Skip to content 
If your household’s internet is struggling to penetrate thick walls, one of the best solutions you can try is to install a mesh WiFi system, which is designed to enable internet access to every corner of the home.
The best mesh WiFi for thick walls should have at least two frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), include the WiFi 6 standard which can handle up to 1 Gbps internet speed, cover a minimum of 2000 sq ft, and connect a minimum of 25 devices at the same time.
Mesh systems offer the best solution to extending coverage through thick walls as the router and nodes sync to create a unified network with limited impact on bandwidth.
WiFi extenders meanwhile use up to 50% of the total network bandwidth per device, which may not improve coverage through thick walls.
We’ve tested 19 mesh systems in a few large properties with thick walls and have narrowed down the choice to the top seven products available in 2024 which we review below.
Understanding the design, specifications, and performance of a mesh WiFi that can penetrate thick walls will enable you to select the right one for your needs.
That is why we have reviewed the seven best products that you can choose from.
Also included in the reviews are the pros, cons, and the ideal user recommendation.
1. Netgear Orbi 370 (Editor’s Choice)
Achieve blazing fast speeds with the Orbi 370 WiFi 7 and two mesh extenders that eliminate any dead spots in your home.
Netgear Orbi 370 Review
The Netgear Orbi 370 Series Dual-Band WiFi 7 Wireless Router stands out as the overall Top Pick for Best WiFi 7 Router in 2025, offering impressive performance and notable affordability for the next generation of wireless mesh networks. This compact series delivers reliable whole-home coverage, industry-leading 5 GHz speeds, and future-proof standards while remaining accessible to most consumers.
Advantages
- Class-Leading 5 GHz Performance: The Orbi 370 series boasts superior throughput on the 5 GHz band, outperforming competing entry-level models like the TP-Link Deco BE5000 and Amazon Eero 7. Real-world wireless speeds often exceed 1 Gbps, with wired connections reaching over 2 Gbps.
- Affordable WiFi 7: At $250-$350 for a two- or three-pack, the Orbi 370 brings WiFi 7 to the masses, marking it as one of the most economical mesh systems for homes of all sizes.
- Compact and Quiet: Smaller and lighter than previous Orbi models, the 370 Series is easy to fit throughout a home and remains quiet and cool, ideal for discreet placement in multi-room environments.
- Easy Setup and Expansion: Setup is simple using either the mobile app or a web browser, and it can expand with compatible Orbi satellites for enhanced whole-home mesh coverage.
- Future-Proof Technology: WiFi 7’s enhanced speed, capacity, and Multi-Link Operation prepare users for increasingly smart, connected devices and ensure smooth video streaming, gaming, and work-from-home activities.
Disadvantages
- Limited to Dual-Band: Unlike more premium Orbi models, the 370 lacks the 6 GHz band, restricting high-speed data flow and skipping WiFi 7’s top-tier 320 MHz channels.
- Weak 2.4 GHz Performance: Testing finds the 2.4 GHz band lags behind rivals, especially at longer distances or in congested environments.
- Single LAN Port on Satellites: Each satellite features only one LAN port, which may frustrate users looking to hardwire multiple devices.
- Light Indicator Limitations: The status LEDs are minimal and may be hard to see, with no customization options available.
- Subscription for Premium Features: Some security and advanced network options, such as NETGEAR Armor, require paid subscriptions, raising the long-term cost and limiting free customization.
- Basic Customization: The mobile app and web interface offer limited options for channel control and advanced wireless settings. Power users may find this restrictive.
Ideal User Recommendation
The Netgear Orbi 370 Series is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized homes or apartments, households seeking dependable mesh coverage without a premium price, and those wanting to future-proof their network for WiFi 7 devices. It’s best suited for typical home users who value simplicity, easy setup, and reliable performance for streaming, gaming, and daily productivity. However, users requiring maximum customization, multi-gig wired networking, or extensive wired device connectivity should consider higher-end tri-band or quad-band WiFi 7 routers.
