A few discussion topics about 3G&4G...

[scottmbolt]

Just curious ...


1. Is 3G honestly faster than 4G?

2. As more and more people start to use 4G networks, will that free up 3G networks, making them possibly faster?

3. Which 4G network is the best right now, speed and coverage wise?

 

[B2L]

Just curious ...


1. Is 3G honestly faster than 4G?

2. As more and more people start to use 4G networks, will that free up 3G networks, making them possibly faster?

3. Which 4G network is the best right now, speed and coverage wise?

4G is faster than 3G, although carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T have HSPA+ support for all Android devices. So you can still get some 4G speeds on a 3G phone, It will work up to 7.2 mbs down.

I highly doubt that it will make them faster, at least not for a while. Since 4G devices use 3G as well when not in 4G coverage.

This last question is tough to answer, because Verizon's LTE network is by far the fastest, although I believe technically T-Mobile has the largest 4G network. As for the best coverage, and highest speeds that just might be T-Mobile.

Types of 4G Used

As of August 2011, U.S. carriers currently use the following types of 4G technologies:

• AT&T = HSPA+ (21 mbps)
• Sprint = WiMax
• Verizon = LTE
• T-Mobile = HSPA+ (42 mbps & 21 mbps)

Experts consider LTE to be the highest quality network in the United States now and for the foreseeable future.[42] Networks test have shown HSPA+ and WiMax perform significantly worse than LTE and AT&T and Sprint have both made plans to integrate this technology into their network in the future.[43]
In 2011, multiple independent researchers have ranked 4G speed and experiences and have found consistent results. Verizon's 4G LTE has statistically significantly outperformed other network's 4G on tests to date (August 2011). [44] [45] [46]
[edit] 2011 U.S. Speed Test Results

This independent speed test took into account coverage as well as downloading, uploading, and webpage loading speeds in locations all across America. [47]
Rank. Carrier, 4G Technology - Score

1. Verizon, 4G LTE = 93
2. T-Mobile, HSPA+ (42&21 mbps) = 75
3. AT&T HSPA+ (21 mbps) = 63
4. Sprint, WiMax = 47

This study found "4G LTE" not only to be faster than other types of U.S. 4G, but also faster than DSL or Cable Internet in some areas.

4G - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

[scottmbolt]

No wonder you're a guide

thanks!