5G networks come in two main forms. First, we have sub-6GHz, which is what most users are running off at this time. Second, we have mmWave, which is the super-fast 5G that is hard to find right now, but it’s capable of changing the future of technology.
Before we break down some more details and differences, let’s go back to the basics. Cellular devices transmit data over the air using electromagnetic radio frequencies. These frequencies are organized into different frequency bands. Some of these bands have more capacity than others and are able to deliver information faster. This is the case with mmWave.
In comparison, Sub-6GHz 5G isn’t much different than LTE. Some bands are actually similar frequency ranges as what was used in 3G and 4G/ LTE. While the frequencies themselves only offer a small improvement in terms of speed over LTE, more spectrum with sub-6GHz means more bandwidth and faster user speeds.
mmWave covers higher frequency radio bands than we’ve ever used for cellular. These range from 24GHz to 40GHz. Sub-6GHz refers to mid and low-frequency bands under 6GHz. Low-frequency bands are under 1GHz, while mid-bands range from 3.4GHz to 6GHz and are not considered “mmWave.”
Due to its wide availability and range, mid-band will be the most practical for users. Mid-band 5G can cover wide distances and also has capabilities to carry high volumes of data at high speeds. It can deliver real-world speeds of around 100 to 500 Mbps. mmWave 5G devices can offer maximum speeds of around 4-5Gbps, although consumer speeds are often lower. In reality, you might only see a few hundred megabits per second, unless you have a direct line of sight with a mmWave cell tower.
5G FREQUENCY BANDS
Some of the most widely used mid-band 5G frequencies include n77 (TD 3700), n78 (TD 3500) and n79 (TD 4700). The n78 band — at 3.5GHz — is one of the most popular 5G frequencies in use worldwide. Unfortunately, since it falls into the sub-6GHz spectrum, you won’t get mount-dropping speeds, but it will help offer better coverage and a stronger signal. Similarly, the n41 band is also pretty popular. This the same 2.5GHz frequency that carriers have used for 4G and 3G deployments on Sprint’s network in the past. Now, T-Mobile has repurposed it from LTE to 5G Standalone use in the US.
While browsing 5G cellular devices, you may also see 5G bands such as n1 (2100 MHz), n2 (1900 MHz), n3 (1800 MHz), n5 (850 MHz), n7 (2600 MHz), n8 (900 MHz), n12 (700 MHz), n40 (TD 2300), n41 (TD 2500), n48 (TD 3600), n66 (AWS-3), etc. These are low-band 5G frequencies that have a much wider reach in comparison to mid-band and mmWave. mmWave includes 5G bands like n258 (26 GHz), n260 (39 GHz) and n261 (28 GHz).
When purchasing a new cellular modem, make sure you don’t get stuck on how many 5G bands it supports. Instead, look at the type of 5G network in your location and choose accordingly. Mid-band 5G is emerging as the preferred choice in most parts of the world. That’s where most carriers will focus in the coming years. So we should expect to see more speed and capability out of these frequencies.
For more about 5G frequency bands, check out our blog here.