Summary Table
| Feature | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|
| 5 GHz Speed | Class-leading performance | None |
| 2.4 GHz Speed | Compatible, stable | Weak performance at range |
| Bands Supported | Dual-band, cost-efficient | No 6 GHz band, less futureproof |
| Coverage | Reliable for homes, easy expansion | Not for very large or complex homes |
| LAN Ports | 2.5 Gbps on router | Only 1 per satellite |
| Setup Interface | App or browser | Limited customization |
| Value | Affordable entry to WiFi 7 | Competing models sometimes cheaper |
| Advanced Features | Secure, app-based controls | Subscription needed for some extras |
Netgear’s Orbi 370 Series earns its status as Router Freak’s Best Mesh Wifi Router for Thick Walls in 2025 by giving mainstream users sharp performance, an attractive price, and solid future-readiness, with only minor trade-offs that mostly affect enterprise or advanced user applications.
2. Netgear Nighthawk MK63S (Runner-Up)
Another great option is the Netgear MK63S as it can achieve internet speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps to ensure that you enjoy smooth HD streaming, uninterrupted video games, improved gaming, and no delays when loading content on smartphones, computers, and tablets. Also, it supports WiFi 6 technology which has more capacity than WiFi 5.
Design
The Netgear MK63S can achieve internet speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps to ensure that you enjoy smooth HD streaming, uninterrupted video games, improved gaming, and no delays when loading content on smartphones, computers, and tablets.
MK63S supports WiFi 6 technology which has more capacity than WiFi 5. This enables the router to provide coverage of up to 4500 sq. ft. and connect to 25 plus devices simultaneously.
Performance
The Netgear MK63S features MU-MIMO technology that allows you to connect several devices to the network simultaneously, while beamforming technology helps to focus the signal strength on devices that require more data.
The NETGEAR Armor provides automatic protection to your devices and the entire network while the Smart Parental Controls ensures that your kids access safe online content and are protected from harmful and inappropriate content. Both have a 30-day free trial.
You can set up the MK63S quickly using the Nighthawk app. Additionally, you can use the app to manage your network’s settings and access features like internet speed tests, remote access to the network, and internet pausing.
The one ethernet port on the satellite and the two ethernet ports on the router enable you to create wired connections to devices such as computers, gaming consoles, streaming players, and smart TVs.
You can buy an extra MS60 satellite if you want to expand coverage by 1500 sq. ft.
Who It’s For
The Netgear MK63S is a high-performing router suitable for individuals who are looking for a mesh system with advanced security features, and reliable, consistent connections.
Specs
- Speed: 8 Gbps
- Range: Up to 4500 sq. ft.
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax
- Number of Supported Devices: 25 plus
- Ports: 2 on Router and 1 on Satellite
Pros
- Faster wired connections using the ethernet ports.
- Easy to install and manage.
- Strong and reliable WiFi signals.
- Wider coverage.
- Great advanced features.
Cons
- Problems when switching access points.
3. Tenda NOVA Mesh WiFi MW6 (Budget Friendly)
Wifi 6 capable performance without breaking the bank.
Design
The Tenda Nova MX12 is a powerful dual-band WiFi 6 mesh system that delivers ultra-fast internet speeds of up to 2976 Mbps, providing comprehensive coverage of up to 7,000 sq. ft. It replaces traditional routers and extenders with a seamless mesh network featuring stronger, more stable signals thanks to its four independent wireless amplifiers and beamforming technology. Its sleek design houses a 1.7 GHz quad-core processor and 256 MB of memory, enabling it to handle multiple devices efficiently without compromising speed.
Performance
Each MX12 unit works collaboratively to deliver smooth, uninterrupted internet via a single network name and password, supporting seamless roaming as devices automatically connect to the strongest node. Equipped with MU-MIMO, OFDMA technology, and 1024-QAM modulation, it ensures high-capacity, low-latency connections for over 160 devices simultaneously, perfect for gaming, 4K streaming, and VR applications. Setup and management are simplified through the Tenda Wi-Fi app or web interface, featuring guest networking, WPA3 security, parental controls to schedule internet access, and easy node expansion with the Mesh button.
