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Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Fibre vs LTE: What is the Difference and Which is Better?

Fibre vs LTE? There are so many things we don’t understand about networks. Do you know what a gateway connection is? How about a dial-up connection? Do you know if your connection is fixed, how many Mbps you’ve got, your usage gauge? Slow down, right? There are many facets to the networks industry, however, here are the 4 main factors you need to think about. Your connection type, your speed, whether your connection is capped or uncapped and the price you pay for it.  


In today's world, where speed is paramount, a robust internet connection is crucial! Ideally, you’d probably like your connection to be pretty fast as well as reliable with a low latency. Why? Because this will give you a seamless stream of internet needed for data-intensive tasks, like video conferencing or online gaming. On that note, let’s investigate the difference between LTE, Fibre and ADSL so you can make an informed decision when it comes to picking the right kind of internet for you!  

Where are we now?  

Long ago, we had ADSL; a more stable connection, although it brought on matters of copper theft and weather interference on your line. Then came the LTE (Long Term Evolution). We were blown away by its fast yet stable connection and the ability to take it anywhere!  


Finally, fibre connections started making their appearance and we were and still are in awe! Fixed connections with speeds that can go up to 100mbps? Wow!  


Now, fibre and LTE remain the two most popular network options for the masses. We must ask, which is better? And at what cost?  


A Fibre broadband uses fibre-optic cables to transmit data over long distances. The cables are produced as thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data as pulses of light. LTE data connections use radio waves to transmit data between cellular towers and mobile devices.


Fibre optic connections generally have lower latency (reduced delay of data transmission) compared to LTE. The means a fibre optic network for your internet is ideal for activities that require real-time interaction.

About Fibre & LTE

How it works?

LTE (Long Term Evolution) is a connectivity method that is used to connect to the mobile network. It is faster than 3G and it’s generally quite reliable.  


Bandwidth is something that controls the amount of data you can send or receive. With an LTE connection, you get a greater bandwidth. This allows you to increase the data your connection can carry and makes the carrying of that data faster. LTE can carry both your data and voice/SMS networks.

Pros:

  • Portable: With a Mi-Fi router you can take your network with you and use data in areas that have LTE coverage.
  • Wider coverage: Because LTE is not based on a fixed line, there is wider coverage in various areas.
  • Cheaper: LTE tends to fall on the cheaper end of the spectrum. Often you would receive a SIM only and/or router but with a limited amount of data.
  • No installation: No installation and no installation costs along with it. Simply plug and play.

Cons:

  • Slower speeds: LTE is slower with around 20Mbps compared to 100Mbps of Fibre. Irregular weather can interrupt your signal.
  • Data is limited: LTE data costs can rise depending on your need to purchase additional data.

What about Fixed LTE?

The meaning of fixed LTE. Wait, what? Are there two types of LTE? How are they different?  


Fixed LTE uses LTE technology to provide high-speed internet access to fixed locations. This is where the word “fixed” comes into the mix.  


The connection is established in a specific location, meaning it’s not mobile like the previous LTE spoken about.  


It is called "fixed" because the connection is established in a specific location and is not mobile like a typical mobile LTE network. It works on the same cellular networks used for mobile devices.  

Fixed LTE would mean that it uses wireless signals to transmit data between your location and the nearest cellular tower. Is LTE fast enough? Yes, LTE is usually recommended for activities that require heavy internet usage and super speeds.

Fixed LTE or fixed wireless internet, comes with its own set of pros and cons

Pros:

  • High-Speed Internet: Fixed LTE offers high-speed internet access, allowing users to stream content, download files, and browse the web quickly.
  • Availability in Under-served Areas: Fixed LTE can be a great solution for areas where traditional wired internet options are limited, providing internet access to underserved regions.
  • Quick and Easy Installations: Setting up a fixed LTE connection is generally quick and easy, requiring minimal installation time and effort.

Cons:

  • Network Latency: Some fixed wireless connections may suffer from network latency, which can result in slower response times for online activities.
  • Data Caps: Some fixed wireless plans come with data caps, limiting the amount of data users can consume within a given period.
  • Not available in all areas: A Fixed LTE connection is established only to a specific location and the nearest cellular tower. Meaning connectivity may not be accessible everywhere.

Now for the one we have all been waiting for: Fantastic Fibre!

How does fibre internet work? If you opt for a fibre connection, your internet connectivity is dependent on fibre optic cables. However, everyone is asking whether or not fiber is better than LTE? Well, you’ll have to decide for yourself.

Fibre optic cables are thin glass fibre threads that utilise light and are bundled together to carry digital data signals. This brings you unlimited information at super speed. It’s currently the latest and most advantageous connectivity method in the country. However, it is limited by coverage. Depending on the fibre provider, your area may or may not have fibre infrastructure. If you do have fibre in your area, you would just need to install a small box called an ONT (Optical Network Terminal), within your home. Following the installation, you would need to connect a LAN cable to your router. Once complete, you’d be good to go!  

Pros:

  • Great speeds: You can get speeds up to 100Mbps depending on your ISP.
  • Stable connection: Fibre connections are not affected by bad weather.  
  • Coverage: Fibre connections are not dependent on how far away you are from a network tower. Fibre connections can carry signal over 200kms, resulting in a more reliable connection.
  • Safer and more environmentally friendly: Fibre optics do not use copper cabling which is highly susceptible to theft and environmental implications. Because fibre threads utilise light and not electricity to pass data.

Cons:

  • Cabling: Coverage can be limited. Unfortunately, not all neighbourhoods have fibre lines laid for use yet. Although many fibre Network Operators have rolled infrastructure all over the country, there is a lot to do still.  
  • Fixed: Fibre Optic cables are fixed to your neighbourhood. Unlike LTE which operates on a plug and play based method wherever you are. You will only be able to use the connection in your home.
  • Expensive: A fibre connection requires installation which can unfortunately be a bit pricey. Fortunately, many ISP’s sometimes offer various discounts or special deals that include a paid installation.  

Finding the best internet can be a daunting task, it always helps to check if your area is fibre ready. Here's what you need to know to fully understand how fibre internet works, Fibre packages and benefits of fibre broadband.

The pros and cons in a nutshell

Now that you know a little more about the topic of fibre vs LTE, we can go over some important points. This way you can make informed decisions as to which connection type will work best for your needs.  

Since ADSL, LTE has taken over the market in various ways. Rapid LTE speeds came with the promise of faster and more stable internet connections. It was a winner for millions of customers across the country. You can take it with you and as long as you have coverage, you have internet connection.  

However, when fibre came into play, speed and strength became even better. In fixed locations, fibre is the way to go. For home or business, you will always have the best connection. However, you unfortunately can’t take your fibre on the move, which is the only downside.  

Choosing a type of internet connection and an ISP

Choosing a type of internet connection and an ISP can be a daunting task. But here are some factors to consider:

  • Your connectivity options: Is your neighbourhood fibre ready? Even if it is, would you be happy with a fixed line option? You may reconsider fibre if you live alone, travel out or won’t use your fibre line often.
  • What do you want an internet connection for? Browsing social media, gaming or high-speed downloads? Do you work from home or stream entertainment often? These factors would determine some of your requirements, like if you need an uncapped option.
  • You and your family: Do you have a family that utilises the internet? Your requirements may change over time depending on this.

Creative Copywriter
Yulan Stander
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