ZTE MU5120 Overview - 5G on a friendly budget

Summary

In this video, the presenter reviews the ZTE mu-5120 portable 5G router, priced at £299, a third of the cost of market leaders. They discuss its setup, including inserting a SIM card and powering it with a USB-C. The router offers 5G connectivity, has a 1000mAh battery, and can power other devices. The presenter tests its speed in various locations, comparing it to another model with external antennas. They conclude that the mu-5120 is excellent value for money, especially with prepaid SIM plans, and recommend it for easy 5G access on the go.

Takeaways

• 💼 The ZTE MU-5120 MiFi device is reviewed, and its price is £299, much cheaper than other similar devices costing around £899.
• 📱 The device includes a SIM card slot, a reset button, a USB-C charging port, and a quick charge battery that can output up to 12 volts.
• 🔋 The device has a 1000 milliamp-hour battery, which can last up to 16 hours and even power other devices.
• 📶 It's a 5G-enabled device, although the reviewer notes that real-life performance can vary depending on location and signal strength.
• 📊 The speed test shows a download speed of 71.67 Mbps and an upload speed of 9.23 Mbps, which is generally good, especially for outdoor use.
• 🌍 5G coverage is expanding, and the reviewer had good speeds in certain areas like Winchcombe and Waleswood, though location greatly affects performance.
• 🚐 The ZTE MU-5120 can be portable, allowing users to take it anywhere, share the connection with others, and use it for various devices, such as monitoring battery systems.
• 🤔 The reviewer compares it to the ZTE MU-5001 with external aerials and notes that while sometimes it performs better, other times it doesn’t. The difference depends on the environment.
• 👍 The device is praised for being user-friendly, with simple setup and good quality passwords right out of the box.
• 💡 The reviewer recommends the ZTE MU-5120 as a good value option, especially when paired with a cheap SIM plan, making it affordable for fast 5G access.

Q & A

What is the primary topic of the video?

The video discusses the use of a ZTE mu-5120 cellular router for internet connectivity in a van, including its setup, features, and performance.

What is the price of the ZTE mu-5120 router mentioned in the video?

The ZTE mu-5120 router costs 299 pounds.

How does the price of the ZTE mu-5120 compare to its competitors?

The price of the ZTE mu-5120 is significantly lower than the market leader, which is priced at 899 pounds.

What are the key features of the ZTE mu-5120 router?

Key features include a screen, SIM card slot, reset button, USB-C for power and charging, a USB-A output for charging devices, and a 1000mAh quick charge battery that can output up to 12 volts at 1.5 amps.

How does the router provide internet access to devices?

The router provides internet access through Wi-Fi, with both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands available, and it supports 5G, 4G, and 3G network connections.

What is the battery life of the ZTE mu-5120 router?

The router has a 1000mAh battery and can run for up to 16 hours on a single charge.

What kind of speeds did the video presenter experience with the ZTE mu-5120 router?

The presenter experienced download speeds of up to 71.67 Mbps and upload speeds of 9.23 Mbps during a speed test.

How does the ZTE mu-5120 compare to the presenter's previous router, the mu-5001?

The presenter found that the mu-5120 sometimes outperformed and sometimes underperformed the mu-5001, depending on the location. However, the mu-5120 is more portable due to its internal antenna and battery.

What is the significance of the router's ability to support 5G?

Supporting 5G is significant because it allows the router to take advantage of faster internet speeds in areas where 5G is available.

What is the presenter's overall opinion of the ZTE mu-5120 router?

The presenter likes the router, considering it good value for money, especially when paired with a prepaid SIM plan for unlimited data.

How does the presenter rate the ZTE mu-5120 router on a scale of 1 to 10?

The presenter rates the ZTE mu-5120 router an 8 out of 10.

