Depending on the frequency band and network buildout, 5G can reach several hundred Mbit/s up to over 1 Gbit/s, while 4G typically ranges from 20–100 Mbit/s. Actual speed strongly depends on location, coverage, and number of users.
Network & connectivity
5G: Definition & explanation
In a nutshell
5G is the fifth generation of mobile networks, offering higher speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity than 4G/LTE. It enables faster streaming, cloud gaming, and simultaneous connections for many devices.
How does 5G work?
5G operates on new frequency bands (low-, mid-, and high-band/mmWave) and uses technologies like Massive MIMO and beamforming to transmit data faster and more efficiently. Compared to 4G, latency drops to just a few milliseconds, making real-time applications like cloud gaming or autonomous driving practical. Network capacity also increases significantly, allowing more devices to stay reliably connected in densely populated areas. There are two main deployment types: Non-Standalone (NSA), which relies on existing 4G infrastructure, and Standalone (SA), which uses a dedicated 5G core network and unlocks full features like network slicing. For end users, 5G mainly means faster downloads, smoother high-resolution video streaming, and more stable connections in crowded networks, such as at large events. To use 5G, a smartphone needs a compatible modem and a SIM with the right plan, plus sufficient coverage from the carrier. mmWave 5G delivers extremely high speeds but has limited range and is mostly deployed in urban hotspots, while sub-6GHz 5G offers broader coverage.
Advantages of 5G
- Significantly higher speeds
- Very low latency
- More network capacity
- Better stability with many users
- Foundation for new use cases like AR/VR
Disadvantages of 5G
- Limited coverage, especially mmWave
- Higher battery consumption
- Not all plans/devices supported
- Rollout varies widely by region
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the smartphone needs a 5G-capable modem and a matching SIM with a 5G plan. Additionally, the carrier must provide 5G coverage at your location.
Yes, 5G modems tend to draw more power, especially with weak signal or mmWave usage. Modern smartphones partially offset this with more efficient chips and adaptive network selection.
Guides with 5G
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