Who It’s For
The Tenda Nova MX12 is perfect for users seeking an affordable, high-performance mesh WiFi 6 system that blankets large homes with fast, reliable WiFi. It suits busy households with many devices and users who want hassle-free setup combined with advanced features like seamless roaming and strong security. Ideal for streaming, gaming, and smart home device management without breaking the bank.
Specs
Speed: Up to 2976 Mbps
Range: Up to 7000 sq. ft.
Bands: Dual-Band (2.4 GHz & 5 GHz)
Wireless Protocol: WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
Number of Supported Devices: Over 160
Ports: 3 Gigabit Ethernet ports per unit
Processor: 1.7 GHz Quad-Core
Pros
- High-speed WiFi 6 with broad coverage
- Robust support for many devices simultaneously
- Easy setup and network management via app
- Strong security with WPA3 and guest network
- Seamless roaming for uninterrupted connectivity
Cons
- Limited to WiFi 6, no WiFi 7 support
- Dual-band only, no tri-band option
- Requires multiple units for optimal large-home coverage
4. ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 (Best For Gaming)
Design
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 comes with WiFi 6E technology and supports the newly available 6 GHz band which can only be used by devices with WiFi 6E.
This means that the older devices cannot interfere with the WiFi’s performance, providing you with more reliable and faster connections for WiFi 6 devices.
This is a 12-stream device that can achieve speeds of up to 11000 Mbps.
This increases its capacity for sending and receiving data to a high number of devices at the same time, minimizing dead zones, and increasing the performance of the busiest networks in your home.
Performance
The 5 GHz band overlaps with certain civilian radar systems which can lead to delayed connections if they are detected by DFS (Dynamic Frequency Frequency).
The 6 GHz band does not overlap with these radar systems, so devices have quicker connections as there are no DFS delays.
Our testing revealed however that the 6 GHz band has weaker coverage and struggles to penetrate through walls compared to the other bands.
The ASUS RangeBoost Plus is the most powerful and latest version that enhances coverage and signal range for all your devices as it uses a quadcore CPU and next-gen WiFi chipset.
With ASUS AiMesh, you can easily add extra nodes for new features or improved coverage by simply connecting to any router that is compatible with AiMesh.
The 2.5G WAN port and 2.5G LAN port allow you to enjoy full 2.5 Gbps speeds from your ISP on your compatible wired devices.
The new 6GHz band can be used as a stable backhaul connection. Additionally, you can choose the wired ethernet for the backhaul connection between nodes.
Another option is to let the ZenWiFi Pro ET12 select the best connection type depending on your environment by putting it on automatic mode.
The ASUS Router App allows you to set up and manage the ZenWiFi Pro ET12 effortlessly.
Who It’s For
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 is recommended for individuals looking for a gaming WiFi mesh system that provides strong and stable connections.
Specs
- Speed: 11000 Mbps
- Range: 6000 sq. ft
- Bands: Tri-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11g
- Number of Supported Devices
- Ports: 7
Pros
- Effortless setup and management.
- Stable backhaul connection.
- Better signal range and coverage.
- Reduces dead zones.
- Less interference and low latency.
Cons
- Not necessary for an average household.
5. Linksys MX12600 (Best For Multiple Devices)
Design
The Linksys MX12600 is the biggest upgrade to WiFi in a decade as it comes with the low-latency, ultra-fast 6 GHz band to your entire home.
You can connect directly or use it as a backhaul between nodes for seamless video conferencing, remote learning, working from home, and even the latest VR and AR.
With advanced security, easy setup, and parental controls, the MX12600 is an essential upgrade if your home needs the highest-speed and most reliable WiFi.
