4G vs 4G LTE: Differences and Comparisons

The world of mobile telecommunications has seen incredible advancements over the years, from 2G to 3G, and now 4G. However, in the realm of 4G, you may often come across two terms: 4G and 4G LTE. While they are related, they refer to different aspects of the mobile communication technology. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between 4G and 4G LTE, their similarities, and how they impact the user experience.

Understanding 4G and 4G LTE

Before diving into their differences, let's first define what 4G and 4G LTE mean.

• 4G (Fourth Generation): This is the fourth generation of mobile telecommunications technology, following 3G. It offers significantly faster data speeds, lower latency, and higher bandwidth than previous generations. The primary aim of 4G technology was to deliver better quality video streaming, faster downloads, and smoother mobile internet browsing.

• 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution): LTE is a specific standard that is often marketed as 4G, but it’s technically an advanced version of 3G technology. LTE was designed to be a stepping stone towards true 4G capabilities. It provides much faster speeds than older 3G technologies but doesn't always meet the full technical requirements of the 4G standard defined by the ITU (International Telecommunication Union).

   

Key Differences Between 4G and 4G LTE

Speed and Performance

• 4G: A true 4G network, as defined by the ITU, is capable of offering download speeds of at least 1 Gbps (gigabit per second) for stationary users and 100 Mbps (megabits per second) for mobile users. This speed is ideal for high-definition video streaming, fast internet browsing, and high-quality online gaming.

• 4G LTE: LTE, on the other hand, offers speeds that range from 5 to 12 Mbps for download and 2 to 5 Mbps for upload, although it can theoretically support higher speeds under optimal conditions. While LTE provides faster speeds than 3G, it does not meet the technical requirements of a true 4G network, but it’s a significant improvement over its predecessors.

Latency

• 4G: True 4G offers very low latency, typically around 10 ms (milliseconds). This low latency allows for seamless real-time applications like VoIP calls, video conferencing, and online gaming.

• 4G LTE: LTE has lower latency than 3G, but it is not as fast as true 4G. Typical latency for LTE ranges between 20 to 30 ms, which is still sufficient for most internet activities, but not as optimal as true 4G.

Coverage

• 4G: True 4G networks offer expansive coverage, especially in urban areas. However, it may not be available everywhere yet, particularly in rural or remote regions, as full 4G infrastructure is still being deployed globally.

• 4G LTE: LTE networks have broader coverage compared to true 4G, as LTE is more widely implemented across the globe. Most mobile carriers today offer LTE coverage in urban and suburban areas, but LTE speeds can vary depending on location and network congestion.

Technology and Standards

• 4G: The ITU (International Telecommunication Union) set the benchmark for true 4G speeds and technology, which include advanced features like OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) and MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) to support high-speed mobile broadband.

• 4G LTE: LTE is an evolution of the existing 3G technology, using technologies like OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) and MIMO to improve data rates and reduce interference. While LTE can provide faster speeds than 3G, it doesn't always meet the strict technical criteria outlined for a true 4G network.

Compatibility

• 4G: True 4G networks are compatible with specific devices that can support the higher bandwidths, such as those designed for ultra-fast video streaming and mobile apps.

• 4G LTE: Most smartphones and mobile devices today support LTE connectivity, and 4G LTE is the most widely used network standard across mobile carriers. In fact, many devices marketed as “4G” are, in fact, using 4G LTE technology, even though they may not meet the strict criteria for a true 4G connection.

Comparison of  between 4G and 4G LTE

Below is a comparison chart of 4G vs 4G LTE

Why Do We See the Terms "4G" and "4G LTE" Used Interchangeably?

In everyday language, 4G LTE is often referred to simply as 4G because, for most practical purposes, LTE provides speeds and performance that are sufficient for typical smartphone activities such as web browsing, streaming, and gaming.

Even though true 4G is technically different from LTE, the marketing focus is often on the speed improvement over 3G networks. For this reason, LTE networks are often advertised as “4G,” making it difficult for consumers to differentiate between the two

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

From a consumer's perspective, the difference between 4G and 4G LTE may not be particularly noticeable unless you are using the network for very data-intensive tasks, such as ultra-high-definition video streaming or real-time gaming in remote areas. The main takeaway is that:

• 4G LTE is already sufficient for most people's daily mobile internet needs.

• True 4G networks may offer more extreme performance capabilities, but their availability is still limited in some areas.

In short, 4G LTE has become the standard for modern mobile networks, offering faster speeds and more reliable connections than older technologies like 3G. While true 4G networks may be a future prospect, the vast majority of users today are experiencing the benefits of 4G LTE without even realizing it

4G vs 4G LTE: Which One Is Better?

The question of whether 4G or 4G LTE is better depends on the context. 4G LTE is more commonly available and sufficient for most users, providing excellent internet speeds for everyday use. While true 4G networks are faster and more capable in terms of speed and latency, they are not as widespread and are still being developed.

In everyday terms, 4G LTE is the more relevant technology, as it represents the current state of mobile internet performance for most users. However, the ongoing development of true 4G and 5G networks is sure to provide even greater advancements in the near future.

For now, as a consumer, you can enjoy the vast benefits of 4G LTE and its speedy, reliable internet connection, which is likely to meet your needs for the foreseeable future.