Terminology » LoRa vs. Zigbee: A Comprehensive Comparison

LoRa vs. Zigbee: A Comprehensive Comparison

lora zigbee wireless communication network architecture protocol stack

This article explores the differences between LoRa and Zigbee, two popular wireless communication technologies. We’ll delve into their specifications, network architectures, protocol stacks, and applications to help you understand which technology is best suited for your needs.

Specifications

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of LoRa and Zigbee specifications:

SpecificationsLoRaZigbee
Frequency Bands863 to 870 MHz, 902 to 928 MHz, 779 to 787 MHz868MHz, 915 MHz, 2450 MHz
Coverage Distance2-5 Km (urban areas), 15 Km (suburban areas)10 to 100 meters
Power ConsumptionLower compared to ZigbeeLow
Modulation TechniqueLoRa modulation (CSS modulation), FSK or GFSKBPSK, OQPSK modulation. Also uses DSSS to convert bits to chips.
Data Rate0.3 to 22 Kbps (LoRa), 100 Kbps (using GFSK)20 kbps (868 MHz), 40Kbps (915 MHz), 250 kbps (2450 MHz)
Network ArchitectureSee image belowSee image below
Frame StructureSee image belowSee image below
Protocol StackSee image belowSee image below
Physical LayerUses modulation as mentioned above, incorporates error correction, adds preamble for synchronization, uses PHY header CRC and frame CRC.Two physical layers: 868/915 Mhz (BPSK, raised cosine), 2450 MHz (OQPSK, half sine wave)
ApplicationsWide Area NetworkLR-WPAN (Low Rate Wireless Personal Area Network)
Advantages/Disadvantages
Standard/AllianceIEEE 802.15.4g, LoRa AllianceIEEE 802.15.4 (PHY/MAC), Zigbee Alliance (network, security, application)

Network Architecture

LoRa Network Architecture

LoRa network architecture

LoRa networks consist of LoRa Gateways, servers, and end devices.

Zigbee Network Architecture

zigbee network fig

Zigbee networks consist of a coordinator, routers, and end devices.

Frame Structure

LoRa Frame Structure

LoRa Frame in class-A,class-B,class-C

LoRaWAN PHY Payload

Zigbee Frame Structure

generic zigbee frame structure

Protocol Stack

LoRa Protocol Stack

LoRa protocol stack

The LoRa protocol stack includes RF, PHY, MAC, and application layers.

Zigbee Protocol Stack

zigbee protocol stack

The Zigbee protocol stack includes RF, PHY, MAC, network, security, and application layers.