Overview

The Linksys MR8300 Mesh WiFi Router is a tri-band router designed to provide seamless Wi-Fi coverage up to 2,000 sq. ft. With the ability to handle over 20 devices, this Wi-Fi system is perfect for households with multiple users and devices. It supports high-speed AC2200 speeds, ensuring smooth streaming and gaming experiences without buffering. For homes that require even greater coverage, this router is compatible with the Linksys Velop Mesh system, allowing you to expand your network effortlessly. Overall, this router strikes a good balance between performance and ease of setup.

Features & Benefits

This tri-band router offers speeds up to 2.2 Gbps, with a 5 GHz band at 867 Mbps, another 5 GHz band at 400 Mbps, and a 2.4 GHz band at 867 Mbps. Such speeds make it ideal for high-speed gaming and uninterrupted 4K streaming. The router’s simple setup is made possible through the Linksys mobile app, allowing for easy network management. It also includes parental controls and guest Wi-Fi, enhancing both security and flexibility for households with multiple users and devices.

Best For

The Linksys MR8300 is best suited for users with large homes who need reliable Wi-Fi coverage across multiple rooms. Gamers and streamers will appreciate its ability to support high-speed connections and minimal buffering. This router is also perfect for families with many devices, including smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs. Additionally, those looking for an easy-to-set-up mesh Wi-Fi system will find this product ideal, thanks to its seamless integration with other Linksys Velop products.

User Feedback

Users generally praise this router for its strong coverage and reliable performance, especially in larger homes. Many appreciate how easy it is to set up, though some users mention that the process can take a bit of patience. Positive feedback often highlights its effectiveness when managing multiple devices simultaneously, providing stable connections even under heavy use. On the downside, a few users wish for more advanced customization options within the app, particularly for experienced network administrators.

Pros

  • This WiFi router provides reliable coverage for large homes, supporting up to 2,000 sq. ft.
  • It can handle 20+ devices simultaneously without noticeable performance issues.
  • Gamers and streamers will appreciate the high-speed AC2200 (2.2 Gbps) performance, with minimal buffering.
  • Setup through the Linksys mobile app is straightforward and user-friendly, making installation hassle-free.
  • The router's compatibility with the Linksys Velop Mesh system allows for expanded coverage when needed.
  • Parental controls and guest Wi-Fi are available, offering extra layers of security for families.

Cons

  • Some users report that the coverage is less effective in large homes with thick walls or multi-floor layouts.
  • The router may experience occasional connectivity drops in certain areas despite its strong coverage.
  • Advanced customization options in the app are limited, leaving some users wanting more control over settings.
  • While setup is easy, it can take some time and patience, particularly for those new to Wi-Fi mesh systems.
  • This device may not meet the needs of very large households or those with extreme connectivity demands.
  • Some users wish the router offered more robust parental control features for better management.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from various platforms and languages worldwide, we found that the Linksys MR8300 Mesh WiFi Router generally performs well, with strong feedback on its coverage and ease of use. Spam, bot-incentivized, and off-topic reviews were filtered out, ensuring only high-quality and authentic user experiences contributed to these ratings. Both strengths, such as seamless performance in large homes, and some pain points, like the need for patience during setup, are reflected in the scores below.

