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Amplifi HD Review: Reliable WiFi System

Updated on: December 1, 2018

The average American household is running several TVs, as well as other electronic devices, in the home. We are living in an age where streaming television is becoming more popular than cable. Children are doing more and more of their schoolwork online and on the computer. Video games can now connect to a network of players online so that kids, or adults, can play against or with real people. All these things require bandwidth. Routers have come a long way in the last 20 years, as have internet connections and speeds. But to harness the power of your internet connection and distribute it, you need a device that can spread the signal out over your whole home. The AmpliFi HD WiFi system solves the problem. Let’s do an AmpliFi HD review and see how it stacks against other similar products.

Quick Navigation
AmpliFi HD Review
Product Specs
AmpliFi HD WiFi System
ASUS AiMesh
Netgear Orbi
Google WiFi system
Conclusion

PRODUCT NAME

PRODUCT IMAGE

DETAILS

AmpliFi HD WiFi System

Amplifi

Shop now at Amazon.com

ASUS AiMesh

ASUS AiMesh

Shop now at Amazon.com

NETGEAR Orbi

Netgear Orbi

Shop now at Amazon.com

Google WiFi System

Google WiFi

Shop now at Amazon.com

AmpliFi HD Review

Amplifi

According to the latest AmpliFi HD reviews, it's a mesh WiFi system, which is becoming more and more popular with American households. It's made up a group of routers, or one router and several satellites, that spread the signal evenly over your home. There are other mesh WiFi systems out there, but the AmpliFi is getting a lot of attention. In order to understand the AmpliFi system, you need to understand what mesh WiFi is. Basically, it’s a way to extend your WiFi signal throughout your entire home using several units that pass the signal like a relay race. With traditional WiFi extenders, you need to place the extender near the original router to boost the signal, no matter how many extenders you are using. With a mesh system, you can place each unit farther and farther away from the base router as long as it’s within a certain distance from another unit. Essentially, these units are passing the signal along to each other like a relay race, and this blankets your home in strong WiFi connectivity.

Product Specs

 The AmpliFi Mesh WiFi system is a bundle of several products, including a router base station and two super mesh points. These points are called MeshPointHDs. The packaged system comes with the router and 2 “super mesh points.” The router features 4-gigabit ethernet ports, and the individual parts can be purchased separately if you don’t need the whole system. The bundle is capable of pushing a 74.4 Mbps signal through 3 floors of a large home. It may take some trial and error to get the placement right, but the AmpliFi HD reviews state that once you do this system will deliver consistent results.

Pricing

The AmpliFi Mesh system can be purchased as a bundle that includes the router and two super mesh points, or you can buy the parts separately. It can be purchased at several major retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot, and Best Buy. The whole bundle runs high priced. The router runs about above average by itself, and the super mesh points are about more than a hundred. It’s possible to use just the router or the router with one mesh point, but most people will find the bundle to be the best option for their home.

How It Compares

We picked a few similar products available on the market to see how they compare.

