Official manufacturer image
Wired backhaul to the router
TP-Link RE550
Check price on Amazon.caSponsored link · no live price shown
Gearjury may earn a commission from qualifying retailer links.
Head to head
Access Point vs WiFi Extender: How to Choose for Your Home
Choose an access point when you can connect it to the router by Ethernet. Choose a wireless extender when a wired run is impractical and a usable router signal reaches its location.
Official manufacturer image
Official manufacturer image
Multiple wired client devices
NETGEAR EAX20
Check price on Amazon.caSponsored link · no live price shown
The verdict
The connection method decides the category: an access point uses a wired link to the router, while a range extender can relay WiFi wirelessly. Some products support both modes, so check each model rather than relying on its name.
Wired backhaul to the router: TP-Link RE550
TP-Link explicitly lists Access Point mode and a Gigabit Ethernet port.
Multiple wired client devices: NETGEAR EAX20
NETGEAR’s EAX20 datasheet lists four Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Wireless relay with no Ethernet run: TP-Link RE550
Its Range Extender mode connects wirelessly to the existing router.
Compare them side by side
| Official manufacturer imageTP-Link RE550 | Official manufacturer imageNETGEAR EAX20 | |
|---|---|---|
| Connection to router | Ethernet in AP mode; wireless in extender mode | Supports extender setup; see exact model guide for AP mode |
| Ethernet ports | 1 Gigabit | 4 Gigabit |
| WiFi class | AC1900 | AX1800 |
| WiFi generation | WiFi 5 | WiFi 6 |
| Placement constraint | Needs a usable router signal in extender mode; Ethernet in AP mode | Desktop unit; placement depends on connection mode |
| Wireless backhaul | Yes, in Range Extender mode | Yes, as an extender |
| Check price on Amazon.ca | Check price on Amazon.ca |
Common questions
Questions before you buy
What is the difference between an access point and a WiFi extender?
An access point connects to the router over Ethernet to provide WiFi. A wireless extender receives the router’s WiFi and relays it; some products offer both modes.
Can I use a WiFi extender as an access point?
Only if the model supports AP mode. TP-Link RE550 lists this mode and uses Ethernet to connect to the wired network.
Is an access point better than a repeater?
A wired access point avoids a wireless backhaul, but requires an Ethernet cable. A repeater is easier to place where wiring is unavailable, provided it receives a useful router signal.
Why does my WiFi extender say no internet access?
Check the extender’s link to the router, network password, IP settings and whether the router has internet service. Reconfigure using the manufacturer’s instructions if the connection remains offline.
Sources and how we chose
- TP-Link Canada RE550 specifications and modes · 2026-10-15
- NETGEAR EAX20 datasheet · 2026-10-15
- NETGEAR access point setup guidance · 2026-10-15
Keep exploring
Related guides
Ethernet WiFi Extenders for Wired Devices and Access Points
An extender’s Ethernet port may connect a wired device to WiFi, or support access point mode through a wired router connection. Check the model’s stated modes.
Best WiFi Extenders in Canada for Different Home Networks
The TP-Link RE705X is a strong feature-led starting point, with WiFi 6, AX3000 class and a Gigabit port. Consider NETGEAR EAX15 for mesh-style WiFi 6 or simpler plug-in models for a basic dead zone.
TP-Link WiFi Extenders for Extending a Home Network
TP-Link’s Canadian range includes WiFi 7, WiFi 6 and older dual-band extenders. Match the model to your router, desired features and available placement.
WiFi Extenders: Compare Ways to Improve Home Coverage
A WiFi extender can carry an existing router’s signal into a weak-coverage area. Start with compatibility and placement, then compare a standalone repeater with a provider mesh system.