The zBoost Mobile1 ZB245 has the topmost cell signal amplifier for a cradle device, but it doesn't compare to the wireless cell signal boosters. It features dual-band compatibility with 3G and 2G, but on the other hand lacks 4G compatibility. People who need to boost only one phone at a time can use this as it is an outstanding cell signal booster. The zBoost Mobile1 ZB245 performs as well as other cradle signal boosters, but it doesn't compare to the performance of wireless cell phone boosters. Except for the lower price, very little sets it apart from other cradle signal boosters.

The zBoost Mobile1 ZB245 features a universal cradle design, which means that you place your phone into a holding device that attaches to your dashboard. This design is at its best as long as you're the only person in your car, because only one phone can benefit from the boosted signal. Generally, wireless boosters allow you to use your phone naturally but the cradle design requires you to use the speakerphone or a Bluetooth connection with your stereo.

For a cradle signal booster, the amplifier's 40 dB gain is excellent, and the 3 dB noise figure is among the best available. This implies that you'll receive a strong five-bar signal in areas where you would typically only get a one-bar signal. It also increases the battery life of your cell phone because it doesn't have to search for a signal.

But one disadvantage to the Mobile1 ZB245 is the lack of 4G compatibility, which is the most recent generation of cellular technology. 4G provides better voice quality and allows you to download data at a rate of 100 Mbps in a moving vehicle. However, national 4G coverage is still inferior to 3G and 2G coverage. In rural areas, you are more likely to find only 3G or 2G signals, so the lack of 4G compatibility is only a minor drawback.

The installation being a simple process comes with a 4-inch outside antenna with a 10-foot coax cable that connects the antenna to the cradle. The antenna is attached to the roof of the car with a magnet. The cradle acts as the inside antenna, so there's only one coax cable to install. The only other installation step is attaching the cradle to the dashboard, which uses an adhesive.