Comparing 3G Networks

Friday, 11. 20. 2009  –  Category: Ranger Wireless Solutions

An interesting lawsuit by AT&T has been making a lot of news lately.   They are suing Verizon in an effort to force them to stop airing new ads that tout a superior 3G network.  While the case seems far from over, current rulings seem to be favoring Verizon; who touts having five times the 3G coverage.  This debate brings to light an interesting conversation—how do you determine the best 3G network?  The truth is (at least in part) in the eye of the beholder.

The term 3G is really more generic than it seems.  In simple terms, 3G stands for the 3rd Generation of wireless networks.  It actually describes many different technology types, from CDMA to GSM to even WiMAX.  Therefore, depending on the wireless carrier you are talking about, the 3G experience can mean a number of things.  For this reason, the 3G conversation is much more based upon the customer’s needs and experience than a specific technology brand.  In particular, there are four key considerations when discussing the differences between 3G networks:

Coverage:  This has been the main point of contention between AT&T and Verizon, as Verizon’s ads point out that their 3G network is deployed over much more of the country than AT&T’s.  This has been a point of contention too with iPhone owners, who claim that AT&T’s 3G network doesn’t cover enough and therefore they have to use older and slower wireless networks.  The coverage needs, however, are much more personal.  For some users, they need a network that remains consistent at their home, on their commute and at their office.  Others remain within a small radius for a majority of their day.  Some business travelers are in a new city each night and require a network that touches the entire country (and world).  Therefore, to properly compare networks, you have to decide the basis for comparison.  Is it based on a personal need, or simply the maximum available area?

Devices:  While network coverage is a point of frustration for some iPhone users, they continue to come off the shelves at a steady pace.  Therefore, when it comes to 3G comparisons, the device itself needs to be considered.  What devices are available?  How do they work with the network?  Do their operating systems run slow, thereby making the experience feel not as fast?  Do the applications on the device allow you to do things more quickly?  There are many variables to the equation depending on the device used.

Consistency:  Just because you have coverage in your area doesn’t mean that the coverage works well.  Many wireless users report frequent shifts in speeds on their networks, often bouncing high and low every minute—even if they remain in the same location.  Depending on tower locations, building density and even the leaves on the trees, the consistency of a subscriber’s signal can vary dramatically.

Carrier:  Even with a great phone and a top network, the carrier’s reputation may be as vital to the decision making process as any of the other variables.  How do they handle trouble issues?  How often do they upgrade their network infrastructure in your area?  Is the price they charge you to access their network appropriate?  These are all valuable factors in determining what, in the customer’s mind, is the best network.

No matter what the ads say, determining who has the best 3G network is about more than one category.  Like so many technologies, it comes down to a much more subjective situation where the individual consumer has to asses the myriad options.

David Fleming is the Director of Corporate Communications for RANGER Wireless Solutions, a CornerWorld company.

Tags: 3G, AT&T, CDMA, cell phone, David Fleming, GSM, iPhone, Verizon, wireless