Is Upgrading To An Eero Mesh Network Worth It For Small Apartments

For many city dwellers, small apartments are the norm. With limited square footage and often thick interior walls, Wi-Fi reliability can be a persistent challenge. Traditional routers placed in a corner may leave dead zones in the bedroom or kitchen. This has led many renters and homeowners to consider mesh networking systems like Amazon’s eero. But is investing in an eero mesh network truly necessary—or even worthwhile—for a 500-square-foot studio or one-bedroom unit?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While eero systems are marketed as whole-home solutions, their value in smaller spaces depends on layout, construction materials, internet usage habits, and existing infrastructure. For some, a single high-performance router suffices. For others—especially those struggling with spotty signals or multiple connected devices—a compact eero setup can make a dramatic difference.

This article examines the practical benefits, cost considerations, and real-world performance of eero mesh networks in small apartment environments. We’ll break down when the upgrade makes sense, when it might be overkill, and what alternatives exist.

Understanding Mesh Networks vs. Traditional Routers

A traditional Wi-Fi router broadcasts a signal from a single point. In open floor plans or small homes, this often works well enough. However, physical obstructions like concrete walls, metal appliances, and even mirrors can degrade signal strength. The farther you move from the router, the weaker the connection becomes.

Mech networks like eero solve this by using multiple nodes (often called “beacons” or “extenders”) that work together to blanket an area in consistent Wi-Fi. One node connects directly to your modem, while additional units are placed strategically around your space to relay the signal. Unlike older range extenders—which often halve bandwidth and create separate network names—eero systems operate under a single SSID, seamlessly handing off devices as they move between nodes.

In larger homes, this technology shines. But does a 600-square-foot apartment really need more than one node? Not always. Still, there are scenarios where even a single extra eero can eliminate frustrating dropouts in corners or rooms behind bathrooms and closets.

Tip: Even in small apartments, place your main eero node at central height—like on a bookshelf—not tucked behind the TV or on the floor.

When a Small Apartment Needs More Than Basic Wi-Fi

Size alone doesn’t determine Wi-Fi needs. A 400-square-foot loft with open architecture and drywall may have perfect coverage from a standard router. Meanwhile, a similarly sized unit with plaster-and-lath walls, mirrored closets, and a refrigerator blocking the hallway might suffer constant buffering during video calls.

Here are common signs your small apartment could benefit from a mesh system:

• Frequent disconnections in certain rooms (especially bedrooms or bathrooms)
• Slow speeds despite having a high-tier internet plan
• Multiple users streaming, gaming, or working simultaneously
• Smart home devices (doorbells, cameras, thermostats) losing connection
• Using Wi-Fi extenders that create lag or require manual switching

Consider Maria, a freelance graphic designer living in a 550-square-foot Brooklyn apartment. Her ISP delivers 300 Mbps, but her Zoom meetings frequently froze when she moved to her bedroom. Her old router sat in the living room near the front door—blocked by a metal entertainment center and a thick bathroom wall. After installing a two-pack eero Pro 6 system (one main unit, one satellite), her bedroom speed jumped from 45 Mbps to 210 Mbps. No rewiring, no new equipment beyond the nodes—just better placement and seamless roaming.

“Mesh networks aren’t just for big houses. In urban apartments with dense building materials, even 500 square feet can present significant RF challenges.” — David Lin, Network Engineer at Urban Broadband Solutions

Performance Comparison: eero vs. Standard Router in Compact Spaces

To assess whether eero is worth the investment, let’s compare typical performance across key metrics in small apartments.

Feature	Traditional Dual-Band Router	eero (Dual-Pack, e.g., eero 6)
Single-Point Coverage	Good in open layouts; weak behind walls	Improved via secondary node placement
Speed Consistency	Varies significantly by location	More uniform across rooms
Setup Complexity	Basic configuration required	App-guided setup (~10 minutes)
Device Handling (20+ devices)	May struggle with congestion	Better load balancing and band steering
Cost (Initial)	$50–$100	$150–$250 for dual-pack
Long-Term Maintenance	Manual updates, less monitoring	Automatic updates, app-based alerts

As shown, eero systems offer advantages in consistency, device management, and ease of use—even if raw speed gains depend on your existing setup. For light users who only browse and stream occasionally, the difference may be negligible. But for remote workers, gamers, or households with multiple smart devices, the stability and intelligent routing provided by eero can justify the higher upfront cost.

