Latency is a technical term that comes up often talking about cell phones and cellular networks. However, many people aren't quite sure what it means. In this article, I'll explain what latency is, how latency relates to cell phone plans, and how 5G will affect latency!
What Is Latency?
Latency is the time it takes for a device to respond to information or an action. There is a delay in time when sending information on your device from one point to the next. Latency is how we measure that amount of time.
How Does Latency Relate To Cell Phone Plans?
Not all cellular networks are made equal. Some networks are faster than others. Faster cellular networks have lower latency. The lower the latency, or the time of delay, the better the network performance typically is.
Which Carrier Has The Best Wireless Networks?
Verizon currently has the best cellular network of any carrier when comparing coverage area and accolades received. However, this doesn't mean that other networks are necessarily bad, as the major wireless carriers all have fast cellular networks.
When trying to figure out which carrier is best for you, it's a good idea to search which ones provide coverage in your area using our coverage maps!
How Will 5G Affect Latency?
5G technology is going to impact latency in a major way. 5G is going to result in faster data speeds and a significant reduction in network latency. Early estimates suggest that 5G networks may be able to cut response time down to 1–2 milliseconds! This means there will be almost no delay when you tap on something on your phone.
Over the past few months, 5G access has increased across the US. T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T all have active 5G networks available to the public with plans to grow their networks even further in the coming year. For example, T-Mobile recently announced that they will be the first carrier to make mid-band 5G widely available in the United States.
In turn, Verizon and AT&T both have live, nationwide 5G networks available to consumers. Additionally, many mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) have plans that include 5G for free. You can enjoy 5G if you subscribe to a carrier like Ting Mobile, Mint Mobile, or Visible Wireless.
If you'd like to know more about how 5G could affect your cellular coverage, check out our article all about 5G data!
Latency: Explained!
I hope this article helped you get a better understanding of what latency is and why it's important. Make sure to share this article on social media to teach your friends and family more about latency and how it relates to their cell phone plans. If you have any other questions about your cell phone plan, leave them in the comments section below.
