What’s The Difference Between WiFi And 4G?

Last Updated on November 21, 2023 by

WiFi and 4G differ in their technologies and purposes. WiFi is a local wireless network typically used for internet access in fixed locations, while 4G is a mobile network standard providing high-speed internet on the go, with broader coverage and seamless mobility.

Overview of the Differences Between WiFi And 4G

Feature	WiFi	4G
Purpose and Use	Local wireless connectivity within a specific range, typically in homes, offices, or public spaces.	Mobile connectivity, providing high-speed internet access on the go. Ideal for smartphones, tablets, and mobile devices.
Mobility	Suited for stationary or limited mobility situations, relying on the range of the WiFi router.	Enables users to stay connected while moving, suitable for users on the move or in transit.
Speed	Speed varies based on the WiFi standard (e.g., WiFi 5, WiFi 6) and the quality of the router.	Offers high-speed data transmission, providing faster internet access than many WiFi connections, especially in areas with good 4G coverage.
Data Limits and Plans	Generally not subject to data limitations within the coverage area of the WiFi router. Fixed monthly fee often includes unlimited data.	Mobile data plans may have usage limits, and exceeding them can result in additional charges or reduced speeds. Unlimited data plans are becoming more common.
Cost	Part of a home or office internet service plan. Fixed monthly fee, often with unlimited data.	Mobile data plans vary in cost based on data allowances, speed tiers, and network providers. Additional charges may apply for exceeding data limits.
Reliability	Generally reliable within the coverage area of the WiFi router. Interference and obstacles may impact reliability.	Reliability depends on network coverage and signal strength. Good in urban areas but signal strength may vary in rural or remote locations.
Security	Security measures, such as WPA3 encryption, protect WiFi networks. Requires user-set passwords and security protocols.	Offers built-in encryption and security features. Mobile networks are designed to be secure, making unauthorized access challenging.

What Is Wifi?

Wifi is a wireless technology that you can use to connect your devices, like laptop or smartphone. You might be wondering what the difference is between WiFi and other technologies like Bluetooth, radios, etc.

A device needs an internet connection in order to work – but with wifi it’s different than when using another type of data network (like CDMA). With wifi, you don’t need to stay in a certain area. WiFi is based on radio waves so it can go through walls and obstacles that other types of data networks might not be able to do.

What Is 4G?

4G is a type of data network that can provide you with an internet connection. It’s sometimes called LTE or long-term evolution, but it is just the latest in wireless technology. And one thing to remember about this is that WiFi and LTE are not always interchangeable!

Differences Between WiFi And 4G

1. 4G is faster than WiFi

2. 4G has a much wider range than WiFi

3. WiFi connections are not always reliable, while 4G connections are more stable

4. 4G has a much larger range and can be accessed from farther distances

5. WiFi requires an internet connection, while 4G does not

6. The cost of using WiFi is usually free, while the cost of using 4G varies depending on your service provider

7. You need to have a phone or device that supports both WiFi and 4G in order to use it 

8. It’s easier to find free public Wi-Fi spots than it is to find free public 4G spots

9. A router is required for both types of connections but they are different types of routers

10. There’s no limit to how much data you can use with 4G, but there are often limits to Wi-Fi usage

Top 10 Differences Between WiFi And 4G

1. Difference Between Faster

4G is faster than WiFi because it uses a higher frequency of radio waves. These waves can transmit data at up to 300 Mbps, which is three times the speed as what you’ll get on WiFi.

a) On average, WiFi has a speed of about 25 Mbps.

b) A typical wireless internet package for home users will have speeds around 60 Mbps, whereas the top commercial connections can offer up to 400 or more.

This is because it uses waves in the 800MHz frequency range and above that are capable of carrying data at much higher speeds.

2. Difference Between Wider Range

WiFi has a range of about 100-150 ft, whereas the range for WiFi is up to 30 miles.

1. The reason behind this difference in ranges can be attributed to the use of different radio frequencies.

2. You’ll find that higher frequency waves tend to have less distance they are able with carry data and signals than lower frequency waves.

