What is the Difference Between Telstra 3G and Next G and 4G LTE?

The main differences between Telstra 3G, Next G, and 4G LTE networks are their data speeds, coverage, and the technology used. Here's a comparison of the three networks:

• Telstra 3G: This network supports an average speed of up to 200kbps and a maximum speed of up to 3.1Mbps. It covers around 99% of the Australian population and provides voice, text messaging, and 3G internet services. Telstra 3G operates on a frequency of 850MHz. However, both Optus and Vodafone/TPG have announced that they will be closing their 3G networks, and Telstra will no longer have 3G mobile coverage from 30th June 2024.
• Next G: Also known as '3.5G,' Next G is considered an enhancement to the 3G network. It was introduced in late 2006 to overcome the coverage limitations of regular 3G and operates on the same 850MHz frequency as Telstra 3G. Next G supports up to 20Mbps download speeds.
• 4G LTE: Telstra's 4G LTE network offers significantly faster speeds, lower latency, and reduced network congestion compared to the 3G network. It operates on a frequency of 1800MHz and covers most major cities and towns. The 4G LTE network provides peak download speeds of up to 100Mbps and 50Mbps upload, with latency reduced from around 300ms to less than 100ms.

In summary, 3G offers slower data speeds, while Next G and 4G LTE provide faster data speeds and improved network performance. The 3G network is being phased out by Telstra and other carriers, and the focus is on expanding 4G and 5G networks for better connectivity and performance.

Comparative Table: Telstra 3G vs Next G vs 4G LTE

Here is a table comparing the differences between Telstra 3G, Next G, and 4G LTE:

Telstra 3G is the earlier 3G network operating at 2100MHz, while Telstra Next G is a High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) Dual Channel Technology enabled network running on the 850MHz frequency range. Telstra 4G LTE, on the other hand, uses Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology and operates on the 1800MHz frequency.

Telstra 4G LTE provides much faster data speeds compared to both Telstra 3G and Next G. The 4G network is designed for high-speed internet access, whereas the 3G network is primarily for voice, text, and basic 3G internet services.

As of December 15, 2023, the 3G network will begin shutting down, and Telstra aims to upgrade all of its 3G coverage areas to 4G before it shuts down completely. The 4G network will continue to be available until the gradual transition to 5G networks, which are currently expanding across Australia.