  • ASUS AiMesh
  • ​Netgear Orbi
  • Google WiFi system

AmpliFi HD WiFi System


AmpliFi HD WiFi System by Ubiquiti Labs, Seamless Whole Home Wireless Internet Coverage, HD WiFi Router, 2 Mesh Points, 4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 WAN Port, Ethernet Cable, Replaces Router & WiFi Extenders
AmpliFi HD WiFi System by Ubiquiti Labs, Seamless Whole Home Wireless Internet Coverage, HD WiFi Router, 2 Mesh Points, 4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 WAN Port, Ethernet Cable, Replaces Router & WiFi Extenders
  • WHOLE HOME WiFi SYSTEM: Not Just a Wi-Fi router, it's a Wi-Fi system. The AmpliFi HD Kit includes a Wi-Fi router with an easy-to-use touchscreen display, two MeshPoints to maximize coverage and eliminate dead zones in your home, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, a WAN port, and an Ethernet cable. The AmpliFi HD WiFi system provides superior coverage with a range of up to 10,000 sq. ft.
  • 802.11AC TECHNOLOGY FOR FASTER SPEEDS AND BETTER COVERAGE: AmpliFi HD is more than a wireless router: it’s the ultimate Wi-Fi system. With turbocharged 802.11ac Wi-Fi, AmpliFi utilizes multiple self-configuring radios and WiFi super antenna technology to bring ubiquitous secure Wi-Fi coverage to any home network. Delivers connectivity needed in today’s modern home for 4k streaming, smart home products, gaming, vid chats, downloads, and working from home.
  • Wi-Fi RANGE EXTENDER REPLACEMENT: AmpliFi MeshPoints feature adjustable super antennas that can be placed discreetly in almost any location in your house, wherever dead spots need coverage. Signal strength LEDs are integrated into the design to provide immediate and continuous feedback ensuring system is positioned for optimal performance.
  • INSTANT SETUP: The intuitive, easy to use AmpliFi app allows you to setup your system in 5 minutes. It also features configuration options, powerful reporting metrics, parental controls, remote access, and easy guest access. The mobile app is available for Android and iOS smartphones.
  • Wi-Fi TECHNOLOGY EXPERTISE: The AmpliFi home wireless system is designed by Ubiquiti Labs, a division of Ubiquiti Networks, a global leader in developing Wi-Fi access points, Wi-Fi antennas, network switches, Internet gateways, security cameras, VoIP phones, smart home and outdoor Wi-Fi solutions.
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PROS

  • Modern router design
  • Easy to set up and use the app
  • Very strong signal performance

CONS

  • Expensive
  • The MeshPoints are clunky
  • Requires some trial and error in setup
  • PRICE
  • EASE OF USE
  • DESIGN QUALITY 
  • Setup Time
  • PERFORMANCE
  • WARRANTY

The AmpliFi bundle is available for a bit expensive from online retailers.

5 of 5 stars

AmpliFi HD reviews rate this system as very easy to use. It’s plug-and-play, so all the components should work right after being plugged in. The app is simple to download and the components should show up right after you plug them in.

3 of 5 stars

The design of the AmpliFi system is reminiscent of Apple products. The router is a small cube that fits in your hand and has a cool new look featuring a round, digital display and minimalistic design. The mesh points are a bit awkward and not appealing, but the whole bundle comes in crisp white. Other than looking sharp, the bundle performs well, pushing out a signal of 74.4Mbps on all floors of a 3-story house. AmpliFi HD reviews state that it takes some trial and error to figure out exactly where to put the router and the mesh points for the best results, but once you get it right, it delivers a consistently strong signal.

5 of 5 stars

The AmpliFi HD reviews indicate it should take no more than about 30 minutes to set up the system, even in a large home. The app is quick to download and very user-friendly. All the hardware is plug-and-play, so it should appear in the app right after you plug it in. The part of the setup that may take the longest is getting the mesh points in the right places for the best signal coverage.

2 of 5 stars

The AmpliFi router by itself is a strong piece of equipment. It can push a signal from the first floor to the third floor and maintain 68.3 Mbps. AmpliFi HD reviews app is easy to set up and use, and the app “finds” the hardware on its own a few minutes after plugging it in.

5 of 5 stars

AmpliFi HD reviews list that this product is covered by a 1-year limited warranty from the manufacturer. If purchase it from Amazon, they also have a 30-day “Dead On Arrival” guarantee.


ASUS AiMesh


Sale
Asus AC1900 Dual Band Gigabit WiFi Router with MU-Mimo, Aimesh for Mesh WIFI System, Aiprotection Network Security Powered by Trend Micro, Adaptive Qos and Parental Control (RT-AC68U),Black
Asus AC1900 Dual Band Gigabit WiFi Router with MU-Mimo, Aimesh for Mesh WIFI System, Aiprotection Network Security Powered by Trend Micro, Adaptive Qos and Parental Control (RT-AC68U),Black
  • Dual band with the latest 802; 11 AC 3x3 technology for combined speeds of up to 1900 Mbps
  • 1 GigaHertz dual core CPU enables smart multitasking by dedicating separate lanes for Wi Fi and USB data; Network standard: IEEE 802; 11a, IEEE 802; 11B, IEEE 802; 11G, IEEE 802; 11N, IEEE 802; 11AC, IPv4, IPv6
  • Effortless router setup with the ASUSWRT web based interface; Dual band connectivity for compatibility and performance
  • Monitor and manage your network with ease from your mobile device using the intuitive ASUS router app
  • A protection powered by Trend Micro provides multi stage protection from vulnerability detection to protecting sensitive data; Please refer the installation manual and the user manual before use which is highly essential; Dc output: 19 Volt with maximum 1; 75 a current; Guest network: 2; 4 GigaHertz x 3, 5 GigaHertz x 3
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The ASUS AiMesh system is an innovative approach to the mesh WiFi system. Where other mesh systems use a “base” router that is boosted by other “points” that push the signal to create a “mesh” of connectivity, the ASUS system uses a collection of interconnected routers to create the “mesh.” This makes the system truly customizable to whatever house or office you are trying to cover. This also means you can manipulate the cost of the system by choosing routers that fit your budget. ASUS routers start at about average and go up to almost above average. With their mesh system, you can spend as much or as little as you want. You might need to be a little more tech savvy in order to set up a system like this, or you’ll need to hire an IT professional to help you get it right.

