Wi-Fi 5 vs. Wi-Fi 6: Which One is Better?

In the world of wireless connectivity, the choice between Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) can significantly impact your network performance. Let's dive into the differences and help you determine which is the better option for your needs.

What is Wi-Fi 5?

Wi-Fi 5, also known as 802.11ac, is the fifth generation of Wi-Fi technology. It offers substantial improvements over its predecessors, with faster data transfer rates and better overall performance.

The Pros of Wi-Fi 5

• Reliable and widely supported
• Decent speed for most applications
• Affordable and available in a variety of devices

The Cons of Wi-Fi 5

• Slower than Wi-Fi 6
• Limited capabilities in crowded environments
• May not support the latest technologies

What is Wi-Fi 6?

Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, represents the latest and most advanced Wi-Fi standard available. It offers a host of features designed to address the challenges of modern wireless networks.

While Wi-Fi 6 is generally designed to make Wi-Fi more efficient, it does allow for faster connections. While Wi-Fi 5 had a maximum theoretical data rate of 3.5 Gbps, Wi-Fi 6 has a theoretical maximum of 9.6 Gbps.

Using both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless frequency bands, Wi-Fi 6 is backwards compatible with both Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 4 devices. It also supports other improvements like orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OMFDMA), where different devices get assigned their own channel for more efficient data transfer; Target Wake Time (TWT), which allows devices to save battery life by automatically switching off Wi-Fi connections when they’re not being used; and it supports WPA3 encryption, which enables more secure Wi-Fi connections.

All told, Wi-Fi 6 allows for more devices to get faster, more stable internet connections on the same local network than Wi-Fi 5.

The Pros of Wi-Fi 6

• Blazing-fast speeds, perfect for bandwidth-intensive tasks
• Improved performance in crowded areas
• Better support for IoT devices

The Cons of Wi-Fi 6

• Costlier than Wi-Fi 5
• Requires compatible devices for full benefits
• May be overkill for some users

Difference Between Wi-Fi 5 vs Wi-Fi 6

The primary differences between Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 are influenced by the Wi-Fi standard, power consumption, speed of data transfer, network security protocols, frequency bands, and latency:

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6 delivers faster data transfer speeds, making it ideal for applications requiring high bandwidth, such as 4K streaming and online gaming.

Power Consumption and Battery Life

Wi-Fi 6 delivers faster data transfer speeds, making it ideal for applications requiring high bandwidth, such as 4K streaming and online gaming.

Speed of Data Transfer

Wi-Fi 6 delivers faster data transfer speeds, making it ideal for applications requiring high bandwidth, such as 4K streaming and online gaming.

Network Security Protocols

Wi-Fi 6 incorporates the latest security protocols, ensuring a safer network environment compared to Wi-Fi 5.

Frequency Bands

Wi-Fi 6 significantly reduces latency, enhancing real-time communication for applications like video conferencing and online gaming.

Difference in Latency

Wi-Fi 6 significantly reduces latency, enhancing real-time communication for applications like video conferencing and online gaming.

What are Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7?

Wi-Fi 6E is an extended version of Wi-Fi 6 that also uses the 6 GHz wireless frequency band, which allows for faster speeds with a more limited range. It was released in 2021.

Due to be released in 2024, Wi-Fi 7, or IEEE standard 802.11be, is designed to allow for significantly faster wireless connections and will have a theoretical maximum data throughput of 46 Gbps.

Where to Buy Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 Easily?

When you're ready to upgrade your wireless network, reliable suppliers like Computing Worlds offer a wide range of Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 routers and devices.

Why Choose Computing Worlds?

Computing Worlds is a trusted source for networking equipment, providing expert advice and quality products. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, they make upgrading your network a breeze.

In conclusion, Wi-Fi 6 is the better choice for those seeking the latest in wireless technology, enhanced performance, and improved efficiency. However, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and device compatibility.