Nearly everyone has a cell phone, but few users understand the whys and hows behind the speed of their connection. Don’t let a carrier convince you that they provide the most coverage without checking into the matter yourself. Your ability to get coverage on your phone in a variety of locations and situations depends on a number of factors, and understanding them allows you to make informed decisions about your next data plan.
The Difference Between 3G and 4G
Most smartphone users know whether they have a 3G or 4G network, but beyond understanding that it means a faster, more stable connection, they don’t fully get what it means. You rarely notice that little icon pop up in the corner of your phone screen unless the phone switches over from Wi-Fi. However, it plays a vital role in your coverage.
The G stands for “generation.” Until a few years ago, 3G — the third wireless network generation — was the business. Once 4G came into the picture, smartphone users couldn’t wait to experience faster speeds and more widespread coverage. In general, 4G is as much as ten times speedier than 3G, with a range that falls between 20Mbps and 50Mbps.
In the United States, both generations of coverage are still available. Older devices still rely on 3G connectivity, but it also picks up the slack on newer phones that can’t otherwise reach their first-choice network. Since 5G is already in the testing phase, users will have access to an even faster network within the next year or so.
Understanding Bands and Frequencies
Bands and frequencies relate directly to 3G and 4G networks. They’re just the radio signals that your carrier sends to your phone. In other words, they allow you to make phone calls, send text messages, look at memes, and otherwise use your data. Both generations use bands as well as frequencies. That said, 4G networks are more closely associated with bands, while 3G devices rely on frequencies.
As you know, some smartphones belong to specific carriers. Some devices are specifically made to work with particular carriers. Those phones are thus attuned to their carrier’s frequencies or bands. A phone that isn’t tuned to its carrier won’t work as reliably.
The Radio Networks
As high-tech as smart devices are, it’s perplexing to think of them in context with radio frequencies, not to mention radio networks. Every carrier uses a radio network. AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM, or “global system for mobiles.” As the name suggests, these networks provide global coverage on a more substantial scale than CDMA radio networks. Spring and Verizon are two carriers that use CDMA, or “code division multiple access,” networks.
Phones that belong to GSM carriers have SIM cards. CDMA phones do not. If you’re going to switch networks, but you want to keep your device, then it’s best to go from GSM to GSM carrier, or from CDMA to CDMA. The compatibility issue is as crucial as the question of bands and frequencies.
The Truth About Coverage Maps
A carrier’s coverage map gives you a basic idea of the network’s reach. However, just because a carrier’s map shows an overwhelming amount of coverage, that does not guarantee a reliable connection. Peek at Verizon’s map, and it appears as if there’s coverage over nearly every square inch of the United States, but that’s not the truth.
When a carrier discusses coverage, it usually refers to their coverage of densely populated areas. It doesn’t guarantee service when you’re out in the woods or in the middle of a lake. Your actual coverage depends on how close you are to a cell tower. You need to pay attention to real-world usage.
Reading reviews is helpful, particularly if they come from a varied cross-section of users. For example, combining reviews with the coverage map shows T-Mobile’s superior network coverage, in no small part because of its ability to seamlessly switch between 3G and its reliable 4G LTE network.
The phone you choose plays a part as well. Newer phones are almost always faster than older models that rely solely on 3G. Are you still satisfied with your coverage?
