Best Mesh WiFi For Starlink in 2024 (Compatible Mesh Nodes)

If you have a Starlink internet plan and want to extend the high-speed internet to every corner of your home with limited interruption, purchasing the best Mesh WiFi for Starlink is a priority.

Currently, 11% of US households own a mesh WiFi system but this market share is growing.

Mesh systems offer many benefits compared to WiFi extenders, particularly for properties that are larger than 2000 sq ft.

For example, WiFi extenders take up to 50% bandwidth per extender and require you to log in to the extended network separately.

Mesh systems avoid this as the satellite devices (nodes) sync to the router unit to create a unified network.

Additionally, mesh WiFi nodes hand-off connections to ensure the high-speed, reliable connection is maintained throughout the property.

Although Starlink offers mesh nodes at $130 each, it is preferable to own a third-party mesh system as they have advanced performance and security features.

The majority of third-party mesh systems are compatible with Starlink, provided you purchase a Starlink Ethernet Adapter and bypass the Starlink router.

We’ve tested 17 mesh WiFi systems that are compatible with Starlink and present the top seven products in this article.  

Best Mesh WiFi For Starlink (2024)

Below are the detailed reviews of the seven best mesh WiFi for Starlink.

The reviews include an explanation of the design and performance of the mesh router as well as specifications, who it is recommended for, and pros & cons.

1. TP-Link Deco X55 (Editor’s Choice)

Design

The TP-Link Deco X55 is a next-generation whole-home mesh system that removes weak WiFi in your home and can achieve internet speeds of up to 3000 Mbps.

The Deco X55 provides coverage of up to 6500 sq. ft. with seamless WiFi 6 performance to remove buffering and dead zones.

It is powerful enough to provide reliable and strong WiFi to 150 devices. It is better compared to traditional range extenders and WiFi boosters.

Performance

The TP-Link Deco X55 is an AI-driven Smart Mesh that automatically learns your user behavior, client quality, and network environment to provide smart WiFi that follows you throughout your home without interruption.

For more wired connections to your devices, each Deco X55 comes with 3 Ethernet ports making a total of 9 ports for a 3-pack.

The wired Ethernet Backhaul on the Deco X55 ensures your internet connection has increased stability. Any of the Deco units can be installed as the main WiFi router.

The Home Network Scanner helps to detect security threats and issues in real-time. The Quality of Service allows you to assign specific devices enough bandwidth so that they can have better performance and fast connections.

Parental Controls keep your family safe online by blocking inappropriate content and managing time online. You can gain full insights and statistics on the performance of your home network using the Reports feature.

The HomeShield Pro provides you with advanced security features by paying a monthly/yearly subscription.

The Deco X55 is easy to set up using the Deco App. Simply unbox the Deco, install the app on your phone, and follow the instructions on the screen. The Deco app will then get your network working in minutes.

You can pair the Deco X55 with Alexa and use voice commands to control your network.

Who It’s For

The TP-Link Deco X55 is suitable for individuals with larger homes who need faster, stable, and uninterrupted WiFi in the entire home, from the bedroom to the backyard.

Specs

• Speed: 3000 Mbps
• Range: Up to 6500 sq. ft
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Wireless Protocol: 11ac, 802.11g, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11n
• Number of Supported Devices: Up to 150 devices
• Ports: 3 on each Pack (9 in total for 3-pack)

Pros

• Works with Alexa.
• Easy to set up using the Deco app.
• Great security features.
• Wider coverage.
• Stable and reliable speeds.
• Good number of ports.

Cons

• Connectivity issues with gaming consoles.

2. Netgear RBK752 (High Performance)

Design

The Netgear RBK752 features WiFi 6 technology and delivers speeds of up to 4200 Mbps to ensure you have uninterrupted web conferencing, streaming, and HD video gaming.

The RBK752 provides coverage of up to 5000 sq. ft. and you can connect 40 devices to it simultaneously.

Additionally, you can extend the coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft using each extra satellite which is sold separately.

Performance

The Netgear RBK752 comes with 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports on the satellite and 3 Ethernet ports on the router which you can use to create a wired connection to devices such as streaming players, computers, and gaming consoles.

The Orbi App enables you to set up the RBK752 easily. The first step is to download the app and follow the instructions given.

Secondly, connect the Orbi router to the power and modem, and finally put the Orbi Satellite in another location in your home.