3. This is because higher frequencies are less common than lower ones, and they can’t carry as much data.

4. As a result, the WiFi range tends to be shorter in comparison.

WiFi also has an average speed of about 25 Mbps whereas it’s around 100 Mbps for typical users on a wireless internet package for home use.

3. Difference Between Connections

WiFi connections are not always reliable, while 4G connections are more stable.

It’s worth noting that there are many factors which may affect the reliability of a WiFi connection, such as the distance to a router or its signal strength.

Router placement and network congestion can also play major roles in how reliable your internet connection is.

WiFi connections have an average speed of 25 Mbps whereas it’s 100 Mbps for typical users on a wireless internet package for home use.

WiFi also has an average range of about 300 feet, which is less than the typical 1000 foot range of a typical router and its connection radius.

4. Differences Between Larger Range

4G has a much larger range and can be accessed from farther distances than WiFi.

WiFi also has an average speed of 25 Mbps whereas it’s 100 Mbps for typical users on a wireless internet package for home use.

The difference between WiFi and wireless internet is that the former relies on a physical connection, such as to a router or its signal strength. Router placement and network congestion can also play major roles in how reliable your internet connection is. Wi-Fi connections have an average speed of 25 Mbps whereas it’s 100 Mbps for typical users on a wireless internet package for home use.

5. Differences Between Requires

WiFi requires an internet connection, while 4G does not.

WiFi is typically slower than wireless internet.

The range of WiFi signals are limited while the range for a typical user with a wireless package in their home can reach up to 100 meters radius from the device transmitting the signal. That’s about 33 yards!

Wireless networks offer more privacy by not broadcasting your network name as it would be on a WiFi connection.

WiFi transmits data over the airwaves whereas wireless signals are transmitted through cables or other wired connections to your devices, meaning that WiFi is more susceptible to radio interference and obstructions than wireless internet.

6. Differences Between The Cost

The cost of using WiFi is usually free, while the cost of using 4G varies depending on your service provider.

Some providers offer a free service on WiFi for the first few hours or days and then charge you at regular rates. Other providers, like ATT&T, will have different tiers of monthly subscription prices — with more expensive plans offering faster data speeds.

This means that downloading content from sites like YouTube may be quicker with a higher-priced service plan.

The cost of using WiFi is usually free, while the cost of using wireless internet varies depending on your service provider. Some providers offer a free service on WiFi for the first few hours or days and then charge you at regular rates. Other providers, like ATT&T, will have different tiers of monthly subscription prices — with more expensive plans offering faster data speeds.

7. Differences Between Supports

You need to have a phone or device that supports both WiFi and 4G in order to use it.

One of the main differences between WiFi and wireless internet is that you can be connected to a network through WiFi without being on any particular grid. This means that there aren’t any monthly subscription prices, since it’s only all about what your provider charges for data usage. On the other hand, using wireless internet may require signing up with a provider or purchasing a wireless hotspot.

Some providers, like ATT&T, will have different tiers of monthly subscription prices — with more expensive plans offering faster data speeds. Some offer cheaper rates for heavy users and some don’t limit at all the amount you can use per month so long as your plan is active.

8. Differences Between Spots

It’s easier to find free public Wi-Fi spots than it is to find free public 4G spots.

WiFi is easier to set up. When you’re looking for a wireless network, your best bet would be to look for one that has the letters “WiFi” written in green text next to it and doesn’t have an additional password requirement or security key.

You can usually find public WiFi networks at places like malls, coffee shops, and libraries.

WiFi is more secure than a public network because it encrypts data before it’s transmitted over the airwaves.

There are also different types of WiFi networks — home routers that provide wireless internet to all of your devices in one location, hotspots that let you connect while visiting specific locations (like airports), and public WiFi that are available to anyone (like libraries).

Accessing public wifi is usually free, but it’s far from secure. Hotspots can also offer you the ability to purchase and connect without having an account or password, which makes them a better option than using public WiFi networks.

9. Differences Between Routers

A router is required for both types of connections but they are different types of routers for different types of connections.

A WiFi router connects to the internet and shares a wireless signal with your devices, while a cellular network device (such as an LTE or CDMA modem) has additional functions like routing voice calls and texts between cell towers.

