Enhancing your smart home network coverage can be pivotal to ensuring seamless connectivity and control, and this is where devices like Aeotec's Range Extender 6 and Range Extender 7 come into play.
Both are popular choices among smart home enthusiasts, but with the recent release of Range Extender 7, many are left wondering about the differences between these two versions and which one might best serve their needs.
Aeotec Range Extender 6
The Aeotec Range Extender 6 is designed to boost the range and reliability of your Z-Wave system by receiving, amplifying, and rebroadcasting Z-Wave signals.
Just plug it into a power socket and it automatically begins improving weak Z-Wave signals in the area. It boasts compatibility with all of your home's Z-Wave devices and features Gen5 technology, Z-Wave Plus, banking-grade encryption, and a signal indicator.
Aeotec Range Extender 7
On the other hand, Aeotec Range Extender 7 elevates your Z-Wave network to new heights. It builds on the features of its predecessor but adds enhanced performance and security with Gen7 and S2 security certification.
Its ability to boost both Z-Wave and Z-Wave Plus signals makes it highly effective in eliminating wireless dead zones, ensuring your home automation system works optimally.
What's the difference between Aeotec Range Extender 6 and Range Extender 7?
The key differences between the Aeotec Range Extender 6 and Range Extender 7 lie in their technology and compatibility.
Range Extender 7 operates on Gen7 and comes with S2 security certification, offering better performance and security than its predecessor. Additionally, it's compatible with all generations of Z-Wave devices, extending its usefulness beyond the newer Z-Wave Plus devices to even the older ones using 100 series antennas and S0 security.
Pros & Cons
Aeotec Range Extender 6
Pros
- Improves the reliability and accuracy of your Z-Wave network.
- Offers universal compatibility, working with both older and newer Z-Wave devices.
- Features Gen5 technology and Z-Wave Plus for better performance.
Cons
- Lacks the advanced Gen7 technology and S2 security certification.
- Might not offer as much coverage or speed as Range Extender 7.
Aeotec Range Extender 7
Pros
- Offers improved performance with Gen7 technology.
- Enhanced security with S2 certification.
- Can repeat and amplify signals from all generations of Z-Wave devices.
Cons
- Likely to be more expensive than Range Extender 6.
Spec Comparison Table
| Aeotec Range Extender 6 | Aeotec Range Extender 7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Gen5, Z-Wave Plus | Gen7, Z-Wave Plus |
| Security | Banking-grade encryption | S2 security certification |
| Compatibility | Universal compatibility with Z-Wave devices | Universal compatibility with all generations of Z-Wave devices |
| Signal Amplification | Improves reliability and accuracy of Z-Wave network | Boosts both Z-Wave and Z-Wave Plus signals |
| Signal Indicator | Yes | Not specified |
Conclusion
If you're looking for a device to boost your Z-Wave network's coverage and security, the Aeotec Range Extender 7 would be the superior choice, thanks to its advanced Gen7 technology and S2 certification.
However, if your main concern is enhancing the signal strength and you're less worried about security, Range Extender 6, being cheaper, may serve your purpose effectively.
Buy the Aeotec Range Extender 6 here and Aeotec Range Extender 7.
