Overview: CBA850-1200M by Cradlepoint (Mobile Routers)

The Cradlepoint ARC CBA850-1200M is an LTE Advanced Pro Category 18 gigabit modem that can provide a cellular internet connection to any traditional router - just like one would use a cable or DSL modem.

Higher-end enterprise mobile gear Cradlepoint (and competitor Peplink) have long appealed to RVers and boaters with the most demanding mobile internet needs, particularly for those with an IT background who are not intimidated by managing a more complex device.

And the CBA850-1200M fits that bill with advances features that put it on the leading edge of LTE performance, compatibility and features.

CBA850-1200M Front — The CBA850-1200M has 4 external SMA antenna ports for 4x4 MIMO plus one for GPS.

ALERT - NetCloud Subscription Required:

In June 2019 Cradlepoint announced a new policy where an active $180/year NetCloud subscription would be required to maintain access to basic firmware security updates. Everyone considering purchasing a Cradlepoint router should keep this new requirement in mind.

Specifications:

Model: CBA850-1200M
Router Specs:
- # of Connected Devices:
- Wi-Fi Router: N/A
- USB Tethering Support: Yes - 1x USB Port, tethering not confirmed
- Ethernet Ports: 2x 1,000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet (One for device management, one WAN with POE)
Cellular Modem Specs:
- Supported Networks and Bands: AT&T, Verizon (Sprint and T-Mobile are supported but not carrier certified)
  - LTE Bands:
    - AT&T: 2, 4, 5, 12, 14 (FirstNet), 29, 30, 66, 46 (LTE-LAA)
    - Verizon: 2, 4, 5, 13, 66, 48 (CBRS)
    - Sprint: 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41
    - T-Mobile / International: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12/17, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 28, 29, 30, 32, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 48, 66, 71
  - 4G/3G: WCDMA/DC-HSPA+, Bands 1, 2, 4, 5(19), 8
- LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation: Yes (5x 20MHz)
- MIMO Support: 2x2 and 4x4
- LTE Performance Category: Category 18
  (Max Theoretical Speed: 1,200 Mbps Down / 150 Mbps Up)
- Cellular Antenna Ports: 4x SMA male
- SIM Slots: Dual Mini-SIM (2FF)
Dimensions: 4.8 × 4.8 × 1.7 inches
Other Ports:
- RJ-45 (Console)
- GPS Antenna Port(SMA)
- 12v Power
Power Source: 12 V DC / 1.5 A power adapter.
Outdoor Rated: No
Special Features: Data Usage Tracking, Auto Failover, Load Balancing, Integrated GPS
Retail Price: $799.99 (w/o antennas)

Review & Testing Status

We do not have a unit for testing.

Potential Alternatives to Consider:

For other popular mobile routers on the market we are tracking - here are our featured options:

WiFiRanger Product Lineup

$79-799

Pepwave MAX Series

$399+

Alfa WiFi Camp Pro / Camp Pro 2 Kit

$169.99

Winegard ConnecT 2.0

$209-$369

Cradlepoint COR Routers

$899-$1549

Pepwave Surf SOHO

$199

MOFI4500-SIM4

$299.99

GLiNet Smart Mini Routers

$25 - 35

Learn More About Selecting Mobile Routers

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