Difference Between 5 G Vs. 5 G UW Vs. 5 G UC

Today, all major mobile phones 📱, such as iPhone 12 and 13, Google Pixel 6, and Samsung Galaxy S22, support 5G, even the ones that are pocket-friendly. Though you don’t know much in detail about 5G, you might definitely know that it provides exceptionally good internet connectivity with extremely high speed, i.e., better than 4G.

However, it is essential for you to understand that 5G takes multiple forms. All major carriers, namely Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, have deployed 5G networks nationwide. 5G UW, 5G UC, and 5G Plus are the respective names for the aforementioned carrier’s high-band networks. These are the different forms of 5G.

As many of you may not know about these different forms of 5G, I thought to curate an article on this to help you get a better grasp of 5G. I hope this article will help you. 🙂

What is 5G?

5G, a fifth-generation mobile network, is a global wireless standard following 4G. It is a kind of network designed to connect everything, including machines, devices, and objects, and everyone virtually.

The most adorable features of 5G are higher multi-Gbps peak data speeds, low latency, high availability, extensive network bandwidth, and higher reliability. Besides these, improved efficiency and higher performance result in amazing user experiences.

5G has the ability to revolutionize the mobile ecosystem by expanding it into new realms. Along with it, it will also have a significant impact on various other industries, such as transportation, healthcare, agriculture, logistics, and many more.

Although it provides a speedier experience, 5G does not provide a steady connection. Depending on the band you use and the region, the peak download speed varies considerably.

The three types of 5G are created from these bands, which are separated into frequencies. High-band, mid-band, and low-band are their names. Let us explore them below. ⬇️

1. Low-band

Low-band (below 1GHz) gives more coverage while maintaining speeds similar to 4G LTE. This is due to the fact that its signal may travel a great distance via obstructions. It’s a likely low band if you’re linked to a 5G network outside of a densely populated area.

2. High-band

High-band, also known as mmWave, operates between 30 and 300 GHz and can download a movie in seconds, but at a price. A high-band link can be hampered by even the smallest blockage. To lessen these problems, the FCC is extending the spectrum of high-band frequencies.

3. Mid-band

The primary force behind the deployment of 5G has been the mid-band (between 1 and 7GHz). With a solid balance of coverage and capacity, it serves as the foundation of connection. The U.S. uses this band’s 3.7 to 4.2 GHz, also known as the C-band. The most significant 5G band is this one.

What is 5G UW?

Verizon’s high-band and mid-band networks are included in 5G UW, also known as 5G Ultra Wideband. You’ll have trouble locating a trustworthy UW connection outside of the cities because of its limited coverage.

Your phone displays a 5G UW icon if you are connected to the UW network. The inability to discern if you are on a high-band or low-band network shouldn’t be a problem until you need to download a large file.

Commonly known as Verizon Nationwide, its low-band network has greater coverage than 5G UW. However, the drawback is that it is not faster than 4G. When you are connected to a Verizon Nationwide network, you can see the respective on your mobile phone.

What is 5G UC?

T-Mobile’s 5G UC (Ultra Capacity) network also comprises mid-band and high-band networks. However, it is a restricted network, as it can cover only major cities. You can see an icon of 5G UC on your phone if you are connected to the network. Like Verizon’s 5G UW, you’ll have to rely on guessing to figure out whether you’re connected to the mid-band or high-band network.

You’ll likely connect to their 5G Extended Range network if 5G UC isn’t available where you are. The 5G symbol on your phone lets you know that this is not significantly quicker than 4G LTE.

What is 5G Plus?

Like T-Mobile and Verizon, AT&T has arranged its 5G network called 5G Plus, which comes with high-band and mid-band networks. But, the major drawback is that it does not match the coverage capability of 5G UW and 5G UC.

In the United States, it’s only available at a select few stadiums and airports, so unless you’re there for an event or a flight, you won’t use it. When you are connected to 5G Plus, you will see the 5G+ icon

Conclusion

Now, I hope that you have a better understanding of these fancy terms 5G, 5G UC, 5G UW, and 5G Plus. If you’re trying to decide between Verizon’s 5G UW and T-5G Mobile’s UC, there isn’t much that separates the two in terms of speeds. Contrarily, AT&T subscribers can anticipate limited coverage.

As new Android and iPhone mobile phones are supporting the 5G network, you can now enjoy the high-band and mid-band networks of all three carriers: Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T.

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