The app was particularly user-friendly during our product testing, as it can easily monitor how data is used in your home, test the internet speed, and manage the WiFi settings. 

The NETGEAR Armor protects your family’s network using an automatic shield of security on all the devices connected to it.

NETGEAR Smart Parental Controls teaches responsibility, helps to promote healthy internet habits, and ensures your kids do not access harmful online content. Both the parental controls and NETGEAR Armor come with a thirty-day free trial.

The MU-MIMO technology enables the mesh to simultaneously transfer data to multiple devices at faster speeds.

Beamforming enables the antennas to concentrate the signals on specific devices instead of spreading them all around.

Who It’s For

If you are looking for a high-performing WiFi 6 mesh system that delivers consistent and faster speeds, additional backhaul band, greater coverage, and extra security features, the Netgear RBK752 is the option for you.

Specs

• Speed: Up to 4.2 Gbps
• Range: Up to 5000 sq. ft
• Bands: Tri-Band
• Wireless Protocol: 11ax, 802.11ac
• Number of Supported Devices: 40 devices
• Ports: 6 Ethernet

Pros

• Greater coverage.
• Dedicated wireless backhauls.
• Easy to set up and install.
• Numerous security features.

Cons

• Issues updating firmware.

3. Amazon eero 6 Mesh (Budget Friendly)

Design

The Amazon Eero 6 Mesh 3-pack provides you with whole-home coverage as it has a range of up to 5,000 sq. ft.

It can support speeds of up to 500 Mbps and the dual-band provides enough bandwidth to support 75 plus devices.

The WiFi 6 technology delivers fast connectivity to each room in your home, reduces network congestion, and increases the internet’s efficiency so that everyone can confidently video conference, game, and stream 4K video without interruption.

Performance

With Amazon Eero 6 Mesh, you can say goodbye to buffering and dead spots, even when the whole family is connected to the network.

Your connection does not slow down but stays strong as you add more devices to the network.

The Eero 6 Mesh is easy to set up using the Eero app. Just download the app, connect your Eero devices, and your WiFi will optimize for your space using TrueMesh.

The Eero app gives you access to features such as Guest Network, Smart Home Hub, Multi-Admin, and WiFi scheduling.

Unlock your WiFi’s potential using the built-in Zigbee smart home hub where you can connect Alexa to compatible devices so that you can control plugs, locks, lights, and more.

With an Alexa device and Eero 6, you can easily manage access to the network for family profiles so that you can manage what content children can access.

The automatic updates on Eero 6 ensure that you get the greatest and latest in Eero WiFi while also keeping your network secure and safe.

With cross-compatible hardware, you can easily expand your system by adding Eero products as your needs change.

Who It’s For

The Eero 6 is suitable for individuals who are looking for an affordable Mesh System that eliminates dead zones and provides reliable internet connection throughout their home.

Specs

• Speed: 1800 Mbps
• Range: 5000 sq. ft
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Wireless Protocol: 11ax
• Number of Supported Devices: 75+
• Ports: 2 Ethernet

Pros

• Allows for simultaneous streaming.
• Less network congestion.
• Faster speeds throughout your home.
• Works with Alexa.
• Easy to set up.

Cons

• Cannot use a computer’s browser to monitor the network.

4. Google Nest Pro (Best WiFi 6E Mesh System)

Design

Google Nest WiFi Pro comes with three bands (6GHz, 5GHz, and 2.4GHz) and WiFi 6E technology, which is two times faster compared to WiFi 6 so that you can get reliable and super-fast connection throughout your home.

The three WiFi units can cover up to 6600 sq. ft. You can create a mesh WiFi system for the coverage that you need by customizing your setup.

Performance

The Google Nest WiFi Pro automatically adjusts the activity and performance of your WiFi network. For instance, it can help websites to load quickly and prioritize video calls.

It comes with a built-in technology that ensures you have a consistent and strong connection, even at the edge of the WiFi’s coverage.

Nest WiFi Pro diagnoses network issues, monitors its performance, and even resolves some common problems on its own.

It is protected from unauthorized router and software hacks by secure software updates and booting.

The mesh system can create a guest network with a different password, pause access for devices that you do not know and don’t want to use the WiFi, and show all the connected devices.

