Which LTE bands are best?
Let me help you understand which LTE bands are considered best and why they matter when it comes to network performance. As we’ve discussed in earlier topics, LTE operates across a wide range of frequency bands globally, and each band has its own characteristics in terms of speed, coverage, and building penetration. But choosing the “best” band isn’t just about speed—it’s about a balance between all these factors based on your location and usage needs.
To make it easier for you, here’s a breakdown of some commonly considered top LTE bands and what makes them preferred:
| Band | Frequency Range | Why It’s Considered Good |
|---|---|---|
| Band 3 | 1800 MHz | Offers a good balance between speed and coverage. Widely deployed globally and supports high-capacity areas. |
| Band 7 | 2600 MHz | Great for high-speed data in urban areas, though with slightly lower building penetration due to higher frequency. |
| Band 20 | 800 MHz | Excellent coverage and penetration, especially in rural or suburban areas. Slower speeds but very reliable indoors. |
| Band 1 | 2100 MHz | Common for both voice and data. Performs well in both cities and suburbs. |
| Band 28 | 700 MHz | Low frequency, wide coverage, and strong indoor signal—especially valuable in newer LTE deployments. |
Now, if I were to guide you based on different environments, I’d suggest:
- Urban Areas: Higher bands like Band 7 or Band 3 work better due to their higher capacity and ability to handle dense traffic.
- Rural Areas: Lower bands such as Band 20 or Band 28 are more effective because of their extended range and stronger wall penetration.
- Indoor Usage: Again, lower bands (like 700 or 800 MHz) tend to perform better indoors due to their longer wavelengths.
Also, keep in mind that modern devices and networks use Carrier Aggregation (CA), something we’ve already discussed earlier. This means your phone might connect to multiple bands at once, combining their benefits—like the coverage of Band 20 and the speed of Band 3.
So, instead of looking for a single best band, it’s better to understand which combinations are supported in your area and by your device. You can always check the network specifications for your carrier and compare them with your phone’s LTE band compatibility to make sure you’re getting the most out of your connection.
Next, if you’re curious, we can also explore how band selection affects VoLTE performance or how CA pairs multiple bands together for speed and reliability.