HUAWEI 4G CPE 5s B320-323 Review: A Deep Dive into the 4G WiFi Router
Table of Contents
Introduction
The HUAWEI 4G CPE 5s B320-323 is a compact 4G router promising a seamless plug-and-play experience. I’ve been using this device for the past few weeks in various locations—home, office, and even a somewhat remote cabin—to get a complete understanding of its capabilities. This review details my experiences, both positive and negative, to help you decide if it’s the right router for your needs.
Features
The B320-323 boasts several key features: its simple setup is a major draw, truly plug-and-play. The ability to support up to 32 devices simultaneously is impressive for a mobile router of this size. The claim of robust signal strength, even in challenging environments, is a significant selling point. The use of HPUE technology is designed to enhance signal penetration. Let’s delve into the specifics.
| Colour Name | White |
|---|---|
| Wireless Technology | WiFi 4 |
| Band Technology | Dual Band |
| Wireless Standard | 4G |
| Model Number | B320-323 |
| Model Name | B320-323 |
| Wireless Standard Value | 300 |
Performance
My real-world testing revealed mixed results. Setup was indeed a breeze; inserting the SIM card and powering on the device provided internet connectivity within minutes. The speed in my home office, with a strong 4G signal, was impressive, easily handling multiple devices streaming video simultaneously. However, performance declined noticeably in areas with weaker signals. While it did connect in the remote cabin, the speed was significantly slower than in my home office, making video calls difficult. The claim of connecting 32 devices simultaneously was tested, and it successfully handled a high number of connected devices but with some noticeable speed degradation as the number increased.
Signal strength in areas with obstacles, such as thick walls, also presented challenges. The HPUE technology seemed to offer some improvement compared to other routers I’ve used in similar situations, but it wasn’t a miracle worker.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Easy setup, supports a large number of devices, relatively compact size, decent speed in strong signal areas.
- Cons: Performance degrades in areas with weak signals, speed reduction with a high number of connected devices, signal penetration could be better.
Final Verdict
The HUAWEI 4G CPE 5s B320-323 is a decent 4G router, especially for those who need a simple and easy-to-use solution with support for many devices. Its ease of setup is a standout feature, making it ideal for less tech-savvy users. However, its performance is heavily dependent on signal strength, and users in areas with weak or inconsistent 4G coverage may find it frustrating. While it’s suitable for home use in areas with good signal, I wouldn’t recommend it for locations needing consistent high-speed connectivity or those with challenging signal environments. Ultimately, I would give this router a 3.5 out of 5 stars.
