9 cheap cell phone signal booster in 2021 that REALLY work
Looking for a cheap cell phone signal booster? Continue reading below to find great products that won’t break the bank.
Signal boosters let you enjoy clear, consistent signals and mobile data.
But let’s face it:
Most boosters are expensive, especially the ones with greater coverage and gain.
A cheap cell phone signal booster is more like an exception. But we’ve found products that cost under $200, which is comparatively affordable than most.
Must Read: Useful Cell Phone Signal Boosters of All Types
Most cell phone signal boosters are expensive because they provide better coverage and signal strength simultaneously for many users or devices.
If you’re really on a tight budget, then you can choose cheaper kits. However, they won’t be as multi-functional or better equipped compared to more expensive models.
Most of these are entry-level models, so they’re more like portable cell phone boosters that way.
A word of advice:
Don’t expect to get something that’ll cover a mid-size office or a large house for a cell phone signal booster under $200.
Nevertheless, a cheap cell phone signal booster will still give you a strong, stable reception. But not for many users or larger coverage areas as the high-powered kits.
| Cheap Cell Phone Signal Boosters for Home and Office | Phonetone Dual Band 700MHz Cell Phone Signal Booster |
| SH·W·CELL Verizon Cell Phone Signal Booster | |
| Phonetone 850MHz Band 5 Repeater | |
| Phonelex Verizon Band13 700Mhz Signal Booster | |
| Fustar AT&T Cricket Signal Booster | |
| Cheap Cell Phone Signal Boosters for Vehicle | weBoost Drive Sleek Single-User Booster |
| SureCall N-Range Vehicle Signal Booster | |
| Phonetone Dual 700MHz Band Signal Booster for Vehicle | |
| PROUTONE Cell Phone Signal Booster for Car |
Cheap Cell Phone Signal Boosters for Home or Office
Cell phone signal boosters for homes or offices are more powerful than the kits used in vehicles. They have wider coverage and greater capacity. For this reason, they’re also generally more expensive.
Still, there are a few decent entry-level signal boosters you can use at home.
The signal boosters we’ve included here are among the cheapest you can find. Despite their affordability, they can cover up to 2,000 sq.ft., boosting signal strength and mobile data of multiple devices simultaneously.
This makes them practical for small homes and offices. You’ll need something stronger and more expensive if you want to boost the signal in a large office or home.
Cheap Signal Boosters for Vehicle
In-vehicle cell phone signal boosters are generally cheaper than those used in a home, office, or large building. However, most of these models are still not affordable.
We’ve found signal booster kits from major brands like weBoost and SureCall that are under $200. The drawback is that they’re a single-device cradle.
Meaning, they can’t support multi-users all at once. Just one device at a time. But we’ve also included two multi-user signal boosters on the list.
These kits are surely among the cheapest on the market today. Considering their price, they deliver more than what they are worth.
Cheap Cell Phone Signal Boosters for Your Home, Office, and Vehicle
| Best in 4G connectivity | Phonetone Dual Band 700MHz Cell Phone Signal Booster |
| Runner-up | Phonelex Verizon Band13 700Mhz Signal Booster |
| Best in frequency coverage | Fustar AT&T Cricket Signal Booster |
| Best in omnidirectional antenna | Phonetone Dual Band 700MHz Cell Phone Signal Booster |
| Best in customer service | Phonetone 850MHz Band 5 Repeater |
| Best in 5G future proofing | weBoost Drive Sleek Single-User Booster |
| Best in installation | SureCall N-Range Vehicle Signal Booster |
| Best for vehicles | SureCall N-Range Vehicle Signal Booster |
| Runner-up | PROUTONE Cell Phone Signal Booster for Car |
1. Phonetone Dual Band 700MHz Cell Phone Signal Booster
| Frequency | Band 12/17, Band 13 |
| Maximum Gain | 65 dB |
| Maximum Power Output | 20 dBm |
| Automatic Gain | ≧20 dB |
| Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Power Source | Output DC 5V; Input AC 100-240V 50/60Hz |
Phonetone may not be as popular as SureCall or weBoost, but it definitely does not disappoint. Its signal boosters are relatively cheaper but nonetheless, are still highly functional.
