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TP-Link RE500X Review | 63 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£35
Wi-Fi version: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Wi-Fi speed: 1500 Mbps
Coverage area: 139 m²

TP-Link RE500X review. Compare 63 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among wi-fi extenders and if it is worth buying.

8.2

Excellent

8.1

Excellent

8.9

Excellent

7.8
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
5.0
Wi-Fi speed
30.0%
9.0
QoS support
20.0%
9.0
Ethernet backhaul
15.0%
10
N. of LAN ports
8.8
Travel
Score components:
45.0%
9.1
Weight
30.0%
10
Portable design
15.0%
5.0
Wi-Fi speed
10.0%
10
Access Point mode

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#5 in Best Cheap Wi-Fi Extenders
#5 in Best TP-Link Wi-Fi Extenders
#5 in Best TP-Link Mesh Wi-Fi Extenders
#11 in Best Plug In Wi-Fi Extenders
#13 in Best Wi-Fi 6 Extenders
#16 in Best Wi-Fi Extenders
#16 in Best Mesh Wi-Fi Extenders
#16 in Best Wi-Fi Extenders with Ethernet Port
#24 in Best Wi-Fi Extenders for Camping

Verdict

The TP-Link RE500X is an AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 range extender that delivers combined dual-band speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps (1201 Mbps on 5 GHz and 300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz) and features a powerful 1.5 GHz tri-core CPU for efficient data processing. Its main characteristics include OneMesh support for seamless roaming when paired with compatible routers, a dedicated Gigabit Ethernet port for high-speed wired devices, and a versatile Access Point mode. Key pros include excellent 5 GHz throughput, four high-performance internal amplifiers for enhanced coverage, and a smart signal indicator to simplify placement. However, some cons to consider are its relatively bulky wall-plug design, a higher price point compared to entry-level models, and a lack of WPA3 support in some versions.

Technical Specifications of TP-Link RE500X

Overall score

8.2

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the Wi-Fi extender.

When it matters: When you prefer to buy a Wi‑Fi extender that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Wi-Fi Performance

7.1

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Wi-Fi version

What it is: The Wi‑Fi generation the extender supports, such as Wi‑Fi 5, Wi‑Fi 6, or Wi‑Fi 6E.

When it matters: When you want the extender to work well with newer routers and support modern wireless features.

Importance: HIGH

Wi-Fi bands

What it is: The wireless frequency bands the extender can use.

When it matters: When your router and devices depend on support for the right Wi‑Fi bands.

Importance: HIGH

6 GHz band support

What it is: Whether the extender can operate on the 6 GHz band.

When it matters: When you want the extender to work well with newer routers and support modern wireless features.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi speed

What it is: The combined theoretical maximum wireless speed across the supported bands.

When it matters: When you need better speed and signal strength in rooms that are harder to reach.

Importance: HIGH

Max speed 2.4 GHz

What it is: The maximum supported wireless speed on the 2.4 GHz band.

When it matters: When you need better speed and signal strength in rooms that are harder to reach.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Network & Security

8.8

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Ethernet backhaul

What it is: Whether the extender supports Ethernet backhaul through a wired network connection.

When it matters: When you want a more stable link over Ethernet instead of relying only on wireless repeating.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Mesh compatibility

What it is: The mesh systems or ecosystems the extender can work with.

When it matters: When you want smoother roaming and more consistent coverage across your home.

Importance: LOW

EasyMesh

Mesh standard

What it is: The mesh standard or ecosystem the extender uses.

When it matters: When you want smoother roaming and more consistent coverage across your home.

Importance: LOW

?

Roaming feature

What it is: Whether the extender supports seamless roaming between network nodes.

When it matters: When you want smoother roaming and more consistent coverage across your home.

Importance: MEDIUM

802.11k support

What it is: Whether the extender supports 802.11k for better roaming information between access points.

When it matters: When you want smoother roaming and more consistent coverage across your home.

Importance: LOW

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Ports

10

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N. of LAN ports

What it is: The number of wired LAN ports on the extender.

When it matters: When you need to connect wired devices such as TVs, consoles, PCs, or switches.

Importance: MEDIUM

Ethernet port speed

What it is: The maximum Ethernet speed supported by the wired ports.

When it matters: When you connect wired devices and want them to run at full local network speed.

Importance: MEDIUM

N. of USB ports

What it is: The number of USB ports on the extender.

When it matters: When you need to connect wired devices such as TVs, consoles, PCs, or switches.