Outlines

00:00

📶 Introduction to the ZTE MU5120 Cellular Router

The script begins with a warm welcome back to the channel, acknowledging the rainy weekend. The main question addressed is how to obtain internet access in a van, with various methods discussed such as tethering to a phone, using a MiFi, or a cellular router. The presenter introduces a ZTE MU5120 router sent for review, mentioning the price of £299, which is significantly cheaper than the market leader at £899. The presenter provides a quick tour of the device, highlighting its features: a screen, a SIM card slot, a reset button, a USB-C port for power and charging, a standard USB output for charging other devices, and a power switch. The router also has a quick charge battery of 1000mAh and can output up to 12 volts at 1.5 amps. The presenter notes the startup screen and the process of establishing a cellular connection, mentioning the indoor testing location due to poor weather conditions.

05:01

🔧 Exploring the ZTE MU5120 Router Interface

The script continues with the presenter setting up an iPad to connect to the router's Wi-Fi network. They log into the router interface to demonstrate its features, explaining the process of accessing the interface and the importance of keeping the password secure. The interface allows for monitoring connected devices, setting the connection mode to automatically select between 5G, 4G, and 3G networks, and configuring the APN settings specific to the service provider. The presenter also discusses the Wi-Fi settings, mentioning the option for a single SSID that broadcasts on both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, guest network capabilities, and WPS for easy device connections. Data usage can be monitored and alerts set for when the data limit is approaching. Advanced settings include power saving options, router operation, firewall configuration, and firmware updates.

10:03

📈 Testing the ZTE MU5120's Performance

The presenter conducts a speed test to evaluate the router's performance, comparing the results with previous tests. They note the difference in speeds between outdoor and indoor tests, attributing the slower indoor speeds to the weather conditions. The test results show download speeds of 71.67 Mbps and upload speeds of 9.23 Mbps. The presenter discusses the availability of 5G networks in various locations and shares personal experiences of achieving high-speed connections. They compare the MU5120 with another model, the MU5001, noting that performance can vary depending on location and that both models have their advantages. The MU5120 is praised for its portability and long battery life, which allows for flexible use without the need for external antennas. The presenter concludes by stating that they would purchase the MU5120 due to its value for money, especially when paired with a prepaid SIM plan offering unlimited data. They provide a link for potential buyers and commend the product's ease of use and reliability.

Keywords

💡ZTE mu-5120

The ZTE mu-5120 is a portable 5G router mentioned in the video script. It is a device that allows users to connect to the internet via cellular networks and share that connection with multiple devices wirelessly. In the context of the video, it is presented as an affordable alternative to more expensive options, with a price point of 299 pounds. The router is highlighted for its ease of use, portability, and the ability to provide internet access in a van, which is central to the video's theme of mobile internet solutions.

💡5G

5G refers to the fifth generation of mobile networks, offering faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity compared to previous generations. In the video, the presenter discusses the ZTE mu-5120's capability to connect to 5G networks, emphasizing its potential for high-speed internet access on the go. The script mentions testing the device in various locations to demonstrate the availability and speed of 5G connections.

💡MiFi

MiFi is a term for a portable router that provides internet access over a cellular network. It stands for 'My Wi-Fi' and allows multiple devices to connect via Wi-Fi. The script mentions MiFi as one of the options viewers might consider for internet access in their van, setting the stage for the presenter to introduce and review the ZTE mu-5120 as an alternative.

💡Cellular Router

A cellular router is a device that connects to a cellular network and provides internet access to other devices via Wi-Fi. The video script uses the term to describe the ZTE mu-5120, which is a type of cellular router designed for use in vehicles like vans. It is part of the discussion on how to achieve reliable internet connectivity while traveling.

💡SIM Card

A SIM card, or Subscriber Identity Module, is a small card that contains the user's account information for mobile network services. In the script, the presenter shows where the SIM card goes in the ZTE mu-5120, illustrating how users can insert their SIM card to access cellular data services.

💡USB-C

USB-C is a type of USB connector that is used for charging and data transfer. The video mentions a USB-C port on the ZTE mu-5120, which is used for both powering the device and charging its battery. This feature is important for the portability aspect of the router, as it can be easily charged using widely available USB-C cables.

