Whatever I say about this device, it's not enough. I'll start by mentioning how I ended up with it, the final result I had, and below I will analyze the positives and negatives.
I recently moved and after 2+ months of incredible internet trouble, I was informed that I couldn't get a phone/internet connection because there is no available line! A catastrophic scenario since I am a software engineer who works remotely full-time. Before moving again and after a lot of research, I decided to try a solution with unlimited data and a second SIM card. As a modem, I got this one here and combined it with the MikroTik MTAO-LTE-5D-SQ mANT antenna and 5-meter cables. The result, magical. 100+mbps download and 50+mbps upload. I wouldn't have such upload speed even with a 200mbps line and it makes a HUGE difference in my work! The connection is rock solid and it goes without saying that there is no longer a scenario of moving. Even if they told me they found a line, there is no chance I will go back to VDSL just for the upload. Keep in mind that speeds vary greatly from area to area due to the antenna you connect to, so before you buy it, test it with a mobile phone at the location where you plan to put it to have an estimate. Preferably, try it with a recent iPhone as they have confirmed top-notch modems.
Now let's talk about the capabilities of the device.
POSITIVES:
- Unlike other 4G modems, this one is LTE12. This means it can connect simultaneously to 3 bands, which makes a big difference because it combines the speeds of all three. Personally, I connect it to 2 bands because the 3rd band of the antenna I connect to (B20) creates more problems. But this is purely related to my area.
- 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, very useful.
- The best of all. RouterOS. I don't need to say much about it because I would write for days about its endless capabilities. Excellent QoS, VPN, and many more. It makes the Fritz!Box 7590 I already have look like a child's toy.
NEGATIVES:
- Its WiFi is not the best, neither in terms of range nor speed. With a wall in between, I get 200mbps transfer from the iMac to the Synology NAS, which is directly connected to Gigabit Ethernet. Personally, it doesn't bother me much because almost all my devices are connected via Ethernet.
- It doesn't have any PoE output port. So, if someone is not covered by the built-in WiFi and wants to install an access point like the MikroTik cAP ac, they will need to use a PoE Injector. I would like to see at least one PoE port for cleaner installations.
CONCLUSION:
This device (for those who are not familiar with MikroTik in general) is not a plug 'n play solution. Yes, it has a default configuration that will work by simply inserting the SIM, but if you don't have basic networking knowledge and don't have the appetite to explore RouterOS or troubleshoot if needed, it's better to go for another device like the TP-LINK Archer MR600. It is cheaper and easier to use for a beginner. However, MikroTik has MANY more things to offer you beyond the default configuration. If the above doesn't bother you, then you will truly love it! I have already spent dozens of hours trying to learn as much as I can. Not because it's necessary, but because I enjoy it. My networking knowledge has already improved significantly. Personally, I regretted buying this particular device for one reason only. I recently found out that 5G will be activated in my area in 4-5 months. If I had known earlier, I would have gone straight for the MikroTik Chateau 5G, where we are talking about different speeds but also a significantly higher price. If you're not interested in 5G and are willing to invest time, then buy this modem without hesitation!
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