How to know which phone has better signal reception?
When shopping for a new phone, signal reception is a crucial factor to consider, especially if you live in an area with spotty coverage or travel frequently. Here's how you can determine which phone offers the best signal reception:
1. Check the Phone's Antenna Design
Antenna Placement: Modern smartphones rely on internal antennas that are often integrated into the phone's frame. Some phones have better antenna placement and design to ensure optimal signal reception. Look for reviews or teardown videos that give insight into antenna placement.
Multiple Antennas: Phones with multiple antennas (e.g., for LTE, 5G, and Wi-Fi) often perform better when it comes to signal strength and maintaining a stable connection.
2. Look at Carrier Compatibility
Band Support: Different carriers operate on different frequency bands (e.g., 4G LTE bands, 5G NR bands). A phone that supports a wide range of bands (including the ones used by your carrier) will likely have better reception.
Check the Specs: Before purchasing, check the specs of the phone for carrier compatibility. Many phone manufacturers list supported LTE and 5G bands in the technical specifications.
3. Signal Strength Testing
Real-World Tests: Look for independent tests or reviews comparing signal strength across different phones in real-world scenarios. Websites like Signal Strength or tech forums often feature comparisons of how phones perform in areas with varying signal quality.
Use Signal Strength Apps: If you have access to multiple phones, use apps like OpenSignal or Network Signal Info to compare signal strength and reception across different devices in the same location.
- Read also: Is a weak GPS signal a cell phone problem?
4. Check Reviews and Test Results
Tech Websites: Many tech sites (e.g., GSMArena, Android Authority, Tom's Hardware) might regularly test phones for signal reception and provide detailed reviews on how well they perform in areas with weak or strong signal.
YouTube Reviews: Video reviews often show real-world tests of signal strength in different environments, helping you get an idea of how well the phone will perform in everyday use.
5. Check for Advanced Features
5G Connectivity: If you're looking for future-proofing, check for phones that support the latest 5G technologies, including both Sub-6GHz and mmWave bands. These phones typically offer better signal performance due to newer and more efficient antenna technologies.
Wi-Fi Calling: Phones with Wi-Fi calling capabilities can help improve reception in areas with poor cellular signal by routing calls and texts over Wi-Fi when available.
6. Battery Life & Signal Reception
Battery Drain Impact: Phones with poor signal reception can consume more battery power as they work harder to maintain a connection. Phones with optimized antenna designs often consume less power for better signal strength, leading to improved battery life as well.
7. Consider the Phone's Build Quality
Metal vs. Plastic Bodies: Metal bodies can interfere with signal reception, while plastic and glass tend to offer better signal transmission. Some high-end phones use advanced materials or coatings to mitigate this issue.
Case Impact: If you're planning to use a case, keep in mind that some cases may interfere with the phone's antenna, leading to weaker signal reception.
8. Ask for Expert Advice
Carrier Recommendations: Carriers often have data about which phones perform best in certain areas based on their network infrastructure. Asking your carrier for suggestions or recommendations based on their network coverage can provide valuable insights.
9. Look for Signal Reception Features
Signal Boosting: Some phones come with features specifically designed to enhance signal reception. For example, certain phones use software to dynamically adjust antenna configurations based on the signal environment.
MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output): Phones that support MIMO technology (especially 4x4 or 8x8 MIMO) can offer superior data throughput and reception by using multiple antennas simultaneously to strengthen the signal.
Conclusion
To determine which phone has better signal reception, look at its antenna design, carrier compatibility, real-world test results, and advanced features like 5G support and Wi-Fi calling. Testing apps, user reviews, and manufacturer specifications can also give you an idea of a phone's reception quality. Ultimately, the best phone for signal reception will depend on the coverage in your area and the specific features you need.
