The Best, Coolest, and Weirdest Gadgets at CES 2022

TP-Link Archer AXE200 Omni

As fast as wireless networking technology evolves and adapts to the ever-increasing number of internet-connected devices in our homes, it always seems like we’re struggling to get the fastest connection possible to effectively game online or stream 4K (soon 8K) movies. For those who don’t want to upgrade to a mesh router system that can cost well over $1,000 to take advantage of the new Wi-Fi 6E standard, TP-Link has revealed an unusual new way to squeeze better performance from a single access point with the new Archer AXE200 Omni.

The 6E-compatible wireless router not only includes four external adjustable antennas to help direct signals to specific parts of your home where they’re needed most, but it also makes these adjustments on its own using motorized mechanisms that independently control the angle and orientation of each antenna. Because internet-connected mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices often move around your space, the Archer AXE200 Omni tracks where in your home the strongest signals are needed most and constantly adjusts the positions of its four antennas to provide the optimal connection. —Andrew Liszewski