Ekahau Sidekick 2
There are cheaper ways to survey. There is no faster way to produce a survey a customer will accept as evidence.
The time argument
Simultaneous multi-band capture is the feature that justifies the cost for a working consultant. Surveying 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz in one walk instead of three cuts a large site survey from three days to one.
The caveat that matters
The Sidekick has better antennas and a better receiver than any laptop or phone in your customer's building. A survey showing -65 dBm on a Sidekick may correspond to -70 dBm or worse on a real client.
Either calibrate your thresholds for this, or do a validation pass with a representative device. Designing to Sidekick numbers and deploying for real clients produces coverage holes the survey said were not there.
Who should buy it
Consultants, integrators, and in-house teams responsible for more than roughly a dozen sites. Below that, a software-only survey package with a decent adapter plus a separate USB spectrum analyser covers most needs at a fraction of the cost.
Key specifications
| Function | Dedicated Wi-Fi survey and spectrum analysis appliance |
|---|---|
| Bands | 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz |
| Capability | Simultaneous multi-band capture, integrated spectrum analyser |
| Software | Ekahau AI Pro (subscription) |
| Form | Portable, battery-powered |
What it does well
- Simultaneous multi-band capture — survey every band in one walk
- Integrated spectrum analyser finds non-Wi-Fi interference
- Reporting is client-ready without extra work
- Consistent measurements independent of laptop hardware
- 6 GHz support that actually works, which is not universal in survey kit
Where it disappoints
- Very expensive, hardware and software both
- Software is subscription-based, so the cost never ends
- Overkill for anyone surveying fewer than a handful of sites a year
- Steep learning curve to use well rather than merely to use
- Measures better than any real client, so calibrate expectations downward
Ekahau Sidekick 2
Check the price on amazon.ca · ★★★★½ 4.7/5
About our recommendations. Our product recommendations are general guidance. Even products we rate highly may not work in your environment — walls, existing equipment, interference and regulations all differ. We offer a consultancy service if you would like help, but please check with a qualified expert before you buy or install anything. Ask about consultancy
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