This dual-band 700MHz booster improves the signal strength of multiple devices at once. It works with all kinds and brands of cellular devices, so everyone in the household or office can enjoy it.
Designed to be used in home, garage, village or small office, this booster uses an Omni-directional outdoor antenna so it can detect signal from every direction. It also automatically adjusts the signal for maximum strength and performance.
Features:
- Automatic signal adjustment
- Compatible with all cellular devices
- Multi-user support
- Boosts 4G LTE signals
- 700-MHz Omni antennas
What We Liked
We liked how this signal booster is easy to install. Even if it’s your first time using it, you’ll be able to set it up without any problems. Also, it boosts and supports 4G that many cheap signal boosters can’t do.
What We Didn’t Like
Since the product is cheaper than most signal boosters, there’s no certainty that it will work well in all areas and types of houses. There are some reviews from people saying that this item didn’t work for them. Still, customers who said it worked for them outnumber the complainants.
Also, it can improve 4G LTE signals and data speed for AT&T and Verizon networks only, with a frequency of Band 13 and Band 12/17. This is not the device for you if you’re using a different North American cell network.
2. SH·W·CELL Verizon Cell Phone Signal Booster
| Frequency | Band 12/17 |
| Downlink | 728-746 MHz |
| Uplink | 728-746 MHz |
| Power Source | 12V AC |
Enjoy faster 4G LTE internet in your home or office with this cell phone signal booster.
It’s designed for faster downloads, uploads, and streaming data-heavy apps. You can use this repeater in the office, home, hotel room, apartment, basement, garage, or village.
However, it doesn’t work on all cellular phones. It only supports phones for wireless carriers with 746 to 757MHz and 776 to 787MHz frequency range. But considering its low price, it’s still worth it.
Features:
- Multi-user support
- Covers 1500 up to 2000 sq.ft. area
- Better voice quality and improved network data
- Boosts up to 4G LTE signals
What We Liked
Besides its affordable price, it uses an omnidirectional antenna. This means that your mobile phone’s signal will be boosted anywhere you are as long you’re in the unit’s coverage area.
What We Didn’t Like
Unlike other cell phone signal boosters, the SH·W·CELL Verizon Cell Phone Signal Booster won’t give you maximum signal amplification. Well, it’s to be expected since it’s a cheap signal booster.
3. Phonetone 850MHz Band 5 Repeater
| Frequency | Band 5 |
| Maximum Gain | 62 dB |
| Maximum Power Output | 20 dBm |
| Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Power Source | Output DC 5V; Input AC 100-240V 50/60Hz |
Are you looking for something that’s under $100? Here’s one from Phonetone.
Despite it having such a low price, the quality has not been compromised. It lets you stay on the budget, and at the same time, you still get to enjoy a strong signal in the home, apartment, or small office.
Features:
- For multiple devices
- Whip and Yagi antennas
- Extends battery life
What We Liked
This one’s easy to install. You don’t need to hire professionals to set it up in your home.
Also, Phonetone’s customer service is something you’d appreciate. They respond to queries and concerns at a faster rate compared to other businesses.
What We Didn’t Like
You won’t be able to boost 4G LTE signals with this unit. It only supports 3G signals at max. Also, you need to set your phone on Band 5, or else it won’t work.
4. Phonelex Verizon Band13 700Mhz Signal Booster
| Frequency | Band 13 |
| Downlink | 746-757 MHz |
| Uplink | 776-787 MHz |
| Power Source | 12V AC |
For under $150, you can boost your phone’s signal with this unit from Phonelex.
It’s specially made for Band 13 Verizon phones and allows 4G LTE boosting.
You can boost signals inside your home or small office since it features both the Yagi and Whip antenna kits.