Importance: LOW

PoE standard

What it is: The Power over Ethernet standard the extender supports, if any.

When it matters: When you want to power the extender over Ethernet instead of using a separate power adapter.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Setup & Management

9.9

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Dedicated smartphone app

What it is: Whether the extender can be managed through a dedicated smartphone app.

When it matters: When you want easier setup, monitoring, and control from your phone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Web UI management

What it is: Whether the extender offers a web-based interface for setup and management.

When it matters: When you prefer advanced setup and control from a web browser.

Importance: MEDIUM

Automatic firmware updates

What it is: Whether the extender can install firmware updates automatically.

When it matters: When you want security and stability updates without having to manage them manually.

Importance: LOW

?

LED control

What it is: Whether the extender’s LED indicators can be adjusted or turned off.

When it matters: When the extender sits in a bedroom or another space where bright status lights can be annoying.

Importance: LOW

Buttons present

What it is: The physical buttons available on the extender, such as reset, power, or WPS.

When it matters: When you prefer direct physical controls instead of relying only on software menus.

Importance: LOW

wps, reset

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Hardware & Deployment

6.1

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Mounting type

What it is: The mounting style the extender uses, such as wall-plug or desktop placement.

When it matters: When the extender needs to fit neatly into a tight space, behind furniture, or near an outlet.

Importance: LOW

wall-plug

Portable design

What it is: Whether the extender has a travel-friendly portable design, usually a compact plug-in form factor rather than a larger desktop or fixed-installation unit.

When it matters: When you want an extender that is easy to pack, move between locations, or use temporarily while travelling.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the extender body.

When it matters: When the extender needs to fit neatly into a tight space, behind furniture, or near an outlet.

Importance: LOW

Width

What it is: The width of the extender body.

When it matters: When the extender needs to fit neatly into a tight space, behind furniture, or near an outlet.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth or thickness of the extender body.

When it matters: When the extender needs to fit neatly into a tight space, behind furniture, or near an outlet.

Importance: LOW

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TP-Link RE500X vs the average wi-fi extender

Why is TP-Link RE500X better than the average wi-fi extender?

