Which is better for 5G: 2.5GHz or 3.5GHz, and why?

5G NR
, , ,
1

Hello Experts.

Which is better for 5G implementation: 2.5 GHz or 3.5 GHz frequency?

Which one is better and why?

Which is better for 5G: 2.5GHz or 3.5GHz, and why
Which is better for 5G: 2.5GHz or 3.5GHz, and why933Ă—764 213 KB

1 Like
2

For Coverage requirements 2.5 is good
For Capacity → 3.5 GHz

2.5 GHz can give max 100 MHz bandwidth;
Whereas 3.5 GHz one operator can get 200 MHz can be utilized 2 CC CA each with 100 MHz.

1 MHz cost wise 3.5 GHz will be cheaper.

2 Likes
3

It depends on what you’re going to serve, right?

2.5GHz:
Better coverage and penetration, ideal for urban and suburban areas; can take advantage of existing LTE infrastructure. Wavelength is longer and easier to propagate.

The downside is that you’ll have low transmission rate, but depending on the current scenario, people are well served with what we have today and it will be good with low latency.

3.5GHz:

The upside is that you have more rate and everything, but you lose out on propagation distance, depending on where you’re going to implement it, it’s not worth it!

I don’t see it being worth implementing 3.5GHz in cities with large areas and low population density. Not to mention that the cost is high.

For me, in terms of current efficiency and cost, 2.5GHz is better.

3 Likes
4

In 5G there are three types of bands:

  • Low bands (less than 1Ghz): has greater coverage but lower speed;

  • Mid bands (1Ghz- 6Ghz): offer a balance of both speed and balance;

  • High bands (24Ghz- 40Ghz): offer higher speeds but a smaller coverage radius.

All you options are mid bands, as @Tech_Playon said the 2.5Ghz is the best option.

CR (2.5Ghz) > CR (3.5Ghz)

Where CR means Coverage Radius.

1 Like
5

But in an overall view, you can’t say absolutely that one frequency band is best than other one.

It mainly depends on the area also and the needs.

Is it an urban, rural area?

In urban area, mostly we try to find a good balance within coverage and capacity.

And in rural area, coverage is more important.

So that’s also a good parameter to take into consideration regarding frequency band planning and choice.

3 Likes
6

Thanks @Nganyo_JC, you are right, the area parameter is an important parameter.

I did not mention it.:pray:t6:

1 Like