The Apple Airport Express, a diminutive powerhouse of Wi-Fi networking, has enjoyed a long and surprisingly enduring life. While discontinued in 2018, many still cling to their trusty Airport Express units. But in the rapidly evolving world of Wi-Fi technology, is this little device still worth its weight in silicon in 2024? Let's delve into the pros and cons to find out.
Is the Airport Express compatible with modern routers?
This is a crucial question. While the Airport Express itself might be an older device, its functionality depends heavily on its interaction with your primary router. Generally speaking, the Airport Express can work with modern routers, but the experience might not be seamless. It's crucial to check for compatibility with your specific router model and firmware. The older 802.11n standard used by the Airport Express might limit speeds compared to modern Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E routers, especially in congested environments. Therefore, while compatibility is generally possible, it's not guaranteed to be optimal.
How does the Airport Express compare to modern Wi-Fi extenders?
Modern Wi-Fi extenders offer a vast range of features and capabilities that significantly outstrip the Airport Express. They generally support newer Wi-Fi standards, providing faster speeds and greater range. Many also offer advanced features such as beamforming and MU-MIMO for improved performance and efficiency. Furthermore, modern extenders often come with user-friendly mobile apps for easy setup and management, a feature absent from the Airport Express. However, the Airport Express does have its own unique advantages which are outlined below.
What are the advantages of using an Airport Express in 2024?
Despite its age, the Airport Express retains some key strengths. Its small, unobtrusive design makes it ideal for discreet placement. Its simplicity is also a significant advantage. Setting up an Airport Express is generally a straightforward process, and its lack of complex features can be appealing to users who prefer a minimalistic approach. Lastly, its AirPlay functionality still provides a convenient way to stream audio to speakers, which remains a valuable feature for many users. However, these advantages need to be weighed against the limitations imposed by its age and lack of modern features.
Is the Airport Express still supported by Apple?
No, the Airport Express is officially discontinued and no longer receives software updates or support from Apple. This means that you won't receive any security patches or performance improvements, making it potentially vulnerable to security threats. This lack of ongoing support should be a major consideration.
Should I buy a used Airport Express in 2024?
The decision to purchase a used Airport Express in 2024 depends heavily on your specific needs and priorities. If you're looking for a simple, inexpensive way to extend your Wi-Fi network and have a limited budget, and primarily need AirPlay functionality, it might be a viable option, especially if you find one at a very low price. However, the lack of support, outdated Wi-Fi standards, and lack of modern features make it a risky purchase. The potential for security vulnerabilities should not be ignored.
Conclusion:
In 2024, the Apple Airport Express exists in a twilight zone. Its simplicity and AirPlay capability are still attractive, but its lack of support, outdated technology, and the availability of superior alternatives make it a difficult recommendation. Unless you have a specific, compelling reason to use one – particularly, a reliance on AirPlay with older equipment – investing in a modern Wi-Fi extender or mesh network is a far more future-proof solution. The drawbacks of the Airport Express outweigh its advantages for most users in today's technologically advanced landscape.
