4G vs. LTE: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
4G is the fourth generation of mobile network technology, while LTE is a standard for wireless data transmission within the 4G spectrum.
Key Differences
4G stands for the fourth generation of mobile network technology, offering higher speeds and better connectivity than its predecessor, 3G. LTE, or Long Term Evolution, is a standard for wireless communication of high-speed data for mobile phones. It falls under the umbrella of 4G technologies, but it doesn’t fully comply with the 4G requirements.
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Nov 14, 2023
4G is a leap forward in terms of network capability, providing faster data transfer rates and improved network performance. LTE is often marketed as 4G LTE, suggesting it's a precursor to true 4G standards, providing a faster experience than 3G but not quite reaching the peak speeds of 4G.
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Nov 14, 2023
The International Telecommunications Union-Radio (ITU-R) communication sector set the standards for 4G, which requires a mobile network to support peak data rates of at least 100 Mbps. LTE, while considered a 4G technology, typically does not achieve these speeds due to various factors like spectrum availability and network congestion.
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4G encompasses not only LTE but also other technologies like WiMAX and HSPA+ that are capable of delivering high-speed data. LTE is a significant step toward 4G but was initially deployed as a stopgap measure as carriers and countries were building out true 4G networks.
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In essence, all LTE is 4G, but not all 4G is LTE. 4G represents the goal of connectivity standards, while LTE is the path to achieving those standards. As technology advances, the distinction between LTE and 4G becomes less noticeable, with LTE Advanced (LTE-A) being an example of a standard that meets true 4G criteria.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
The fourth generation of mobile network standards.
A standard within the 4G network family.
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Speed
Requires 100 Mbps peak data rates.
Often slower than the 4G requirements.
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Technology
Includes multiple technologies like WiMAX, LTE, and HSPA+.
Specifically refers to the Long Term Evolution standard.
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Deployment
The final goal of mobile data transmission standards.
An interim standard leading up to 4G.
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Availability
Available globally with various technologies.
Widely available but not in all regions as true 4G.
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4G and LTE Definitions
4G
It provides comprehensive and secure all-IP based mobile broadband solutions to smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices.
Since I got a 4G plan, I can stream high-definition videos on my commute.
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LTE
LTE is a standard for wireless broadband communication.
My LTE service is fast enough for video calls without any lag.
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4G
4G is the successor to the 3G and 2G families of standards.
Upgrading from 3G to 4G made a huge difference in my browsing experience.
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LTE
It is designed to increase the capacity and speed of wireless data networks.
Since the upgrade to LTE, my app downloads are much quicker.
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4G
This technology supports ultra-broadband internet access for mobile and fixed devices.
With 4G, I can turn my phone into a hotspot and get laptop internet access anywhere.
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LTE
LTE is often referred to as 4G LTE, but it doesn't fully meet the technical requirements of 4G technology.
Even though it's not true 4G, LTE still gives me high-speed data service.
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Nov 10, 2023
4G
4G is the fourth generation of broadband cellular network technology.
My phone's download speeds are incredibly fast because it's connected to 4G.
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Nov 10, 2023
LTE
It represents a significant improvement over previous mobile communication standards.
The LTE rollout in my area greatly improved my mobile internet experience.
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Nov 10, 2023
4G
4G networks offer faster speeds compared to earlier mobile networks, enabling advanced mobile services.
Online gaming on my phone is seamless with my 4G connection.
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Nov 10, 2023
LTE
LTE aims to provide 10 times the speeds of 3G networks for mobile devices.
I switched to an LTE plan and now my music streams flawlessly.
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Nov 10, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can I get 4G speeds with LTE?
Yes, LTE can deliver near-4G speeds and is often sufficient for most mobile uses.
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Nov 14, 2023
Why is LTE sometimes called 4G LTE?
It’s marketed as 4G LTE to highlight its superiority over 3G, despite not being true 4G.
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What is 4G?
4G is the fourth generation of cellular wireless standards offering high data speeds.
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Nov 14, 2023
How much faster is 4G compared to LTE?
4G is theoretically faster, but in practice, LTE can achieve similar speeds.
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What does LTE stand for?
LTE stands for Long Term Evolution, a standard for wireless data transmission.
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Are 4G and LTE available everywhere?
Coverage varies, but both are widely available in urban and suburban areas globally.
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Will 4G work on an LTE network?
Yes, 4G-capable devices will work on LTE networks.
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How do I know if my phone is using 4G or LTE?
Your phone's status bar will display a 4G or LTE icon when connected.
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Can I still make calls over LTE?
Yes, with Voice over LTE (VoLTE), you can make calls over the LTE network.
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Is LTE the same as 4G?
LTE is a type of 4G technology but doesn’t always meet the full 4G speed requirements.
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Do I need a special phone for 4G or LTE?
Yes, you need a device that supports 4G or LTE technology.
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Can I use LTE when traveling abroad?
It depends on international roaming agreements and local network support.
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Is 4G LTE good for gaming?
Yes, LTE can provide low enough latency for a good gaming experience.
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Will my LTE phone work on a 4G network?
Yes, LTE phones are compatible with 4G networks.
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Is 4G the same all over the world?
The 4G standards are global, but speeds and frequencies can vary by country.
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Is it worth upgrading to a 4G or LTE plan?
If you need faster data speeds and improved connectivity, upgrading is beneficial.
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Does 4G or LTE use more battery?
High-speed data can consume more battery, but it depends on usage and phone model.
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What's faster than LTE?
LTE Advanced (LTE-A) and 5G are faster technologies.
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Do all carriers offer LTE?
Most carriers offer LTE, but availability can vary, especially in rural areas.
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Is LTE cheaper than 4G?
Pricing depends on the carrier and your data plan, not the technology itself.
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Nov 14, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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