What’s the difference between WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6?
WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6: what’s the difference?
In this article, we're going to break down the differences between WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6, so you can figure out which one is the best for you.
In this article, we will cover:
WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6: A quick overview
In the 2010s, WiFi 5 was the default option.
It was fast, reliable and affordable, and could handle up to 4 devices at once (but with a slight lag).
Today, WiFi 6 has taken its place.
It’s faster, more stable, and can handle up to 8 devices simultaneously.
As a bonus, WiFi 6 has this cool new feature called Target Wake Time (TWT).
Basically, it knows when your devices, like your phone and computer, aren't being used, and it goes into 'sleep mode' to save battery power of the end device.
In a nutshell: You can get by with using WiFi 5, but WiFi 6 gives you a much better experience.
Think of it as watching your favourite show on a regular TV versus a high-definition TV.
And if you really want to get the best experience, there's even WiFi 7.
WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6: What’s the difference?
#1: WiFi 6 has a higher bandwidth and download speed than WiFi 5
To ensure a smooth experience with your WiFi connection, you need a high bandwidth.
Bandwidth = the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network within a specific time.
When your bandwidth is high, this naturally leads to a faster download speed as well.
Comparing WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6:
Obviously, WiFi 6 is the winner here.
#2: WiFi 6 is more secure than WiFi 5
We use the internet now more than ever, be it for work or leisure.
So, it's important to ensure that we're protected from prying eyes and malicious hackers while we're online.
But how does WiFi help with that?
Comparing WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6:
With WiFi 6, your data is a lot safer!
#3: WiFi 6 has a lower latency than WiFi 5
What is latency?
It’s the amount of time taken for data to reach your device.
More latency = more lag.
Less latency = less lag.
Comparing WiFi 5 and 6:
WiFi 5 can achieve latency that's as low as 30ms
WiFi 6 can achieve latency that’s as low as 20ms
Again, WiFi 6 is the winner here!
#4: WiFi 6 has a stronger connection than WiFi 5
You know how your WiFi connection sometimes drops when you’re in the middle of something?
You won't have to deal with that with WiFi 6.
Comparing WiFi 5 and 6:
WiFi 5 is generally stable, but can be susceptible to interruptions from other nearby networks
WiFi 6 is more independent, and designed to tackle the challenges of network congestion
Long story short: WiFi 6 lets you stream, game, and browse the internet without interruptions.
#5: WiFi 6 is more energy saving than WiFi 5
Does the type of WiFi you’re using make an impact on your battery life?
Yes, it does!
Comparing WiFi 5 and 6:
WiFi 5: data continuously flows through devices even when they are not in use, consuming more energy and using more battery
WiFi 6: minimises the amount of data it receives when your devices are not in use, which in turn consumes less energy and extends your battery life. However, it's important to note that your device must be recent enough to support WiFi 6 for you to enjoy these benefits
#6: WiFi 6 connects to more devices simultaneously than WiFi 5
Think about the frustration of experiencing slow WiFi when multiple people are using it at the same time.
Comparing WiFi 5 and 6:
WiFi 5 can handle up to 4 devices at a time
WiFi 6 can handle up to 8 devices at a time
8 devices might sound like a lot, but it actually isn’t.
Think about it – if you have a phone, a personal laptop and a work laptop for WFH, that’s already 3 devices that are tapping on your WiFi.
Assuming your partner has 3 devices as well, that’s 6 devices in total for a 2-person household!
WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6: Summary of features
Wow, that was a lot of information to digest!
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s a table to help you better visualise the differences between WiFi 5 and WiFi 6.
Should you get WiFi 5 or WiFi 6?
WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6: which should you get?
Logically, we’d say go for WiFi 6, since WiFi 5 is older technology.
It’s faster, stronger, and you can do just about anything online with minimal to no lag.
PS: If you want to get a WiFi 6 plan, definitely check out Singtel’s 2Gbps Mesh Plan.
The plan comes with the following freebies:
Optical Network Router
A pair of WiFi 6 extenders
Mobile broadband
Home line
And that’s not all – you also get a FREE lifestyle gadget.
You can get your hands on exciting items like an Apple iPad, a Dyson vacuum cleaner or a Dyson hairdryer.
WiFi 6 FAQ
Here’s a quickfire round to answer a couple of questions you may have about WiFi 6.
An Optical Network Router helps data travel through special cables called optical fibres.
It changes light signals into digital signals that can move around your home network.
A WiFi 6 router, on the other hand, is like a wireless hub.
It creates a WiFi network that allows your devices to connect to the internet without any wires.
It's what lets you use the internet wirelessly and move around with your devices while staying connected.
While WiFi 6 routers typically offer better coverage compared to older routers, there may still be areas in your home where the signal strength is weaker or where the WiFi 6 router's range doesn't reach.
If you have tall obstacles in the way or if your house has a complex layout or multiple floors, it can cause WiFi signal issues.
In such cases, using mesh extenders strategically placed throughout your home can complement your WiFi 6 router and help eliminate WiFi dead zones.
This ensures a strong and reliable connection in every corner.
A final word on WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6
Choosing the right WiFi can be a bit overwhelming at first, but don't worry!
After going through our guide, we hope you're feeling more confident about making a smart choice.
Oh, and before you make your final decision, don't forget to take a look at Singtel 2Gbps Mesh Plan with WiFi 6.
Remember, this also comes with freebies like an iPad, a Dyson vacuum cleaner, or a Dyson hairdryer!
Now, go ahead and enjoy your seamless internet experience with our catalogue of laptops and gadgets.