Wi-Fi Performance
88%
Many users praise this WiFi router for its robust tri-band speeds, which make it excellent for high-demand tasks like streaming and gaming. The AC2200 speeds (2.2 Gbps) provide a fast, stable connection, even across multiple devices. This makes it a great choice for households with heavy internet usage or many connected devices.
Some users report that while the Wi-Fi performance is strong, it can be inconsistent in certain areas of large homes, especially if there are obstacles or multiple floors. While generally good, a few have experienced occasional dropouts in more challenging environments, requiring adjustments to router placement.
Ease of Setup
81%
19%
Most buyers find the setup process straightforward, thanks to the intuitive Linksys mobile app. The app provides easy step-by-step guidance, making installation quick for most users. It's especially helpful for those who aren't tech-savvy but want to get their mesh system up and running without hassle.
Not everyone agrees that the setup is effortless. Some users mention that the process requires patience, especially if there are connectivity issues during initial setup. A few have struggled with syncing the router with the app or encountered glitches that prolonged the process.
Coverage Area
90%
The coverage area is widely praised, with many users noting that it effectively blankets large homes up to 2,000 sq. ft. This router excels in eliminating dead zones, offering reliable Wi-Fi across multiple rooms. It's particularly beneficial for users in larger homes who previously struggled with weak signals in distant corners.
Despite the strong coverage, some users feel that it might fall short in very large or multi-story homes with thick walls. A few also mention that the coverage might be less effective in challenging environments, where additional mesh nodes could be necessary to extend range.
Device Support
85%
Users appreciate the router's ability to seamlessly support over 20 devices at once without noticeable performance drops. This is particularly useful in busy households with multiple smartphones, tablets, and smart devices. The router's capacity makes it a good choice for families or home offices with many connected gadgets.
However, some buyers have noticed that performance starts to degrade when the device count exceeds 20, especially if there is heavy streaming or gaming. A few report slower speeds during peak usage, which can affect the experience, especially for users with high-bandwidth needs.
Gaming Performance
89%
This tri-band router excels at delivering low-latency and high-speed connections, making it an excellent choice for gaming. Users highlight that it reduces buffering and lag during online gaming sessions, providing a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Its stability even under heavy use has earned praise from avid gamers.
While many gamers are satisfied, a small group of users report occasional lag in highly demanding gaming scenarios. Some note that while the performance is generally good, it may require additional adjustments, such as optimizing router placement, to achieve the best experience during competitive gaming.
Streaming Quality
87%
For those who enjoy streaming video content, this Wi-Fi router performs reliably, even when multiple users are streaming in 4K or HD. The AC2200 speeds ensure smooth, buffer-free streaming, making it ideal for binge-watching shows, streaming movies, or enjoying live broadcasts without interruptions.
A few users have expressed frustration with streaming performance in particularly challenging environments, such as multi-story homes with several walls between the router and devices. While streaming is mostly seamless, some report occasional buffering when too many devices are connected or when streaming on lower-bandwidth networks.
Security Features
82%
18%
The router offers solid security features, including parental controls and guest Wi-Fi, which provide peace of mind for families and users concerned about online safety. These features allow users to restrict access and monitor usage, ensuring a secure network for all connected devices.
However, some users wish for more advanced security options or greater customization within the parental controls. A few have also reported difficulties in managing the security settings through the app, finding it somewhat limited compared to other premium routers.
Mobile App Usability
78%
22%
The Linksys mobile app is generally easy to use, offering straightforward controls for managing the router's settings, including device prioritization and network monitoring. Many users appreciate the convenience of controlling their Wi-Fi from their phone, especially when troubleshooting or adjusting settings.
Some users, however, find the mobile app lacking in certain areas. A few mention that it can be glitchy at times, with occasional connectivity issues or difficulties syncing with the router. More advanced users feel that the app doesn't offer enough customization options, which limits its overall usefulness.
Long-Term Durability
80%
20%
Users report that the router holds up well over time, maintaining its performance and reliability. Even after extended use, it continues to deliver strong coverage and speeds. This makes it a good option for those looking for a durable, long-lasting device that doesn’t require frequent maintenance.
A few users have mentioned that the router can become noticeably warm after prolonged use, which raises concerns about its long-term durability. While it hasn't led to failures, some worry about potential overheating issues, especially in areas with limited ventilation.
Value for Money
91%
This router is often praised for its strong performance at a reasonable price. Users feel that it provides good value, considering its range, speed, and ability to support multiple devices. It’s a solid choice for those looking for an affordable mesh Wi-Fi system without sacrificing too much on quality.
While many agree it's a good deal, a few buyers feel that there are cheaper alternatives with similar performance. Some have expressed that while the router offers great features, they would have liked more advanced customization options for the price, especially compared to premium models in the market.
Customer Support
72%
28%
When users needed assistance, some were able to resolve issues with the support team. The response time was acceptable in most cases, and troubleshooting was effective for basic problems, like connectivity issues or setup help.
However, several users have complained about the quality of customer support. A few have experienced long response times or unhelpful advice, especially when dealing with more complex issues. Some report that the support team was not as knowledgeable as expected, leading to unresolved problems.
Compatibility with Velop System
85%
Many buyers appreciate the seamless compatibility between this router and the Linksys Velop Mesh system. This allows for easy network expansion in larger homes, ensuring consistent coverage throughout the house. It’s ideal for users who want to scale their Wi-Fi network in the future.
However, a few users have noted some initial challenges when trying to integrate the router with the Velop system. Issues like connectivity problems or difficulty in syncing the two systems have been reported, requiring additional troubleshooting or firmware updates to resolve.

