The pros and cons of 4G and 5G mobile plans

4G pros and cons

4G pros

1. Reliable coverage

4G networks boast widespread coverage, making them accessible in both urban and rural areas. Everyday Mobile from Woolworths use parts of Telstra’s mobile networks, covering more than 98.8% of the Australian population. You can enter your address and check your coverage via the Everyday Mobile Network Coverage page.

2. Mature technology

4G technology has been around for a while, which means it's relatively stable and well-tested. This maturity translates to consistent speeds and performance.

3. Cost-effectiveness

Compared to 5G plans, 4G services are often more affordable. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, 4G might be the way to go.

4G cons

1. Limited speeds

Streaming high-definition content and other data-intensive tasks might be smoother on a 5G network.

2. Congestion concerns

In densely populated areas, 4G networks can experience congestion during peak usage times, leading to slower speeds and reduced performance.

5G pros and cons

5G pros

1. Fast speeds

The standout feature of 5G is its remarkable speed. Downloads, streaming, and even online gaming become seamless experiences with speeds that can be multiple times faster than 4G.

2. Low latency

5G networks offer incredibly low latency, making activities like video calls and online gaming much smoother and more responsive.

3. Vast capacity

5G has the potential to handle a significantly larger number of connected devices simultaneously. This is especially important as the Internet of Things (IoT) becomes more prevalent.

5G cons

1. Limited coverage

5G networks are still in the process of being rolled out, which means coverage can be limited to certain areas, usually urban centres. If you're in a rural location, 5G might not be an option yet.

2. Device compatibility

To fully utilise 5G speeds, you need a 5G-compatible device. Upgrading your phone or device might be necessary, and these devices can be more expensive.

3. Potential interference

The higher frequency bands used by 5G can be susceptible to interference from physical obstacles like buildings or even weather conditions.

In the end, the choice between 4G and 5G mobile plans boils down to your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritise affordability and reliability, 4G might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you demand lightning-fast speeds and cutting-edge technology, 5G could be your best bet. As 5G continues to expand its coverage, its advantages will become more accessible to a wider audience, making the decision even more intriguing.

Remember, technology never stands still. Both 4G and 5G are stepping stones to an even more connected future, where innovation will continue to reshape the way we experience the world through our mobile devices.

FAQs about 4G vs 5G

What is 4G?

Refers to the fourth generation of mobile telecommunications technology. It provides faster internet speeds and more reliable connections compared to its predecessor, 3G. 4G networks enable high-speed data transmission supporting activities like streaming, online gaming, and other data intensive tasks on mobile devices.

What is 5G

Also known as Fifth Generation, is the latest standard in mobile telecommunications technology. It brings significant improvements over its predecessor, 4G. 5G networks offer faster data speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity, allowing for more devices to connect simultaneously. This technology is expected to support advanced applications like augmented reality, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things (IoT) more efficiently.

How fast is 4G compared to 5G?

Generally, 5G is expected to be significantly faster than 4G. While 4G LTE (Long-Term Evolution) can provide download speeds of several hundred megabits per second (Mbps), 5G has the potential to offer multi-gigabit speeds. The exact speed can vary based on factors such as network infrastructure, frequency bands used, and the specific implementation by the service provider. In essence, 5G is designed to provide faster data rates, lower latency, and improved overall performance compared to 4G.

Is 5G better than 4G?

5G is generally considered an improvement over 4G due to its faster speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity. However, whether it is "better" depends on the specific use case and requirements.

Do all devices support 5G?

Not all devices support 5G. Older devices, especially those designed before the widespread rollout of 5G networks, typically lack 5G capabilities. Newer smartphones, tablets, and other devices, however, are increasingly being designed with 5G support. It's essential to check the specifications of a specific device to determine if it is 5G-enabled. Keep in mind that network availability also plays a crucial role; not all areas may have 5G coverage. Rest assured, all Everyday Mobile from Woolworths SIM Only plans are 5G and what’s even better, is that Everyday Rewards members get 10% off on all 5G SIM Only plans.^~ That’s what we call a Win, Win!

Does using 5G consume more data compared to 4G?

The data consumption itself is not directly impacted by whether a device is using 4G or 5G. However, users may experience faster download speeds and lower latency on 5G networks, which could lead to increased usage of data-intensive applications like streaming high-quality videos or downloading large files.

In other words, while the technology itself doesn't consume more data, the improved performance of 5G may encourage users to engage in activities that use more data. It's essential for users to be mindful of their data usage habits, especially if they are transitioning to faster network technologies like 5G.
 

What impact does 5G have on battery life compared to 4G?

The impact of 5G on battery life compared to 4G can vary based on several factors, including the specific implementation of the technology, network conditions, and the device's hardware and software optimisation.

In some cases, early 5G implementations might have slightly higher power consumption due to the need for more advanced technologies and increased data transfer speeds. However, ongoing advancements in both network infrastructure and device technology are working to mitigate potential battery life concerns.

As technology evolves, improvements are made to optimise power efficiency. It's essential to consider that battery life can be influenced by various factors, and the impact of 5G on a device's battery life may vary across different devices and scenarios.