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Cell Phone Signal Strength: Everything You Need to Know

Updated: Jan 3, 2023


Cell Phone Signal Strength: Everything You Need to Know

Dropped calls are a frustrating experience that almost everyone has faced at least once. However, if this is a regular occurrence for you, you should begin by understanding everything you need to know about cell phone signal strength to find a solution; this process isn’t as simple as checking for bars.


How Do I Read My Phone Signal?

Knowing how to read your cell phone signal strength isn’t as quick as checking for bars at the top of the screen because these bars are subjective to both your carrier and phone brand, making them an inaccurate measure.


You may be wondering, how do I really check my signal? Checking your signal or decibel-milliwatts (dBm) reading and viewing your signal strength differs depending on the device and model. For example, if you have an Android phone, this process is as simple as doing the following steps:

  1. Go to “Settings”

  2. Click “About Phone”

  3. Click “Status or Network”

  4. Click “Sim Status”

However, this process is trickier on an IOS device, as there are various approaches you can take depending on your model and whether you have a chipset.


What’s a Good Signal?

Once you’ve checked your dBm reading, you’ll find a number ranging from about -50 dBm to -110 dBm; this may vary depending on whether your phone is 3G or 4G, as 4G phones often go to -120 dBm. The closer the number is to zero, the stronger your signal is. The breakdown is as follows:

  • -50 dBm is a premium signal.

  • -80 to -89 dBm is still a good range.

  • -90 to -99 dBm is an average signal.

  • -100 to -109 dBm is a poor signal.

  • -120 dBm or lower is nearly no signal.

You want your signal to typically remain around -50 to -80 dBm for the best call quality, and the lowest reading you want is -100 dBm. If you often find yourself dropping calls or with a signal ranging from -100 to -120 dBm, it’s time to start investigating ways to improve your signal.


How Do I Improve My Signal?

Begin improving your signal at home by first identifying the problem. For example, if you live too far from the nearest cell tower, your phone may struggle to pick up a signal.


After discovering the root issue, begin looking at cell phone signal boosters to enhance your signal. This piece of technology works to improve your signal by amplifying it. Mobile signal booster suppliers like SureCall Canada supply these boosters to ensure you can make calls without fear of losing your signal.


If you’re struggling to find a signal or an ideal booster, consider calling an expert for help; a team member at SureCall Canada would be happy to assist you in finding your signal and purchasing the best booster to ensure quality calls. Contact us today at 1-888-389-5799!

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