Choosing the Right Antenna: Poynting MIMO 3 vs. MIMO 4 Explained

Confused about the difference between the MIMO 3 and MIMO 4 antennas? Watch our latest video as we break down the specifications in simple terms, helping you make an informed decision for your internet setup. Discover the practical aspects of both antennas, from their compact designs to their compatibility with moving vehicles and marine applications. We explain the key features shared by both antennas, such as their four-by-four MIMO capability, waterproof construction, and future-ready Wi-Fi 6E compatibility.
Delve deeper into the nuances: learn how the MIMO 3 excels in remote areas with its lower-frequency gain, making it ideal for off-grid adventures. On the other hand, explore how the MIMO 4 outshines in metro regions, offering superior gain in higher frequency bands for optimal performance. We also discuss the antennas' radiation patterns, essential for various mounting scenarios, ensuring you choose the right fit for your specific needs.
At RF Shop, we understand that one size doesn't fit all, and that's why we offer both antennas in our 5G kits. Whether you're planning a remote outback trip or need reliable connectivity in bustling city centers, we have you covered. Simplify your decision-making process and enhance your internet experience with the perfect antenna choice. Join us and make the right call for seamless connectivity. #AntennaComparison #5GInternet #TechSimplified

[@albertvilviljoen367]

Great explanation, thank you.

[@nakorau]

thanks so much for this , i'm using the mimo 3 on my caravan. have not upgraded my rut950 yet. (purchased from your store) using the gps part with raspberry pi usb gps

[@RFShop]

Appreciate the feedback. This was becoming quite a topic of confusion for customer so I decided it's time to put some stuff out there

[@shanemoyce2165]

The form factor of the antenna will dictate the gain in the low bands, the MIMO-3 is taller than the MIMO-4 (which may not be desired). As it was mentioned, each has it's benefits, it is just important to know your specific requirement (help is always around for this). A field test comparison of the 2 comparing connectivity over 6 months or so would be very interesting to see (in the different bands). I think the MIMO-4 is prettier. 🤣

[@RFShop]

Yes, agreed.

[@stuartkcalvin]

Good piece mate, thanks. Although I have Starlink, I'm thinking that your solution for a caravan, might pay itself off with reduced Starlink usage.

[@RFShop]

Stuart. we see quite a few people look at Starlink back-ups. 4G and 5G is a great option indeed.

[@KieranMahoney]

Also you can use the mobile solution while moving.

[@KieranMahoney]

I am aware of Starlink in motion plans but how on earth are you going to power, run cables and mount the kit.

[@EliasPoVTruckDriving]

Great video, I'm currently using g a RUTX50 as a home internet setup in an Urban environment and was thinking if buying an external antenna to mount vertically on the exterior wall. Would the mimo3 or 4 performed better vertically?

[@RFShop]

You would need to mount the MIMO-3 or -4 horisontally. It has a null facing up, which is OK for an omni when placed flat but a problem when the null faces outward

[@brianroylegend]

Great video, thank you, I have a net gear nighthawk 6 which I’m going to use in a motorhome and travel around Australia. I’m wondering whether the MIMO 3 or 4 would be best in remote areas, from your video I’m thinking the 3. Would you mount it to the roof knowing it would have solar panels and max fan at approximately the same level or would I mount it on a mast. I also want to use the Internet while I will be driving for maps music and research. Thank-you

[@RFShop]

Yes, I am actually still much more in favour of the MIMO-3 series. The gain in the lower bands (which is what is used in the more remote locations) is still much better on that particular model. I have seen quite a few installations where people use a slight stand-off to lift the antennas from the roof itself and have it on the height of the solar panels. These antennas don't need a ground plane so that would be a very good idea for a permanent solution that's lifted say 10cm or so from the base surface.

[@brianroylegend]

@@RFShop Thank-you, and I presume a Poynting 3-12 will work best with the Nighthawk?

