Why is my TP-Link Range Extender not getting the same speed as the main router?

The purpose of a Range Extender is to expand Wi-Fi coverage and improve the speed at some points. You might not be able to get the same speed as the main router when you are using the Range Extender due to the distance and limitation of Wi-Fi. We usually get lower speed at the position of the Range Extender when compared to the main router.

Here is a simple example of the above theory:

Network topology:

Note: All the clients are in the same position as the Range Extender

Due to the working pattern and protocol/regulation of Wi-Fi technology, the more wireless hops, the slower the speed would be. When Client 1 is connected to the main router and Client 2 is connected to the Range Extender, Client 2’s speed will be slower than Client 1’s, as Client 2 goes through an extra wireless hop compared to Client 1.

However, there will be no speed difference if the client is wired to Range Extender.

Overall, the speed relation of each client in the above topology is as follows:

Client 1 ≈ Client 3 > Client 2

Note: The above speed relation is a reference as the actual speed will vary as a result of device’s specification difference and environmental factors, including building materials, obstacles, volume and density of traffic, etc.