The Netgear 4G LTE modems cover three different models which may be useful to mobile internet users who are looking for an ethernet LAN port, and not WiFi connectivity.
There are three versions of the Netgear LTE Modem, with only minor differences between them:
- 4G LTE Modem (Model LB1120) - The basic model. List price $119.99.
- 4G LTE Modem with POE (Model LB1121) - The only difference with this model is that it can be powered over POE (power over Ethernet) as well as via the power jack. If you have a device that has a spare POE port (like a WiFiRagner GoAC), this can let you avoid needing a power supply. List price $139.99.
- 4G LTE Modem with Dual Ethernet Ports (Model LB2120) - This model lacks the ability to be powered over POE, but adds an ethernet WAN port. This second ethernet port is designed to let the LTE Modem sit inline between a traditional DSL or Cable Modem and a home or office router. If the wired internet goes down, the wireless modem can then take over. This is handy for providing backup service to a home or office, but not useful for most mobile installations. List price $159.99.
Other than by comparing the back panel, all three models look identical.
The LTE modem chipset is the same for each variant.
Netgear 4G LTE modems are not sold directly by AT&T, so it comes unlocked.
The device can also be used on T-Mobile's network thanks to Band 12 support - but the device does not support T-Mobile's newer Band 71. There is limited Verizon support - users would be better off with a dedicated Verizon device.
Compared to other AT&T devices on the market, these LTE modems have inferior specifications.
Specifications - Netgear 4G LTE Modems
- Model Number: LB1120 (base model), LB1121(includes PoE), LB2120 (includes 2 ethernet ports)
- # of Connected Devices: 1x via Gigabit Ethernet (no WiFi)
- Control Panel and Default Password:
Control Panel: http://192.168.5.1
Default Password: On the product label - USB Tethering Support: None - lacks a USB port
- Supported Networks and Bands: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon (limited support)
LTE Bands: 2, 4, 5, 12/17
4G: HSPA+ 850/1900
2G/3G: UMTS B2, B5 - No 2G GSM/GPRS support - LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation: No
- MIMO Support: 2x2 internal or external
- LTE Performance Category: Category 4
(Max Theoretical Speed: 150Mbps Down / 50Mbps Up) - Cellular Antenna Ports: 2x MIMO / TS9 Connectors
- Other Ports: Gigabit Ethernet (2x for model LB2120)
- Wi-Fi Technology / Frequencies: None
- Claimed Battery Life: No battery
- Can Be Powered Without a Battery: Yes
- Dimensions: 4.7'' x 3.9'' x 1.2''
- SIM Card Type: 3FF (Micro) SIM
- Retail Price: $115-$160 (depending on model and vendor)
Review & Testing Status
We were so intrigued with the Netgear 4G LTE Modem that we purchased one in July 2017. Members see our testing data here: Cellular Equipment Field Testing Results – Netgear Modems / USB730 (Late 2017) and we have some summary comparative data to other AT&T devices in our member section below.
Unboxing Video
Here's our video unboxing & first impressions:
Potential Alternatives to Consider:
For other popular mobile hotspots on the market - here are our featured options:
We share our further hands-on impressions in the member area below.
This Review Contains Additional Member Exclusive Content
We are honored to be able to present the above overview for free without 3rd party advertising or sponsorships. We are not paid by the manufacturer of this product to provide this listing or review, and nor are we selling this equipment or plan (purchasing links are provided below as a courtesy and some may be affiliates).
Our members have funded this resource center and any extensive hands on time
we have spent with the product to review it.
The in-depth portions of this review are made available to them which might contain: hands on testing notes, field testing data, user interface tour, product analysis, comparison to alternatives, setup tips, video tutorial, insider tips, vendor discounts and fellow member experiences.
If you're a member, please log in to continue with this review.
If you're not a member.. please consider joining us!
Related Reading:
- Ways to Use Cellular Data To Get Online: Jetpack, Smartphone or Router
- Understanding LTE Modem Specifications And Selecting Cellular Devices (MiFi, Jetpacks, Routers, Phones)
- The Four Major US Carriers: Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint – Which is Best for RVers & Cruisers?
- Top Pick Cellular Data Plans
Purchasing Options
The guides below have been hand-picked to help further your education about selecting mobile hotspots and best utilizing them in your mobile internet setup.
The Mobile Internet Resource Center is brought to you by Two Steps Beyond LLC, and hosted by the technomads of