Conclusion:

The Wi-Ex zBoost SOHO DataBlast YX550-VLTE-AWS definitely does what it promises to do, and it does it rather well. With zero configuration, you can greatly improve the data signal strength in your home or office. The review unit was able to take a zone with just about zero signal and subsequently provide 4G download speeds approaching 3Mbps with 2-3 bars showing at all times. While some may scoff at a mere 3Mbps on 4G, considering that 8Mbps is the best I have experienced in the general area, and 0Mbps was typical indoors prior to the arrival of the DataBlast, this is quite impressive.



The greatest effort required in order to use this device may be in the hardware installation. While I am aware of people being able to mount this outside an upper floor window and have good results with minimal effort, I wound up spending several hours spread out over multiple days in order to find a good spot, and then to make that spot work well with the device. If climbing up ladders on to your roof with tools and cables in hand is not your cup of tea, this may not be a project for you.

The one main thing to keep in mind with this device is that it is for mobile data only... It will not improve your mobile phone's call coverage at all. So, even though my phones now have excellent data coverage inside the house, they are still unable to make calls using the mobile network. There are other devices from Wi-Ex that can address that problem, so if you need your data and call coverage boosted, you need to browse the rest of their catalog.

Visiting the Wi-Ex Store finds the DataBlast YX550-VLTE-AWS for $399.99 (US), but luckily you can find it for much less at Amazon.com, where it is just over $250 (US). I would guess that a $400 price tag would probably scare off a good number of potential customers, but at $250 those that really want/need to improve their data coverage should be willing to commit.

Considering that the Wi-Ex zBoost SOHO DataBlast YX550-VLTE-AWS admirably performs its intended duties, it earns the Bigbruin.com "Recommended" award.



Pros:

» It definitely works, and works very well
» Improved indoor upload and download speeds dramatically
» Nothing to configure once hardware is installed
» Everything you should need for a basic installation is included in the box
» Base unit is compact and unobtrusive, so it could be placed out of sight in most settings

Cons:

» Does not help call signal strength
» Installation can be an involved process
» Sells for over $250, so it is not a trivial investment

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