WiFi is more common in homes because it’s an easier way for everyone who lives in a house to share the same internet connection, but in offices or public spaces, WiFi doesn’t work as well because it requires that all devices must be within range of the router’s wireless signal.

Cellular networks are more expensive than WiFi hotspots but offer much better coverage and speed for mobile devices.

10. Differences Between Limitation

There’s no limit to how much data you can use with 4G, but there are often limits to Wi-Fi usage. WiFi is much cheaper, but you can only access it when your device is near a router.

Cellular networks are better for mobile devices because they offer consistent coverage and speeds. They’re more expensive than Wi-Fi hotspots that require everyone to have their own account with the provider of those services.

WiFi offers fast internet connections in areas where cellular networks are spotty. But there’s a limit to how much data you can use with WiFi, and it is often limited by the number of devices that connect at any given time.

Cellular networks offer fast internet speeds for mobile users in areas where Wi-Fi hotspots don’t work well or have limits on usage – but they cost more.

WiFi is best for situations where you need to access the internet in places without a cellular signal, or when multiple devices are connecting at once (for instance, if you have kids who want to stream movies). It’s also cheaper than paying for data over cellular networks.

Which Is Better 4G Or WiFi?

1. Purpose and Use:
   • 4G: Designed for mobile connectivity, 4G provides high-speed internet access on the go. It is ideal for smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices, offering seamless connectivity outside of fixed locations.
   • WiFi: WiFi is primarily used for local wireless connectivity within a specific range, typically in homes, offices, or public spaces. It provides internet access to devices within the coverage area of a WiFi router.
2. Mobility:
   • 4G: Enables users to stay connected while moving, making it suitable for users on the move or in transit. It’s widely used for mobile internet access in various locations.
   • WiFi: Suited for stationary or limited mobility situations, as it relies on the range of the WiFi router. WiFi is optimal for stable connections in specific locations.
3. Speed:
   • 4G: Offers high-speed data transmission, providing faster internet access than many WiFi connections. It’s particularly advantageous in areas with good 4G coverage and network capacity.
   • WiFi: Speed can vary based on the WiFi standard (e.g., WiFi 5, WiFi 6) and the quality of the router. In general, WiFi may provide comparable speeds, especially in locations with a strong signal.
4. Data Limits and Plans:
   • 4G: Mobile data plans often have usage limits, and exceeding them can result in additional charges or reduced speeds. However, unlimited data plans are becoming more common.
   • WiFi: Generally, WiFi connections at home or in offices are not subject to the same data limitations. Users can enjoy unlimited data usage within the terms of their internet service plan.
5. Cost:
   • 4G: Mobile data plans may vary in cost based on data allowances, speed tiers, and network providers. Users may incur additional charges for exceeding data limits.
   • WiFi: The cost of WiFi is typically part of a home or office internet service plan. Users pay a fixed monthly fee, often with unlimited data, but the cost may depend on the chosen internet package.
6. Reliability:
   • 4G: Reliability depends on network coverage and signal strength. In urban areas with good coverage, 4G can be very reliable. However, signal strength may vary in rural or remote locations.
   • WiFi: Generally reliable within the coverage area of the WiFi router. Interference from other electronic devices and physical obstacles can impact reliability, but in a stable environment, WiFi is often highly reliable.
7. Security:
   • 4G: Offers built-in encryption and security features. Mobile networks are designed to be secure, making it challenging for unauthorized users to access data.
   • WiFi: Security measures, such as WPA3 encryption, protect WiFi networks. However, users must set up strong passwords and security protocols to prevent unauthorized access.

Conclusion

The difference between wifi and a/c is that WiFi provides internet access to devices in your home or business, while A/C offers connectivity closer to your physical location.

For most people though, Wifi will be the better option because it’s less expensive and has fewer bandwidth limitations than A/C. But before deciding which one to use, you should ask yourself what devices will be connecting to your network and how much data they consume per month.

References:

https://beconnected.esafety.gov.au/topic-library/wi-fi-and-mobile-networks/what-is-wi-fi/how-is-wi-fi-different-from-4g-and-5g
https://www.verizon.com/articles/verizon-unlimited-plans/whats-the-difference-between-wifi-data-and-cellular-data/