4G vs. 5G – What’s the Difference?

With the emergence of 5G as the latest technology for home broadband and mobile internet, many Australians are wondering how it compares to the 4G network. While each generation of internet is defined by additional benefits, 5G keeps the tradition alive by providing ample bandwidth, a fast connection and with Optus 5G Home, unlimited data.

4G upped the game when it was first launched, introducing faster internet speeds, high definition mobile streaming and crisper quality video calls. Likewise, the 5G network aims to provide current day, and future benefits to Australians. By the time the 5G network reaches full maturity, it will introduce three key benefits:

Faster speeds: As the network evolves, Optus 5G will bring faster speeds, meaning downloading movies, games and other large files may take only a fraction of the time.

A bigger bandwidth: The greater bandwidth of 5G networks will allow more devices to be connected at the same time, and more data to pass through simultaneously.

Near real time connections: In the future, 5G will allow near instant response times between devices, allowing for better online gaming and VR experiences.

While 5G aims to add to the home broadband and mobile benefits for Australian consumers, it won’t be replacing 4G but rather working alongside it to provide Aussies with better internet access at selected locations throughout the country. While 5G is rolling out in a growing number of Australia cities and suburbs, Aussies will continue to be able to access a 4G connection where available when they’re outside a 5G area. Optus 5G is not available in NT or TAS.

5G Rollout: How Will it Look?

The Optus 5G network is rolling out in selected areas, with a Mobile and Home broadband offering available.  The Optus network is being built with a video optimised internet solution to ensure that our 5G customers have the best experience on the Optus 5G network. This network optimisation is critical in allowing Aussies to access the premium streaming benefits of 4K Ultra HD video.

As we push ahead with the roll out of our 5G network we are also continuing to test and implement new ways of enhancing our 5G network such as a dual band production network which harnesses the power of both the 2300MHz and 3500MHz spectrum. “Initial findings from our dual band testing have shown that the use of these two spectrum bands delivered increased 5G capacity and coverage which if deployed will ultimately benefit our customers,” said Kent Wu, Optus Head of Network Access Planning and Quality.

Optus currently has 5G towers and sites throughout Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and other key locations in NSW, Victoria and Queensland. Optus is deploying a robust system of 5G sites, ensuring that a growing number of Australians have access to the benefits of 5G. Optus is constantly launching new 5G sites throughout the country, so see if your suburb is 5G-ready here.

Not in NT or TAS.