It’s still worth trying though.įor step-by-step Android and Apple field test mode instructions, visit How to Read Cell Phone Signal Strength the Right Way. It all depends on your device’s carrier and chipset. Every iPhone can access field test mode, BUT not every iPhone displays dBm readings. Though, there are backup application options, which we will explain soon.įield test mode is the only method that allows most iPhone users to check their dBm. The Apple App Store doesn’t offer apps designed to show live dBm readings. However, things are a little bit more complicated for Apple users. How to Check Cell Signal Strength?Īndroid users can use either method. For those closer to -120 dBm, a signal booster or repeater will help improve your service. The closer you are to -50 dBm, the better your signal. They don’t fluctuate based on carriers or manufacturers. -110 to -120 dBm = very poor signal or a dead zone (0 to 1 bar).ĭBm readings are not subjective.-100 to -109 dBm = poor signal (1 to 2 bars).-90 to -99 dBm = average signal (2 to 3 bars).-80 to -89 dBm = good signal (3 to 4 bars).-50 to -79 dBm = great signal (4 to 5 bars).Decibels with respect to one milliwatt, known as dBm, accurately define signal strength.Ĭell signal strength ranges from -50 dBm to -120 dBm for all cellular devices. They’re a logarithmic signal unit used to calculate signal loss or gain. So, How Can I Get Accurate Signal Readings?ĭecibels (dB) are the best way to measure your cell phone signal strength. There’s no standard.Ĭarriers and phone manufacturers decide what 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 bars represent for their service or device. Don’t Trust Your Signal Barsĭespite having the EXACT same signal and performing at the EXACT same speeds, four bars on a Verizon might be three on AT&T or two on T-Mobile. Luckily, there are lots of cell signal analyzer apps that can easily and quickly identify your cellular signal strength.īefore we get into our top app recommendations, a little lesson.

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