[@RFShop]

@@brianroylegendyes, that would be my recommended antenna

[@shaungalea1713]

Im setting up to run my house off a Netgear nighthawk M6, I live in Melbournes West and my nearest 4G/5G Optus antenna is about 950m away in direct line of sight from the roof of my house. I have been told by Optus my house does not qualify for one of their 5G modem packages but as an Electrician I believe I can accomplish just as fast speeds as their set up by putting something together of my own. For this setup which antenna would you recommend me purchasing taking into account everything you said in the clip? I'm going to assume its the MIMO-4-17 but is there another antenna you believe might be better suited to my situation? Thanks 👍

[@TheLucifer65]

Hi, I was wondering if you can connect (either one) directly to a router with integrated sim card (which is in a rural area, so low reception).

[@RFShop]

Hi, as long as the router has external antenna ports it should be possible, yes.

[@RiseOfAnarchism]

Idk if this is the right spot to ask but I have 5G home internet and ALL my metrics are good EXCEPT SNR. I get up to 6 on a good day. 4 on average. I have LoS to the tower with no obstructions, about 400 meters. RSRQ sits arpund - 4, RSRP around - 65. Would an antenna helps this issue? I saw you did a video on a satellite being used. Would that be a good option?

[@RFShop]

We typically see that SNR can be improved with a good external antenna. It is always a bit of a guess as to what could be the root cause of lower SNR, but a directional antenna can reduce noise source visibility in other directions, plus with the "cleaner" antenna to antenna connection using a direction antenna helps a lot (as you are not trying to use a very dirty indoor signal with all the reflections that come with it). One thing to be mindful of is that RSRP is *very* good, and we have actually encountered cases where the modem was getting too much and was overloaded. In that case the customer removed antennas and it worked better. Try weakening the RSRP to about -80dBm and see if things improve.

[@frankluo230]

What about directional anteana like Microtik kits? They look well made but i heard only good things about Teltonika.

[@RFShop]

I have been asked a few times to think or look at Mikrotik kits. If I can get a sample unit I'll be happy to investigate it further and do a video review

[@kenshin-1135]

I have the mimo 3-15 with rut50. Should I upgrade to the mimo 3-17? Will it make much difference,

[@RFShop]

Good question. If you are able to get all four external antennas connected to a router it would indeed help in the more remote locations where the signal is weak

[@adenwellsmith6908]

Does it act as a mobile booster if you add a router?

[@RFShop]

Hi Aden. I would be tempted to say "Yes", but it does depend somewhat on what you mean with booster...as your question might assume a gain in power which it does not do. It directs and gets more from a particular direction than not having it. It certainly boosts the system performance

[@bonezed]

hmm, I just ordered the mimo 4, but it sounds like I should have got the mimo 3

[@RFShop]

Was it from RFShop? Both are still great, I just wanted to point the finer details out !

[@bonezed]

@@RFShop yes, order #27419. talked via web chat last week, but the differences weren't really explained. I'm working from my Kimberley Kruiser E class (6m full offroad van), and need fast, reliable internet. Currently running Optus 5G with their router, but it's not great with marginal signal. I'd already bought a RUTX50 and antenna elsewhere but sent the antenna back as it was only 2x2. So I'm looking for the best antenna to handle Telstra or Optus networks.

[@nakorau]

yeah man both are excellent. I only had the choice of 3 at the time

[@RFShop]

@@nakoraunot knowing your setup I can't say for sure, but I reckon you'll be perfectly fine :) In this video I am being a perfectionist

[@bonezed]

@@RFShop thanks for your excellent help

[@nesu40]

Already been a month asked few question about there system never got a reply

[@RFShop]

Can you please tell me what the questions are? I don't see any question on our system

[@nesu40]

@@RFShop submitted a enquiry form, anyway question was if you had any internet system for remote outback in Western Australia other than starlink. Places where there are no mobile receptions. Thanks

[@RFShop]

Hi @@nesu40. These antennas would need some mobile coverage. At the moment the only solution in the really remote locations is Starlink, unfortunately.

[@nesu40]

@@RFShop ok thank you very much for the info

[@d0nt-rump202]

You clearly understand YT (make simple stuff take a long time) But you dont seem to have a clue about antennas.