RightFiber Blog

5G vs. 5 Gig: They're not the same!

Written by RightFiber | Jan 2, 2025 2:00:00 PM

Advertising for internet services and mobile phones have created some confusion because of the similar
appearance in the terms “5G” and “5 Gig.” While they may look alike at first glance, they actually refer to very
different technologies.  These technologies are distinct in their functionality, purpose and delivery methods.

Let’s break down the key differences between these two technologies.

 

Here’s the difference:

 
What is 5G?

5G stands for fifth-generation wireless technology, and it’s primarily used for mobile networks. It connects
to mobile devices via cellular towers and is designed to:

Deliver faster speeds for downloading apps, streaming videos and browsing the web on your phone
or tablet if no internet connection is available.  Speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to over 1 Gig, depending on network and location.
➢ Provide more reliable connections in crowded areas (like concerts or sports events).
Enable advanced mobile technologies, like virtual reality and self-driving cars.
Support millions of devices per square mile.

Key takeaway: 5G is for mobile devices, like your phone, tablet, or car.

 
What is 5Gig?

5 Gig applies to wired service that delivers ultra-high-speed internet to homes and businesses.

5 Gig is a shortened version of an internet speed measurement—specifically, 5 gigabits per second (Gbps) of
data transfer. Internet speeds are typically defined by data (either megabit or gigabit) per second. The
gigabit speeds are often abbreviated to simply “Gig:” 1 Gig, 2 Gig, 5 Gig, etc.

If you’re looking for a fast internet connection for your home, it’s tough to beat 5 Gig, which allows you to :
➢ Stream in 4K or 8K on multiple devices without buffering.
➢ Enjoy lag-free online gaming, even when several people are remotely connected.
➢ Work and learn from home with seamless video conferencing.
➢ Download large files in seconds with equal download and upload speeds.

 
Side by Side Comparison

 

Feature 5G 5 Gig
What's it for Mobile devices (Phones, Tablets, cars) Home or Business Internet (WiFi for all your devices)
How it's delivered Wireless signals from cell towers Fiber-optic cables directly to your home
Speed Comparison Up to 1 Gbps (varies by provider) Up to 5 Gig (RightFiber's fastest speed!)
Who benefits People constantly on the move that need reliable, high-speed internet for your mobile devices Households or businesses that demand ultra-fast, stable internet for streaming, gaming, and running multiple devices.