signal strenght

[bbensen]

I am trying to get a straight answer on which is better a lower or higher number (dBm) in my signal strenght, under settings>status>signal strenght. -94dBm will show up on my meter with 1 or 2 bars. While -55dBm will sometimes show up 3 or more (or less) bars on the graph.
I have used a Wilson Amplifier and that gives me a lower number. I am confused.

 

[crownroyal]

lower better, as for bars, you got me....mine never looks right either....will have full bars with -100 and one bar with -66