For decades, home internet has been dominated by wired connections, providing reliable service to millions of Americans. But over the past few years, wireless companies have entered the scene, introducing 5G home internet—a fast-growing alternative that now serves nearly 10 million customers across the country (T-Mobile, Verizon). 5G home internet has helped create unprecedented internet choice: Nearly 90% of Americans now have multiple local internet options.
5G home internet uses the same technology that powers your smartphone’s 5G network to deliver high-speed internet to your home. It’s wireless, affordable, and often much easier to set up than traditional options. But how does it stack up against wired internet like cable or fiber? And is it the right choice for your home? Let’s break it down.
What Is 5G Home Internet?
Unlike wired connections like cable or fiber, which rely on physical lines to deliver internet, 5G home internet uses wireless signals transmitted via nearby cell towers. This means there’s no need for traditional wiring to your home. Instead, you’ll receive a small 5G gateway or router that connects wirelessly to the 5G network and provides wifi throughout your home.
Some key features of 5G home internet:
- Speed: Comparable to other high-speed internet plans, with download speeds up to 300 Mbps. Some areas even offer gigabit speeds.
- Ease of installation: A simple plug-and-play setup that takes just minutes, with no technician required.
- Affordability: Plans start between $40–$60 per month, with discounts available for bundling with mobile service.
Why People Love 5G Home Internet
One of the biggest draws of 5G home internet is its simplicity. Unlike wired options, which can require a technician to install service, 5G home internet can be set up in just a few minutes by anyone with a smartphone. This DIY setup eliminates the initial hassle associated with other providers.
Affordability is another major factor. With the average American spending a staggering $98 every month on home internet, switching to 5G can save you hundreds of dollars annually. Plus, 5G providers like T-Mobile and Verizon promise:
- No contracts
- No hidden fees
- No price hikes
For households fed up with annual price increases and frustrating customer service from companies like Xfinity and Spectrum, 5G home internet offers a refreshing alternative.
When to Think Twice About 5G
The decision becomes more nuanced if fiber internet is available in your area. Fiber providers can be similarly priced to 5G home internet and offer superior speed and reliability. Fiber is considered the gold standard of internet connections, and although 5G home internet can perform extremely well, it is still a wireless technology and can be more prone to disruptions compared to fiber.
If you’re deciding between 5G and fiber:
- Compare prices: Check the cost of fiber in your area versus 5G.
- Consider performance: If reliability is critical—such as for competitive gaming—fiber may be the better choice.
Tips for Trying 5G Home Internet
If you decide to test out 5G home internet, here’s how to make the transition smoothly:
- Take advantage of trial offers. Providers like T-Mobile offer a 15-day money-back guarantee so you can return the service if you’re not satisfied.
- Keep your existing service during the trial period. This allows you to test the 5G signal at your home without fully canceling your current plan.
By testing the signal and performance first, you can make sure 5G home internet is the right fit before fully committing.
The Bottom Line
5G home internet is changing how Americans connect, offering an affordable wireless alternative. It’s easy to install, often cheaper than the incumbent provider, and performs exceptionally well for most everyday activities. However, especially if fiber internet is available, it’s worth considering the reliability and performance tradeoffs before making a decision. For more tips, check out our shopping guide to learn how to save over $500 every year on home internet. Ready to see what’s available in your area? Visit Wifi Shark today to compare plans, save money, and take control of your internet experience.
