NETGEAR vs. NETGEAR 5 GHz – Which frequency band performs better?
In this article, we will go over the differences between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. We will also highlight the ideal conditions that determine which of the two you should use.
If you own a wireless router (particularly those that are 802.11n or newer) then you have probably come across the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. Most dual-band routers, such as the ones produced by NETGEAR have different wireless radios that allow simultaneous connections over both the 2.4 GHz and the 5 GHz bands. The maximum transfer speed in the 5 GHz band is 450 Mbps and the maximum transfer speed on the 2.4 GHz band is 145 Mbps. Whenever you enable the two bands on your NETGEAR router, two separate Wi-Fi networks are created. The default name for the 5 GHz band is known as ‘NETGEAR-5G), while the 2.4 GHz band is referred to as ‘NETGEAR’.
Now that we have a background of these two frequency bands, let us take a look at their differences and highlight which of the two frequency bands perform better.
Table of Contents
NETGEAR vs. NETGEAR 5GHz – How do they differ?
Range
One of the main differences between NETGEAR 2.4 GHz and NETGEAR 5 GHz is seen in their range (coverage). The 2.4 GHz band provides coverage at a longer range, whereas the 5GHz provides less coverage. The main reason why the range is lower in the 5GHz band is because it cannot penetrate any solid objects, such as walls and floors.
Speed
Another key difference between the NETGEAR and the NETGEAR 5 GHz is in their speed. The 2.4 GHz band transmits data at slower speeds, while the NETGEAR 5 GHz allows data to be transmitted much faster. This means that, the NETGEAR 5 GHz band allows you to upload and download most of your media files much faster than the NETGEAR 2.4 GHz.
Channels
Generally, your Wi-Fi connection on any of these two frequency bands can be faster or slower because of interference from other wireless devices in your home or office. Most household devices, such as garage door openers, microwaves, and other Wi-Fi-enabled devices use the 2.4 GHz band. What happens is that, when multiple devices around your house keep trying to use the same radio/frequency space, your network becomes overcrowded.
The 2.4 GHz, which has only 11 channels, tends to be more overcrowded than the 5 GHz band, which has 23 channels for device use. So, if at all you are experiencing a lot of interference from other devices, consider using the NETGEAR-5G band.
The table below gives a summary of the differences between the NETGEAR and NETGEAR 5G
Comparison Feature |
NETGEAR |
NETGEAR 5G |
Range Coverage |
Long range |
Short Range |
Channels |
11 channels only |
23 channels |
Speed |
Slow |
Much faster |
Should I select the NETGEAR or the NETGEAR 5GHz for my network devices?
A wired Ethernet connection is often stronger, more stable, and more reliable than a wireless one. Additionally, a wired connection experiences little to no dropped connections due to interference and they offer a much lower latency. So, if you are using 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and are trying to figure out whether you need to upgrade to the NETGEAR 5GHz Wi-Fi, you are going to have to assess your internet needs and individual preferences.
If at all you are experiencing dropped connections, are playing intense online games, or need more internet speeds for streaming 4K music videos, you should consider using the 5GHz frequency band. Also, if you live in a house with multiple 2.4 GHz band devices, wireless routers, and various monitors, then you must be struggling with slow speeds. For this reason, the only way out would be upgrading to the NETGEAR 5GHz, which offers faster internet speeds and a more reliable internet connection.
Besides that, if you have a dual or tri-band router that feature the 2.4 and 5 GHz band, then you may have to make the choice on which band your smart devices should connect to. You also have the choice to let your devices work with whichever band they are designed to work with. However, if your network device supports both frequency bands, you should fully assess whether you need the 2.4 or 5GHz band. Also, you should ask yourself whether you are comfortable with the shorter effective range that comes with using the NETGEAR 5G or the standard NETGEAR band.
Based on that background, we recommend using the 2.4 GHz band (NETGEAR) on all your network devices, unless you own a device that demands the need for the NETGEAR 5G. This way, you can easily reduce congestion on your network because all the low-use devices on your network do not need to compete on the 5GHz frequency band.
Verdict: So, which is better NETGEAR or NETGEAR 5GHz?
With all factors considered, the NETGEAR-5G is better than the NETGEAR. The 5GHz is a newer band than the 2.4 GHz band. As a result, there are very many users on the 2.4 GHz causing congestion of signals. The 5 GHz, on the other hand, is much less congested and provides faster internet speeds. However, you should acknowledge that the 5GHz has shorter range than the 2.4 GHz, but this shouldn’t be so much of a problem. Try both of them first, then choose the one that works best for you.
FAQs
-
What are the benefits of the NETGEAR 5G?
NETGEAR 5G is significantly faster than the NETGEAR, has more traffic capacity, and has much lower latency. The 5G seamlessly accommodates high bandwidth applications and ensures lag-free streaming and gaming.
-
Do all routers have the NETGEAR 5G?
No. The NETGEAR 5GHz band is only found in the newest NETGEAR routers that are dual or tri-band.
-
Why are these two frequency bands important?
Generally, radio communications signals should occupy a range of frequencies that carry most of its energy- what we call its bandwidth. These frequency bands represent one communication channel or can be divided into many sub-channels.