Alfa APA-M25 can be used with any dual band Wi-Fi receiver or router/AP that has an RP-SMA port. It is compatible with the latest 802.11 ac Wi-Fi equipment, including the AWUS036AC model from Alfa. This antenna works with both the 2.4 and the 5 Ghz Wi-Fi band.
Specifications:
Frequency: 2.4 - 2.5 GHz, 5.150 - 5.875
GHz Connector: RP-SMA male
Antenna Type: Patch directional
Gain: 8 dBi @ 2.4 GHz, 10 dBi @ 5
GHz Vertical beam width: 16 degree
Horizontal beam width: 66 degree
Size: 167 x 66 x 18mm ( 6.57 x 2.6 x 0.7 inches) Directional vs.
Omni directional antennas: The above image is not a precise scientific comparison drawing, but an illustration to show in a general sense how the two antenna types compare. Omni-directional antennas can detect signals from multiple directions because gain in concentrated in a 360 degree horizontal pattern. They work best when you are mobile and do not know where signals are originating. Directional antennas concentrate gain in a particular direction. As our graphic above illustrates, each antenna type has an advantage over the other. That is why it is best to have each type, so you can use the antenna that is best for your particular needs. Because directional antennas work best in the direction they are pointed, in many cases you will detect more signals overall with your omni-directional antenna, but find that your directional antenna may get stronger signal strength to signals at which it is aimed. Directional antennas help reduce noise/interference because they are not picking up signals strong from other directions.
Pros: I have 3 of these on an ASUS RT-AC68U,, router stands up vertically , i needed about 160 to 180 degree signal coverage from the router. I would say I get a 10dbm gain on average with these. My neighbors house is about 10 feet from mine, their router must be close since i get their signal at about 35dbm, since these antennas are directional and the back of the antenna is to the neighbor it reduces their signal from interfering with reception on my router. In the past walking out my front door about 4 feet i would start losing WiFi connection due to signal interference, now for the first time I can wander around my yard and stay connected. There is a massive amount of WiFi signals in my area, a survey on average will pick up between 40 and 70 SSID's at anytime on 2.4GHz, finding an unused channel was not an option, regardless this antenna made all the difference, I should also mention on 5GHz I can also wander around outside and stay connected.
Cons: Not a con for me but if your router lies flat and antenna mounts on the back you may have to turn your router some to get the antenna to face forward.
Overall Review: A great antenna depending on your needs, if you need a good boost in one direction this very well might help, it may not be a fix all or a silver bullet for everyone but for my needs it worked flawless, do a little homework on WIFI signal, channels and so on to see if these will work for you in the intended manner. if you need 360 degree signal this is the wrong antenna, I now have 4 ALFA products and love them. After much research I found there are fake ALFA products on the Internet for sale with sub par performance, I specifically ordered from Rokland to ensure I got a real ALFA product since they are an Authorized dealer.