💡Battery

The battery of the ZTE mu-5120 is highlighted in the script as a key feature, with a capacity of 1000 milliamp hours. This allows the router to operate for up to 16 hours without needing to be plugged in, which is crucial for its use in mobile scenarios like a van where power outlets may not be readily available.

💡Speed Test

A speed test is a measurement of the data transfer rate of an internet connection. The script describes the presenter conducting a speed test to demonstrate the performance of the ZTE mu-5120's internet connection. The test results, showing download and upload speeds, are used to evaluate the effectiveness of the router in providing fast internet access.

💡APN

APN stands for Access Point Name and is a term used to identify a gateway between mobile data networks and the internet. In the video, the presenter discusses the need to set the correct APN for different mobile network providers to ensure proper functioning of the ZTE mu-5120. This is an important step in configuring the router for use with a specific carrier's network.

💡WPS

WPS stands for Wi-Fi Protected Setup and is a method for easily establishing a secure wireless network connection. The script mentions that the ZTE mu-5120 supports WPS, allowing users to connect devices to the router without manually entering a Wi-Fi password, which adds to the convenience of setting up and using the device.

💡Data Usage

Data usage refers to the amount of data transferred over a network within a certain period. The video script discusses how the ZTE mu-5120 allows users to monitor their data usage, which is important for managing data plans and avoiding overage charges. The router can alert users when they approach their data limit, helping them stay within their mobile data allowances.

Highlights

Introduction to the ZTE mu-5120 cellular router and its purpose for review.

Price comparison of the ZTE mu-5120 to the market leader at 899 pounds.

Quick tour of the ZTE mu-5120's physical features, including the SIM card slot and USB-C port.

Demonstration of the router's startup screen and initial setup process.

Explanation of the router's indoor testing conditions due to poor outdoor weather.

Procedure for connecting the router to the internet and accessing its interface.

Overview of the router's interface and settings, including network selection and APN configuration.

Discussion on the router's Wi-Fi settings, including the option for a single SSID and guest network.

Description of the router's data usage monitoring and alert features.

Exploration of advanced settings such as power saving, firewall, and firmware updates.

Speed test results showcasing download and upload speeds on a rainy day.

Comparison of the ZTE mu-5120's performance to other routers and the impact of location on connectivity.

Practical use case of the router for remote access to the Eco floor battery system.

Evaluation of the router's portability and its ability to provide internet access without external antennas.

Recommendation of the router as good value for money compared to other options on the market.

Availability of the router on Amazon and contact information for UK support.

Final thoughts on the router's ease of use and overall satisfaction with the product.

Rating of the ZTE mu-5120 with 8 out of 10 stars for its performance and value.

