1. Gain: Although the PUCK may have some gain peaks higher than the MIMO-3 antenna, the gain consistency over the whole band is better with the MIMO-3. Larger antennas usually have better performance at the lower frequencies, purely because the practicalities (RF physics) which allow those bands to perform better.
2. Bandwidth: The MIMO-3 performs much better at the lower frequencies, especially at the 700 to 900 MHz bands for LTE and/or 5G reception in rural and other lower coverage areas. This antenna will therefore be most advantageous for camper/trailers/caravans used out in the ‘sticks’. Furthermore, the MIMO-3 antenna supports the 450-470MHz band used in some networks.
3. Radiation patterns: Both antennas are omnidirectional antennas, but when reviewing the specification sheets, you will notice that the omnidirectionality of the MIMO-3’s azimuth (top view) patterns are better throughout the various bands. Smaller antennas, such as the PUCK-2 antenna, have more ripple at specific bands. Less ripple results in more consistent reception of the antenna in all directions. Another important aspect to consider is the elevation (side view) patterns, where it is important to see how much of the antenna’s energy is radiated towards the horizon – this is where the base stations are in the distance. Some competitor antennas may indicate the same or even better gain, but one should check where that energy is being radiated and how much of that gain is towards the horizon.
4. Diversity spacing: The spacing of the antennas in a larger antenna enclosure is able to offer better diversity performance and to some degree improve MIMO performance in urban areas.

1. The PUCK antenna is chosen when the physical size limitations dictate that a smaller antenna is used.
2. The aesthetics do not allow for a larger antenna, such as the MIMO-3
3. The application requires a smaller PUCK antenna – it will not always be practical to implement, say a MIMO-3, for an IoT smart meter
4. The coverage in and near city areas do not require the enhanced performance of the MIMO-3. The vehicle is used mostly in the urban areas.

The above comparison highlights the advantages of the MIMO-3, but the PUCK antenna remains an excellent choice for applicable applications. The PUCK series of antennas offer a mighty punch for their size – that is why many customers believe it performs almost as well as the MIMO-3. The reality is that the MIMO-3 antenna allows for larger antenna designs, which allow for better performance.

In summary: A camper has sufficient space on the roof (usually) and is often used in rural areas away from towns and away from cellular base stations, therefore requiring a better antenna. The higher costs of the MIMO-3 may just be worth it in the longer run.