Mercusys

Mercusys is TP-Link’s value brand. The hardware is straightforward, well-priced networking without the software features or build of the parent range — and for a good many jobs that is exactly right.

Where it makes sense: an unmanaged gigabit switch to add wired ports behind a desk or a TV, a USB Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adapter for a desktop that lacks one, a PCIe Wi-Fi card, or a range extender to cover one dead spot. These are simple devices where the expensive brands add little.

The range also covers Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 adapters, powerline kits for running network over the mains where cabling is impractical, and 4G LTE routers for locations without fixed broadband.

Where to step up instead: whole-house Wi-Fi, where a mesh system is the right answer, and any managed or business installation, where TP-Link Omada or Ubiquiti give you VLANs, monitoring and central control that Mercusys does not.