With some of the best Android smartphones now supporting 5G, it makes sense to consider investing in the new wireless standard. Current 5G networks are based on sub-6GHz (sub-6) or millimeter wave (mmWave), which serve different purposes. For example, sub-6GHz can transmit over long distances at slightly higher speeds than 4G. On the other hand, mmWave has a shorter range compared to sub-6Ghz, and the overall network speed is higher than 4G. Neither can combine speed and distance, so C-band is needed as a nice middle ground to effectively bridge that gap.

What's the difference between C-band and sub-6Ghz?

When it comes to 5G networks, C-band refers to radio frequencies in the wireless spectrum range between 4GHz and 8GHz. Interestingly, C-band also falls into the sub-6GHz category, which is any radio frequency between 1GHz and 6GHz. Both C-band and sub-6GHz belong to the medium-wave wireless spectrum for US 5G networks, with some lower-level frequency crossover. The medium wave band is especially critical to 5G because it provides comprehensive wireless coverage, which is essential for large-scale deployments. Since the C-band is part of the AM frequencies, it has the appeal of offering a balance of distance, speed, and stability.

Currently, the C-band in the United States is between the 3.7GHz and 4.2GHz frequencies defined by the FCC. The rest of the world uses frequencies between 4GHz and 8GHz. Most 5G players in the U.S. are focused on specific C-band spectrum between 3.7GHz and 3.98GHz. Why this range? Because the FCC auctioned off unused spectrum in 2020 to the largest wireless carriers in the U.S., including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Verizon is the biggest buyer, but the carriers are bidding more than $80 billion for the set of C-band frequencies for their 5G networks.

What is the difference between C-band and mmWave?

Millimeter wave can be defined as the frequency range from 24GHz to 40GHz, which belongs to the high-band wireless spectrum. Verizon, for example, has been aggressively promoting millimeter wave since the early days of its 5G network. At this frequency level, smartphones and other network devices can operate at extremely fast speeds with minimal latency. However, mmWave cannot carry this wireless power over long distances, which is its ultimate downside. With a more balanced mid-frequency range, C-band will eventually allow us to achieve higher speeds than 4G, and distances beyond mmWave.

Millimeter wave is designed as a high-speed 5G solution with low latency to enable incredible data transfer speeds. We're talking 5Gbps and beyond. This is at the peak of mmWave technology, and everything is already perfected for the future. To achieve gigabit speeds on mmWave 5G, 5G antennas or towers are usually required. Even the slightest hiccup can make a solid 5G experience mediocre. That's why more and more wireless carriers are prioritizing sub-6GHz over mmWave since the launch of 5G.

What makes C-band a must for today's 5G wireless networks?

Sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G networks have their pros and cons, and neither is perfect for every situation. Sub-6GHz covers a wide range and has speeds similar to 4G, but it doesn't represent a true generational leap. Millimeter wave offers extremely fast next-generation speeds. However, the short distance issue makes it difficult to deploy on a large scale. For 5G to succeed, speed and range need to be unified under one wireless standard. C-band is designed for that, enabling the 5G experience we've all been waiting for.

The easiest way to describe how C-band will take 5G to the next level is to look at current home Wi-Fi networks. In a traditional dual-band Wi-Fi setup that uses both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, the 2.4GHz signal provides the most wireless range and overall speed is decent. Alternatively, 5GHz could push higher speeds with lower latency. However, its range is much shorter than 2.4GHz. This is similar to what is being dealt with when comparing sub-6GHz to mmWave in the world of 5G wireless networks.

C-band and Wi-Fi 6E will reshape the way wireless devices work

Starting with the Wi-Fi 6E standard, you can see tri-band wireless routers that support 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz frequencies in home networks. 5G connectivity uses the frequency sub-6GHz, which is now available in homes. When it comes to Wi-Fi, the 6GHz band allows for higher wireless speeds and less interference, making it ideal for smart home environments. 6GHz will have a shorter wireless range than 2.4GHz or 5Ghz. However, with a proper Wi-Fi mesh network, the range issue is no longer an issue.

Just as Wi-Fi 6E is currently revolutionizing home networking, C-band will revolutionize the 5G wireless experience. While not a like-for-like comparison, all have a similar goal: to bring the best wireless experience possible to the average consumer. Both technologies will impact the way wireless devices are used inside and outside the home. Wi-Fi 6E and mesh network systems will provide maximum coverage with high speed and low latency. C-band should bring a much-needed boost to 5G's wireless range and offer faster speeds than 4G. A true generational leap.

C-band plays key role in 5G home wireless networks

5G isn't just critical for smartphones. And the technology is making its way into home networking as well. Instead of dealing with physical network cables, opt for a 5G-ready modem. Once the SIM card is activated, you can use the 5G wireless signal to surf the Internet at home. C-band plays another important role here. It allows for higher average internet speeds, as well as better coverage and reliability. We'll finally be able to think of 5G home wireless networks as a true replacement for traditional Internet service providers.

As we all know, some areas are monopolized by Internet service providers, and only one company provides services in an area. This tends to hurt consumer choice in the long run. With C-band achieving a better balance between speed and coverage, internet providers can offer new 5G home services to more markets. Giving choice back to consumers allows us to choose what works best, not the other way around. Using C-band for 5G home wireless networks will benefit our future and help improve our experience.

Which US wireless carriers and devices will support C-band?

As for which U.S. wireless carriers will offer official C-band support, these are the common ones: AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Also, a compatible device is required. Many flagship 5G models already support C-band. Such as Samsung Galaxy S21/S22 series, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip/Fold series, Google Pixel 6/7 series and iPhone 12/13/14 series.

C-band could boost 5G smartphones and home internet connections

Finding the perfect balance between speed and wireless range has been an ongoing challenge with 5G so far. C-band will help bridge that gap and improve 5G smartphone and home internet connections across the board. For the wireless industry, developing a new standard can be a challenge. Still, the C-band advantages are worth the effort. Even after C-band usage ramps up, Sub-6Ghz and mmWave are likely to be here for a long time. In particular, we see mmWave technology being well utilized in the future due to its high-speed, low-latency approach.