5G INTERNET ABOARD
As cruising sailors, there are certain things that we have had to give up in the pursuit of our lifestyle, and until very recently, consistent, fast broadband internet was one of them. When away from shoreside Wi-fi, many cruisers rely on cellular technology as their sole link to the internet, but it has its challenges—namely speed and coverage. With the launch of 5G networks, however, this has changed. With 5G, the service has the potential to offer speeds that are much faster than 4G LTE capabilities and greater bandwidth for all your gadgets. So what’s the catch? The tech is still new, 5G-capable phones are pricey (starting around $1,000), and not all carriers have the coverage that coastal cruisers need. But for significantly better internet aboard, it might be worth looking into it.
Since the work I do from my boat managing the Boat Galley website (theboatgalley.com) requires a strong internet connection, I decided to take the 5G leap—and so far, it’s been great. But is it right for you or your boat? Here are some things to consider: Is your current internet speed less than 30 Mbps? Is there 5G coverage where you are and where you intend to go (coverage is expanding daily, so check back often)? Do you work from your boat, and does your work require high-speed internet? Would you be more productive with a faster internet connection?
In basic terms, 5G comes in three levels: low-, mid- and high-band (also called millimeter wave). As the speed goes up, the coverage area decreases, as does the signal’s ability to penetrate walls and other obstacles. Eventually, all carriers are likely to use a mix, but right now, each is more or less specializing in one.
Low-band 5G is the one that’s of interest to most cruisers due to its reach, and hence the ability to cover coastal waters and rivers. Depending on your exact location, low-band is likely to at least double your internet speed over 4G LTE.
Speed Difference: I’m currently on my boat, Barefoot Gal, on a mooring ball in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, Florida. Typical 4G LTE speed on the boat was 10 Mbps. On 5G, I now usually have 70 to 80 Mbps, occasionally over 100. The difference is huge as I upload and download large files, and stream videos.
Bottom Line: For me, the increased speed right now with low-band 5G is well worth the cost of the phone. T-mobile’s 5G coverage is growing every day and already covers much of our intended route to the Chesapeake this summer. If you don’t have a burning need for faster internet right now, 5G phone costs might drop, particularly as more phone manufacturers release 5G-capable phones.