Transcripts

welcome back the channel nice to see you

hope you're all well on this horrible

rainy week end

one of the biggest questions we get

asked all the time on the various

different groups and forums and and even

face to face is what do you do about

internet in your van do you tether to

your phone do you get a MiFi do you get

a a cellular router what do you do well

it's one of the questions that I want to

try and answer and I want to do that by

using this to tell you about it and this

it's the ZTE

mu-5120 which they have sent me for the

purposes of doing a review so I am paid

for it right up front I'm going to tell

you how much it is it's 299 pounds and

if you want the the one that professes

to be the market leader is nearly 900

pounds 899 so this is a third of the

price let me just show you around it

quickly you can see there's a screen

here we'll not be doing anything with

that just for the second but on this

side we have

where your sim card goes just in there

that easy shows you which way to go as

well and there's a reset button there

and alongside it

we've got a USBC that's where you power

it up and charge it up

and then on the bottom given that you

can do that

you can see here there's a an ordinary

USB ear out and it also tells you on the

bottom that it's a thousand milliamp

hour quick charge battery and it will

output

up to 12 volts this will at one and a

half amps so if you need to use it to to

power something you can and then on this

side

you get the power switch now on the back

when you get it will be a piece of paper

which this one's fallen off and it will

give you all of the information you need

to log into the system as it were now

let's switch it on

and there you can see the startup screen

now what it's doing at the moment is

just getting the uh The Cellular

Connection made and so on and so on and

so forth now I will point out for the

moment that where we are we're indoors

because outside is pitlin down and all

you would hear with a tip Tip Top of uh

raindrops on the top of the pergola

which is probably not a good idea so

I'll be absolutely honest and tell you

that I did the speed test outside

because when you're in the van you're

effectively outside you're not in a

house because the speed testing here

won't be as good

but as I can see now it's on and it's

working so rather than run through

everything on this little screen which

will be practically impossible for you

to see and practically impossible for a

film what I'm going to do is to start up

the iPad and log it all on so let's

do that

and here is my iPad booted up oh with a

message from Beverly miles

so I go to settings and I go to find the

Wi-Fi I'm looking for in this case it's

dd5g here

um obviously I've already logged on to

it so you were not going to say any

passwords or anything like that so now

we can go into the

the router interface and this is on I've

logged out of my account number I've got

a log back in okay

so here we go we log back in

and again I've saved the password for

that the password comes on that paper

that would have been on the back if I

hadn't managed to pull it off which I've

done

um now this is probably the best place

to sort everything out and you'll see

it'll show you what's accessing it

um

if you want to get to all of that you

can do that you can look up the router

and we've got 5G on

connection mode is automatic and you can

only change this when the modem is

disconnected so that's all fine uh I

don't want manual connection network

selection I want 5G 4G 3G again that's

sure that it'll get a signal no matter

what

almost and then the APN is specific to

EE if you are using another provider

like Vodafone like O2 like three then

you'll be able to get the APN that's all

there and you can set it all up to do

all of that

so let's go back and have a look at the

Wi-Fi settings

now

you enable enable or disable Wi-Fi why

you would want to disable it I don't

know but you could you got the option

for single SSID which is what we use so

that dd5g here is both 5 gigahertz and

2.4 gigahertz so everything can find it

it's fine

um you've got all the settings that you

that you want there you can have a guest

SSID you've got WPS so that all works as

well

um which means that you can just connect

things up by pressing buttons so that's

all good

um

if you go to data usage

you can set your usage up for

how much dirty you've got what your data

plan is all of that kind of stuff and

it'll it'll pin your message when it

gets to 80 of what your allowance is so

that you know I might need to stop using

it as you can see because it's been so

horrible the last few days

we haven't used any debt of course we

haven't been anywhere

um in advanced settings

you've got power saving

you've got how the router works you've

got how the firewall works

you can update it and it'll check that

if you want it to do and there's all

kinds of other bits and Bobs you can do

pin management fastboot low current mode

all of that kind of stuff

um there's baralogs you can play with

and it makes it very very easy to use

but let's go and have a look at the

speed check shall we and see how it runs

right sure let's do a speed test shall

we and see how this works the last test

I did came up with 83 and 11 as you can

see let's re-test it now in real life

time as it were and here we go

it is connecting

and we have look at that 81 82 this is

5G we don't normally get 5G all that

well I haven't been getting 5G now we do

all right outside insides terrible

um but what we're looking at here

on a horrible nasty rainy day 71.67 down

and upload nowhere near as fast to be

honest but it's working it's giving us

uploading for the majority of people

uploads what you want downloads probably

not what you're looking for

um your download is what you want upload

