Antennas for wireless networking: this category covers external antennas for Wi-Fi access points, routers, 4G and 5G modems and similar radio equipment. It suits home users, installers and businesses that need better coverage or a stronger signal. Brands in our range include Delock, Poynting, Ubiquiti, Teltonika and MikroTik.
How to choose an antenna
Frequency band and technology. The antenna must cover the band your device uses. Wi-Fi antennas are made for 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz or both, while cellular antennas cover 4G and 5G bands, and a GPS antenna is a separate type again. Check the supported frequencies in the product details before comparing anything else.
Directional or omnidirectional. An omnidirectional antenna spreads the signal in all directions around it, which suits a central position in a house or office. A directional antenna focuses the signal in one direction and reaches further that way, so it works well for a link to a distant mast or to another building. Aiming it correctly matters more than most buyers expect.
Gain. Gain is measured in dBi and describes how strongly the antenna focuses its signal. Higher gain gives longer reach in one direction but usually a narrower coverage area, so the highest number is not automatically the best choice for a given room or site.
Connector and cable. The antenna connector has to match your device. SMA and RP-SMA are common on routers and modems, and N-type is common on outdoor equipment. If the antenna sits away from the device, a longer cable lets you place it better, but every extra metre of cable loses some signal, so keep the run as short as practical.
Indoor or outdoor use. Outdoor antennas need weatherproof housing and a mounting bracket for a pole or wall. Indoor models are smaller and often sit on a desk or window sill, or attach directly to the device.
Antenna brands we carry
- Delock: a German brand known for cables, adapters and connectivity accessories, with many antennas and matching cables for networking devices.
- Poynting: a South African manufacturer that specialises in antennas, including models for cellular, Wi-Fi and GPS use.
- Ubiquiti: known for UniFi and airMAX wireless networking equipment, so its antennas pair with its own access points and radios.
- Teltonika: a Lithuanian maker of industrial and mobile routers, with antennas designed for its cellular routers and gateways.
- MikroTik: a Latvian networking brand known for RouterOS and affordable routers and wireless gear, with antennas to match.
- Allnet: a German networking supplier, with antennas and accessories for professional installations.
Also in our range: Lenovo, Qoltec, S CONN MAXIMUM CONNECTIVITY, S-CONN, One For All and Shiverpeaks.
Antenna FAQ
What is the difference between omnidirectional and directional antennas?
An omnidirectional antenna sends and receives signal in a circle around itself, while a directional antenna concentrates it in one direction. Omnidirectional models suit general coverage inside a building. Directional models are better for long point-to-point links or for aiming at a specific mast.
How do I know which connector I need?
Look at the antenna socket on your router, modem or access point and match it to the antenna connector. SMA and RP-SMA look similar but are not compatible, because the pin and thread arrangement differs. If the connectors do not match, an adapter or pigtail cable can bridge the gap.
Does a higher gain antenna always give a better signal?
No. Higher gain extends reach in the direction the antenna faces but narrows the coverage area, so it can leave gaps nearby or above and below. For a single room or a small home, a moderate gain omnidirectional antenna is often enough.
Do I need an outdoor antenna for a 4G or 5G router?
Not always, but it often helps where the signal indoors is weak. Walls, metal roofing and coated glass block radio signals, and mounting an outdoor antenna higher up gives it a clearer path to the mast. Check that the router has external antenna connectors before buying.
