4G or 5G Phone: Key Differences & How to Choose

As 5G technology rapidly evolves, many users struggle with the dilemma of choosing between a 4G or 5G phone. A 5G network offers faster speeds, lower latency, and stronger connectivity, allowing a smartphone to handle communication, streaming, gaming, and work tasks more efficiently.

So, is a 5G phone better than 4G for everyone? Do 5G phones support 4G? These are the common questions many people face as mobile networks continue to advance. Worry not. This blog breaks down the differences between 4G and 5G phones, including their definitions, advantages, drawbacks, key distinctions, and practical buying advice. By the end, you will know which option suits you the best.

What Is 5G?

5G, the fifth generation of mobile network technology, is a significant leap forward from previous standards. 5G significantly transforms how mobile connectivity works. With peak download speeds that can reach up to 10 Gbps and ultra-low latency, 5G supports high-quality video streaming, cloud gaming, and real-time communication without noticeable delays.

Commercially launched in 2019, 5G adoption has been accelerating rapidly. By 2025, global 5G subscriptions are projected to top 2.9 billion. The widespread adoption of 5G is driving innovations such as smart cities, autonomous vehicles, augmented reality (AR), and real-time gaming on mobile devices.

Pros:

- Up to 1-10 Gbps speed, ideal for 4K streaming and large downloads.

- Ultra-low latency of 1-10 ms, perfect for gaming and AR.

- Greater capacity to connect more devices without slowing down.

- Backward compatible with 4G networks for seamless use.

- Future-proof for upcoming technologies such as IoT, smart cities, and AI-driven devices.

Cons:

- Coverage is still limited, especially in rural areas.

- 5G-enabled phones are generally more expensive.

- High-speed 5G usage consumes more battery.

- Real-world speeds vary depending on carrier and location.

What Is 4G?

4G, or fourth-generation mobile technology, also known as LTE (Long-Term Evolution). The technology emerged in the late 2000s as a major upgrade from 3G, focusing on high-speed internet access for smartphones. With download speeds ranging from 20 Mbps to 100 Mbps under normal conditions, 5G provides reliable connectivity for everyday tasks like browsing, video calls, and social media.

By 2020, 4G covered over 80% of the global population, and in 2025, it remains the backbone of mobile networks worldwide, with billions of active connections supporting legacy devices. Its coverage is also much more widespread than 5G, making it reliable almost anywhere, including rural regions.

Pros:

- Wide global availability and strong coverage.

- Lower battery consumption to extend phone life.

- Reliable speeds for everyday tasks.

- Cost-effective with affordable phones and data plans.

Cons:

- Higher latency of 20-200 ms that limits real-time applications.

- Slower speeds compared to 5G.

- Struggles with device density in crowded settings.

- Less future-proof as networks transition to 5G.

What Is the Difference Between 4G and 5G Phones?

4G vs 5G phones, how do they differ? Also, 5G or 4G phone, which is better? Generally, the core difference between 4G and 5G phones lies in their network capabilities, hardware, and performance, like speed and latency.

A 4G phone is optimised for LTE networks, while a 5G phone includes additional modems and antennas to access 5G bands. It's more versatile, combining the best of both worlds for users. You might be wondering, will a 5G phone work in 4G area? Yes. A 5G phone can connect to both 4G and 5G, depending on availability, but a 4G phone connects only to 4G networks.

When it comes to speed, which is the fastest mobile network, 4G or 5G? As introduced earlier, 5G clearly outperforms 4G, reaching up to 10 Gbps and even 20 Gbps theoretically.

Latency is also another important distinction. 5G latency is substantially lower, with as little as 1 millisecond, while 4G is on average 20-200 milliseconds.

Additionally, device hardware and performance are important differences. 5G phones often come with more advanced processors and optimised hardware to handle faster speeds, whereas 4G phones are more basic. However, this makes 5G phones more expensive.

To help you better understand the contrast, we break it down as follows:

Should I Buy 4G or 5G Phone?

So, which is better, 4G or 5G phone? Which one should you get? It depends on your location, budget, and tech needs. If you live in an area where 5G coverage is strong, investing in a 5G phone makes sense. It ensures your device remains relevant for years and allows you to enjoy lightning-fast speeds for streaming, gaming, and work.

However, if your area has poor or no 5G coverage, a 5G phone may not offer immediate benefits. In this case, a 4G phone could be the more practical choice. For casual users who only need social media, calling, and light browsing, 4G remains more than enough.

Budget also plays a key role. 4G phones are generally cheaper, while 5G phones can be 10-20% pricier due to advanced hardware. In this case, a 4G phone is perfectly sufficient and more cost-effective for light usage.

That said, HONOR has made 5G more accessible by offering affordable 5G phones that strike the right balance between price and performance. These devices come equipped with modern processors, optimised hardware for fast 5G speeds, and long-lasting batteries, making them practical for streaming, gaming, and multitasking.

Conclusion

All in all, whether a 4G or 5G phone is right for you depends on your usage, location, and budget. If you're a light user or live in an area with limited 5G coverage, a 4G phone is still a reliable and cost-effective choice. If you want faster speeds, future-proof performance, and already have good 5G coverage, then a 5G phone is the smarter investment.

For those looking to upgrade, HONOR offers a wide range of 5G phones that combine speed and modern features. Just check out to find a device that matches your lifestyle and budget.

FAQs

Is a 5G phone better than 4G?

A 5G phone is generally better because it supports both 4G and 5G networks, giving you faster speeds and lower latency.

However, the benefits depend on coverage. In areas with limited 5G, your phone may operate mostly on 4G.

In the long run, a 5G phone is the smarter investment, but if your budget is tight and you live somewhere with limited 5G, a 4G phone may still be sufficient.

Is it worth getting a 5G phone?

Yes, getting a 5G phone is worth it in 2025 for most users. You will be ready to enjoy faster speeds without upgrading again soon.

For people who stream movies, play online games, or use their phone for work, the difference in performance is noticeable. 5G definitely ensures smoother, lag-free experiences.

However, for casual use like calls and browsing, the difference may be minimal, so a 4G phone can still serve well.

Can 5G phones use 4G network?

Yes, all 5G phones are backward compatible with 4G networks. This means when 5G is not available, your device automatically connects to 4G to maintain service.

In practice, most 5G devices automatically default to 4G in low-coverage areas, maintaining calls and data without user intervention. No upgrades are needed for this functionality.

The ability to switch between networks ensures that a 5G phone is practical today and ready for the future.

Do 5G phones cost more than 4G phones?

Yes, 5G phones are typically pricier because they use advanced hardware and technology to support faster networks. Flagship 5G phones can be quite expensive.

The price difference for standard features is usually around 10–20% compared to 4G phones. High-end 5G devices might cost more for extras like better cameras or displays.

However, the gap has narrowed with mass production, and many entry-level 5G phones are now affordable for most users.

Does 5G make downloads faster than 4G?

Yes, 5G is significantly faster than 4G. Under ideal conditions, 5G makes downloads much faster than 4G, with theoretical speeds exceeding 10 Gbps(up to 20Gbps) versus 4G's 100 Mbps max.

This means downloading large files or streaming HD videos happens almost instantly. Even movie downloads can take just seconds on a 5G connection.

However, real-world speeds depend on coverage and network congestion. In areas with limited 5G, the difference compared to 4G may be less noticeable.

Source: HONOR Club