By Jordan Smith, March 10, 2026

Meraki ms ordering guide

In our latest launch communication, we are excited to introduce an impressive range of new wireless access points (APs) and antennas that will be available for order starting February 13, 2018. This article aims to explore the nuances of each product, detailing their use cases and specifications to assist users in making informed decisions.

Indoor Access Points with External Antennas

Wireless networking solutions are not universally applicable; coverage requirements vary significantly across different indoor environments. While our standard access points adequately fulfill the coverage needs for numerous installations, they are equipped with built-in omni-directional antennas that cannot always accommodate the unique necessities of specific scenarios such as high-density auditoriums, expansive stadiums, long hallways, or warehouses with elevated ceilings. To address these diverse deployment scenarios, we are pleased to announce the addition of two new indoor access points that feature external antenna support to the Meraki MR portfolio: the MR53E and MR42E.

The MR53E (left) and the MR42E (right) wireless access points.

Both models utilize the 802.11ac Wave 2 standard and feature the well-regarded Meraki quad-radio architecture, which consists of a 2.4 GHz radio, a 5 GHz radio, a dedicated dual-band radio for security scanning and automatic RF optimization, as well as a dedicated Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio. The MR53E boasts a 4×4:4-stream MU-MIMO architecture with dual-aggregate radio speeds capable of reaching up to 2.5 Gbps. In contrast, the MR42E employs a 3×3:3-stream configuration, supporting dual-aggregate radio speeds up to 1.9 Gbps.

The MR53E is particularly suitable for high-density environments that demand unmatched performance, such as critical care hospitals, stadiums, or lecture halls. Its additional radio chain enhances signal strength, which translates into superior throughput and message integrity. Moreover, the MR53E brings flexibility for future upgrades with its multi-gigabit support, enabling high throughput over existing cabling, ultimately saving costs and time.

On the other hand, the MR42E is tailored for standard-density, general-purpose wireless deployments that require focused coverage. Its design allows external antennas to be easily integrated, which means this access point can adapt to various wireless scenarios by simply purchasing the appropriate antennas based on changing coverage needs.

Smart Antennas

To complement these new access points, we have designed six families of antennas equipped with advanced technology, allowing the MR53E and MR42E to automatically detect and configure the antennas. This innovation eliminates the requirement for manual setup and ensures optimal transmit (Tx) power is selected automatically. Depending on the antenna family, options to acquire packs of one, five, or six antennas are available, and antennas can also be purchased with five or six connectors.

New Meraki antennas for the MR53E and MR42E access points.

The new antenna offerings include:

• Straight and bendable dipole antennas for omnidirectional coverage
• Panel omnidirectional antennas suitable for low-ceiling environments where aesthetics are essential
• Panel downtilt omnidirectional antennas designed for higher ceilings (25 feet or more) and medium-density installations
• Wide patch antennas catering to expansive angles of coverage in medium-density scenarios
• Narrow patch antennas crafted for ultra-high-density environments such as stadiums and auditoriums, or for applications requiring targeted coverage (e.g., down hallways).

Basic Indoor Wireless and Rapid Outdoor Deployments

Some installations require wireless coverage that caters to a limited number of devices, lacking the need for advanced location-aware services that integrate mobile applications or Bluetooth capabilities. For these use cases, we introduce the MR70 and MR20 access points.

The MR70 (left) and the MR20 (right) wireless access points.

Designed for lower-density deployments, both models do not feature the dedicated third scanning/security radio or BLE radio found in our other access points. Consequently, security features and RF scanning are also opportunistic, engaging only when the AP is idle. Nonetheless, both the MR70 and MR20 support Meraki’s built-in wireless location analytics, providing valuable insights without advanced functionalities.

The MR70 utilizes a 2×2:2-stream MU-MIMO architecture, making it ideal for rapid deployment in outdoor environments where ruggedized solutions are vital. Its integrated omnidirectional antennas (please note it does not support external antennas) expedite field deployment. The MR70 is rated at IP67—making it resistant to dust, moisture, shock, and vibration—and it supports Meraki’s self-healing automatic mesh capabilities.

Conversely, the MR20 is an indoor model tailored for basic, low-density wireless coverage. It shares the same 2×2:2-stream MU-MIMO architecture, and like the MR70, it supports only opportunistic scanning and security. The MR20 is perfect for small office/home office (SOHO) and ultra-small business networks with a capacity for around twenty clients. This model offers users the visibility and control of the Meraki dashboard while primarily focusing on delivering essential wireless coverage without frills.

This latest introduction of APs and antennas complements our extensive portfolio of wireless access points. IT administrators can now make informed hardware decisions tailored to the unique demands of their deployments—whether entry-level or exceptionally challenging. For further information, consider exploring our wireless webinars or checking our resources online for more insights into the Meraki ms ordering guide. We also welcome your thoughts and feedback, so feel free to engage with us on social media or leave comments in our community forum.

Conclusion

The expansion of the Meraki portfolio represents a thoughtful response to the evolving needs of diverse wireless deployment scenarios. From high-density installations that require top-tier performance to modest setups seeking competent wireless solutions, Meraki strives to provide the right technology for every setting. As you consider your next purchase, refer to the comprehensive guidance available and determine the best fit for your specific environment and operational requirements.

For further exploration of devices like the Meraki MS150, be sure to consult our Meraki ms ordering guide for detailed specifications and deployment advice.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only. Please consult a professional for personalized advice regarding your specific wireless networking needs.