Performance
The Linksys MX12600 has the highest device capacity ever (120+ devices) because of the 6 GHz band which allows it to handle traffic from smart homes that are busy with data-intensive devices throughout the day.
WiFi 6 technology, combined with Velop Intelligent Mesh technology, provides gigabit WiFi speeds to every corner of your business or home.
An advanced Qualcomm chipset provides an excellent WiFi 6E experience by delivering blazing-fast performance and wire-like stability.
The Linksys app makes setting up and controlling the MX12600 easy and simple. Once the router is up and running, you can use the app to prioritize or view the devices that use most WiFi and access and monitor your network from anywhere.
The smart security system ensures that you have an up-to-date, secure, and safe home network. The security features include Velop, separate guest access, parental controls, and automatic firmware updates.
The 5 Gigabit WAN port delivers speeds of up to 5 Gbps to your entire home so that you can connect your streaming devices, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and the latest AR and VR.
Who It’s For
The Linksys MX8502 is recommended for individuals who have several devices throughout their large home that need strong signals and stable connections.
Specs
- Speed: 4.2 Gbps
- Range: Up to 8,100 sq. ft.
- Bands: Tri-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax
- Number of Supported Devices: 130
Pros
- Clearer signals with the 6 GHz band.
- Multi-gig internet port.
- Excellent wireless coverage.
- Easy to install and manage.
- Solid throughput performance.
- Great device-handling ability.
Cons
- Not all devices are compatible with WiFi 6E.
6. Netgear Orbi RBK653 (For Streaming)
Design
The Netgear Orbi RBK653 offers coverage for up to 6000 sq. ft and supports connections for up to 40 devices.
You can buy an additional satellite if you want to extend your WiFi coverage by 1750 sq. ft.
The RBK653 is powered by a quad-core processor and has six internal antennas that act as signal amplifiers.
This mesh system features WiFi 6 technology and can deliver maximum speeds of 3000 Mbps for uninterrupted HD video gaming, streaming, and web conferencing.
Performance
The Netgear Orbi RBK653 replaces your WiFi router, and you can connect it to your current cable modem.
The two Gigabit ports on each satellite and three Gigabit ports on the router enable you to plug in devices such as computers, streaming players, game consoles, and more.
The Orbi app helps you to easily set up and manage your RBK653. The first step is to download the app and follow the steps provided. Secondly, plug in your Orbi router to the power outlet and your modem.
Finally, put the Orbi satellites in another part of your home and connect them to the power source.
NETGEAR Smart Parental Controls builds trust, encourages responsibility, and promotes healthy internet habits with your children.
NETGEAR Armor provides an automatic shield of security on all the devices connected to your network.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a mesh system that is ideal for streaming online content, the Netgear RBK653 is the best option as it delivers smooth and stable WiFi speeds.
Specs
- Speed: Up to 3000 Mbps
- Range: Up to 6000 sq. ft
- Bands: Tri-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11ax, 802.11a, 802.11ac
- Number of Supported Devices: 40
- Ports: 7
Pros
- Easy to set up.
- Good security features.
- Can handle lots of devices.
- Wider coverage.
- Stable connections.
Cons
- The app does not report when the satellite is connected.
7. Amazon Eero 6+ (Best For Smart Homes)
Design
The Amazon Eero 6+ is the most affordable mesh system that can support WiFi speeds of up to one gigabit. It is backward-compatible with Eero devices with the previous WiFi generation.
The WiFi 6 technology gives the Eero 6+ a bandwidth boost. This mesh system has an extra bandwidth on the 160 MHz radio channel for faster connectivity so that your whole family can video chat, stream, and work, all at the same time.
Performance
The Amazon Eero 6+ provides you with reliable connectivity so that you can confidently work from home and avoid dropped video calls as well as keep your smart home running, even when you are traveling.
The Eero TrueMesh technology routes traffic to minimize dead spots and drop-offs. The Eero app provides you with easy steps for setting up the Eero 6+ and enables you to manage your network from anywhere.
