LTE and 4G networks were introduced around the same time. But 4G is faster and better for IoT.
Long Term Evolution (LTE) and fourth-generation (4G) networks were mainly introduced around the same time and are often marketed together. However, several differences exist between LTE and 4G, making 4G faster than LTE and more suitable for IoT implementation. This article explains the concepts of LTE and 4G in detail, their fundamental differences, and their unique applications.
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Understanding The Long-Term Evolution (LTE) Standard
LTE means Long Term Evolution, and it's the fourth generation (4G) successor of 3G Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS), improving existing performance and speed. It's a standard for wireless broadband communication for mobile devices and data terminals based on Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and UMTS standards.
After the 3G UMTS system was developed, there was a need to create even better standards for the telecommunications system. This led to the creation of LTE, a standard similar to 4G but not quite 4G. Not only did LTE mean faster data speed and better performance, but it also meant lower operating costs.
In 2008, LTE was deployed for public use. LTE was created by the 3GPP, or the Third-Generation Partnership Project. It is sometimes called 3.95G and is popularly marketed as 4G LTE. LTE provides better operating capacity than the standards it was built on because it uses a different radio interface and core network improvement. It should be noted that LTE operates using varying frequencies and bands across other countries. This means that not all phones can use LTE in all countries where LTE is supported.
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Understanding the Fourth Generation (4G) Standard
The 4G standard stands for the fourth generation of network technology. It is the stage of mobile telecommunications that provides better functionality than the 3G network while being a predecessor to the fifth-generation network. The standard for 4G wireless technology was outlined by ITU, i.e., the International Telecommunication Union. It spells out the primary characteristics of 4G, which include data speed and transmission technology.
Considering data speed, 4G came with far greater bandwidth speed when compared to 3G. 3G had a maximum speed of 14Mbps, whereas 4G users can download and stream live high-definition (HD) videos and participate in voice over internet protocol (VoIP) with a speed of up to 150Mbps.
4G offers a stationary speed of up to 1GBps and a high upload speed of up to 50mbps. These reasons and the standard’s widespread applicability have made 4G the most common network technology used by internet service providers and mobile phone companies. Initially developed as the LTE network, the true 4G standard reached the United States around 2012. It operates as an internet protocol packet-switched network rather than the traditional circuit-switched packets.
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The Top 8 Differences Between LTE and 4G
It can be confusing to choose between LTE and 4G networks. Knowing their differences helps. Here are the main differences:
Differences Between LTE and 4G
1. Packet-switching vs. circuit-switching
4G and LTE differ in how they transfer data. Data is always packaged and sent over the internet.
LTE uses circuit switching, making a direct connection for data transfer. This method is fast and reliable.
On the other hand, 4G uses packet switching. It breaks data into packets for efficient transfer. This method is also secure against packet sniffing.
Packets find the best path to their destination. This reduces data loss and makes transfer efficient.
2. Area of coverage
Area coverage is key when choosing a network. It affects your phone's speed and performance. Coverage varies by location.
4G is widespread in developed countries, while LTE is used in less developed areas. 4G is gaining popularity, making LTE less common.
To experience 4G LTE, find a carrier with good coverage. Visit different shops to compare network speeds and signal strength.
3. Speed of data transfer
Speed is crucial in today's fast-paced world. Newer networks offer faster speeds.
LTE is much faster than 3G, with speeds up to 30 Mbps for downloads. It's also faster than 3G for uploads. LTE is faster than 3G but slower than 4G.
On the other hand, the international telecommunication network classified 4G as network standards operating with a download speed between 100 Mbps and 1 Gbps. This is the actual speed of genuine 4G networks. This makes 4G invariably better in data transfer speed than the LTE network. Because LTE has been dubbed 4G LTE, it is essential to know that the existing 4G network can also be referred to as 4G LTE A, 4G LTE+, etc.
