local area networks (VLAN) management2.4Ghz radios at 450Mbps max rate (x3)1Gb POE Ethernet portMultiple user (MU) MIMO support802.3af and Passive PoE support1300Mbps max rate128MB of RAM, 8MB flash802.11 specifications
Pros:
Fast dual-band WiFiCentralized managementSecure guest networkAdvanced wireless technologyAffordable
Cons:
Unsecured service set identifiers (SSIDs)
3. Ubiquiti UAP-AC-Pro
Ubiquiti UAP-AC-PRO
Manage Your Networks from a Single Control PlaneIntuitive and Robust Configuration, Control and Monitoring
Ubiquiti is renowned for making top-notch WAPs, and the UAP-AC-Pro is no different.
This unit features three dual-band antennas for excellent wireless signal broadcast. It also comes with 2Gb Ethernet ports for wired connections.
Meanwhile, controlling the device is a breeze. It is compatible with UniFi Network Controller software.
The software has an intuitive and user-friendly interface to give you easy control of the product. Better yet, you can install the application on your smartphone or PC for additional convenience.
This WAP’s throughput stands at 450Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. You can also get speeds of up to 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band. It offers a remarkable 400-foot signal range.
With these capabilities, this model is one of the best wireless access points if you’re looking for solid performance and excellent value for your money.
Key Features:
Powered with 802.3af PoE or 802.3at PoE+2.4GHz (3×3 MU-MIMO technology) with 450Mbps throughput5GHz MI-MUMO frequency with speeds of up to 1.3Gbps 2GbE RJ45 ports802.11ac Wave 1 WiFi protocol
Pros:
Easy to configureGood wireless performanceFast roamingWireless uplink compatibility
4. NETGEAR WAC510
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NETGEAR WAC510
MULTIPLE DEVICE PERFORMANCE: Dual-Band AC1300 speed, coupled with MU-MIMO technology, supports up to 200…WIRED ETHERNET PORT: Plug in a printer, storage, or other nearby wired devices into the extra 1 Gigabit…
Easily boost the wireless capability of your office with the NETGEAR WAC510.
As a mid-priced model, it comes with 2×2 internal antennas to support two data streams. You also get dual-band performance, including 2.4GHz and 5GHz, for an aggregated throughput of up to 1.2Gbps.
The WAC510’s MU-MIMO technology helps avoid congestion. This feature is handy for boosting performance in high-deployments like WiFi hotspots.
In addition, this product’s PoE on the wide area network (WAN) allows data transmission over a single cable. This way, it becomes easy to deploy the unit.
Even more impressive, this WAP can identify your device type in order to offer the best wireless possible connection.
This WAP also comes with a limited lifetime warranty and 24/7 customer support.
Key Features:
Adjustable Transmit Power Control (TPC)Rogue AP detectionVLAN supportBandwidth managementBlock SSID broadcast802.1 wireless protocolLink Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) support
Pros:
Easy to set upIncredible speedsReliable performanceDual network portsGood range
Cons:
Guest WiFi could be better
5. EnGenius EAP1300
EnGenius EAP1300
Quad-core CPU, 4x arm Cortex A7 Processor, 717 MHz “Turbo engine”11AC Wave 2 Wireless speeds to 867 Mbps (5 GHz); to 400 Mbps (2.4 GHz)
The EnGenius EAP1300 promises to deliver wireless data 30% faster than other units in its class.
It sports clean lines and a low profile for easy mounting. This design allows wall and ceiling installation to let you place the WAP virtually anywhere.
The wide, detachable 360-degree antennas help minimize interference by providing reliable connectivity. Also, the dual-band support allows you to steer clients to the less congested band for improved traffic management.
You’ll love the unit’s Gigabit 802.3af PoE ports that allow you to power the unit conveniently in areas like hallways, attics and rafters.
Additionally, this device can operate as a standalone access point or as part of a network solution for more flexibility.
Key Features:
BeamformingUp to 30% more speedsQuad-Core Processor, 717 MHz “Turbo Engine”11ac Wave 2 Speeds of up to 867MbpsGigE 802.3af PoE
Pros:
EnGenius EAP1300Optimal performanceRich feature setImpressive rangeReliable wireless infrastructure
6. TP-Link EAP110
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TP-Link EAP110
Fast Speeds with 2×2 MIMO — Equipped with Wireless N300 2×2 MIMO technology, the EAP110-Outdoor easily…Indoor/Outdoor Use — The durable, weatherproof enclosure protects the access point against harsh…
The TP-Link EAP110 is the best wireless access point for outdoor internet use.
This compact WAP delivers transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps. While it isn’t the fastest option, that’s enough throughput for a home or office with multiple users.
Beyond that, the unit boasts 2×2 MIMO technology to bolster bandwidth and reduce lag.
Installation is simple thanks to the included mounting brackets and passive PoE support. The latter eliminates the need for a dedicated power supply for increased installation flexibility.
You can count on this device to last for months upon months. It comes with a hardwearing casing with an IP65 waterproof rating to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Key Features:
Auranet Controller Software compatibilityVLAN supportPassive PoEUp to 300Mbps WiFi2×2 MIMO technology
Pros:
Simple mounting designAffordableEasy to controlReboots automaticallyWeatherproof
7. NETGEAR WAX214
NETGEAR WAX214
Easy to install in a retail store, business lobby, or any location where you want a dedicated, secure…Dual-Band AX1800 speed and capacity, coupled with MU-MIMO technology, supports up to 128 client devices.
