4G and 5G: differences explained

4G: facts unveiled

4G has refined connectivity by offering faster speeds and reliable performance compared to 3G. It powered the digital shift by enabling activities like HD video streaming, video conferencing, and online gaming. Key features of 4G are:

  • Speed. In total, 4G is up to 100 Mbps for mobile users while stationary users can receive speeds up to 1 Gbps.
  • Latency. It’s around 50 milliseconds, which is suitable for tasks, such as video streaming and surfing the Internet.
  • Coverage. 4G’s expansion easily occurs in urban and rural areas.

Although 4G still remains a reliable option for many users, it has specific limitations. Luckily, now mobile users have the option to shift to 5G.

5G: a leap forward in mobile connections

5G, created to address the limitations of 4G, provides faster speeds, reduces latency, and connects numerous devices simultaneously. Its salient features encompass:

  • Speed. 5G’s speed is up to 10 Gbps. This is 10–100 times faster than that of 4G.
  • Latency. The latency of 5G is as low as 1 millisecond. This enables real-time communication for activities like gaming.
  • Capacity. 5G supports a broad number of devices and is ideal for Internet of Things (IoT).
  • Frequency bands. 5G operates on higher frequencies, up to 100 GHz, improving speed but requiring frequent signal reinforcement.

5G, unlike its predecessor, plays an essential role in innovations like autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and advanced healthcare systems, which can be observed from the table below:

Feature 4G 5G
Speed Up to 100 Mbps Up to 10 Gbps
Latency ~50 milliseconds ~1 millisecond
Device capacity Limited Supports millions of devices per sq km
Frequency bands 700 MHz–2.6 GHz Up to 100 GHz
Use cases Streaming, browsing, and calls IoT, autonomous vehicles, AR/VR, and smart cities
Energy efficiency Moderate More energy-efficient for connected devices

Real-world use cases of 5G

While the technical specifications of 5G sound impressive, it’s the practical applications of 5G that bring real value:

  • Faster downloads and streaming
    With 5G, downloading a full HD movie takes seconds. Streaming 4K videos and even 8K content also becomes super easy and even without buffering.
  • Enhanced online gaming
    Low latency lets gamers enjoy smoother and more responsive experiences in multiplayer games.
  • Smart homes and IoT connectivity
    From smart fridges to security cameras, 5G supports the communication of millions of devices simultaneously, enabling true smart-home integration.
  • Remote work and education
    With more stable video calls and faster file transfers, 5G improves productivity and access to remote education.
  • Healthcare breakthroughs
    5G enables telemedicine, makes remote surgeries possible, and allows for real-time health monitoring using IoT devices.

Overcoming 5G challenges

5G is a new technology that has its own challenges. Here's how to handle these limitations effectively.

Limited coverage

5G coverage is expanding but is still focused on urban areas. For those outside these zones, 4G might remain the best option.

Signal interference

Higher frequencies mean a shorter signal range, which makes it easier for buildings, trees, and bad weather to obstruct the signal.

Device readiness

Not all smartphones or devices support 5G. Check your device’s compatibility first before shifting to 5G.

Well, no matter your network—4G or 5G—a mobile signal booster can help you enhance weak signals. Devices like this can pick up even faint signals, amplify them, and send them indoors to ensure reliable connectivity.

Should you upgrade to 5G?

Deciding whether to upgrade to 5G depends on your particular needs. If speed and super low latency are essential for gaming or streaming live videos, and 5G coverage is available in your area, it’s a worthwhile investment. However, if 4G already fully meets your needs, you can comfortably wait until 5G becomes more widely available for public use.

Being connected in a 5G world

From smart home devices to improvements in healthcare and education, 5G is definitely the key to the future. Are you having 4G connectivity issues along the way? A Mobile-signal-boosters.shop can help you get the most out of your network, no matter where you are and what you do!