There are a lot of finicky details involved with choosing the right modem type for your home. And just like all technology-based decisions, there is no "one size fits all" solution. We at Olive IP recommend two different models to serve you. We have worked extensively with these two modems and have utter confidence in their performance, but there are some basic differences that you need to know.
Signal Input
The Netgear LB1120 has an internal 3dbi omni directional antenna along with two TS9 connector ports to attach an external antenna if you need additional signal gain or need to attach a directional antenna.
The Mofi4500 includes two 8dbi paddle antennas. This means it should provide stronger signal and better signal quality than the Netgear LB1120 modem. Additionally, the antenna ports are SMA, which allows for 1-2 exterior antennas to be utilized if necessary.
Integrated Router
The Netgear LB1120 has a wired router port, meaning it is designed to feed a single device with an Ethernet cable. If you are looking for WiFi you will need to add an additional wireless router.
The Mofi4500 includes a 2.4Ghz wireless router as well as 4 LAN ports for Ethernet connection. The integrated WiFi router can service homes up to 1700 square feet. For homes over 1700 square feet I recommend disabling the Mofi's WiFi and utilizing a separate wireless router that meets the specific needs of your home.
Band Locking
The Netgear LB1120 has no way to lock onto a specific frequency band. So if Band 4 is super fast, but Band 12 happens to be the stronger signal, you may be stuck with the slower speeds. Given the fact that radio frequency adjusts constantly, this can result in hopping in between frequency bands which results in inconsistent speed. This is not always the case, but if your internet seems to be great one minute, and frustratingly slow the next, this may be what is happening to you.
The Mofi4500 has the ability to lock on up to two specific frequency bands to give you a consistent user experience. This is a distinct advantage if a specific frequency is faster than the others (which is often.)
Available Bands
The Netgear LB1120 has access to Bands 2, 4, 5, 7, and 12.
The Mofi4500 has access to bands 2, 4, 5, 7, 12, and 30. A future model of the Mofi 4500 is expected to include access to Band 66 and Band 71 which is big news for AT&T and T-Mobile carrier customers.
Failover and Load Balancing Options
The Netgear LB1120 has no failover or load balancing options.
The Mofi4500 has a WAN input, meaning you can plug in service from a different provider (Spectrum, Grande, AT&T DSL, a local WISP, etc.) and program the router to utilize your Olive IP Unlimited LTE service if your primary connection ever fails. Or even better, tell it to use both connections. Set specific traffic (think guest WiFi) to use your slower connection, and reserve the fastest connection for your home or business needs. This option is not particularly useful for home use, but is a game changer for businesses!
Price
The Netgear LB1120 costs less at $150 new, or $100 refurbished than the Mofi4500 is at $360. So if price is a consideration, you may keep that in mind. Otherwise the Mofi is the definite performance winner against the Netgear.
If you want either of these models, or if you want to discuss an upgrade from your existing router, give us a call at (254) 777-5222 or email us at support@oliveip.com to get started.