Since last year the 5G network has been working in some cities in the US. This fifth-generation aims to provide excellent performance in terms of speed and latency than the 4G network. So, how is 5G different from 4G?
Let’s find out!
Speed
The 5G network has a speed of 10 gigabits per second, which is faster than the 4G network. The high speed for the 5G network means an excellent performance level. For instance, you can download a high-definition movie in just nine minutes, a task that can take around 50 minutes on a 4G network.
The majority of 5G networks are created using extra-high frequency airwaves called high-brand spectrum. This allows this network to transmit data faster than on 4G. So, in terms of speed, 5G wins.
Latency
Latency refers to the amount of time information takes to travel between two points. It’s the time it takes for a device to communicate with another device or with a server.
Fast receiving and sending of information using 5G networks will allow the development of new devices and services like translation software, remote surgical operations, and virtual-reality gaming.
Latency is measured using milliseconds, and its 50 milliseconds in 4G networks, but 5G will reduce to virtually one millisecond. 5G will enable connected devices to connect to the cloud for data processing, so reducing latency will be essential for most applications. Self-driving cars could use 5G to make actual navigational decisions using artificial intelligence based on the cloud.
Coverage
Some remote areas around the world still have poor 4G coverage. Now that 5G is getting started, it has limited coverage, and it will take some years to cover vast areas like 4G.
5G networks are only available in a few cities, and performance is still poor in some areas. For this one, 4G wins as you can access it in almost every city and town.
Compatibility with different devices
5G is compatible with a wide range of devices other than smartphones. With 4G, connectivity is one-size-fits-all, which means that every device uses the same service, but 5G is unique.
The 5G network is capable of providing a connection for smartwatches using little energy. It can also provide significantly fast and stable connections for industrial robots. It is good news because, in the coming years, more connected devices are likely to emerge, and each might require a different kind of connection.
Bandwidth
The 5G network will efficiently use the available spectrum and offer greater bandwidth than the 4G network. 4G uses a small slice of the available spectrum, unlike 5G, which has three different brands (low, mid, and high). Consumers and businesses may have different uses for each brand based on its speed and frequency range. This means 5G is very powerful.
Bottom line
It’s best to understand the differences between 4G and 5G networks before deciding which one to use for your business. The above differences will give you a better understanding of the two networks.