LTE router advice for rural internet and mimo support

[beekgegewgio]

Live in a rural area with Verizon LTE coverage. I have visible as my carrier (Verizon network).

Searching for a 4G LTE router with SMA ports so I can add an additional 2x2 MIMO antenna. And with advanced settings so I can change the TTL and IMEI on the router to bypass throttle / detection issues as carriers dont like routers being used instead of the phone. 5G is not available in my area so I don't need a 5G router - LTE is plenty fast for me. The ability to change the TTL/IMEI and possibly other settings that I am not currently aware of to avoid detection by the carrier is one of the most important features required.

1. Recommended LTE routers? Currently looking at the: "Cudy AC1200 "LT500D" which is $100. You can change the TTL and I hear the IMEI as well (not 100% sure) - however ive also been suggested routers such as the: "cat16-sdx20-wi-fi-6-the-punch-qualcomm-snapdragon" from chestertechrepairs which is $250. Off the bat the snapdragon uses Wifi 6 vs Wifi 5 and has compatibility for 4x4 mimo - does this justify an extra $150? Wifi 5 speeds are plenty enough with an avg 200mbs in real world scenarios. Not sure if it provides extra benefits I dont see.

2. Any other suggestions or advice for my scenario and setting up an LTE router?

Thanks!

[BillA]

Live in a rural area with Verizon LTE coverage. I have visible as my carrier (Verizon network).
Any other suggestions or advice for my scenario and setting up an LTE router?

Thanks!

The problem with many "all-in-one" mobile routers is that you either get a good modem or router, but usually not both.
You could have the latest and greatest modem in a not so great router, or vice versa, and you'll get poor performance.
IMO it's best to get a separate modem box like the InvisaGig, and connect it to a higher end router flashed with GoldenOrb firmware by Asus, GLINet, Linsys, Netgear, TP-Link, or The Wireless Haven https://thewirelesshaven.com/product-category/routers/
While InvisaGig is pricey, as the old adage goes "You get what you pay for".
https://thewirelesshaven.com/shop/modem ... invisagig/

Another option is using a phone as a modem.
With a higher end router and USB tethering a 5G iPhone or a cheap 5G Android, you can get some some kick ass speeds and performance.
It has several advantages:
A phone can never get blocked by the carrier (no need for IMEI "repair").
You're can see the mobile signal and other network stats on the phone's screen at any time.
In case of mobile network issues, instead of having to reboot the router, you can simply toggle the airplane mode on/off for a quick network rescan for better signal along with a new IP within seconds (great for some pesky blocking sites;).
As a bonus while the phone is tethered, you can use it for making calls, texting, browsing, and apps (it's a great backup phone for free).
The only disadvantage is that you can't connect external antennas, but phones usually have high quality integrated antennas with minimal signal loss.

As you know Visible is using Verizon towers, but their servers are piggybacked on top of Verizon, therefore speeds are not the greatest.
In case you're looking for high speed Verizon or Tmobile service (up to 500 Mbps) with guaranteed 300 gigs per month, contact me.

So, there you have it, pick your poison.