Use the Google Home App to easily set up and manage the Nest WiFi Pro. Additionally, you can keep track of connected devices at home or away, run a speed test, and check the network performance using the app.

Nest WiFi Pro is constructed using over 60% recycled materials.

Who It’s For

If you are looking for a mesh system that comes with WiFi 6E technology, the Google Nest WiFi Pro is for you. It delivers consistent, reliable, and faster connections.

Specs

• Speed: Up to 5.4 Gbps
• Range: 6600 sq. ft.
• Bands: Tri-Band
• Wireless Protocol: 11ax
• Number of Supported Devices: 300
• Ports: 2

Pros

• It is a smart network.
• Reliable and faster speeds.
• Wider coverage.
• Great security features.
• Mindfully made with recycled materials.

Cons

• Not compatible with previous generations of Google WiFi and Nest WiFi.

5. ASUS ROG Rapture GT6 (For Gaming)

Design

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT6 is a WiFi 6 tri-band gaming mesh system that comes with dedicated 160 MHz channels and high-performance backhaul to ensure you have faster internet speeds of up to 10000 Mbps.

The ASUS RangeBoost Plus technology and nine powerful internal antennas provide a coverage of up to 5800 sq. ft.

The LAN aggregation and 2.5 Gbps WAN port offer faster-wired connectivity.

Performance

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT6 features an extra ‘Smart Antenna’ that detects the best signal based on direction and location for better backhaul performance.

Strong connections on the nodes ensure that you have seamless gaming and video conferencing experiences around the house.

The GT6 supports the 5.9 GHz band, also known as the UNII-4 spectrum, which fully unleashes WiFi 6’s power by bringing a third and clear 160 MHz channel with no radar system interference. 

The GT6 features 9 internal antennas that help to prevent inconsistent speeds and signal drops across nodes, hence eliminating dead zones.

There are grills at the bottom and top of the router that perfectly align with the heatsink to create the best heat dissipation and convective effects, while the vents on the side of the router employ a classic slash pattern.

The GT6 comes with enhanced network security which includes advanced parental controls, AiProtection Pro, and WPA3 security protocol to ensure that your network is always protected.

Also, the latest Safe Browsing feature provides a family-friendly browsing experience by filtering undesirable content from the results of search engines.

The ASUS Instant Guard ensures that you have secure connections when using public WiFi.

Who It’s For

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT6 is suitable for users who are looking for a fast mesh system for their gaming needs as it features a Tripple-Level Game Acceleration that optimizes traffic from your device to the game server.

Specs

• Speed: 10000 Mbps
• Range: 5800 sq. ft.
• Bands: Tri-Band
• Wireless Protocol: 11ac, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11ax
• Number of Supported Devices: Multiple
• Ports: 1 WAN, 3 LAN, and 1 USB

Pros

• Great wall penetration.
• Built-in security software.
• Thorough gaming features.
• Excellent WiFi 6 mesh performance.
• Fast ethernet connections.

Cons

• Overkill for an average user.

6. Netgear Nighthawk MK63S (Advanced Security)

Design

The Netgear MK63S delivers up to 1.8 Gbps for uninterrupted video calls, improved gaming, smooth HD streaming, and no more waiting for content on computers, smartphones, and tablets.

MK63S features WiFi 6 technology which has 1.5 times more capacity compared to the previous generation.

It enables the router to connect to 25 plus devices at the same time and provide coverage of up to 4500 sq. ft. 

Performance

The Netgear MK63S comes with Beamforming technology to focus signals to data-intensive devices and MU-MIMO technology which enables multiple devices to connect to the network at the same time.

The Netgear MK63S comes with the NETGEAR Armor that protects your entire network and devices.

The Smart Parental Controls ensure that your kids have a secure online experience. Both these features come with a 30-day free trial.

The Nighthawk app enables you to set up the MK63S in minutes. It also allows you to get more out of your WiFi as it has features such as internet pausing, remote access, and internet speed tests.

The two Ethernet ports on the router and one on the Satellite provide you with a wired connection to your high-speed device such as a TV, streaming player, game console, or computer.

You can expand the coverage by 1500 sq. ft. using an extra MS60 satellite which is sold separately.

Who It’s For

The Netgear MK63S is recommended for individuals who are looking for a mesh system that comes with advanced security features needed for their home network.

