FAQ
TL;DR: For Play-only, B715 is fine; for Orange/W3, pick B618. "B715 does not support QAM 256 modulation," and 256‑QAM boosts throughput by 33%. If you need 3‑band aggregation, check your carrier’s bands first. [Elektroda, jarek7714, post #17112862]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps power users choose a stationary LTE router for 3CA, 4x4 MIMO, and future 256‑QAM gains.
Quick Facts
- B715 supports 3CA for 2600+1800+800 and 2100+1800+800, but not 2600+2100+1800 or 2600+2100+800. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
- B618 is a 2CA router: it aggregates two LTE frequencies, not three. [Elektroda, internick, post #17109360]
- B618 has 4x4 MIMO internally but only two external antenna connectors. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
- Netgear Nighthawk M1 (MR1100) lacks LTE800 support, and its spec does not list 4CA. [Elektroda, internick, post #17115827]
- Need 4CA? Huawei E5788 is a recommended mobile hotspot option. [Elektroda, Estyle, post #17217939]
What’s the best LTE router for Play vs Orange if I want 3CA?
If you use only Play, choose Huawei B715. For Orange or other W3 networks, pick Huawei B618. B715 lacks 256‑QAM, which increases peak throughput by 33%. Operators will gradually enable 256‑QAM, so plan accordingly. [Elektroda, jarek7714, post #17112862]
Does Huawei B618 support three-band aggregation (3CA)?
No. “B618 is a router that aggregates two frequencies.” That means 2CA only, not 3CA. [Elektroda, internick, post #17109360]
Which 3CA combinations does Huawei B715 support?
B715 supports 3CA for 2600+1800+800 and 2100+1800+800. It does not support 2600+2100+1800 or 2600+2100+800. Verify your site’s active bands before buying. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
Can Huawei B618 aggregate LTE2600 + LTE2100?
No. B618 does not aggregate LTE2600 with LTE2100, so plan on other band pairings. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
Does Huawei B715 support 256‑QAM, and does it matter?
No, B715 does not support 256‑QAM. 256‑QAM raises peak data rates by 33% when enabled by the network. Operators will gradually introduce it, so it can affect long‑term speeds. [Elektroda, jarek7714, post #17112862]
Can I use external antennas and keep 4x4 MIMO on B618?
B618 uses four internal antennas for 4x4 MIMO but exposes only two external connectors. You cannot attach four external antennas for full external 4x4. That hardware limit surprises many buyers. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
Does Netgear Nighthawk M1 (MR1100) meet the 3CA+256‑QAM+4x4 requirement?
No. It lacks LTE800 support, and its published specification does not list 4CA. If you need LTE800 or 3+ band aggregation, skip it. [Elektroda, internick, post #17115827]
Is there any stationary router with 3CA, 256‑QAM, and 4x4 MIMO?
At that time, no clear stationary option fit all three. M1 fails LTE800/4CA, and “little is known about the Huawei B818.” Consider alternatives only if requirements can flex. [Elektroda, internick, post #17115827]
Is Huawei E5788 a good 4CA option if my budget isn’t limited?
Yes. Huawei E5788 is a 4CA mobile hotspot recommended when you specifically need 4CA. Note it’s mobile, not a desktop CPE. [Elektroda, Estyle, post #17217939]
Why do many Play users still pick Huawei B715?
“B715 … aggregates LTE2100MHz band, which in the case of Play in many locations increases this network usability.” That’s why it remains popular. Check your local 2100 MHz availability. [Elektroda, jarek7714, post #17109347]
Which LTE bands do Play and Orange expose, and how does that affect choice?
Play offers four LTE bands, while Orange offers up to three. Match that with B715’s supported 3CA sets (2600+1800+800 or 2100+1800+800). Otherwise, consider B618’s strengths with your operator. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
Does Huawei B715 aggregate more than two bands?
Yes. B715 supports 3CA, but only specific sets: 2600+1800+800 or 2100+1800+800. It does not support 2600+2100+1800 or 2600+2100+800. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
How do I decide between B715 and B618? (3‑step quick check)
- Identify your operator’s live bands: Play has four; Orange up to three. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
- Match needed 3CA: B715 does 2600+1800+800 or 2100+1800+800; not 2600+2100+1800/800. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
- Consider antennas: B618 has 4x4 internally but only two external connectors. [Elektroda, matek451, post #17111535]
Should I wait for Huawei B818 instead?
Details were limited then. The discussion noted little confirmed information about B818’s capabilities. Waiting carried uncertainty. [Elektroda, internick, post #17115827]