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Modern Wi-Fi standard
TP-Link RE500X supports a more advanced Wi-Fi version than the average wi-fi extender (Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)). The average Wi-Fi extender supports Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
What it is: The Wi‑Fi generation the extender supports, such as Wi‑Fi 5, Wi‑Fi 6, or Wi‑Fi 6E.
When it matters: When you want the extender to work well with newer routers and support modern wireless features.
Importance: HIGH
TP-Link RE500X supports a more advanced Wi-Fi version than the average wi-fi extender (Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)). The average Wi-Fi extender supports Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
7 dBm stronger transmit power
TP-Link RE500X has higher transmit power than the average wi-fi extender (30 dBm vs 23 dBm). The average Wi-Fi extender has 23 dBm of transmit power.
5 GHz maximum.
What it is: The maximum wireless transmit power of the extender.
When it matters: When you need better speed and signal strength in rooms that are harder to reach.
Importance: MEDIUM
TP-Link RE500X has higher transmit power than the average wi-fi extender (30 dBm vs 23 dBm). The average Wi-Fi extender has 23 dBm of transmit power.30 dBm vs 23 dBm
Supports OFDMA
TP-Link RE500X supports OFDMA, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 45.6% of Wi-Fi extenders support OFDMA.
What it is: Whether the extender supports OFDMA to improve efficiency when many devices are connected.
When it matters: When many phones, laptops, TVs, and smart-home devices are online at the same time.
Importance: MEDIUM
TP-Link RE500X supports OFDMA, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 45.6% of Wi-Fi extenders support OFDMA.
Supports BSS coloring
TP-Link RE500X supports BSS coloring, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 45.6% of Wi-Fi extenders support BSS coloring.
Derived from Wi-Fi 6 support.
What it is: Whether the extender supports BSS coloring to reduce interference in crowded Wi‑Fi environments.
When it matters: When your home or office has many nearby networks that can cause interference and congestion.
Importance: LOW
TP-Link RE500X supports BSS coloring, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 45.6% of Wi-Fi extenders support BSS coloring.
Supports DFS
TP-Link RE500X supports DFS, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 44.7% of Wi-Fi extenders support DFS.
What it is: Whether the extender supports DFS channels for access to additional wireless spectrum.
When it matters: When your home or office has many nearby networks that can cause interference and congestion.
Importance: LOW
TP-Link RE500X supports DFS, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 44.7% of Wi-Fi extenders support DFS.
Advanced QAM level
TP-Link RE500X uses a more advanced QAM level than the average wi-fi extender (1,024-QAM vs 256-QAM). The average Wi-Fi extender uses 256-QAM QAM.
What it is: The modulation level the extender supports, such as 1024-QAM or 4096-QAM.
When it matters: When you need better speed and signal strength in rooms that are harder to reach.
Importance: LOW
TP-Link RE500X uses a more advanced QAM level than the average wi-fi extender (1,024-QAM vs 256-QAM). The average Wi-Fi extender uses 256-QAM QAM.1024-QAM vs 256-QAM
10 mm thinner
TP-Link RE500X is thinner than the average wi-fi extender (36 mm vs 46 mm). The average Wi-Fi extender has a thickness of 46 mm.
What it is: The depth or thickness of the extender body.
When it matters: When the extender needs to fit neatly into a tight space, behind furniture, or near an outlet.
Importance: LOW
TP-Link RE500X is thinner than the average wi-fi extender (36 mm vs 46 mm). The average Wi-Fi extender has a thickness of 46 mm.36 mm vs 46 mm
Supports Target Wake Time
TP-Link RE500X supports Target Wake Time, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 44.1% of Wi-Fi extenders support Target Wake Time.
What it is: Whether the extender supports Target Wake Time to help connected devices reduce power use.
When it matters: When many phones, laptops, TVs, and smart-home devices are online at the same time.
Importance: LOW
TP-Link RE500X supports Target Wake Time, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 44.1% of Wi-Fi extenders support Target Wake Time.
Modern Wi-Fi standard
TP-Link RE500X supports a more advanced Wi-Fi version than the average wi-fi extender (Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)). The average Wi-Fi extender supports Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
7 dBm stronger transmit power
TP-Link RE500X has higher transmit power than the average wi-fi extender (30 dBm vs 23 dBm). The average Wi-Fi extender has 23 dBm of transmit power.
Supports OFDMA
TP-Link RE500X supports OFDMA, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 45.6% of Wi-Fi extenders support OFDMA.
Supports BSS coloring
TP-Link RE500X supports BSS coloring, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 45.6% of Wi-Fi extenders support BSS coloring.
Supports DFS
TP-Link RE500X supports DFS, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 44.7% of Wi-Fi extenders support DFS.
Advanced QAM level
TP-Link RE500X uses a more advanced QAM level than the average wi-fi extender (1,024-QAM vs 256-QAM). The average Wi-Fi extender uses 256-QAM QAM.
Supports Target Wake Time
TP-Link RE500X supports Target Wake Time, while the average wi-fi extender does not. 44.1% of Wi-Fi extenders support Target Wake Time.
10 mm thinner
TP-Link RE500X is thinner than the average wi-fi extender (36 mm vs 46 mm). The average Wi-Fi extender has a thickness of 46 mm.
21.4% lighter
TP-Link RE500X is lighter than the average wi-fi extender (220 g vs 280 g). The average Wi-Fi extender weighs 280 g.

Wi-Fi Performance

Hardware & Deployment

Why is TP-Link RE500X worse than the average wi-fi extender?

