What Are Some Key Differences Between 2.4 GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi?

The internet has changed the way we work, study, live, play, and shop. It is now a part of our everyday life. Individuals use it for multiple purposes like business, entertainment, or education. This makes it even more necessary to have a high-speed internet connection in our homes and offices. But deciding if 5g is better than 2.4g is quite difficult. So, let's dive deeper to know.

Understanding The Difference Between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi

You must know that your routers use radio frequencies to transmit the internet to devices connected to Wi-Fi, including laptops, smartphones, etc. Well, the basic difference between 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz is based on speed and coverage. When it comes to speed, 2.4 GHz will always be slower than 5 GHz because the more crowded a frequency band becomes, the slower will be a connection.

1. Speed:

Most of the routers in the markets use 2.4 GHz because it is less expensive as compared to 5 GHz and has a longer range. On the other hand, 5 GHz Wi-Fi is faster, as its frequency band has less interference and is used in small areas. Also, this is more reliable than 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.

2. Range:

The longer waves used by the 2.4 GHz are better suited to longer ranges and transmission through walls and other objects. But the 5 GHz have shorter waves which make it less able to penetrate walls and other obstacles.

3. Interference: 5 GHz Faces Less Congestion

1. 2.4 GHz is more crowded because many devices (like microwaves, Bluetooth, and baby monitors) use this frequency.

2. This congestion can cause interference and slow down your internet.

3. 5 GHz has more available channels and faces less interference, ensuring a more stable connection.

4. Device Compatibility: 2.4 GHz Works with More Devices

1. Older devices only support 2.4 GHz, making it a more universal option.

2. Newer devices (like modern smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles) support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

3. If you have an older device, it might not even detect a 5 GHz network.

5. Usage: Which One Should You Pick?

1. Use 2.4 GHz if:

1. You need Wi-Fi to cover a large area.

2. You have older devices that don't support 5 GHz.

3. You're only browsing the web or checking emails.

2. Use 5 GHz if:

1. You need faster speeds for streaming, gaming, or video calls.

2. You live in an area with lots of Wi-Fi networks and interference.

3. You're close to the router, as 5 GHz struggles with distance.

Which One Should You Use?

A 2.4 GHz connection travels much further at lower speeds and 5 GHz frequencies offer better speeds at short distances. You should, therefore decide according to your needs. Most of the electronic devices use the 2.4 GHz frequency like baby monitors, microwaves, security cameras, etc. And if most of the devices are near your routers, 5 GHz is the best choice. Furthermore, for activities like gaming, video conferencing, etc. this frequency is better.

Final Thoughts

Deciding if 5g or 2.4g is better is tough. You should go for 5GHz if your applications require higher speeds. But if you need connectivity between two large points at longer distances and you have no issue with speed, 2.4 GHz is better.

Understanding these differences can help you make better choices for your internet setup. And the by considering factors mentioned in this blog, you can understand is 5G Wi-Fi better or not.