A technology is described for adjusting repeater gain based on user equipment need. A downlink path of the repeater can be deactivated. A deactivated throughput value can be received from the UE for data received at the UE in a selected time period. The downlink amplification path of the repeater can be activated. An activated throughput value for data received at the UE in the selected time period can be received from the UE. A difference can be determined between the deactivated throughput value and the activated throughput value. A repeater gain value can be reduced or bypassed when the deactivated throughput value is greater than the activated throughput value by a selected threshold value.