5g vs Fiber Optics: what are the differences between these two types of internet service? Is one better than the other?
Consumers often Google these questions forgetting many factors that determine which is best for you.
Whether you need faster internet speeds or more coverage in your area, we’ll guide you on the best internet deals Australia.
Table of Contents
What is 5G?
The term “G” actually stands for a generation of wireless networks. The first was analog cellular, followed by 2G, then 3G and 4G were faster network standards with fully digital technology.
Now we’re on the cusp of fifth-generation mobile networks which promise lightning-fast speeds comparable to many fiber optic cables.
How Does Fiber Optics Compare to Wireless technology?
Thanks to the internet, we have become accustomed to having high speed as long as there is a nearby WiFi connection.
But WiFi has its downsides: it can be slow or unreliable depending on how far you are from the router. And it can be interrupted by walls or radio signals.
Fiber optic cables provide a more stable option that’s not susceptible to WiFi dead zones. In addition, it is not affected by slow speeds caused by distance or congestion on the network.
Fiber optics are also faster than conventional copper-wire connections. This means you could enjoy all your favorite shows without buffering or lag time.
Pros and Cons of a Wireless Connection
There are many benefits to having a fast internet connection for the best internet deals in Australia. But there’s no getting around that WiFi is not as stable compared to fiber optic cables.
Wireless connectivity can be affected by physical obstructions between your device and the router itself. This means you could experience inconsistent speeds depending on what’s between you and the source of your WiFi.
Pros and Cons of Fiber Optic Connection
A fiber optic cable is much more stable than wireless internet. So even with multiple users at once or streaming a movie, it won’t slow down your connection.
Fiber optic cables are also faster because they have greater bandwidth capacity. So if you choose a wireless internet service provider, the speed should meet or exceed anything offered by WiFI-only providers.
Which One Should You Get for Your Home?
Just as with any purchase decision, there’s no one correct answer.
Every household is different. And the only way to know which one will work best for your home is to compare both services.
To make informed decisions, compare cost, speed, reliability, connectivity range, coverage area, and availability.
While fiber optic internet has become the standard for businesses, home providers still work on their networks.
So if you don’t have access yet or you are on a waitlist, be patient. It may be worth weighing your options before investing in new technology.
Is There a Difference in Cost Between the Two?
As mentioned above, many factors determine whether fiber optic or 5G internet is best for you. But if cost is your primary consideration, remember 5G network is more expensive than fiber optic.
As 5G technologies continue to develop and evolve, wireless internet is becoming faster and cheaper.
Home internet deals are constantly changing, and Econnex is here to help you find the best internet deals in Australia.