Question 1

What does dBi mean on a network antenna, and does a higher number always mean better?

Accepted Answer

dBi measures antenna gain relative to a theoretical isotropic radiator — it tells you how much the antenna concentrates signal in its primary direction. Higher dBi is not universally better: a 20 dBi directional antenna has a very narrow beam, which is ideal for a point-to-point link but useless for covering a room. For general indoor or omnidirectional use, 2–6 dBi is the right range. For outdoor sector coverage, 8–15 dBi. For long-range point-to-point links, 16 dBi and above.

Question 2

What's the difference between SMA and RP-SMA connectors — and does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it matters a great deal: SMA and RP-SMA (Reverse Polarity SMA) look almost identical but have reversed pin/socket arrangements and are physically incompatible without an adapter. Most consumer Wi-Fi routers use RP-SMA; professional RF equipment and cellular modems typically use standard SMA. Always check your device's port type before ordering. Using an adapter introduces insertion loss and a potential point of failure — avoid it where possible by buying the correct connector type from the outset.

Question 3

Can I use an outdoor antenna indoors, or an indoor antenna outdoors?

Accepted Answer

You can use an outdoor antenna indoors without issue — it's simply overspecified. The reverse is where problems arise: indoor antennas lack the IP-rated weatherproofing needed to survive UK rain and temperature swings. Even a brief period of moisture ingress can permanently degrade performance. For any exterior installation, look for at minimum IP54 and a UV-resistant housing. If the product listing doesn't mention an IP rating, assume it's indoor-only.

Question 4

Are cheap network antennas from unknown brands worth buying?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no — and this is one of the few categories where we'd actively caution against the cheapest options. An antenna with poor VSWR (above 3:1) doesn't just underperform; it reflects power back into your radio, which can cause overheating or damage over time. Brands like Panorama Antennas, Teltonika, and DeLOCK publish verified specs and have consistent quality control. Unknown brands rarely do. The price difference between a reputable entry-level antenna and a no-name unit is often only a few pounds — not worth the risk.

Question 5

Do I need a separate antenna if I'm using a Starlink dish?

Accepted Answer

No — the Starlink dish (such as the SLK2535012 electronic phased array) is a self-contained antenna system with integrated beam steering. It does not require or accept an external antenna. The phased array electronically tracks satellites without mechanical movement. If you're looking to extend or distribute the Starlink signal inside a building, you'd add a wireless access point or mesh Wi-Fi system downstream of the Starlink router — not a second antenna.

Question 6

What antenna should I choose for a 5G router or gateway in 2026?

Accepted Answer

For a 5G gateway, you need an antenna rated for Sub-6 GHz (covering 600 MHz–6 GHz) — this covers the vast majority of UK 5G deployments on EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three. The Teltonika 5G magnetic SMA and Panorama Antennas' cellular range are both well-suited. Avoid antennas labelled only for 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi — they won't cover the lower 5G bands. If your gateway has two SMA ports (MIMO), buy two antennas and space them at least 10 cm apart to reduce correlation and improve throughput.

Question 7

What's the risk of buying a network antenna with the wrong impedance?

Accepted Answer

Virtually all modern RF networking equipment uses 50Ω impedance — and so do the overwhelming majority of antennas in this catalogue. The rare exception is 75Ω, found in legacy cable TV systems (F-type connectors). Mismatching impedance causes signal reflection, measurable as a high VSWR, which reduces efficiency and can stress the transmitter. In practice, if you're buying from a reputable networking brand and matching connector types correctly, impedance mismatch is unlikely. It becomes a concern only when mixing broadcast/cable TV hardware with networking equipment.

Network Antennas Price Comparison

Cisco Aironet network antenna Omni-directional antenna RP-TNC 5 dBi

Mikrotik 868 Omni network antenna Omni-directional antenna SMA 6.5 dBi

Cisco AIR-ANT2547VG-NS network antenna Omni-directional antenna N-type 7 dBi

Cisco AIR-ANT2568VG-NS= network antenna Omni-directional antenna N-type 8 dBi

Panorama Antennas DMM4-6-60 network antenna Omni-directional antenna SMA 5 dBi

QuWireless AX50MO network antenna Omni-directional antenna PoE/LAN 4 dBi

QuWireless AX50S network antenna Omni-directional antenna PoE/LAN 4.5 dBi

Teltonika PR1KC640 network antenna MIMO directional antenna SMA 4 dBi

Starlink SLK2535012 network antenna Electronic phased array

Starlink SLK2534212 network antenna Electronic phased array

HPE Aruba Networking AP-730-CVR-20 Access Point 20-pack White Non-Glossy Snap-On Covers

HPE Aruba Networking AP-ANT-340 Cabled RP-SMA Tri-Band 4x4 Downtilt Omni Ceiling Antenna

Network Antennas Price Comparison