Terminology » 5G vs Satellite Internet : Key Differences and Comparisons

5G vs Satellite Internet : Key Differences and Comparisons

5g wifi wireless technology network connectivity

Introduction : 5G and satellite internet are two leading solutions to deliver high speed and reliable internet access. 5G relies on dense terrestrial networks whereas Satellite Internet uses orbiting satellites. Both of these technologies offer fast wireless connectivity but operate on fundamentally different architectures and serve different use cases.

Difference between 5G and Satellite Internet

Parameters5G NR InternetSatellite Internet
Operating frequencyLow, mid, high (1-7GHz, 24-29GHz)2 to 18 GHz (C, Ku, Ka bands)
Spectrum Bandwidth100 MHz to 800 MHz500 MHz (Ka Band), 3.5 GHz (Ku Band)
Cell density200-250 small cells per square km1000s of square Kms per cell coverage
Power Consumption1-2 Kw per Base Station10-15 KW per satellite
InterferenceLowerHigher
Data ratesUp to 10 GbpsUp to 100 Mbps
LatencyLower, Approx. 1-10 msHigher, 550-800 ms
SynchronizationSimpleComplex
Equipments5G smartphones and routersSatellite dish and modem

Conclusion: 5G excels in providing low latency, high speed connectivity in densely populated areas with strong infrastructure, while Satellite Internet offers broader geographic coverage, making it ideal for rural and remote locations. The choice between the two depends on factors such as location, use case and connectivity requirements. Understanding their key differences helps in selecting the right technology to meet specific internet access needs in today’s connected world.