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150 Mbps slower 2.4 GHz speed
TP-Link RE500X reaches a slower 2.4 GHz speed than the average wi-fi extender (300 Mbps vs 450 Mbps). The average Wi-Fi extender reaches 450 Mbps on 2.4 GHz.
15.5% slower Wi-Fi speed
TP-Link RE500X reaches slower Wi-Fi speed than the average wi-fi extender (1,500 Mbps vs 1,775 Mbps). The average Wi-Fi extender reaches 1,775 Mbps Wi-Fi speed.
4.1% smaller coverage area
TP-Link RE500X covers a smaller area than the average wi-fi extender (139 m² vs 145 m²). The average Wi-Fi extender covers 145 m².
0.5 W higher power consumption
TP-Link RE500X uses more power than the average wi-fi extender (10 W vs 9.5 W). The average Wi-Fi extender uses 9.5 W of power.
10.8 W maximum also appears in specs.
27 mm taller
TP-Link RE500X is taller than the average wi-fi extender (149 mm vs 122 mm). The average Wi-Fi extender has a height of 122 mm.
150 Mbps slower 2.4 GHz speed
TP-Link RE500X reaches a slower 2.4 GHz speed than the average wi-fi extender (300 Mbps vs 450 Mbps). The average Wi-Fi extender reaches 450 Mbps on 2.4 GHz.
What it is: The maximum supported wireless speed on the 2.4 GHz band.
When it matters: When you need better speed and signal strength in rooms that are harder to reach.
Importance: MEDIUM
TP-Link RE500X reaches a slower 2.4 GHz speed than the average wi-fi extender (300 Mbps vs 450 Mbps). The average Wi-Fi extender reaches 450 Mbps on 2.4 GHz.300 Mbps vs 450 Mbps
4.1% smaller coverage area
TP-Link RE500X covers a smaller area than the average wi-fi extender (139 m² vs 145 m²). The average Wi-Fi extender covers 145 m².
What it is: The estimated area the extender is designed to cover.
When it matters: When you need better speed and signal strength in rooms that are harder to reach.
Importance: HIGH
TP-Link RE500X covers a smaller area than the average wi-fi extender (139 m² vs 145 m²). The average Wi-Fi extender covers 145 m².139 m² vs 145 m²
15.5% slower Wi-Fi speed
TP-Link RE500X reaches slower Wi-Fi speed than the average wi-fi extender (1,500 Mbps vs 1,775 Mbps). The average Wi-Fi extender reaches 1,775 Mbps Wi-Fi speed.
What it is: The combined theoretical maximum wireless speed across the supported bands.
When it matters: When you need better speed and signal strength in rooms that are harder to reach.
Importance: HIGH
TP-Link RE500X reaches slower Wi-Fi speed than the average wi-fi extender (1,500 Mbps vs 1,775 Mbps). The average Wi-Fi extender reaches 1,775 Mbps Wi-Fi speed.1500 Mbps vs 1775 Mbps
0.5 W higher power consumption
TP-Link RE500X uses more power than the average wi-fi extender (10 W vs 9.5 W). The average Wi-Fi extender uses 9.5 W of power.
10.8 W maximum also appears in specs.
What it is: The power the extender typically uses during normal operation.
When it matters: When you care about energy use, heat output, or running costs.
Importance: LOW
TP-Link RE500X uses more power than the average wi-fi extender (10 W vs 9.5 W). The average Wi-Fi extender uses 9.5 W of power.10 W vs 9.5 W
27 mm taller
TP-Link RE500X is taller than the average wi-fi extender (149 mm vs 122 mm). The average Wi-Fi extender has a height of 122 mm.
What it is: The height of the extender body.
When it matters: When the extender needs to fit neatly into a tight space, behind furniture, or near an outlet.
Importance: LOW
TP-Link RE500X is taller than the average wi-fi extender (149 mm vs 122 mm). The average Wi-Fi extender has a height of 122 mm.149 mm vs 122 mm

Wi-Fi Performance

Hardware & Deployment

Graphic comparison of TP-Link RE500X and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about TP-Link RE500X?

Simple and quick installation using the [TP-Link Tether app](Copied to clipboardjsonhttps://www.review-rating.com/en/product/tp-link-re500x-wifi-extender-26317Copied to clipboardjson)
Effective at eliminating dead zones with coverage up to 1,500 sq. ft.
Supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster, more stable connections compared to older standards
OneMesh compatibility allows for a seamless unified network with compatible [TP-Link routers](Copied to clipboardjsonhttps://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/range-extender/re500x/Copied to clipboardjson)
Includes a Gigabit Ethernet port for high-speed wired connections to gaming consoles or smart TVs
Capable of handling up to 25 devices simultaneously
Offers an [Access Point mode](Copied to clipboardjsonhttps://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/range-extender/re500x/Copied to clipboardjson) to convert a wired connection into a wireless signal

What customers dislike about TP-Link RE500X?

Actual Wi-Fi speeds are often noticeably lower than a direct router connection
Some users reported Wi-Fi 6 performance was underwhelming and lacked significant speed benefits
Physical design is somewhat bulky and may block adjacent outlets
Lacks support for newer [WPA3 encryption](Copied to clipboardjsonhttps://www.digitalcitizen.life/tp-link-re500x-review/Copied to clipboardjson) according to some technical reviews
Occasional reports of signal drops or the OneMesh feature not switching networks smoothly
The Ethernet port is positioned on the side, which some find inconvenient for cable management

