Key Points:

  • Based on your needs for internet and WIFI speed, you can take your pick on these two types of frequencies.
  • Use the 5 Ghz for higher speed when you are close to your internet source.
  • Use the 2.4 Ghz when you have barriers or some distance between your device and the internet source.

2.4 vs 5 GHz: The Key differences explained

2.4 and 5 are two different wavelength frequencies on the gigahertz scale. Hertz refers to cycles per second. A Gigahertz is one billion cycles per second. These two specific frequencies are used to carry WIFI information to corresponding devices for gaming, streaming, or general internet use. Each of these frequencies has its own advantages and disadvantages. One being more beneficial than the other is based on the particular needs of the situation. The major differences between the two have to do mostly with range, strength, speed, and connectivity.

You can see the 2.4GHz and 5 GHz frequencies.

2.4 vs 5 GHz: Side by Side Comparison

2.4GHz 5GHz
Range High Low
Strength Relative to location Relative to location
Speed Functional High
Connectivity Trouble with interference Trouble with solid barriers
2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz WiFi: What Are the Differences? The video explores the differences between 2.4 and 5GHz and explains the advantages of each.

2.4 vs 5 GHz: 5 Must know Facts

  • Range

2.4 GHz has a significantly wider range than 5 GHz. 5 GHz is also easily blocked by walls and ceilings whereas 2.4 GHz can easily reach across an entire house.

  • Overlapping Channels

5 GHz does not have any overlapping channels. This gives it the ability to use more frequency ranges. It opens up more bandwidth that is able to be used on each individual channel. Incorporating improved protocols for transporting data such as using multiple streams on different channels also helps to make 5 GHz so much faster.

  • Strength

5 GHz is stronger than 2.4 GHz, but it has a limited distance in comparison. The closer you are to a router when streaming or gaming the easier it is for your router to simultaneously send and receive data across the network in a wireless fashion.

  • Interference

2.4 GHz has more interference than 5 GHz because 2.4 GHz has been the standard for so long. More devices have WIFI capabilities than ever before, and most of these devices use 2.4GHz. That leads to more interference than the 5 GHz frequency due to crowding from wireless phones, Bluetooth devices, and microwaves simultaneously using that space.

Up Next…

Let’s keep reading information about WIFI and other connectivity in your home.

2.4 vs 5 GHz: Full Comparison FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is the difference between 2.4 vs 5 GHz?

They are both frequencies on the gigahertz scale. They are both used to transfer data across a network with a wireless connection. The difference comes from how many times their frequencies cycle per second. They cycle 2.4 and 5 billion times respectively. These cycle rates create differences in how these frequencies react and transmit data.

Which is better, 2.4 vs 5 GHz?

They each have their own advantages and disadvantages. It all depends on your specific situation and what you’re trying to achieve. 2.4 GHz is usually enough for most people, but sometimes the situation allows you to harness the benefits of 5 GHz.

Does 5 GHz WIFI go through walls?

5 GHz WIFI signals have trouble going through solid objects. This is the main drawback to using 5 GHz. It becomes increasingly unreliable at a distance or when barriers are blocking its route.

Which is better for streaming 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz?

Both frequencies are capable of streaming, but the 5 GHz would have a better transmission speed. This would also depend on the location of your router and streaming device.

Should I use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz at home?

2.4 GHz is usually the best choice for basic home use. The extended range is much more valuable than the speed of 5 GHz. Unless you have a specific reason that you need more data at a quicker rate than 2.4 will handle the needs of a single household that is streaming or gaming.

How do I choose between 2.4 and 5 GHz?

Your personal situation will make the decision for you. Look at your requirements, goals, equipment, and space. The size of your network and the physical area that you occupy will help you to determine which to choose. Alternatively, there are dual-frequency routers that simultaneously use both 2.4 and 5 GHz. This gives you the ability to alternate frequencies depending on your desired goals.

About the Author

Heather

Heather is a secondary education teacher who is well-versed in the technological world. In her spare time, she enjoys listening to history podcasts, gaming, and posting on social media.

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  • How To Geek Available here: https://www.howtogeek.com/405105/5ghz-wi-fi-isnt-always-better-than-2.4ghz-wi-fi/
  • Netgear Available here: https://kb.netgear.com/29396/What-is-the-difference-between-2-4-GHz-and-5-GHz-wireless-frequencies
  • Century Link Available here: https://www.centurylink.com/home/help/internet/wireless/which-frequency-should-you-use.html