A budget option with some RVers is combining an Alfa WiFi USB Repeater ($79.95) with the Alfa Desktop WiFi Antenna ($59.95) or External RV Booster Tube ($79.95).
The WiFi receiving component (whether the indoor unit placed in a window or the outdoor unit mounted on a ladder) is a USB powered WiFi radio that can connect directly to a single computer to get it online, or it can act as a WiFi-as-WAN receiver when paired with the "USB Repeater" module which then acts as a router, creating a local WiFi network so that multiple devices can get online and share the upstream connection.
The Alfa hardware has a solid reputation for picking up weak WiFi well at long range - but there is no option for interfacing directly with any cellular modems.
The feature set is very basic, but for some the price is right.
Specifications
- Model: Alfa R36A
- Router Specs:
- # of Connected Devices: Not specified
- Wi-Fi Router: Yes
- Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) - 2.4GHz
- Max Theoretical Wi-Fi Speed: Not specified
- Wi-Fi Antenna: 1x, 5dBi Antenna Included
- Wi-Fi as WAN: Yes
- Claimed Wi-Fi Range: Not specified
- Guest Wi-Fi Network: Not specified
- Default Control Panel Address and Password: Not specified
- USB Tethering Support: Yes, 3G Only
- Ethernet Ports: 1x Fast Ethernet (WAN / LAN Configurable)
- Cellular Modem: No
- Dimensions: 5.8" x 5.0" x 1.6"
- Other Ports:
- Power Source: 12V or 110V AC
- Outdoor Rated: No
- Special Features:
- Retail Price: $79.95 |
- AWUS036NH Desktop WiFi Antenna: $59.95
- External RV Booster Tube: $79.95
News, Video & Status
We have a unit in for evaluation, thanks to TechnoRV. Our member have access to our video tutorial, field testing results.
Related News Center Articles
Alternatives to Consider
For other popular mobile routers on the market we are tracking - here are our featured options:
This Review Contains Additional Member Exclusive Content!
We are Honored to be Member Funded! No ads, no sponsors, no selling (but may contain affiliate links)
Our members fund our in-depth independent reviews.
This entry may contain additional member exclusive content such as testing notes, field testing data, user interface tours, comparisons to alternatives, analysis, tips, videos and discounts.
Members also get interactive guidance, alerts, classroom and more.
Are you a member? Please log in above to access your member exclusive content!
Purchasing Options
Links Provided for Convenience
We do not sell any gear or equipment. These links are provided to make your shopping easier. Unless otherwise disclosed, only Amazon links are affiliate links (see our disclaimer). We request vendors give our members bigger discounts instead of giving us affiliate kickbacks.
Member Discounts - Learn & Save!
Our MIAs get special discounts from these vendors. Members please check for discount codes before ordering. Some vendors offer up to 10% off - you could save more than the cost of your membership on major purchases.
R36A - WiFi USB Repeater: Amazon
AWUS036NH - WiFi Antenna: Amazon | TechnoRV*
External RV Booster Tube: Amazon
*While TechnoRV's prices will usually be bit a higher, they also include step-by-step instructions & videos with your purchase, and provide RVer specific customer support. If you're not technically proficient, we recommend buying from them.
Routers can serve as a central conductor of your local area network in your RV and boat. Mobile routers are different from residential routers in that they typically support multiple internet sources like cellular and Wi-Fi, can be powered off of 12v or AC and support external antenna for better receiving signal.
But you might not need a router in your setup. Here's a quick video overview the variety that routers come in:
For more on learning about mobile routers and how they might fit in your setup, follow up with our educational resources:
Mobile Internet Resource Center is founded by Chris & Cherie of