The Best Cell Phone Booster
In this day and age, most of us rely on a stable signal for our smartphones and portable devices. That's why it can be so frustrating when your cell phone is stuck on one or two bars. A weak signal can be caused by a variety of factors, such as insulating household materials or your distance from the nearest cell tower. If you're struggling to connect, a signal booster could be just what you need to get you back online. We've taken a look at some of the best options on the market so that you can put an end to missed calls and slow data transfer speeds once and for all.
What to Look For
Signal boosters vary widely in their capacity, so there are several important considerations to make before you buy. For starters, omnidirectional options offer easy installation, while directional options can usually yield the strongest signal boost. You’ll want to consider a booster with a sufficient radius to cover your area of operation, but more powerful boosters are often more expensive. Our favorite all-rounder was the SureCall Flare. This versatile and reliable booster is a great choice for most household applications, and its easy installation won’t leave the DIY-shy feeling overwhelmed. But if you’re looking for some extra bars on four wheels, check out the Drive Reach kit from weBoost. Read on below to discover the rest of our favorites.
SureCall Flare Cell Signal Booster
Amplify with ease
This powerful booster offers a simple solution to home signal dropout. The amplifier will boost weak cellphone signals from most carriers over an area of up to 2,500 square feet, offering ample additional coverage for domestic use. Better yet, it couldn’t be easier to install, since it doesn’t require the drilling or perilous cable running demanded by some competitors. Instead, simply install the outdoor antenna at an optimal position, connect it to the cellular amplifier, and you’ll be good to go.
Pros:
- This signal booster is built with the future in mind, thanks to 5G compatibility.
- SureCall’s patented 2XP technology doubles the uplink power compared to most standard units, meaning a stronger connection in the most challenging signal zones.
- If you run into problems, there are tons of different resources to find the solution, including the US-based customer support center and plenty of information online.
Cons:
- Despite the easy installation of this booster, you may still have to spend a chunk of time finding the ideal location for the antenna.
weBoost Home Multiroom Signal Booster
Far and wide
Providing reliable cellphone coverage indoors can be a challenge when the signal has to pass through walls. The Home Multiroom booster has this conundrum in mind. With a staggering range of 5,000 square feet, it provides a dependable signal boost for up to three rooms in your home. This jack-of-all-trades is compatible with all US carriers, so everyone is sure to get the signal they need.
Pros:
- The directional outside antenna can be easily pointed towards your nearest cell tower to receive a clear signal.
- Thanks to the 21 dBm uplink-output power and 12 dBm downlink-output power, this booster can easily reach distant cell towers.
- This kit comes equipped with all you need to install the booster, and it doesn’t require any drilling.
Cons:
- This booster offers excellent coverage, but it’s a bit more expensive than its competitors.
Amazboost A1 Cell Phone Booster
Domestic bliss
Domestic signal problems can be the most frustrating of all, as they can result in missed calls and interrupted internet browsing on a daily basis. This household booster from Amazboost makes it easier than ever to reach full bars from the comfort of your own home. The 2,500-square-foot range will cover all but the largest properties. With multi-user simultaneous connectivity onboard, you won’t have any trouble boosting the signal of multiple devices. It’s the perfect solution for families or shared properties that need to keep multiple devices online.
Pros:
- The directional yagi outdoor antenna comes with all mounting accessories included, making installation and positioning a breeze.
- This booster is compatible with all US carriers, and all networks up to 5G.
Cons:
- This booster isn’t as effective as some competitors in areas that receive the weakest signal.
SureCall Fusion4Home Signal Booster
The quick fix that works
If you only need to provide a signal boost for a small area, this domestic booster from SureCall could save you a few dollars in comparison with other high-end options. The 2,000-square-foot range of the Fusion4Home works at its best when serving two or three rooms, making it a natural choice for compact apartments and cabins.
Pros:
- This omnidirectional antenna doesn’t need to be pointed at a nearby cellular tower to receive a clear signal.
- This booster is easy to install thanks to the fully-featured DIY kit.
Cons:
- You’ll get the best performance from this unit when the antenna and base station are separated by 30 feet, which could be a limitation for the most compact spaces.
weBoost Drive Reach Signal Booster
Keep your car connected
If you depend on your cellphone while you’re on the move, it can be infuriating to experience inconsistent reception as you drive. The Drive Reach is the natural solution for motorists who need to rely on a clean line at all times. The sleek outside antenna can be easily mounted to the roof of any vehicle. Basic cable routing means it’s easy to connect to the receiver inside. And as a reliable developer with a great track record, weBoost tech is easy to trust.
Pros:
- This booster works with all US carriers, so you’re sure to get the coverage you need.
- The Drive Reach is compatible with 5G devices, offering you the fastest data transfer speeds whenever you need them.
- The outside antenna sits on a magnetic mount, so you can remove it when you park to dissuade opportunistic thieves.
Cons:
- This premium product comes at a premium price, so you might consider other competitors if you’re on a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my cellphone carrier supported by a cell phone booster?
With so many service providers on the market, it’s important to be sure that your new signal booster is compatible. Many of the options we reviewed will boost the signal strength of the major US providers, offering a versatile solution for households with multiple devices or discerning consumers who like to shop around for the best mobile contracts. Be sure to take note before you buy, however, as some brands only support specific providers.
Where should I place the antenna for best results?
The outdoor antennas of your signal booster will work best when placed in an area with good reception. Omnidirectional antennas don’t need to be aimed at a nearby tower, but their signal isn’t as strong as a result. For a directional antenna, you’ll need to locate your nearest cell tower to position it correctly.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.