If you have a cell phone, you’ve probably already heard about 4G or the new 5G and how these networks may affect our phones. But how much do you know about the fourth generation of cellular service or what the fifth generation promises to do? When looking at 5G versus 4G networks, you want to know the main differences and how these changes can improve your cellular experience.
Cellular Latency
Latency describes the amount of time that it takes your data to make a full loop through your network. If your latency is high, it means your phone may operate more slowly, and that can be frustrating when you're just trying to check something or send a text while you're in a hurry.
Because the goal behind 5G is to be faster and more reliable, the general idea is that it will have lower latency than the fourth generation. 4G typically operates between 60 and 100 milliseconds, while 5G boasts that it will lower latency to only 5 milliseconds.
Download Speeds
One of the main differences between 5G and 4G networks relates to download speeds. How quickly our phones can download content through our cellular data is a vital part of our daily routine and how we use our phones to stream or perform other actions. 4G runs pretty well, with about 1 gigabyte per second, but 5G aims to reach speeds of about 20 GB per second.
Base Stations
Base stations are the locations where your cellular signal originates. Many of us are familiar with cell towers, which is where most 4G signals come from. Instead of relying on cell towers, 5G primarily utilizes small cell technology, which are much smaller boxes that hopefully create more powerful signals. Many carriers using 5G still use cell towers for lower-frequency needs. Cell signal boosters are growing more compatible with small cell technology, keeping them relevant as 5G becomes more commonplace.
Many businesses use cell phone range extenders for commercial buildings and to strengthen new signals. While 5G is still in a transitional period with delivering on its promises, we can expect the fifth generation to enhance our cellular experiences. To learn more about signal-boosting technology and how to improve your phone, contact SureCall Boosters anytime at sales@surecallboosters.ca.