Features:
- Supports Verizon phones with 4G LTE signals
- Includes the complete kit for full installation
- FCC authenticated
What We Liked
Here’s another cheap cell phone signal booster that supports 4G LTE signals. If you compare this to other items on the list, you won’t get this feature with some of them.
What We Didn’t Like
The fact that it’s exclusive for Verizon, other people with different mobile service providers can’t enjoy the benefits of this signal booster.
5. Fustar AT&T Cricket Signal Booster
| Frequency | Band 12, Band 17 |
| Maximum Gain | 65 dB |
| Automatic Gain | ≧30 dB |
| Impendance | 50 ohm |
| Power Source | Output 12V; Input 110V |
If you want to boost your AT&T phone’s signal in your home, this device is for you.
The AT&T Cricket Signal Booster from Fustar is a cheap signal booster that has different varieties that are still under $200.
It can boost 4G LTE signals with the accurate yagi antenna. You can also get a unit with a whip antenna at a higher price.
Set it up for your home, office, or other structures where you need to boost multi-user signals.
Features:
- Also has a Verizon signal booster alternative
- Includes an automatic gain feature
- Can support multiple devices
What We Liked
Fustar’s unit gives great frequency coverage. They somehow included a disclaimer that walls and other physical obstruction can affect the signal boosting.
But placing the device in a great spot boosts your signal despite some obstructions.
What We Didn’t Like
The cable included with the kit may not be enough depending on the build and design of the house. It would’ve been great if they offered an upgrade or option where people can get longer cables.
6. weBoost Drive Sleek Single-User Booster
| Frequency | Band 12/17, Band 13, Band 5, Band 4, Band 2 |
| Maximum Gain | 23 dB |
| Impedance | 50 ohm |
| Power Source | 12V DC; USB 5V |
The Drive Sleek might be the ultimate single-user cradle booster. It can boost the signal and data speed (3G and 4G LTE) of a single device.
Just put the device on the cradle and use it hands-free. The cradle fits most devices, even the newer models.
It boosts the signal for all US networks up to 32X stronger and faster, thereby adding 2 more hours of talk time in areas with a weak signal. This makes it perfect for traveling cross-country and going to remote areas.
Get better voice and text quality and fast data speed wherever you travel.
This device is for the solo traveler. Definitely not for family rides.
Features:
- Single-device use
- Boosts 3G and 4G LTE signals
- All US networks compatibility
- Step-by-step installation guide included
What We Liked
The weBoost Drive Sleek has future-proofing. It means that the unit can support 5G signals and beyond depending on the technology advancement.
One more thing we liked is that you can use this cell phone signal booster with any US carrier. You won’t have to worry about getting a new unit when you want to switch service providers.
What We Didn’t Like
It would be such a big improvement if the unit can boost at least two devices. This will be more convenient for drivers and their passengers.
7. SureCall N-Range Vehicle Signal Booster
| Supports | All Cellular Standards |
| Maximum Gain | 23 dB |
| Automatic Gain | ≧20 dB |
| Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Power Source | 8-15 DC |
Another affordable cell phone signal booster on the list is the SureCall N-Range.
A lightweight, handheld, and portable device that’s best used inside the vehicle. With this device installed in your car, you can enjoy miles and miles of strong signal and uninterrupted calls.
It can boost text and voice signals, as well as 4G LTE data for North American carriers. Enjoy a direct signal boost on your device by simply mounting it on the hands-free cradle.
But like the weBoost Drive Sleek, this booster can only be used for 1 device at a time.
Features:
- Reduced dropped calls
- Enhanced voice, text and 4G LTE signals
- Extended range technology
- Quick and easy installation
What We Liked
As noted by the manufacturer, you can only use this signal booster for one device. However, other devices can still experience slightly boosted signals when they’re near the hands-free cradle.
What We Didn’t Like
One thing we didn’t like about this product is the cradle that carries the phone via magnetic plates. Magnets may not damage your smartphone completely.
However, there’s still a chance that it will have long-term effects on your phone’s performance.
