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Technology Comparison

5G vs Fixed Wireless Internet

Both are wireless options; 5G typically offers easier setup while fixed wireless may offer more consistent speeds.

Quick Answer

Both are wireless options; 5G typically offers easier setup while fixed wireless may offer more consistent speeds. 5G offers speeds up to 1 Gbps with 10-30 ms latency, while Fixed Wireless reaches 1 Gbps with 15-50 ms latency.

📶

5G Home Internet

Max Speed: 1 Gbps

📻

Fixed Wireless Internet

Max Speed: 1 Gbps

Performance Comparison

Max Speed1 Gbps vs 1 Gbps
5G
Fixed Wireless
Latency (Lower is Better)10-30 ms vs 15-50 ms
5G
Fixed Wireless
ReliabilityGood (signal dependent) vs Good (line of sight)
5G
Fixed Wireless
Specification
5G
Fixed Wireless
Max Speed
1 Gbps
1 Gbps
Typical Speed
100-300 Mbps
25-100 Mbps
Latency
10-30 ms
15-50 ms
Reliability
Good (signal dependent)
Good (line of sight)
Availability
Growing (25% of US)
Regional (15% of US)
Installation
Self-install (plug & play)
Professional required
Price Range
$40-$70/mo
$40-$80/mo

📶 5G

5G home internet uses cellular networks to deliver broadband-like speeds without cables. It's a newer technology that offers an alternative to traditional wired connections.

Best For:

  • Renters
  • Quick setup needs
  • Areas without wired options
  • Secondary connection

Limitations:

  • Signal dependent
  • Can be affected by weather
  • Limited to covered areas
  • May have priority data limits

Top Providers:

T-MobileVerizon 5G HomeAT&T

📻 Fixed Wireless

Fixed wireless uses radio signals from a nearby tower to deliver internet to an antenna on your home. It bridges the gap between wired and satellite in rural areas.

Best For:

  • Rural areas
  • Areas without cable/fiber
  • Farms
  • Small businesses

Limitations:

  • Requires line of sight to tower
  • Weather can affect signal
  • Limited providers

Top Providers:

Rise BroadbandStarryLocal WISPs

Which Should You Choose?

Choose 5G if:

  • • Low latency is important (gaming, video calls)
  • • You want easy setup without cables

Choose Fixed Wireless if:

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