Does selecting 2G only save battery?

It can, mainly because the modem stops scanning for 3G and 4G signals. The trade-off is very slow data speeds, so this option fits basic calling more than browsing or streaming.

Can I switch back to Automatic without restarting the phone?

Yes. Go to Settings ➔ Wi-Fi & network ➔ SIM & network ➔ Preferred network type and select 2G/3G/4G (Automatic) again. The change applies within a few seconds without a restart.

Why does my OnePlus not show a 4G-only option in this menu?

OnePlus groups 4G together with lower generations for fallback reasons, since a pure 4G-only mode would drop calls entirely outside 4G coverage. The available options are limited to the combinations listed under Preferred network type.

OnePlus

OnePlus: Change the Preferred Network Type

If your OnePlus keeps losing signal or drains battery fast in a weak 4G area, the modem is likely stuck hunting between network generations. By default the preferred network type is set to search automatically across 2G, 3G and 4G for the best possible connection. In patchy coverage zones that automatic switching can cause dropped calls, slow data or extra battery drain, and locking the phone to a lower or single network mode often gives a more stable result.

Updated: 07.08.20264 min5 steps

VersionAndroid 10 · Oxygenos 10

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OnePlus

Set Preferred Network Type (2G/3G/4G) auf OnePlus

The preferred network type tells your OnePlus modem which mobile network generations it is allowed to search for. On Automatic settings the phone constantly compares 2G, 3G and 4G signal strength and switches between them, which is efficient in strong coverage but can cause repeated reconnects, choppy calls or slower data in weak reception areas.

Locking the device to a single mode stops that constant switching. Choosing 2G/3G (Automatic) skips 4G entirely and can help in areas where 4G signal is present but too weak to hold a stable connection. Choosing 2G only goes a step further and is mainly useful for basic voice calls when data speed does not matter, or to save battery when no higher network is available anyway.

How to change it

Open Settings ➔ tap Wi-Fi & network ➔ tap SIM & network ➔ tap Preferred network type ➔ choose 2G/3G/4G (Automatic), 2G/3G (Automatic) or 2G only.

Switch back to 2G/3G/4G (Automatic) once you leave the weak-coverage area, since a locked lower mode will cap your maximum possible speed even where 4G is fully available.

Frequently asked questions

Often yes. Skipping 4G search stops the modem from repeatedly trying to hold a weak 4G signal, which reduces dropped calls and reconnect delays. Data speed will be lower since the phone stays on 2G or 3G.

Compatible devices

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Android 10 · Oxygenos 10

OnePlus 7T Pro 5G McLaren OnePlus 8 OnePlus 8 Pro OnePlus N10 OnePlus Nord OnePlus Nord N100

Network & Connectivity

OnePlus: Change the Preferred Network Type

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Set Preferred Network Type (2G/3G/4G) auf OnePlus

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