Expert reviews

digitalcitizen.life

04/10/2025

Summary of the review

TP-Link RE500X review: Extending Wi-Fi 6 networks

The Digital Citizen review identifies the TP-Link RE500X as a capable AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 range extender featuring a robust tri-core processor, strong 2.4 GHz performance, and easy integration into unified networks via TP-Link OneMesh. It is noted for its functional Gigabit Ethernet port and excellent app-based management. Conversely, the review highlights underwhelming speed throughput on the Wi-Fi 6 standard, noting it fails to provide significant real-world performance benefits over older standards despite increased coverage area. While effective for eliminating dead zones, the device may disappoint users seeking substantial speed boosts.

faz.net

09/02/2026

Summary of the review

The Best Wi-Fi Repeater | Test 04/2026

The AVM Fritz!Repeater 1200 AX is the top recommendation for most households due to its compact design, strong performance, and excellent value for money. It upgrades its predecessor by integrating Wi-Fi 6 technology and a 160-MHz channel bandwidth, allowing it to reach impressive net data transfer rates between 380 and 460 Mbit/s over wireless connections, and up to 900 Mbit/s via its integrated Gigabit-LAN port. Key advantages include its exceptionally easy plug-and-play WPS setup, high-quality German-language documentation, and an adaptable operating mode that functions as either a standard repeater or a wired Access Point. Furthermore, it seamlessly integrates into an existing AVM Mesh system for centralized network management and comes backed by a generous 5-year manufacturer warranty. Despite its high praise, the reviewer highlights a few drawbacks to consider before purchasing. The device is not a budget option, carrying a street price of over €70, and it consumes roughly 1 watt more power in standby mode than the older Wi-Fi 5 model. Additionally, its maximum transmission performance relies heavily on owning a router that also supports 160-MHz channel bandwidth. Finally,...

lesnumeriques.com

21/05/2021

Summary of the review

TP-Link RE500X: best price - Les Numériques

The TP-Link RE500X is a versatile Wi-Fi range extender tested by Les Numériques that dual-purposes as a standalone wireless access point. Equipped with modern Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology, it splits performance across two bands to maximize network efficiency, offering theoretical speeds up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz spectrum and 1,501 Mbps on the more robust 5 GHz band. A major standout feature highlighted in the review is its native compatibility with TP-Link's proprietary OneMesh ecosystem, allowing users to seamlessly link the extender with a compatible home router to establish a unified, uninterrupted mesh network across their living space without buying an entirely new system. However, despite these technical advantages, the product possesses clear compromises. In terms of pros, the unit delivers stable performance enhancement, modern wireless standard support, and the flexibility of an integrated Gigabit Ethernet port for direct, hardwired device connections. On the downside, the physical design lacks an integrated female power outlet pass-through, meaning it will completely block and claim the wall outlet it is plugged into. Additionally, while its 5 GHz performance remains highly capable,...

clubic.com

02/10/2025

Summary of the review

What are the best Wi-Fi extenders? 2026 Comparison (RE500X Review Section)", "Best Wi-Fi extenders: 2026 Comparison (RE500X Review Section)

Overview and Classic Extenders This review evaluates the best Wi-Fi extenders of 2026, categorizing them into budget-friendly standalone units and advanced mesh systems. For basic and economical coverage, the TP-Link TL-WA850RE offers an incredibly low price and easy WPS setup, but it is limited to the slow 2.4 GHz band and drops speed under heavy use. Stepping up, the dual-band TP-Link RE330 introduces the 5 GHz band for smoother performance at a low cost, though it lacks a Gigabit Ethernet port. For higher performance, the TP-Link RE500X brings Wi-Fi 6 speeds and a Gigabit Ethernet port for under €50, but features a bulky design and lacks a 6 GHz band. Lastly, the future-proof TP-Link RE225BE introduces compact Wi-Fi 7 capabilities with low latency, but its speeds remain highly dependent on the host router, and it features only a single Ethernet port. Mesh Systems and Selection Buying Guide For seamless whole-home coverage without multiple network names, the review highlights multi-node mesh Wi-Fi systems. The TP-Link Deco BE25 serves as an affordable Wi-Fi 7 mesh option that delivers a unified, ultra-fast network...

lesnumeriques.com

11/04/2026

Summary of the review

Which TP-Link Wi-Fi repeater to choose? - Les Numériques

This guide evaluates five TP-Link Wi-Fi solutions to help buyers choose the best device for expanding their home network coverage, focusing heavily on new Wi-Fi 7 models. For top-tier performance, the high-end Deco BE85 mesh kit offers impressive wireless speeds and excellent multi-gigabit connectivity, though it suffers from high power consumption, a sparse web interface, and a subscription-based parental control tier.

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