Specs

• Speed: 8 Gbps
• Range: Up to 4500 sq. ft
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Wireless Protocol: 11ax
• Number of Supported Devices: 25+ devices
• Ports: 2 on router and 1 on Satellite

Pros

• Great security features.
• Wider coverage.
• Strong WiFi signals.
• Easy to set up and manage.
• Faster wired connections using ethernet ports.

Cons

• Issues when switching access points.

7. TP-Link Deco M5 (Basic Mesh WiFi System)

Design

The TP-Link Deco M5 provides better coverage compared to the traditional routers as it uses three units that work seamlessly to create a mesh network that eliminates dead zones and provides a coverage of up to 3800 sq. ft.

The TP-Link Deco M5 provides stable and seamless WiFi as it uses a single network name and password that allows you to move around your home while streaming without interruptions.

Performance

The TP-Link unique Mesh technology allows for more flexible placement and chooses the fastest path for every device than a satellite.

The free lifetime subscription to TP-Link Homecare protects your connected devices and network. It features Quality of Service, Robust Parental Controls, and Next-level Antivirus.

The Quality of Service prioritizes applications and devices for faster performance when you need it.

Parental Control manages, limits, and monitors internet use with a customizable profile for every family member. The anti-virus protects your devices against online threats.

The TP-Link Deco app provides easy steps to set up the Deco M5. You just need to plug in your system and follow the steps on the screen and your network will be up and running in no time. You can connect the Deco M5 with Alexa.

Each Deco M5 comes with two ethernet ports that provide better speeds through wired Ethernet Backhaul

Who It’s For

If you are looking for a basic mesh WiFi system that provides better coverage and stable connections than traditional routers, the TP-Link Deco M5 is the option for you.

Specs

• Speed: 1300 Mbps
• Range: 3800 sq. ft
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Wireless Protocol: 11b, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11ac, 802.11a
• Number of Supported Devices: 60 + devices
• Ports: 2

Pros

• Works with Alexa.
• Seamless roaming throughout your home.
• Easy set up.
• Reliable and strong WiFi.
• Better WiFi performance.
• Wider coverage.

Cons

• Requires re-installing if unplugged or power is lost.

 

Factors To Consider When Looking For A Mesh WiFi System For Starlink

WiFi Speed 

When looking for a mesh WiFi system to install in your home, the WiFi speed is a key consideration. One of the features that impacts speed is the WiFi standard (also known as WiFi protocol).

Currently, on the market, there are three available standards used in mesh setups: WiFi 5, WiFi 6, and WiFi 6e.

WiFi 5 (802.11ac) is the fifth generation of wireless standards and was first issued in 2014. This standard is now universally compatible with internet devices, offering the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

A WiFi 5 router will serve the majority of households well, but is less technologically advanced and works best on lower-speed internet plans of 500 Mbps and below.

WiFi 6 (802.11ax) was launched in 2019 and offers faster speeds and coverage compared to WiFi 5.

WiFi 6 routers can handle high-speed internet plans of up to 1 Gbps and are more secure due to WPA3. WiFi 6 routers are more expensive and you’ll also need WiFi 6 compatible devices to access the faster speeds.

WiFi 6e routers are based on the same standard as WiFi 6 but contain an additional 6 GHz band.

The 6 GHz band offers the fastest WiFi speeds (up to 2.5 Gbps) by adding more frequency channels which handle more data while reducing congestion. However, coverage on 6e routers is often poor and they fetch a premium price.

In late 2024, it is expected that the first WiFi 7 (802.11be) routers will be launched. These devices will offer four times the speed of WiFi 6e, lower latency, improved capacity, and stability.

WiFi 7 routers will be backward compatible with earlier standards, but only the latest phones, laptops, and TVs will access the WiFi 7 benefits.

WiFi Coverage 

One of the main reasons for purchasing a mesh WiFi system is to address the issue of WiFi coverage within the home and eliminate dead zones.

A mesh setup is the most practical for internet users, as they can enjoy a secure network in all areas of the home, without needing to switch connections (as is the case with WiFi extenders).

Depending on your budget and household size, you can purchase mesh WiFi networks that deliver coverage between 2000 to 5500 sq ft.

For a mesh setup to be worth the investment, you should look for options that cover a minimum of 2,000 sq ft.

Similar to WiFi speed, the total WiFi coverage experienced is impacted by various factors that are specific to a household.