The NETGEAR WAX214 brings 802.11ax WiFi to your network for fast and reliable file transfers, video streaming, conferencing and more.
It switches data transfer at speeds of up to 1800Mbps over 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. Plus, it can support up to 1500 square feet.
Meanwhile, Beamforming and MU-MIMO technologies allow the unit to communicate with up to 40 devices.
This wireless AP supports wall and ceiling mounting. You can power it using an AC adapter or via PoE.
Better yet, there are up to four wireless networks to let you configure your network’s security. You even upgrade to WiFi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) authentication for increased wireless security.
Key Features:
1,500 sq. ft. coverage area1x GbE Ethernet ports2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bandWiFi 6 AX1800 dual-band600Mbps (2.4GHz), 1,200Mbps (5.0GHz) maximum throughput128 clients support
Pros:
InexpensiveSolid 5GHz performanceUp to four SSIDsCompact and unobtrusiveSeamless web-based configuration
8. Aruba Instant On Wireless Access Point
Aruba Instant On Wireless Access Point
Aruba Instant On AP22 Indoor Access Points bring the latest WiFi technology — 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 — to the…Winner of CRN’s 2021 SMB Product Of The Year | Security: Two-Factor Authentication enabled
The Aruba AP22 offers 802.11a ax WiFi and a throughput of up to 1775 Mbps. It is a dual-band model with two frequencies, including 2GHz and 5GHz.
At 2GHz, it can deliver transfer speeds of 574Mbps. Expect speeds of up to 1200Mbps on the 5GHz frequency.
This unit is pretty good at overcoming interference. It runs on orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA), 2×2 MU-MIMO and Beamforming technologies for wireless performance you can count on.
In addition, this WAP can support a smart mesh network. This means that you can extend your WiFi coverage to hard-to-reach spots where it isn’t easy to do Ethernet cabling.
For additional peace of mind, the Aruba comes with a two-year warranty and community support for as long as you own the device.
Key Features:
2.4GHz, 5GHz dual-bandTwo antennas2 x 2MU-MIMO supportWiFi 6 (802.11ax) WLAN mode4.3 to 5.6 dBi antenna gainInternal antenna placement774 Mb/s total throughput
Pros:
Easy WiFi managementExcellent performanceSimple configuration
9. Tenda AC1200
Tenda AC1200
A single can communicate with multiple wireless clients at one time, letting you enjoy higher throughput…Allows clients that support either 2. 4 GHz or 5 GHz band, or both to connect to it At the same time,…
The Tenda AC1200 is an affordable wireless access point packed with well-thought-out features.
It features a dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) frequency, backed by MU-MIMO and Gigabit LAN ports. The dual-port design means you can use multiple devices simultaneously.
This product allows you to create guest WiFi connectivity, giving you more control over your network. You can also implement parental control on a per-device basis.
The four status LEDs that are strategically placed on the front are excellent. They allow you to tell which network you’re connected to with just a quick glance.
Furthermore, the Tenda has a USB port for your external devices. You even get three Gigabit LAN ports for Ethernet connections. Plus, there’s a Gigabit WAN for your modem.
If those perks weren’t enough, this product comes with a lifetime warranty that includes free tech support that’s available 24/7. You’ll know you are always covered if you purchase this device.
Key Features:
11ac speed up to 1167Mbps (5GHz: 867Mbps + 2.4GHz: 300Mbps)High powered amplifiersBeamforming+Migration PPPoEInnovative MU-MIMO technologyRealtek chipsetSmart WiFi Schedule
Pros:
AffordableGood rangeEffective app
10. Ubiquiti NanoStation Loco M2
The NanoStation Loco M2 by Ubiquiti is one of the best wireless access points for a stable long-range connection.
Built to support Point-to-MultiPoint (PtMP) and Point-to-Point configurations, this unit features a panel antenna with 8.5dBi gain. The antenna provides reliable communication with wireless devices of 2.4GHz signal band frequency.
This WAP runs on a 400MHz Atheros MIPS 24Kc processor. It boasts 32MB of memory and up to 8MB of flash storage.
You can power the processor with the included power-over-Ethernet (PoE) adapter to the 10/100 Mb/s Ethernet port, allowing this WAP to carry power and data over a single cable.
This unit features a UV-stabilized casing, allowing it to withstand harsh weather elements while enabling outdoor mounting.
To top it all off, you can configure the Loco M2 and manage connected devices with airOS software.
Key Features:
airMAX technologySmart power-over-EthernetLow latency to reduce noseIntelligent Quality of Service (QoS)High-speed carrier-class linksRemote access and controlDual polarity performance150+ Mbps throughput2.4GHZ frequency8.5dBi gain5 Kilometer range
Pros:
Easy to set upExcellent performanceRobust designReasonable connection rangeAffordableGood directional WiFi
Summary
If you are looking for the best wireless access points currently on the market, you can’t go wrong with these options.
While the capability might differ from model to model, a wireless AP will eliminate dead spots for good.
Adding one of these WAPs to your home or office will come in handy if you want to give your network a boost when handling your devices.
All you have to do is pick one that suits your needs and budget. Then, you can surf the web or stream your favorite content with exceptional speeds and minimal load times.