Mobile speeds are constantly improving, but speed isn’t the only difference between 3G and 4G networks. Despite 4G now being the norm across Australia, 3G technology still exists. In this article, Canstar Blue explores the differences between 3G and 4G to help you determine which may be the best option for you.
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3G vs 4G: What’s the difference?
The terms ‘3G’ and ‘4G’ refer to different generations of mobile network technology. Both are types of mobile data connections, but 3G is older and associated with the first wave of touch-screen smartphones. Although 4G is no longer considered new (as 5G is now widely available), it is a newer technology compared to 3G and delivers much faster speeds.
4G can reach speeds of up to 50Mbps, which is ten times faster than most 3G connections. However, 4GX or 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) can reach speeds upwards of 400Mbps (megabits per second).
While the difference in speed between 3G and 4G isn’t always obvious, you’ll notice it more when downloading files. Downloading on a 4G network is much faster than on 3G and larger files will take even longer on 3G. For example, watching your favorite Netflix show on a 3G network might be frustrating due to slower download speeds.
This happens because 4G maintains a consistent download speed, while 3G speeds build up gradually over time.
3G vs 4G: which is more accessible?
In Australia, 4G is now much more common than 3G. The major telecommunications providers, such as Telstra, Optus and Vodafone, have extensively rolled out 4G networks across the country, providing coverage in urban, suburban and rural areas.
With 4G widely available, 3G networks have been phased out. Vodafone switched off its 3G network in December 2023 and Telstra and Optus shut down their respective networks in October 2024. This decision was made to allow telcos to focus on expanding and improving their 4G and 5G networks, by repurposing their 3G spectrum and infrastructure.
3G vs 4G: which is better?
While 4G offers numerous advantages over 3G, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Battery consumption: Devices using 4G tend to consume more battery power compared to those on 3G, due to the higher data transfer rates and more frequent network activity.
- Device compatibility: Older devices may not support 4G networks, requiring users to upgrade to newer devices to take advantage of 4G speeds.
- Data use: You may use more data over 4G due to the higher speeds, especially if the 4G connection in your home is faster than your fixed-line internet.
- Network congestion: In densely populated areas, 4G networks can become congested, leading to slower speeds during peak usage times. However, this also applies to 3G.
Despite these downsides, 4G generally offers significant benefits in terms of speed and overall performance compared to 3G.
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Is 4G available where I live?
4G is readily available across much of Australia. Major telecommunications providers such as Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone have extensively deployed 4G networks. You can find coverage checkers on the major providers’ websites in order to determine if your area is 4G compatible.
Every mobile plan in Australia includes service on Telstra, Optus or Vodafone’s networks, even if the plan is from a smaller provider. For more details on which telcos use which networks, read up on our guide to MVNOs in Australia.
Does my phone use 4G?
If you’ve purchased a new smartphone within the last decade, then chances are you’re 4G compatible. Many modern smartphones are now also 5G enabled, with 5G capability standard across most premium and mid-range devices.
What is 5G?
5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology for mobile networks, designed to significantly improve speed, latency, and connectivity compared to previous generations like 4G and 3G.
5G offers much higher data transfer rates, with peak speeds potentially reaching up to 20 Gbps (gigabits per second), compared to 4G’s peak of around 100 Mbps. This means faster downloads, smoother streaming and more responsive online experiences. 5G is also available on mobile plans from a large selection of telcos, including those in the table below.
The following table shows a selection of published postpaid SIM plans with 5G access on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. Use our comparison tool to see plans from a range of other providers. This is a selection of products with links to a referral partner.
The following table shows a selection of published prepaid SIM plans with 5G access on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. Use our comparison tool to see plans from a range of other providers. This is a selection of products with links to a referral partner.
Will 3G networks be switched off soon?
3G is officially being phased out across Australia, with Vodafone’s 3G network the first to shut down in December 2023. As of November 2024, Telstra and Optus have also switched off their 3G networks. This means that all Australians will need to upgrade to a 4G-capable smartphone in order to make or receive calls, send or receive texts, and use mobile data when away from WiFi.
More details can be found in our guide to Australia’s 3G network shutdown.
Related: 4G vs 5G: What’s the difference?
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