Step-by-Step: Evaluating & Installing eero in a Small Apartment

Before buying, follow this process to determine if eero is right for your space:

1. Map Your Current Coverage: Use a free app like Wi-Fi Analyzer (Android) or the built-in iOS field test mode to measure signal strength in different rooms. Note areas below -70 dBm, which indicate poor reception.
2. Identify Dead Zones: Walk through your apartment while streaming a video or running a speed test. Mark locations where playback stutters or disconnects occur.
3. Assess Internet Plan: Confirm your current download/upload speeds via fast.com or speedtest.net. If you’re paying for gigabit but getting 100 Mbps on your device, the bottleneck may be internal.
4. Determine Node Placement: For most small apartments, a two-pack eero system works best. Place the primary node near your modem. The second should go halfway toward the weakest zone—never in a closet or behind electronics.
5. Install Using the eero App: Download the app, power up the first unit, and follow prompts to connect to your modem. Then activate the second node by pressing its pairing button. The app will optimize settings automatically.
6. Test Post-Installation: Re-run speed tests in previously problematic areas. Check smart device responsiveness and video call quality.

This entire process takes under 30 minutes. Most users report noticeable improvements within the first hour of setup.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is It Worth the Investment?

An eero dual-pack starts around $150, with premium models like the eero Pro 6E reaching $300. Compare that to a high-end standalone router like the TP-Link Archer AX55 (~$120), and the price difference is clear. So when does the extra cost pay off?

Consider long-term value:

• Time saved: Fewer interruptions mean more productive work hours and smoother entertainment.
• Reduced frustration: Stable Wi-Fi improves quality of life—especially during critical moments like job interviews or family video calls.
• Future-proofing: eero supports Wi-Fi 6 and Zigbee (in select models), making it compatible with next-gen smart home devices.
• Rental flexibility: You can take the system with you when moving—unlike built-in wiring upgrades.

If your current router is outdated (Wi-Fi 4 or earlier), upgrading to any modern system—including eero—will bring tangible benefits. But if you already own a decent Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 router, adding a single eero as a satellite (rather than replacing everything) might be a smarter, cheaper path.

Tip: You don’t need to replace your existing router. Use it as a gateway and add one eero unit as a mesh extender for targeted coverage improvement.

Alternatives and Practical Considerations

eero isn’t the only option. Competitors like Google Nest Wifi, TP-Link Deco, and Netgear Orbi offer similar mesh functionality. Some are slightly cheaper; others provide faster throughput. However, eero stands out for its user-friendly app, strong customer support, and integration with Alexa and Amazon services.

For budget-conscious renters, simpler fixes may suffice:

• Reposition your current router centrally and elevate it
• Upgrade firmware or reset DNS settings
• Use Ethernet cables for stationary devices (gaming consoles, TVs)
• Purchase a single Wi-Fi 6 range extender (~$60) instead of a full mesh kit

Still, these solutions lack the seamless experience and centralized control of a true mesh network. If reliable connectivity is essential to your daily routine, the modest investment in eero often proves worthwhile—even in tight quarters.

FAQ

Can I use just one eero in my small apartment?

Yes. A single eero (like the eero 6) can replace your existing router and may provide excellent coverage in studios or open-plan units. Only add a second node if testing reveals persistent weak spots.

Do I need a special internet plan for eero?

No. eero works with any broadband provider and modem. It enhances how your Wi-Fi is distributed, not the speed delivered by your ISP. However, to fully utilize Wi-Fi 6 features, a plan of 300 Mbps or higher is recommended.

Will eero reduce my internet bill?

Not directly. But by maximizing your existing plan’s performance, you may avoid upgrading to a more expensive tier unnecessarily.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade to eero?

Answer the following before purchasing:

• ☐ Do you experience Wi-Fi dead zones in your apartment?
• ☐ Are multiple people using bandwidth-heavy applications at once?
• ☐ Do smart home devices frequently disconnect?
• ☐ Is your current router more than 3 years old?
• ☐ Would you benefit from app-based parental controls or guest networks?
• ☐ Do you plan to keep the system when you move?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, an eero mesh network is likely a smart upgrade—even in a small space.

Conclusion

Upgrading to an eero mesh network isn’t automatically necessary for every small apartment—but it’s far from unnecessary. Modern urban living demands reliable, invisible connectivity. Whether you're attending virtual meetings, streaming 4K content, or managing a dozen smart devices, inconsistent Wi-Fi undermines convenience and productivity.

In compact units, the decision comes down to environment and usage, not square footage. A well-placed eero system can transform a frustrating connection into a seamless one, often with minimal setup and lasting benefits. While not every renter needs it, those who do find it eliminates a daily source of stress.

🚀 Ready to upgrade your apartment’s Wi-Fi? Test your current signal, evaluate your needs, and consider starting with a single eero unit. Experience the difference consistent, intelligent coverage can make—no matter how small your space.