5G vs 4G: What's the difference and which is better

Last updated: 19 February 2024

Key highlights

● 5G networks provide speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, enabling activities like downloading high-resolution movies in seconds and supporting seamless AR/VR experiences.

● 5G significantly reduces latency, facilitating real-time communication and enhancing user experiences for gamers and virtual reality enthusiasts.

● 5G is designed to support a much higher density of devices, catering to the burgeoning number of connected devices in our homes and cities with improved energy efficiency and extended battery life for devices.

5G vs 4G: A comparative guide to future-proofing your connectivity

Over the years, we've transitioned from basic calls and texts to high-speed internet and sophisticated apps. As we're gearing up for another major tech shift, let's take a closer look at the 5G vs 4G discussion.

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The basics: What are 4G and 5G anyway?

The advancement in mobile networks has always been marked by the generational leap – hence the 'G' in 4G and 5G, symbolizing their respective 'generation'.

4G, also known as LTE (Long Term Evolution), ushered in an era of faster data download and upload speeds. It changed the game, making activities like HD video streaming, online gaming, and video calls a seamless experience.

5G, the fifth-generation technology, pledges not just to elevate but to redefine our digital experiences. With promises of unparalleled speeds, robust connections, and almost zero latency, the idea of waiting for a video to buffer might soon be an antiquated concept.

Key differences between 4G and 5G

● Speed: 5G emerges as a powerhouse, offering speeds that can be up to 100 times faster than 4G. For context, think of downloading a high-resolution movie in mere seconds.

● Latency: In the digital realm, even milliseconds matter. Latency signifies the time taken for devices to exchange information. With 5G, this delay is minimized, ushering in real-time communication, which is a boon for gamers and virtual reality enthusiasts.

● Capacity: As our homes and cities become smarter, the number of connected devices multiplies. 5G has been designed to cater to this digital explosion, capable of supporting a million devices per square kilometre.

● Coverage & infrastructure: While the initial 5G rollout might be concentrated in urban hubs, it's set to expand universally, mirroring 4G's coverage. Moreover, unlike 4G's dependency on massive cell towers, 5G leverages smaller, frequent cell stations, ensuring robust signals even indoors and in traditionally weak-signal areas.

● Energy efficiency: A less-discussed but vital aspect is energy consumption. 5G networks, with their advanced architecture, are anticipated to be more energy-efficient, translating to longer battery life for devices.

So, which is better?

There's no denying that 5G is superior technologically. Yet, the real advantage of any technology lies in its applicability. For users still finding 4G speeds adequate for their usage, the transition can wait. If that’s you, explore our 4G offerings and find one that best suits your needs!

But for those keen on immersive experiences like AR/VR, cloud gaming, and seamless 8K video streaming (even when you’re in the lift or underground), 5G is the way to go and we’ve got what you need.

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A word on transition

Moving from 4G to 5G is not an overnight switch. It's a gradual journey, with both networks co-existing, catering to varied user needs. Remember, innovation is as much about advancements as it is about choice and adaptability.

Read more: Why Speed Matters: The Impact of 5G on Streaming, Gaming, and More

In retrospect

The 5G vs 4G debate isn't just about speed. It's about the evolution of technology, changing how we connect, work, play, and live. So whether you're streaming, gaming, working, or just endlessly scrolling through social media, your experience is about to get a major upgrade.

Ready to experience the next generation of speed?

Dive into the 5G world with Circles.Life. But if you wish to stay in the familiar terrains of 4G a little longer, we’ve got some irresistible 4G plans too. Either way, you're in for a premium experience with Circles.Life!

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