These bits rates are significant because they affect almost everything we do on the internet. When streaming videos, making video calls, using high data consuming apps, and carrying out online transactions, low speed leads to many breaks, time delays, and poor user experiences.
4. Signal strength
Signal strength is the quality of network standards that refers to the power output of a transmitter as received from a reference antenna from a distance. Signal strength is measured in dB millivolts per meter (dBmV/m). Its measurement includes parameters like RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator), RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power), RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality), and SINR (Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio).
For LTE networks, an RSRP value of about -80dBm shows excellent signal strength with maximum data speeds. 4G networks also operate within a limit of about -90dBm. This has a mild difference in data transfer speed on both networks. However, the effect is not felt as intensely as data rates plateau around a signal strength of -100dBm.
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5. Latency
Latency is a term in communication technology that describes how long a packet of data needs to be moved from one designated point to another. It represents delays in data transfer to and fro across a network. The ideal latency period is equal to zero and is virtually possible. However, the closer the latency is to zero, the better that network is.
In comparing the latency of LTE and 4G technology, there is a vast difference to be noted. LTE latency is about ten milliseconds. This means a delay of 10ms in data transfer over two points on a network. This latency value may not be consequential when browsing for a recipe or looking up a concept on Google.
However, when it comes to more data-intensive and time-sensitive processes like playing video games, video conferencing, YouTube streaming, and so on, 10 ms is a long time to wait for data to be sent across a network, which can impact application performance.
4G, meanwhile, has a latency of 5 milliseconds. That is half of the delay experienced in LTE cut off in one chunk. Therefore, 4G is more advanced than LTE in latency.
6. Data consumption
Data consumption or usage is another point of comparison between these two networks. However, this time, it favors LTE as most people complain that they expend more considerable amounts of data using 4G. But is this true? The fact is, neither network consumes a large quantity or lesser volume of data than the other.
Every function you carry out on the internet, streaming a video, reading a book, watching a movie, being on a voice call, playing a game, downloading an app, or doing research, all have a fixed data footprint. A page will load, consuming 4 megabytes of data irrespective of whether you use 3G, LTE, or 4G. The difference, however, is due to speed.
However, 4G is faster than LTE, leading to more data usage. Users can access more functions, like visiting several sites while downloading a 1GB file. This makes LTE seem like it uses less data over time.
7. Price and affordability
Price matters when choosing between LTE and 4G. But, the cost difference is small because both were released around the same time.
LTE is cheaper to use because it's more IP-oriented and has a less expensive backhaul. Yet, there's no clear price difference. Marketing, device manufacturers, and service providers all influence the cost of 4G vs. LTE. Newer products, including both 4G and LTE devices, are pricier, especially at launch.
8. Hotspot support
Mobile devices with hotspots can share internet with nearby Wi-Fi devices. LTE and 4G both support this feature, allowing phones, tabs, and laptops to connect.
4G's faster speeds make it better for hotspot sharing. Even with LTE, public areas often offer free Wi-Fi, making it less of an issue. Still, it's something to consider when deciding between the two.
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Applications of LTE and 4G: Which One Should You Choose?
LTE and 4G are very similar, making it hard to pick one. There are no clear differences that make one better than the other. Still, some choices are preferred at certain times.
LTE and 4G have opened up new areas, like video conferencing for many users.
Video conferencing is now common for remote work, online classes, and more. It requires fast internet, making 4G the better choice for these needs.
4G is also great for hotspots, with speeds up to 1Gb per second. It's a good alternative to local Wi-Fi when needed.
For internet access on multiple devices, 4G is ideal. You can share a 4G hotspot across devices, keeping speeds high. This is crucial in rural areas without cable access.
The Internet of Things (IoT) plays a big role in 4G and LTE networks. IoT needs to transfer lots of data over IP addresses. This has made it hard to find a network that can handle it.
However, 4G seems to be a better choice for IoT than LTE. Other uses for 4G and LTE include Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) services, telemedicine, and even HDTV. It's important for users and IT teams to pick the right network for their needs.
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