AmpliFi Instant – The Best Affordable Wi-Fi Mesh Network System

AmpliFi Instant – The Best Affordable Wi-Fi Mesh Network System

In a large building that needs more than one Wi-Fi access point (AP), it makes more sense to install a Wi-Fi mesh system as it allows devices to roam seamlessly from one AP to AP.  AmpliFi recently announced its new mesh Wi-Fi solution which features a two-minute setup process. The AmpliFi Instant has a built-in touchscreen display like its predecessor. Read on the full review to know why you should buy this mesh router option.

Last year, Ubiquiti launched the AmpliFi HD which was an amazing product with great performance but with a pricey side. So the company has now come up with the AmpliFi Instant, a less expensive option for the people that are planning to improve their Wi-Fi coverage at their home.

The product is a two-piece kit that includes a primary router and a secondary ‘meshpoint’, unlike its predecessor which included a router and two mesh points. But this two-piece kit will be more than adequate for most of the small and medium sizes homes. The Amplifi Instant router costs ₹10,349 while the instant system is available for ₹18,899.

Design and Display

The AmpliFi Instant has a neat and compact design (no antenna) which is small enough to fit on any nearby shelf. The LCD on the front is a clock and touchscreen which provided quick information on upload and download speeds on tapping. It can also be remotely controlled or scheduled to turn itself off at night using the AmpliFi app.

Connection

The main router includes two Gigabit Ethernet ports, one which has to be connected to your existing router and a single port on the mesh point. If the Instant System Wi-Fi mesh is not able to reach your entire building and you have structured cabling you can use the extra Ethernet port on the mesh station and the MeshPoint extender for connecting. Having a single port keeps the price down, but you will not be able to have wired connections for multiple devices like a game console or smart-TV.

The AmpliFi Instant provides you dual-band 802.11 ac Wi-Fi which means you will be automatically switched between 5GHz and 2.4GHz according to your location. There is no need for manual switching between two SSIDs. With a top speed of 1200Mbps, it might not be the fastest mesh system in the market but that should be perfectly adequate for normal use like browsing and streaming. We used a 100Mbps connection and we experienced no drop in speed. 

Setup and App

We do admit it took us slightly more than two minutes to set up the main router and meshpoint but none of it was difficult or confusing. The app is the only way to set the device up (no web interface) but it hinges well on its instant setup point with straightforward options. While naming the network and setting the Wi-Fi password, the app suggests using a social account (Google or Facebook) for remote control.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Quick 2 minute setup
• Unique and Compact design
• Customizable LED display
• MIMO with 2.4GHz and 5GHz channels
• Speeds up to 1200Mbps
• Easy to use app
• Competitively priced

 Cons

• No dedicated option for 40MHz
• Limited Ethernet/USB ports

Conclusion

After testing out the AmpliFi Instant, we can give our word that it’s an all-around high-quality setup. With a touchscreen display, good coverage, and easy setup procedure, it will appeal to those who want a simple and quick upgrade for their home Wi-Fi.  

Ubiquiti E-Store

Many companies have recently joined the mesh networking bandwagon in recent months like Google TP-Link and there is a good chance that you have not heard of Ubiquiti. But this brand brings something unique to the table- it sells directly to customers and gives you a level of customization that you won’t find in the mainstream vendors.

The Indian store was recently launched and is now live. You can go and pick up the latest Ubiquiti products that will be directly shipped to your home. If you want an all-in-one product you can go for the UniFi Dream Machine that is available for ₹ 33,999 on the website. You can go for other affordable options like UniFi AC Lite available for ₹ 9,349 and pair it with UniFi Security Gateway that is available for ₹ 12,699. There is a community section where you can share your issues and even provide solutions.

You may also visit AmpliFi on Facebook and Twitter.