Summary
If you’re experiencing weak signal strength and slow speeds, using an external antenna or a signal booster can significantly improve your connection. This guide explains the differences between these solutions and provides recommendations for purchasing the right equipment.
Comparison
| Feature | External Antenna | Signal Booster |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ~$100 | $250+ |
| Improves Router Signal | ✅ | ✅ |
| Boosts Cell Phones’ Signal | ❌ | ✅ |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate | Moderate |
| Compatible Device | Beam/Eagle/X12 | Beam/Eagle/X12/Rocker/Cube |
External Antenna
An external antenna improves the router’s ability to receive 4G LTE signals. It’s connected directly to the router’s SMA antenna ports using a coaxial cable. This option is more cost-effective and can enhance data speeds significantly.
Recommended External Antenna Setup
To install a complete external antenna system, you will need:
- Antenna – Standard External Antenna
- Cable – Coaxial Cable
- Adapter 1 – SMA Adapter
- Adapter 2 – Additional SMA Adapter
Important: Use only the necessary cable length to avoid signal loss over distance.
High-Gain Long-Range Antenna Option
For maximum signal improvement, we recommend this long-range, high-gain antenna:
Note: If using the long-range antenna, you do not need Adapter 1 as it already has an N-type female connector.
Signal Booster
A signal booster enhances 4G LTE coverage for both the router and mobile phones in the home. It consists of:
- An outdoor antenna that captures the signal.
- An amplifier that strengthens the signal.
- An indoor antenna that rebroadcasts the signal inside the building.
Recommended Signal Booster
For the best results, we recommend:
- WeBoost Home MultiRoom Booster (Best Performance)
- Budget-Friendly Signal Booster
A properly configured booster should improve data speeds for all devices in your home.
Upgrading an Existing Setup
If you already have an external antenna or booster but still experience weak signal issues, consider upgrading to a long-range parabolic antenna:
This antenna replaces the existing outdoor unit, uses the same cabling, and requires precise alignment for maximum signal gain. Ensure you use high-quality, short cables for the best performance.
Final Tips for Best Performance
- Mount the antenna as high as possible – ideally on the roof.
- Point directional antennas toward the nearest cell tower for the strongest signal.
- Use high-quality, low-loss coaxial cable to prevent signal degradation.
- Minimize cable length to reduce signal loss.