We’ve all heard of the term 4G by now. It’s supposed to imply speed and better connectivity. Before that, there was 3G and before 3G, there was 2G. But have you ever wondered what exactly 4G is? How does it work with a prepaid or a postpaid SIM card? Let’s find out.

What is 4G?

The word 4G indicates ‘fourth generation communication systems’. It essentially indicates an upgraded communication system, which is based on the previous version, but offers better facilities. It was first launched in 2012 by Bharti Airtel and has since then been adopted by all telecom providers. The most recent uptick in 4G service was observed after Reliance Jio entered the market offering free voice calls and unlimited data packages.

How Does 4G Work?

4G works in a similar way as 3G, but just in a more efficient way which allows faster internet connectivity and better services for the consumers. It can be described as a highly advanced radio system that uses signal towers to transmit and relay signals. Engineers work to stuff as much information possible into these signals. The higher the information carrying capability, the higher is the speed and better is the service.

Just like its predecessor, 4G too uses packets to send and receive data. However, unlike 3G, 4G is entirely based on the internet protocol. This means that even voice calls are based on internet connectivity. Therefore, the internet connection is likely to suffer in remote zones. The connectivity is supposed to have improved from the previous versions due to this change in methodology.

How Fast Is 4G?

Due to the way 4G functions (like an advanced radio network), it will work the best in densely populated areas, as opposed to locations which are smaller in size and area. As a result, urban areas will find faster connectivity and higher speed than rural areas. Recent open signal data show that Airtel had the highest average 4G download speed for the prepaid SIM card holders in India. Airtel took the pole position with 6.01 Mbits per second while Jio and Vodafone trailed behind with 5.13 Mbits & 4.48 Mbits respectively. But in terms of latency, Vodafone has fastest response times on both HSPA & LTE connections with 66.4 milliseconds & followed by Bharti Airtel with response time of 70.3ms.

What Are The Best 4G Prepaid Plans in India?

Airtel, Vodafone, and Jio regularly compete to provide the best recharge deals for prepaid SIM card users in India. As a result, users have a wide variety of plans to choose from. Here are some of the best offerings.
 

• Vodafone INR 349 Plan - This plan offers 3GB data per day along with unlimited calling for 84 days.
• Jio INR399 Plan - The INR399 plan covers 84 days and offers 126GB data (which averages at 1.5GB per day) along with unlimited calls.
• Airtel INR 399 Plan - This plan option costs INR 399 for 84 days and provides unlimited calls and 1GB data per day.

Conclusion
 

4G brings advanced use of internet to provide faster speed and low-cost internet connectivity. Thanks to its advent, telecom services are improving while becoming more cost-effective for the consumers.