PROS

  • Totally customizable
  • Very powerful signal
  • Add as many routers as you want

CONS

  • Complicated to set up
  • Could be expensive
  • Requires several purchases
  • PRICE
  • EASE OF USE
  • DESIGN QUALITY 
  • Setup Time
  • PERFORMANCE
  • WARRANTY

The ASUS AiMesh system is customizable, so you could set one up for as little as about average, or as much as high priced depending on your budget, the size of your home or office, and the signal strength you want to maintain.

3 of 5 stars

The ASUS AiMesh system is a little more difficult to set up than other mesh systems because it is customizable. However, once you get the system set up, it should run seamlessly. You have the option of controlling the system from a computer or an app.

5 of 5 stars

ASUS makes excellent products, and their routers are reliable and put out strong, consistent signals. Using this technology that is already excellent will guarantee that your mesh system is top of the line. When set up correctly, you should see excellent signal strength in all the corners of your home or office.

3 of 5 stars

It may take a few hours to set this system up properly, and you’ll need some knowledge of computers. You’ll need to select the type and number of routers that you want to use and purchase them. If you have an existing ASUS router, there’s a good chance it will work in the system. Once you have your routers, you’ll have to update the firmware on all your routers and set any existing routers to factory defaults. Then, you need to establish the primary router. This is done through a computer or an app. After you have established a primary router, you’ll search for the other routers and add them to your AiMesh system.

5 of 5 stars

The ASUS AiMesh system can put out WiFi speeds of up to 5300 Mbps. You can use a single or multiple SSIDs. You also have the ability to adjust and manage all your settings from the computer to improve performance.

4 of 5 stars

This product is covered by a limited warranty through the manufacturer. The warranty for each router used may vary slightly.


Netgear Orbi


Sale
NETGEAR Orbi Tri-band Whole Home Mesh WiFi System with 3Gbps Speed (RBK50) – Router & Extender Replacement Covers Up to 5,000 sq. ft., 2-Pack Includes 1 Router & 1 Satellite White
NETGEAR Orbi Tri-band Whole Home Mesh WiFi System with 3Gbps Speed (RBK50) – Router & Extender Replacement Covers Up to 5,000 sq. ft., 2-Pack Includes 1 Router & 1 Satellite White
  • No more dead zones: Whole home mesh WiFi coverage of up to 5,000 sq. ft. and 25+ devices. Mesh technology helps you stay connected as you roam around your home using a single network name. Extend coverage up to 2,500 square feet with additional satellites.(sold separately)
  • Tri-band backhaul: A dedicated band between your Orbi router and satellite frees up the other two bands for maximum speed to your devices
  • Works with all internet providers: replace your existing wifi router and extender (separate modem or gateway required). Compatible with any internet provider including cable, satellite, fiber, DSL, and more
  • Wired Ethernet port & fast wireless speed: 1 Gigabit Ethernet port and AC3000 WiFi powers up to 3Gbps of streaming HD video, gaming, or Internet surfing and downloads
  • Parental controls: Pause device internet access, view site history usage, and filter websites for free. Set online time limits, schedule device internet access and more for Dollar 4.99/month. (1st month free trial)
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The Netgear Orbi WiFi system creates a network that covers your home or business in fast WiFi. It comes with a router and 2 satellites to extend your WiFi and cover up to 5,000 square feet. The satellites are slim wall-plugs so you’ll get extra coverage without a lot of bulky equipment. You’ll see speeds of up to 2.2 Gbps, which is 123% faster than other brands. The router also has 2 ethernet ports for a wired connection to a Smart TV or other devices. The setup for Orbi is simple and runs using an app.

