What is 4G vs 5G mobile broadband?

If you’re looking for a mobile plan, you have a decision to make – do you want a 4G or a 5G mobile plan? 5G is the newest mobile technology, but is it the right one for you? Let’s find out.

What does 4G and 5G mean?

The ‘G’ in 4G or 5G refers to the generation of mobile network technology. 4G is the 4^th generation, 5G is the 5^th , and so on. Newer mobiles can usually use newer generations, but they can use older networks if they need to. For example, a phone that can use 5G, can also use 4G if the former isn’t available.

What’s the difference between 4G and 5G? 

Speed 

5G has a much higher average download speed than 4G. For example, according to the analyst Open Signal, the Optus 4G network averages at 54.7Mbps, whereas the 5G network averages at 212.3Mbps.

Reliability 

5G is a lot more reliable than older generations. Previous generations of mobile networks often struggled supporting lots of users at the same time, but 5G has a much larger capacity! Not to say that issues can’t happen, but your connection is far more likely to be congested on a 4G network than a 5G network.

Coverage 

Australia’s a big place to cover, and 4G has had a big head-start. In 2025, 4G covers almost all of Australia, but 5G has some catching up to do. At present, 5G is mostly found in built-up towns and cities.

When looking for a mobile plan, always check the provider’s coverage map to make sure you’ll have reception! You can find the Optus coverage map here.

That said, if you are on a 5G plan in an area that doesn’t have 5G, you won’t be cut off. You’ll just default back to using the 4G network!

5G rolling out in selected areas. Excludes TAS & NT.

What should I use?

If you have 5G in your area, it’s going to be an improvement on 4G. It’s faster and more reliable. 5G plans can sometimes be more expensive, but they are getting more affordable on average as it becomes more common. Apart from accessibility, there isn’t much of a reason to choose 4G over 5G if given the option.

How do I know if I can use 5G?

Does your plan offer 5G?

When you purchase a mobile plan, it should tell you whether it can use both 4G and 5G networks, or just a 4G network. Each mobile network provider such as Optus or Telstra operates their own networks which might have different coverage in your area.

Can your phone support 5G?

Most new mobile phones in the last 3-4 years support 5G. If you’re buying a new phone, the specifications will tell you what generation it can use.

To check if your existing phone can support 5G, you can google your make and model, or check in your phone’s settings:

Android phones

1.      Open Settings.

2.      Select Network & Internet.

3.      Select Mobile networks.

4.      A list of mobile generations, or Gs, that the phone can support should appear.

iPhones

1.      Open Settings.

2.      Select Cellular.

3.      Select Cellular Data Options.

4.      Select Voice & Data. A list of mobile generations, or Gs, that the phone can support should appear. You can also select which mobile networks your phone uses.

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