When it comes to communication, 3G was once the gold standard for crystal clear communication and exceptional voice quality. However, 4G LTE set the world on fire when it came into the picture offering exceptional call quality, voice clarity, and Internet speeds.
When working with two-way radios and push to talk technology, such as push to talk over cellular (PoC), 3G continues to be a possible option, but it is slowly becoming obsolete. In fact, as cell phone networks begin developing, adopting, and deploying 5G technology there is a concern that many will then “turn down” their 3G bands.
Primary Difference Between 3G and 4G LTE
One of the largest differences between 3G and 4G LTE is the speed with which you can upload information to the network. For businesses that rely on people in the field to submit photographs and upload data throughout the workday, this can be a critical time saver.
However, if you only require your radios for voice communication and do not intend for employees to have access to the Internet for informational purposes or require them to upload images and data, a 3G network may be sufficient for your needs.
Future Proofing Your Business
The fact remains that as new technologies evolve, many networks will cease supporting their 3G bands. This means radios that operate over 3G networks will become instantly obsolete. If you’re in the market for new radios today, 4G LTE is the only way to go in order to provide future proofing for your technology and tools that will last many years.
At this point, it is no longer really about the speed or the bells and whistles that are only available with radios that operate on 4G LTE networks. It becomes about the potential longevity of the radios and their usefulness to your business. Ultimately, it becomes about the cost-effectiveness about investing in technology and tools that will not be effective for your business within a few short years. Push to talk two-way radios, when properly maintained and handled, can last several years, much longer than 3G networks are likely to continue operating.
Not sure where to turn to future proof your investment in push to talk two-way radios? Peak PTT offers a variety of 4G devices to help you take your business into the future and beyond. Contact us today at 1-855-600-6161 to learn more about the different PTT two-way radios and systems we offer and how they can benefit your business today and tomorrow.