5G vs Wi-Fi: Two wireless internet technologies that have the world wrapped around their fingers, or should I say wrapped in their web?

Since both 5G and Wi-Fi wirelessly connect us to the internet, they sound like doppelgangers, but that’s far from the truth. The main difference between 5G and Wi-Fi is that the former can be defined as a cellular network, and the latter as a means to connect devices to a network.

Confused? Let’s unpack the nitty-gritty to make everything clear as day.

What is 5G?

5G internet is the fifth generation of mobile networks and the successor to 4G. It offers higher speeds, lower latency, and massive network capacity. Like previous generations of cellular technology, 5G operates through a network of cell sites that transmit data via radio waves.

How does 5G compare to 4G?

Discover the differences between the two generations of mobile networks to understand the advanced capabilities of 5G.

5G vs. 4G LTE

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi signals are broadcast from an internet router in the form of radio waves. It comprises a local area network (LAN) that wirelessly connects your computers and mobile devices to the internet. The range of the Wi-Fi network is limited to the premises of a home or building.

How does Wi-Fi compare to Cellular Internet?

Find out how these two wireless internet technologies differ in terms of speed, connectivity range, latency, and overall reliability.

Wi-Fi vs. Cellular

5G vs. Wi-Fi: Key Differences

5G and Wi-Fi are two distinct wireless internet technologies that differ in various aspects. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of their individual purposes and features:

1. Availability & Connectivity

Wi-Fi can be broadcast anywhere from any type of internet connection using a Wi-Fi router, whereas 5G connectivity is limited to areas close to the network cell sites and compatible devices with a 5G-enabled SIM card.

A single 5G cell station can connect supported devices within a radius of up to 10 miles. In contrast, the maximum range of a Wi-Fi router is 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors.

2. Speed & Latency

The speed and latency of Wi-Fi depend upon multiple factors, such as the type of internet connection, delivered speeds, distance from the router, and the router’s Wi-Fi standard. While 5G’s theoretical speeds are quite high, they have not yet been consistently achieved practically.

5G does offer much better speeds and lower latency than 4G, but it is still not as good as what you can get from a premium fiber or cable internet plan. To conclude, Wi-Fi excels in terms of maximum achievable speeds and lowest possible latency.

3. Frequency & Licensing

Cellular networks operate on licensed spectrum bands, whereas Wi-Fi uses bands that don’t need licensing. 5G in particular employs both licensed and unlicensed bands, which is why it can sometimes interfere with Wi-Fi signals.

 Modern Wi-Fi devices use the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz frequency bands, while 5G’s serviceable frequency range begins below 1GHz and goes up to 40 GHz.

4. Capacity & Scalability

Modern Wi-Fi standards (Wi-Fi 6 and beyond) are built to expand the capacity of localized networks. You can also extend Wi-Fi coverage by using specialized equipment such as Wi-Fi extenders/boosters and mesh Wi-Fi systems.

Even though advanced Wi-Fi networks can support large households, buildings, or organizations, they are no match for the capacity and scalability of 5G networks. 5G infrastructures can support a massive range of devices and data-intensive applications. A dense network of cell stations can connect entire towns and cities.

5. Network Security

While wired internet connections are still considered safer, the security concerns surrounding wireless internet networks have significantly diminished over the years. Modern Wi-Fi routers are secured by WPA3, which offers advanced data encryption.

On the other hand, 5G networks incorporate network segmentation and device authorization, which makes them just as secure. All in all, both Wi-Fi and 5G are equally competent at keeping cyber threats and privacy breaches at bay.

6. Cost

Comparing the costs of 5G and Wi-Fi is a stretch since both technologies are not interchangeable. 5G is said to be an expensive technology, given the cost of licensed spectrum and new infrastructure required for expansion. However, 5G Home Internet plans are often more affordable than other internet options.

Wi-Fi is generally more affordable, though the cost depends on the underlying type of network, such as fiber internet. The deployment of fiber-optic networks is a costly affair, and let’s not forget about the price of equipment used to extend Wi-Fi networks.

Compare the costs and features of internet plans from different ISPs

5G vs. Wi-Fi: When to Use Which?

5G is recommended when:

  • You’re out and about/traveling with access to 5G data (it’s much safer than public Wi-Fi)
  • You have no mobile data usage restrictions
  • Wi-Fi isn’t working or is temporarily unavailable

Wi-Fi is recommended when:

  • You’re indoors/at a fixed location (home, workplace, etc.) and have access to a trusted Wi-Fi network
  • You need to connect multiple devices
  • You’re out of 5G data, or your mobile internet plan has a tight data cap

Bottomline

Summing up, it’s evident that 5G and Wi-Fi serve different purposes, so it would be irrational to choose just one. 5G and Wi-Fi are meant to team up, as together they can offer enhanced and uninterrupted wireless communication.

Wi-Fi has its advantages within enclosed environments, whereas 5G thrives in the open. Each wireless technology proves to be useful in different situations; hence, embracing both yields the best results.

FAQs

5G home internet vs Wi Fi router: What’s the difference?

5G home Internet is a cellular internet service for residential use that relies on 5G technology, whereas a Wi-Fi router is a device that lets you create a home network and use the internet service on your computers/mobile devices.

Is 5G and 5 GHz the same thing?

To clear up the 5 GHz vs 5G internet confusion, the answer is no. 5G is a cellular service that uses a range of radio frequencies to transmit data. On the other hand, 5 GHz is a frequency band employed by Wi-Fi routers to connect devices wirelessly within a short range.

Which is better: 5G or Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is better for indoor internet usage (at home or any place with a trusted network), while 5G mobile data is recommended for internet usage on the go.