5G is the current generation of mobile network technology, rolled out across the UK from 2019. It offers much faster peak speeds (1 Gbps+ in ideal conditions) and lower latency (under 10ms) than 4G LTE.
Real-world speeds in the UK
Typical 5G in a strong-signal area: 200-500 Mbps download. 4G LTE on the same network: 30-100 Mbps. The gap is biggest in cities with lots of 5G spectrum deployed; in rural areas the two are often closer.
5G flavours
- 5G NSA (Non-Standalone): runs on top of existing 4G core — most current UK deployment
- 5G SA (Standalone): pure 5G end-to-end — rolling out 2025-2027 across UK networks
Phones that need 5G
You need a 5G-capable phone (iPhone 12+, Galaxy S20+, Pixel 5+). 4G phones still work on Fuse — just at 4G speeds.