# Choosing a LoRaWAN gateway starts with platform location — ManThink

> If you already have cloud or server infrastructure, start with GD6. For a platform running locally on the gateway, consider GD7 with ThinkLink built in. Then check the model against the environment, power, backhaul and regional band.

Canonical: https://www.manthink.cn/en/resources/gateway-deployment-selection/

Selection guides / LoRaWAN · Choose a gateway · Deployment options

If you already have cloud or server infrastructure, start with GD6. For a platform running locally on the gateway, consider GD7 with ThinkLink built in. Then check the model against the environment, power, backhaul and regional band.

Based on official product documentation  ·  Updated 2026-09-25

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## Decide where the gateway and platform will run

The gateway provides field LoRaWAN access; the platform handles data and applications. First establish whether the project has a server, whether ThinkLink will be self-hosted, and whether the platform needs to run directly on the gateway.

GD6 is ESP32-based and does not include the full ThinkLink platform; GD7 does. These are different deployment approaches. Appearance or model numbering alone does not determine capabilities.

| Deployment requirement | Series to consider | Additional checks |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Connect to existing cloud or server infrastructure | GD6：GD61 / GD62 | Platform reachability, backhaul and power |
| Run the platform locally on the gateway | GD7：GD72 / GD73 | Site network, application load and maintenance |

## Match the installation environment to a model

GD61 is intended for indoor use and GD62 for outdoor use. GD72 is an outdoor gateway; GD73 is for industrial indoor installations. Check outdoor protection, antenna mounting and power together. A series name is no substitute for the exact product specifications.

Coverage also depends on building materials, terrain, mounting height and surrounding radio conditions. Test actual installation points before purchasing; ideal-condition ranges are not project guarantees.

## Prepare these five details before ordering

- Project region and the devices’ LoRaWAN frequency band.
- Indoor, cabinet or outdoor gateway placement, plus antenna location.
- Available site power and backhaul networks.
- Platform location, network access path and maintenance approach.
- Device count, reporting interval, payload size and downlink requirements.

Checking models against these conditions is more useful than comparing gateway prices alone. Confirm interfaces and order options against the exact model’s official manual and agreed configuration.

## Sources

Refer to the corresponding official documentation and confirmed configuration for exact models, interfaces and options.

- [GD61 Official manual](https://www.think-link.net/docs/zh/Device/LoRaWANGateway/gd61x-user-guide)
- [GD62 Official manual](https://www.think-link.net/docs/zh/Device/LoRaWANGateway/gd6-ip67)
- [GD72 Official manual](https://www.think-link.net/docs/zh/Device/LoRaWANGateway/gd72)
- [GD73 Official manual](https://www.think-link.net/docs/zh/Device/LoRaWANGateway/gd73)

## Related products

[Explore products ↗](https://www.manthink.cn/en/products/)

[![GD61 — product image](https://www.manthink.cn/assets/gd61.png)
**GD61**  Indoor LoRaWAN gateway](https://www.manthink.cn/en/products/gateways/gd61/) [![GD62 — product image](https://www.manthink.cn/assets/gd62-enclosure.png)
**GD62**  IP67 outdoor LoRaWAN gateway](https://www.manthink.cn/en/products/gateways/gd62/) [![GD72 — product image](https://www.manthink.cn/assets/gd72.png)
**GD72**  Outdoor LoRaWAN gateway](https://www.manthink.cn/en/products/gateways/gd72/) [![GD73 — product image](https://www.manthink.cn/assets/gd73.png)
**GD73**  Industrial indoor LoRaWAN gateway](https://www.manthink.cn/en/products/gateways/gd73/)

Confirm your selection against the site’s interfaces and installation conditions.

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