Suitable for:

The Linksys MR8300 Mesh WiFi Router is ideal for users with large homes or multiple floors, as it offers strong coverage of up to 2,000 sq. ft. It's well-suited for households with numerous connected devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs, and performs excellently even with 20+ devices running simultaneously. Gamers and streamers will also appreciate its high-speed performance, with tri-band speeds ensuring minimal buffering during intensive online gaming or 4K streaming. Additionally, those looking for an easy setup will benefit from the intuitive Linksys mobile app, which simplifies installation without the need for advanced technical knowledge.

Not suitable for:

While the Linksys MR8300 is a solid choice for many, it may not be the best option for very large or multi-story homes with challenging layouts. Some users report occasional connectivity drops or reduced coverage in specific areas, especially in homes with thick walls or multiple floors. It may also fall short for users who require advanced customization options, as the app's settings are limited compared to other premium routers. Additionally, those seeking more robust parental controls or security features might find the options offered here somewhat basic.

Specifications

  • Wi-Fi Type: Tri-band mesh WiFi router with speeds up to 2.2 Gbps (AC2200).
  • Coverage Area: Covers up to 2,000 sq. ft. of space, suitable for medium to large homes.
  • Device Support: Supports 20+ devices simultaneously, ideal for homes with multiple connected devices.
  • Speed: Offers tri-band speeds with 867 Mbps on 5 GHz (867 MHz), 400 Mbps on 5 GHz, and 867 Mbps on 2.4 GHz.
  • App Setup: Setup is managed via the Linksys mobile app for an easy and quick installation process.
  • Parental Controls: Includes parental controls for managing device access and internet usage.
  • Guest Wi-Fi: Allows creation of a separate guest Wi-Fi network for additional security.
  • Mesh Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Linksys Velop Mesh system to expand coverage with additional units.
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual 5 GHz bands and one 2.4 GHz band provide efficient and reliable connectivity.
  • Security Features: Includes WPA2 encryption, guest network, and parental controls for network security.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and works with both cable and fiber connections.
  • Ports: Equipped with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections.
  • Dimensions: Measures approximately 10.2 inches x 7.1 inches x 2.5 inches.
  • Weight: Weighs about 1.2 pounds, lightweight for easy placement around the home.
  • Power Supply: Powered by a standard AC adapter with input of 100-240V.
  • Warranty: Comes with an 18-month warranty for manufacturer defects and support.
  • Operating System: Uses Linksys Smart Wi-Fi for network management and customization via mobile app.
  • Temperature Range: Designed to operate in temperatures between 32°F and 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
  • Color: Black finish for a sleek and modern look that blends with most home decor.

FAQ

The Linksys MR8300 Mesh WiFi Router offers coverage up to 2,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for medium to large homes. The router's mesh capabilities help ensure strong and consistent Wi-Fi throughout the house.

Setting up this device is easy with the Linksys mobile app. After plugging in the router, simply follow the app's instructions to connect and configure your network. It takes just a few minutes to get started.

Yes, this WiFi router supports high-speed streaming and gaming, offering tri-band speeds up to 2.2 Gbps. This makes it a solid choice for gaming, 4K streaming, and other high-bandwidth activities with minimal buffering.

The router is designed to support 20+ devices simultaneously. It’s ideal for homes with multiple users or many connected devices, ensuring stable connections across smartphones, laptops, smart TVs, and more.

Yes, the router includes robust parental controls and guest Wi-Fi features. You can set restrictions on internet access for specific devices and provide a separate, secure network for guests, helping to protect your primary network.

Yes, the Linksys MR8300 is compatible with the Linksys Velop Mesh system. This allows you to expand your Wi-Fi coverage with additional Velop nodes, creating a larger, seamless mesh network throughout your home.

The router supports tri-band Wi-Fi, with speeds of up to 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, 400 Mbps on another 5 GHz band, and 867 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. This setup helps reduce network congestion and enhances performance.

While the setup process is straightforward via the mobile app, some users have mentioned that the app lacks advanced customization options. However, it does provide essential features like network management and device prioritization.

The Linksys MR8300 should perform well in multi-story homes, but coverage can vary based on the layout and wall thickness. If needed, you can expand coverage by adding more Linksys Velop units for a more robust mesh system.

The Linksys MR8300 comes with an 18-month warranty, which covers any manufacturing defects or issues that arise during normal use. Be sure to check the terms for any limitations or exclusions.