The Eero 6+ gets better over time as it receives automatic updates that help keep your network secure and safe from online threats and hacks.
There is a separate subscription that gives you access to additional network management and online security features.
You can pair this device with Alexa and create a smart home hub by connecting compatible Zigbee and Thread devices.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a basic mesh system that can deliver reliable and smooth connections, the Amazon Eero6+ is for you.
Specs
- Speed: 3000 Mbps
- Range: 4500 sq. ft.
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax
- Number of Supported Devices: 75+
- Ports: 2
Pros
- Automatic updates for better security.
- Easy to set up.
- Less dead spots and drop-offs.
- Allows for simultaneous streaming.
Cons
- Need monthly subscriptions to get more features.
Factors To Consider When Looking For The Best Mesh WiFi For Penetrating Thick Walls
WiFi Speed
If you’re looking to purchase a mesh WiFi system, WiFi speed needs to be one of your main considerations.
One of the key technological features that affects speed is the WiFi standard, which is also commonly referred to as the WiFi protocol.
Mesh setups that are available in 2024 come in three available standards, WiFi 5, WiFi 6, and WiFi 6e. In late 2024, a fourth standard, WiFi 7 will be available.
WiFi 5 (802.11ac) was first released in 2014 and is widely used in the US, given the standard is now universally compatible with internet devices.
The standard operates best on internet plans of 500 Gbps and below and operates with a dual-band setup of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Although the standard is less technologically advanced, it works well in a mesh WiFi system.
Launched in 2019, WiFi 6 (802.11ax) offers speed increases of up to 40% compared to WiFi 5. WiFi 6 routers are best equipped to handle internet plans up to 1 Gbps and contain advanced security features such as WPA3.
WiFi 6 routers fetch a premium price and compatibility can be an issue, as not all laptops, phones, or TVs are WiFi 6 compatible.
Compared to WiFi 6, WiFi 6e enables faster internet speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps and features an additional 6 GHz band which offers less interference.
However, the 6 GHz band is not frequently used so compatibility with your internet devices may be an issue, likewise the coverage of WiFi 6e is often poor, so will struggle to break through thick walls.
Towards the end of 2024, WiFI 7 is expected to be released. This standard will trump previous standards in terms of performance capability, offering faster speeds (4 times faster than WiFi 6e), reduced latency, and better network stability.
However, only the latest internet devices will be compatible, so accessing the WiFi 7 benefits may be an issue.
WiFi Coverage & Range
Too often, households invest in a high-speed internet plan but are disappointed with the coverage performance.
Luckily, a mesh WiFi system is the perfect choice if you need to penetrate through thick walls in your home.
Mesh WiFi systems are typically needed in larger households. The majority of mesh systems offer reliable coverage in a range between 2000 and 5500 sq ft, and we recommend you invest in a system that offers 2000 sq ft coverage as a minimum.
Do note, however, that the coverage advertised on a mesh WiFi product is dependent on several factors that are specific to each household.
For example, the thickness of the walls in your home, the placement of the router and satellites, and also the location of your home in proximity to the ISP network, will all impact coverage.
We recommend trialing a few different setups with your mesh system to see which one offers the best coverage.
Number Of Connected Devices
Another key consideration when reviewing different mesh WiFi systems is the number of connected devices the setup can handle at any one time and how that relates to your household’s needs.
Nowadays most individuals own a couple of internet-using devices such as a TV, laptop, tablet, or smartphone, and there is a strong chance that many devices will be connected to the mesh system at the same time.
A good rule to follow is to first identify the number of devices within your household and then look for mesh WiFi systems that offer 10% to 20% higher than that figure.
Mesh systems typically offer a minimum of 25 connected devices but some products offer hundreds. Be aware though that the figures presented are theoretical in that they don’t account for user behavior.
A mesh system offering 25 connected devices will not handle 25 8k video streams, for example.
