Mesh routers promise dependable Wi-Fi throughout your home, and most follow through, but finding the best mesh Wi-Fi system for the job can be tricky. Instead of a single router to provide Wi-Fi connectivity, a mesh system combines the main router with one or more nodes that appear as a unified Wi-Fi network. Your devices will automatically connect to the nearest option for the best speeds.
Most of us are stuck with placing our router in a less-than-optimal spot, depending on where the internet connection comes into our home. You can extend Wi-Fi coverage by placing a second or third node where needed. Whether you want to fix dead zones, deliver a stronger signal into the back bedroom, or have great Wi-Fi in the backyard, a mesh Wi-Fi system could be the answer. The Netgear Orbi 770 Series is our top pick for most people, but I have many alternatives to suit different homes and internet connections.
Before you dive into our lineup, it’s a good idea to consider whether a mesh system is right for you. Our guide on how to choose a router will help you answer that question and figure out what features you need. If you don't want to switch to a new Wi-Fi mesh system, I also have advice on upgrading your existing Wi-Fi and ways to secure it and protect your home network.
Updated October 2025: We made the Netgear Orbi 770 Series the top pick, added the TP-Link Deco BE67 and BE25 Outdoor, switched in the Deco X55 as our budget pick, and added mention of the Eero Pro 7 after testing. We've also added more FAQs and specs to the comparison table.
Best Wi-Fi 7 Mesh
If you are excited to sample the delights of Wi-Fi 7 or keen to future-proof, the Netgear Orbi 770 Series (8/10, WIRED Recommends) may be the best way to do so right now. More and more phones and laptops now support Wi-Fi 7, and prices for Wi-Fi 7 systems like this one are getting slightly more affordable. The Orbi 770 is backward compatible with previous Wi-Fi versions, but only devices that support Wi-Fi 7, like the iPhone 16 range, can take full advantage of this mesh.
These towering routers aren’t quite as big as the far more expensive Orbi 970 Series, but they have a similar design and are relatively large. The main router has four 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, while the satellites make do with two 2.5 Gbps ports apiece. There’s no USB. Setup is quick and easy using the Orbi app on your phone.
It is a tri-band system, and by default, there is one SSID for the 2.4-GHz, 5-GHz, and 6-GHz bands, and it supports multi-link operation (MLO). MLO is a new Wi-Fi 7 feature that allows devices to connect on multiple bands simultaneously. While a single SSID simplifies things, MLO can cause problems for legacy devices because Wi-Fi 7 has more stringent security requirements (WPA2 or higher). Something like an iPhone 5 won’t be able to connect, though you could potentially use a guest or IoT network.