Hiboost cell phone booster! Full install, test and review! #556

Summary

In this episode of Killes Country Life, Andrew installs a HiBoost cell signal booster for his metal-roofed custom pole barn house, which suffers from weak signal. He compares the HiBoost to a previous WeBoost model he installed in his shop, noting that WeBoost has increased in price. Andrew discusses installation challenges, shares tips on aiming the antenna, and explains his improvement in signal strength from two bars to five, including better upload speeds. He tests the booster’s performance and finds it significantly enhances connectivity, making it easier to use apps and stream content.

Takeaways

• 🏡 Andrew is installing a cell signal booster in his custom-built pole barn house with a metal roof, which weakens cellular signals.
• 📶 He previously used a WeBoost signal booster in his metal shop, which improved his signal from no bars to five bars after adjusting the antenna.
• 💵 Andrew found the WeBoost had doubled in price to $400, so he opted to try a HiBoost model, which was cheaper at $179 with similar reviews.
• 📦 The HiBoost package claimed coverage for 1,000 sq ft, but both Amazon and HiBoost’s website state it covers 1,500 sq ft, matching the size of Andrew’s house.
• 🔧 Andrew appreciates the 30-foot cable runs with HiBoost, allowing more flexibility in mounting the booster and antenna in his house.
• 📱 To find the best tower for signal boosting, Andrew uses the 'OpenSignal' and 'Network Cell Info Lite' apps, which helped him locate the nearest towers.
• 📡 The HiBoost booster uses a directional antenna, and Andrew aimed it at a closer tower to boost the signal. Initial tests showed a significant increase in bars from two to four.
• ⚡ After fine-tuning the outdoor antenna, Andrew’s signal increased to four or five bars, and his internet speed improved, with upload speeds increasing dramatically.
• 🛠️ Although the HiBoost installation wasn't exactly per the manual, it performed well, improving both the signal strength and internet speed throughout the house.
• 🎥 Andrew provides a link for viewers to purchase the HiBoost and related products via his affiliate link, mentioning that he purchased the product with his own money and was not sponsored.

Q & A

What is the main issue Andrew is trying to solve in this video?

Andrew is trying to solve the issue of weak cellular signal in his house, which is further exacerbated by the metal roof.

What is the brand of the signal booster Andrew initially used in his metal shop?

Andrew initially used a weBoost signal booster in his metal shop.

Why did Andrew decide to look for alternatives to the weBoost signal booster?

Andrew decided to look for alternatives because the price of the weBoost signal booster had doubled from $200 to $400.

What is the name of the alternative signal booster Andrew chose to try?

Andrew chose to try the HighBoost signal booster as an alternative.

What discrepancy did Andrew notice between the packaging and the online information for the HighBoost signal booster?

Andrew noticed that the packaging claimed the booster covered up to 1,000 ft², while the information on Amazon and the HighBoost website stated it covered up to 1,500 ft².

What feature of the HighBoost signal booster does Andrew prefer over the weBoost?

Andrew prefers the feature of the HighBoost signal booster that allows him to hide the main unit in the attic and run a 30ft antenna to the room where he wants to boost the signal.

What is the purpose of the 'through the roof' silicone that Andrew uses?

The 'through the roof' silicone is used to seal any penetrations made through an outside protective layer, such as the galvanized steel roof, to prevent water leakage.

Which app does Andrew recommend for finding the direction of the nearest cell towers?

Andrew recommends using the app called OpenSignal to find the direction of the nearest cell towers.

What is the name of the app Andrew uses to determine the bands his cell towers are broadcasting on?

Andrew uses an app called Network Signal Info to determine the bands his cell towers are broadcasting on.

How does Andrew test the effectiveness of the HighBoost signal booster before fully installing it?

Andrew tests the effectiveness of the HighBoost signal booster by plugging it in and observing the immediate increase in signal strength and conducting speed tests.

What is the final verdict on the HighBoost signal booster based on Andrew's review?

Based on Andrew's review, the HighBoost signal booster works effectively, providing a significant boost to signal strength and internet speeds, and is a cost-effective alternative to the weBoost signal booster.