PROS

  • Super easy setup
  • Low profile design
  • Very strong signal

CONS

  • Only uses an app for controls
  • Only has 2 satellites
  • Getting the placement right is hard
  • PRICE
  • EASE OF USE
  • DESIGN QUALITY 
  • Setup Time
  • PERFORMANCE
  • WARRANTY

This system can be found online with more than average price.

5 of 5 stars

This mesh system is incredibly easy to set up. Simply plug in the satellites and the router. Then, do a speed test, set up the parental controls, and more.

4 of 5 stars

Overall, the design is good and the reviews are positive. There have been some issues with placing the satellites so that the signal reaches all corners of the home, but it is otherwise and well-designed product.

5 of 5 stars

This system is designed to be plug-and-play, so you should be up and running in less than an hour.

5 of 5 stars

This mesh system puts out some of the fastest, strongest signals on the market. It can push a signal of about 3 Gbps. When you get it right, this will vastly improve your connectivity.

​

4 of 5 stars

Netgear offers a limited warranty on all of their products. Please contact the manufacturer for more information.


Google WiFi system


Sale
Google WiFi system, 3-Pack - Router Replacement for Whole Home Coverage (NLS-1304-25),White
Google WiFi system, 3-Pack - Router Replacement for Whole Home Coverage (NLS-1304-25),White
  • A new type of connected system for seamless WiFi coverage throughout your home, helping eliminate dead zones and buffering
  • Replaces your current router, and works your modem and internet service. It’s compatible with major internet service providers including Comcast, Time Warner, and Verizon Fios
  • A single WiFi point covers up to 1,500 square feet, a set of three covers homes up to 4,500 square feet Wifi points work together so you can add more if you need additional coverage
  • Network Assist technology keeps your connection fast by always selecting the clearest channel and fastest band for your devices
  • A simple app gets you set up quickly and allows you to see what’s connected, prioritize devices, and pause the WiFi on kids devices. Family controls allow you to pause the WiFi on kids devices, like during
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The Google WiFi system can cover your home or office in super-fast WiFi with speeds up to 1200 Mbps. You can select how many points you need as each one covers up to 1,500 square feet. It would take 3 WiFi points to cover a 4,500 square foot home. You can add as many points as you need to cover the space you have. The system is run by a simple app and set up is quick and easy. Google offers 24/7 phone support.

PROS

  • Super easy to set up
  • Competitive price
  • Easy to manage

CONS

  • Doesn’t use a standard router
  • Not as fast as some systems
  • Some customers have had spotty coverage
  • PRICE
  • EASE OF USE
  • DESIGN QUALITY 
  • Setup Time
  • PERFORMANCE
  • WARRANTY

This system can be found online for about a little more than average.

5 of 5 stars

This system is very easy to use. It runs with an app that you can easily download.

5 of 5 stars

Google WiFi is the most popular mesh WiFi system, so it’s a well-designed product. The points are sleek, modern, and the system comes with great features like parental controls.

5 of 5 stars

Setup is simple and should take no more than about an hour. Simply plug in your WiFi points, download the app, and get going.

3 of 5 stars

This system puts out a solid signal at 1,200 Mbps. This isn’t as fast as some system, but it consistently works.


5 of 5 stars

This product is covered by a 1-year manufacturer’s limited warranty.


Conclusion

Wifi

If you are looking for a way to get consistent, strong WiFi coverage throughout your home, a mesh WiFi system may be right for you. They are easy to set up, deliver strong signals over large spaces, and are usually run by an app on your phone. AmpliFi HD reviews show that the system is a sleek new design, but it only earns 3 Stars overall due to slower connection speeds. The ASUS system is by far the most customizable. If you are tech savvy and enjoy controlling every detail of your home network, the ASUS AiMesh is for you. It earns a solid 4 Stars. The Google WiFi system is the most popular and therefore is a solid system with a lot of support. It earns 5 Stars for ease of setup and signal strength. All of these are solid choices and, hopefully, this review will help you select the best mesh system for your home or office.

Last update on 2021-01-20 at 21:10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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