Advanced Features
When reviewing different mesh products, look out for advanced technological features such as MU-MIMO, OFDMA, Quality of Service, Beamforming, and WPA3.
Setups with these technologies offer faster speeds, less congestion, better precision, and privacy.
Below, we briefly explain each of these advanced features.
MU-MIMO is a great addition to mesh systems because the technology enables multiple devices to communicate with each other, which reduces device signal waiting time and consequently improves internet connection speed and quality.
The OFDMA feature reduces network congestion by increasing the level of subcarriers within a frequency, ensuring more data can travel smoothly to internet devices.
Quality of Service (QoS) allows households to prioritize specific connections over others to improve the internet connection on those devices.
An example of when this may be enacted is when a member of the household is gaming online, while others are doing low-consumption activities.
The QoS could be enabled to prioritize the gamer’s connection, compared to the others.
Beamforming technology is designed to improve internet connectivity by increasing the precision of the router antennas. Beamforming improves the signal focus and can reduce the level of interference.
WPA3 (WiFi Protected Access 3) is the third version of a security standard created by the WiFi Alliance. It is the most advanced and secure yet, offering individualized data encryption for any connected device.
FAQs
Which Is Better At Penetrating Thick Walls, A Mesh WiFi System Or A WiFi Extender?
WiFi signals do generally struggle to carry through thick walls made of non-porous materials, but mesh systems are the best approach to extending the network in large homes compared to WiFi extenders.
This is because mesh systems generate a unified network by syncing the satellites with the main router.
WiFi extenders use up existing bandwidth and will be less potent in carrying the signal through thick walls.
How To Choose The Best Mesh WiFi System For Concrete Walls?
The best mesh WiFi system for concrete walls is a setup that delivers on speed, coverage, and number of connected devices, while also being manageable in terms of cost.
You should look for mesh setups that include the WiFi 6 standard, can deliver coverage of at least 2000 sq ft, and can connect a minimum of 25 devices.
Systems with these features will enable your whole household to enjoy super-fast internet throughout the home.
Does Mesh WiFi Replace A Router?
Mesh WiFi systems are designed to replace your existing router. Mesh purchase packages typically include a router device and at least one additional satellite device.
Installing the mesh system will require you to disconnect your existing router and install the mesh router and satellites.
If you want to keep your router, many modern routers are compatible with a mesh system. However, you won’t experience all the benefits that the mesh system has to offer.
Is WiFi 6 Better At Penetrating Walls Than WiFi 5?
WiFi 6 offers advanced performance features in terms of WiFi speed and security compared to WiFi 5, but when it comes to the penetrating walls, the main factor to consider is less about the WiFi standard but rather the frequency band.
The 5 GHz frequency band offers significantly faster internet speeds but its coverage, and ability to penetrate thick walls are limited.
The 2.4 GHz band although offering slower internet speeds, has better coverage and is more likely to carry through thick walls.
The 2.4 GHz band on a WiFi 6 router is faster compared to WiFi 5, due to an increase in the number of streams to 12, compared to 8 for WiFi 5.
How Many Mesh Nodes Can I Install?
Although in theory there is no limit to the number of mesh nodes you can install in a single setup, a 2000 sq ft household requires a maximum of two nodes, while larger households should have a maximum of five nodes.
Having too many nodes can begin to cause performance issues because each device consumes network bandwidth.
Final Words
This guide has reviewed the top-performing mesh systems that can penetrate thick walls. From the list, you can choose which one is suitable for your internet needs and make your purchase.
However, if you are still undecided, our recommendation for the best mesh WiFi system is the TP-Link Deco X55 Pro.
This is because it is a WiFi 6 mesh system that eliminates poor WiFi in your home for good and it can deliver maximum speeds of 3000 Mbps for seamless high-performance WiFi.
It provides coverage of up to 6500 sq. ft. and eliminates buffering and dead zones. It is strong enough to allow more than 150 devices to connect to it at the same time and have reliable connections.
Refer to the buying guide for more information that will assist you in the decision-making process.
