LTE and NR Bands Explained: Frequency Bands for 4G & 5G

telcomatraining.com – The evolution of mobile communication has led to the adoption of different frequency bands for 4G LTE and 5G NR (New Radio) technologies. These frequency bands determine the performance, coverage, and speed of mobile networks. Understanding LTE and NR bands is essential for network engineers, telecom enthusiasts, and consumers looking to maximize their mobile experience.

Understanding LTE Frequency Bands

Long-Term Evolution (LTE) operates on a wide range of frequency bands globally. These bands are categorized into FDD (Frequency Division Duplex) and TDD (Time Division Duplex) modes:

• FDD (Frequency Division Duplex): Uses separate frequencies for uplink and downlink, reducing interference and improving call quality.
• TDD (Time Division Duplex): Uses the same frequency for uplink and downlink, with time-separated transmissions, making it more spectrum-efficient.

Some common LTE bands include:

• Band 1 (2100 MHz): Used in Asia and Europe for primary LTE coverage.
• Band 3 (1800 MHz): One of the most widely deployed LTE bands worldwide.
• Band 7 (2600 MHz): Used in urban areas for high-speed LTE data.
• Band 20 (800 MHz): Provides extensive rural coverage in Europe.
• Band 28 (700 MHz): Offers better penetration for indoor and long-range coverage.

5G NR Frequency Bands

5G New Radio (NR) introduces two major frequency ranges:

• FR1 (Sub-6 GHz): Covers frequencies below 6 GHz, offering a balance of coverage and speed.
• FR2 (mmWave – Millimeter Wave): Uses frequencies above 24 GHz, providing ultra-fast speeds but limited coverage.

Common 5G Bands

• n1 (2100 MHz): Shared with LTE, used for non-standalone (NSA) 5G deployment.
• n41 (2.5 GHz): Used in mid-band 5G deployments, offering a balance of speed and coverage.
• n78 (3.5 GHz): The most widely adopted 5G band, delivering improved performance.
• n79 (4.7 GHz): Used primarily in Asia for high-speed 5G services.
• n258 (26 GHz), n260 (39 GHz), and n261 (28 GHz): Millimeter-wave (mmWave) bands used for ultra-fast 5G connectivity.

Differences Between LTE and NR Bands

1. Speed and Latency

• LTE provides download speeds of up to 1 Gbps in ideal conditions.
• 5G NR can exceed 10 Gbps, with significantly lower latency.

2. Coverage and Penetration

• LTE low-band frequencies (e.g., 700 MHz, 800 MHz) offer broader coverage and better indoor penetration.
• 5G mmWave bands provide ultra-fast speeds but struggle with obstacles like walls and buildings.

3. Efficiency and Network Capacity

• 5G NR employs advanced technologies like beamforming, massive MIMO, and network slicing, enhancing efficiency.
• LTE relies on traditional carrier aggregation and MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) for performance improvements.

Why Frequency Bands Matter for Consumers

Understanding LTE and NR bands helps consumers choose devices and carriers that support the best connectivity in their region. Many smartphones now support multiple bands, ensuring better coverage and roaming capabilities.

Conclusion

LTE and 5G NR frequency bands play a crucial role in mobile network performance. While LTE remains widely used, 5G NR is gradually taking over with its superior speed and efficiency. Knowing these bands can help users make informed decisions about their mobile connectivity, ensuring they get the best possible network experience.