is not what you're looking for but there

you go 71 9.23 that's all right really

so there you have it

71.67 down

9.23 up for whatever reason I don't

understand

the the ee upload speed is never it just

never seems to be as high as you think

it's going to be but it's probably still

as good as you're going to get uh in in

your home

um

Network

saw right

Let's uh part with the iPad for the

moment because I don't think we need it

let's look around this thing again and

let me give you a few thoughts on it

um as you know for adult easy age we

well nearly uh we've used the ZTE

mu5001 in Andromeda and that's been

connected up to a set of Aerials on the

roof that was already in the van and

they were 5G ready

and a lot of people will be saying well

5G what do you want 5G for there's no 5G

anywhere

that's not true

we went away as well you know the

winchcomb and from winchcomb we went

across the new Lodge Farm and from new

Lodge Farm we went up to

um uh yes

we went up to wheelswood

um and at Wales wood and at winchcombe

we had 5G and we were getting damn good

speeds thank you very much

um to be fair if we'd been three pitches

over at Wheels wood we wouldn't have had

any 5G and if we'd been I'm going to say

10 pictures or other the 5G that we we

had at winchcombe would not have been as

fast where we were it was blistering

well over a hundred in both places and

upload speeds were in the 40s and 50s it

was absolutely fabulous

um sure yes 5G is becoming available in

more and more places as time goes on I

mean in fact the rollout certainly with

AE has been blisteringly fussed and I'm

very pleased by that so it is worthwhile

doing however

we've had the opportunity

for having both the MU

mu-5001 and the new mu-5120 to be able

to compare and contrast and this is

where I get very very confused

because with this baby

there have been times when it has

outperformed the one with the Aerials

and there's been times when the one with

the Aerials has outperformed this and it

seems to be that it's it's um

it's where you are

um so in some cases this is performed

better in other cases it's performed

less well uh it and it it's it's really

difficult to work it all out however

what I will see is this when other

people have been struggling to get

decent 4G speeds and with this little

Beastie I was getting 110 down now

that's Vodafone versus ee but this is

I think this is a godsend I've got to be

honest one of the great things about it

because it's got no external Aerials on

because it will run for 16 hours on that

1 000 milliamp hour battery

you can pocket it you can go wandering

off and do whatever you want to do you

can go to somebody else's van and give

them access to your network to your

cellular if you want to do that if

you've got unlimited if you're a nice

guy like what I are

um

it will do the job really well it's I

mean it's not the latest of scenes it's

probably heavier than your phone well it

is it's definitely going to be heavier

than your phone unless you're still

walking around with a Motorola brick

um

but what I've done is I've got this now

hosting all of the Eco floor battery

stuff that we've got so that I can get

to the ego floor stuff it doesn't matter

where we are I can be away in the car

and still be able to get to it because

it's all connected up via this and thus

far we've not lost connection

um

so let me see again it has been sent for

the purposes of review which means there

is a question that you need to ask of me

and you need to ask of everybody

if they didn't send you it for nothing

would you buy it

well the answer to that is yes I would

if it was my first I definitely would

because 300 quid versus whatever it is

you're gonna pay for some of the other

makes for 5G yeah I'd have it every time

would I have it over the top of the

mu-5001

that's a slightly different question

because we haven't been disappointed by

the five double zero one and the

external Aerials are a benefit I have to

see

um so that would be a toss-up except

this comes in cheaper I think than the

five double zero one or its successor I

think there's a five double z or two

but with that said it does mean that I

can take this Beastie Wherever I Go

and know if there's 5G available I'm

going to get 5G out onto my iPad out on

my laptop out on just about everything I

do honestly think it's good value for

money and teamed up with a prepaid 18 24

months SIM from the likes of ve where

you're paying around about 11 quid a

month for unlimited if you buy one of

those it makes for very very cheap very

very fast access so yes I do like it

there is a link to it in the description

down below should you feel like

purchasing it's available on Amazon and

they do have a UK office and they do

have a UK phone number so if you need

support you can find them there as well

it's all pretty damn good

um there you go look it's a very quick

overview

basically I like it do we do stars out

of 10 if we were going to do stars out

of 10 I'm going to give it an yet

because it does need the Aerials having

said that I've not found anything that

won't connect to and it is it's

simplistic it's very very easy to use

you don't need to get techy with it or

anything like that in fact you can take

it out the box put the Sim in and

everything you need is already there

with good quality passwords and and so

on and so on and so forth deadly ears

right that's it that's enough I've done

my bit 299 quids worth of 5G so I'm

going to bid you farewell but before I

do I'm gonna say thank you very much for

watching if you have been which you must

have been if you've got this far and

until we see you next time enjoy the

roads enjoy the skies but most of all

enjoy your life cause life rocks when

you living room rules see you next time

take care

[Music]