MeshCore antenna optimization
Double your LoRa range with the right antenna choice, placement and configuration
Why your antenna is the most important component
You can buy the most expensive MeshCore device, but with a poor antenna you won't get further than 200 meters. The antenna is literally the only component that transmits and receives signals – everything depends on it.
A good antenna can improve your range 5-10x. From 500 meters to 5 kilometers. From inside your house to the entire neighborhood. This guide explains how to choose and optimize the right antenna.
Four types of LoRa antennas
Rubber duck (included)
Standard flexible antenna with most devices. Practical but not optimal.
Whip antenna
Straight rod antenna, better than rubber duck. Fragile but more effective.
Dipole/fiberglass
Best choice for fixed installations. Robust, weatherproof, high gain.
Yagi directional
Directional antenna for specific direction. Maximum range in one direction.
Antenna gain explained (dBi)
Gain is expressed in dBi (decibel isotropic). Every 3 dBi doubles your effective range. But: higher gain means narrower radiation pattern.
0-3 dBi: Low gain, wide pattern
Radiates in all directions (omnidirectional). Perfect for mobile use (walking, cycling) because you don't know where other nodes are. Example: rubber duck antennas.
5-8 dBi: Medium gain, balanced
Best choice for repeaters on houses or buildings. Good range in horizontal direction, wide enough to reach multiple sides. Example: fiberglass dipole antennas.
9+ dBi: High gain, narrow beam
Very directional radiation pattern. Only useful if you know exactly where the other node is. Used for point-to-point links over long distance. Example: Yagi antennas.
Antenna placement: Do's and Don'ts
✓ DO
- ✓Place antenna as high as possible (roof, attic, mast)
- ✓Ensure clear line of sight to other nodes
- ✓Mount antenna vertically for omnidirectional coverage
- ✓Use weatherproof antennas for outdoor use
- ✓Test different positions and measure range
✗ DON'T
- ✗Place antenna in metal enclosure (Faraday cage effect)
- ✗Lay antenna horizontally (unless specifically designed for it)
- ✗Buy 915 MHz antenna in Europe (must be 868 MHz!)
- ✗Keep antenna indoors if you want maximum range
- ✗Use long coax cables (every meter = signal loss)
Frequently asked questions about antennas
Which antenna is best for beginners?
A 5-6 dBi fiberglass dipole for €20-30 is ideal. Robust, weatherproof, no aiming required. Brands: Laird, Taoglas, or generic LoRa 868MHz antennas on AliExpress.
Must my antenna be exactly 868 MHz?
Yes! In Europe, MeshCore uses 868 MHz. American 915 MHz antennas perform poorly. Note: "LoRa antenna" without specification is often 915 MHz.
How do I mount an outdoor antenna?
Mount the antenna vertically on roof, mast or facade. Use L-bracket or pole mount. Protect connector from water with heat-shrink or tape. Route coax cable indoors.
What gain do I need for a repeater?
5-8 dBi is optimal for repeaters. Higher gain (9+ dBi) creates too narrow beam and misses nodes above/below you. Lower gain (2-3 dBi) has insufficient range.
Can I connect multiple antennas?
No, LoRa modules have one antenna connection. You can't do "more antennas = more range". Choose one good antenna and place it optimally.
Do I need to tune/adjust my antenna?
Ready-made LoRa antennas are pre-tuned for 868 MHz. No adjustment needed. If you build your own antenna (DIY), you need to measure SWR and adjust length.
Upgrade your antenna, double your range
The standard rubber duck antenna is okay for testing, but not optimal. Invest €20-40 in a good fiberglass dipole and double your range.