For example, the placement of the main router and satellites, the location of the home (in proximity to the ISP network), and internal materials and objects such as concrete walls, wardrobes, microwaves, and fridges, can all affect WiFi coverage regardless of the mesh system you purchase.

Number Of Connected Devices 

When reviewing mesh WiFi systems, reviewing the total number of connected devices is key to ensuring the system will adequately meet the needs of your household.

Most people own at least two internet-using devices, whether that be smartphones, tablets, laptops or TVs. In large households where a mesh system is required, there is a high chance that many devices will need to be connected to the internet at the same time.

As a general rule, work out the total number of internet devices in your household, then look for a mesh system that can handle 10% to 20% more than that figure.

At minimum, a mesh system should deliver 25 simultaneous connections, but some products offer over 100. Do note however, that these figures are theoretical and don’t consider the user type.

For example, a product offering 25 connected devices will not have the capacity to handle 25 online gamers using the system at the same time.

Mesh Systems vs WiFi Extenders 

When weighing up the decision between purchasing a mesh system or WiFi extender, you need to consider the trade-off between WiFi speed and coverage, versus cost, setup, and energy consumption.

WiFi extenders are the simplest, most cost-effective way of extending WiFi coverage within the home.

Extenders are typically small, plug-in devices that sync to the main WiFi network and then recast it to a broader area. The extension network requires a separate login to the main network.

Mesh systems comprise of a main router and satellites (which often look identical), which provide a universal, extended home network.

Mesh systems are premium priced but they support higher speeds and better coverage throughout the home compared to WiFi extenders.

Mesh systems offer a universal connection, enabling users to connect to one network, which is then extended through the satellites to every corner of the home.

In terms of setup, mesh systems are more demanding as they require installation and setup of multiple devices, while an extender is a single, plug-in device.

Due to the higher number of devices, mesh systems also use more energy compared to extenders.

FAQs

Does a Mesh WiFi System Replace A Router? 

Mesh WiFi systems are designed to replace an existing Starlink router. The systems are designed to have a router plus additional satellites (nodes) to extend the WiFi network and boost coverage.

If you are happy with your existing router but simply want to extend the network, you should consider a simple, low-cost solution such as a WiFi extender.

Is Mesh WiFi Faster Than Using A WiFi Extender? 

Mesh WiFi systems offer faster internet speeds compared to a Starlink WiFi extender. This is due to the Mesh systems creating a unified network between the router and satellites.

The router and satellites also communicate and work with each other to hand off connections to the fastest access point.

WiFi extenders are a low-cost solution to improve WiFi coverage, but they use up bandwidth on the main network (up to 50% bandwidth per extender) and require users to switch over to the extended network.

How Can I Create A Mesh Network With Starlink?

To create a mesh network with Starlink, follow the steps below.

1. Enable third-party routers and bypass the Starlink router. To do this, log into the Starlink app and click on ‘settings’. Turn the Bypass Starlink WiFi router ‘on’ and then save this setting.
2. Connect the Starlink Ethernet Adapter. First, remove the existing input and replace it with the ethernet adapter. Next, connect the satellite input to the adapter. On the other side of the adapter is a WAN port, which can be connected to the Mesh WiFi router using an ethernet cable.
3. Complete Mesh WiFi Setup. Find a good central location for the router unit, connect it to the Ethernet Adapter, and connect the router to a power source. Turn the device on and set it up using the web portal or mobile app. Strategically place the satellite devices within the home and use the instructions to connect them to the main router.

Are All Mesh WiFi Systems Compatible With Starlink? 

Most mesh systems are compatible with Starlink. The only aspect to look out for is whether the mesh system can connect via a Starlink Ethernet Adapter.

Assuming it does, you can purchase the system and begin the Starlink installation process.

Final Words

Hopefully, the above guide has helped you in making a viable decision on which mesh WiFi system to purchase for your Starlink connection. However, if you cannot decide, here is our top choice:

The TP-Link Deco X55 is our top pick as it comes with the latest WiFi standard that helps to remove weak WiFi in your home and achieve internet speeds of up to 3000 Mbps.

It provides coverage of up to 6500 sq. ft. with seamless WiFi 6 performance to remove buffering and dead zones.

Refer to the buying guide to understand more about the factors that you need to consider when buying a mesh system for Starlink.