8. Phonetone Dual 700MHz Band Signal Booster for Vehicle
| Frequency | Band 12/17, Band 13 |
| Maximum Gain | 45 dB |
| Maximum Power Output | 20 dBm |
| Automatic Gain | ≧20 dB |
| Power Source | Input 12-24V; Output DC 5V |
Phonetone makes it possible for you to avail of a decent signal booster for multiple users.
Unlike the abovementioned signal boosters for vehicles, this one is not a cradle-type booster. It can provide a clear and consistent signal in the entire vehicle: car, truck, van, or RV.
This Dual 700MHz Band booster enhances 4G LTE data and voice signals. It is also equipped with a smart technology that allows it to intelligently detect the signal and automatically adjusts it for maximum performance.
However, unlike the weBoost and SureCall boosters, this one is only compatible with Verizon (Band 13) and AT&T and T-mobile (Band 12/17).
Features:
- Automatic signal adjustment
- Better 4G LTE signal and data
- Multi-user support
- Easy DIY installation
What We Liked
Of course, we wouldn’t forget to include a signal booster for vehicles that can cater to many devices. This is a great device for drivers who always travel with other people.
Also, it’s much cheaper compared to the single-user signal boosters.
What We Didn’t Like
You’d have to consider that this device will boost your signal as long as you’re really close to the receiver unit. If you’re planning on using it with an RV or camper, you may not have a great signal if you stray too far away from the device.
9. PROUTONE Cell Phone Signal Booster for Car
| Frequency | Band 12/17, Band 13 |
| Maximum Gain | 45 dB |
| Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Power Source | DC 5V |
The PROUTONE cell phone signal booster does what most in-vehicle boosters do; that is, to boost voice and data signal, and to reduce dropped calls.
This booster works with carriers with 700MHz, including T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. With 45dB, its gain is just slightly lower than the maximum allowed by the FCC for vehicle boosters.
This is strong enough to provide a stable signal for multiple devices inside the vehicle.
Features:
- Automatic gain control
- Easy installation
- Boosted 4G LTE voice and data speed
What We Liked
This is a great signal booster if you have multiple vehicles. It’s easy to install and remove from one car to another.
Also, Proutone’s customer service has an excellent response rate, whether you’re asking for a replacement or help.
What We Didn’t Like
Using this unit with an RV may not be the best idea since the cable is too short. Also, you should be as close as possible to the indoor antenna is you want to experience its full signal boosting potential.
FAQs About Signal Boosters
How does a cell phone signal booster work?
Basically, a cell phone signal booster works by detecting or capturing a signal (weak, average, or strong, as long as there’s a signal), and then rebroadcasting that signal within a certain coverage. In effect, it strengthens the signal, resulting in faster data speed, and better voice and text quality.
Is cell phone signal booster illegal?
No, it’s not illegal. However, there are certain standards and limits set by regulatory agencies like FCC. For example, the maximum allowed gain for in-vehicle boosters is 60dB. As long as the device you’re using is compliant with these standards, then it’s perfectly legal.
What is a repeater?
A repeater is another term for a signal booster. It’s also known as an amplifier.
Does WiFi range extender really work?
Yes, WiFi extenders actually extend the range of your wireless network. However, this depends on multiple factors like connection speed, distance from router, WiFi requirements of your family, and places where the WiFi is used in your home.
Enjoy a Stable Signal at Cheap Cost
We now know that not all cell phone signal boosters are super expensive. Some models and kits will still allow us to stay within our budget.
It’s important to note, however, that these cheap cell phone signal boosters are not as powerful as the more expensive types.
For in-vehicle models, some of these are only single-user cradles; while others only work on certain networks and frequency.
For the home and office phone boosters, they are mostly those with lower coverage, something that can boost the signal of small offices and average-size homes (2 rooms).
Ultimately, it all boils down to your budget and your needs. If what you need are just entry-level boosters and you are on a tight budget, then the models featured here are just right for you.
