5G vs Wi Fi 6 What Is the Difference

Want to know the difference between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G? This article is for you! Here’s how the two remarkable technologies compare!

What Is 5 G?

5G networks offer 50 times more speed, 10 times more latency, and 1,000 times more capacity in comparison to 4G LTE. This means 5G will be able to transmit a lot more data and connect more devices and provide users an enhanced experience. As in the case of LTE, mobile carriers will have been expanding their 5G coverage areas, and users need a 5G-enabled smartphone to access the network.

What Is Wi-Fi 6?

Wi-Fi 6, based on the IEEE 802.11ax standard, delivers 4 times higher capacity and 75% lower latency. This connectivity offers nearly three times the speed its predecessor, Wi-Fi 5.2, offered. The best part is that pretty much anyone can operate a Wi-Fi network—and many of us use it in our homes and offices, connected to broadband service.

What Is the Difference?

For many years, two types of wireless internet technology have co-existed – the Wi-Fo is a local area network that is primarily used indoors, like at a workplace or in a home. And, cellular networks, like the 4G LTE and 5G networks are offered by major carriers and are essentially a type of wide-area network that can be used indoors and outdoors, typically over long distances.

Both 5G and Wi-Fi6 are technologies that complement each other, and they provide lower latency, higher speeds, and increased capacity in comparison to their predecessors.

How Do They Complement Each Other?

Wi-Fi and 5G have complementary functionalities. With regard to user experience, both Wi-Fi 6 and 5G offer low latency and gigabit speeds. But, because Wi-Fi is less expensive to deploy, scale, and maintain, it will continue to be the more commonly used technology in both business and home environments. Given the fact that the 5G network has a longer range, it will be adopted primarily for smartphone usage. In the future, it will also power connected cars, large manufacturing operations, and smart city deployments.