AT&T now has faster download speeds than T-Mobile after deploying 5G SA technology.
T-Mobile's key advantage is being eroded.
AT&T Appears to Outpace T-Mobile in 5G Download Speed Tests
A recent comparison of 5G speeds between T-Mobile and AT&T was performed by the Tech Life Channel on YouTube. The test was carried out near a cell tower equipped to handle both networks.
AT&T reached download speeds of 1,543 Mbps and upload speeds of 132 Mbps during the test. T-Mobile's network attained download speeds of 1,120 Mbps and upload speeds of 138 Mbps. The test was repeated, yielding similar results.
T-Mobile showed lower latency, suggesting users may experience fewer delays compared to AT&T. This is likely due to T-Mobile's implementation of Low Latency, Low Loss, Scalable Throughput (L4S) technology in July. L4S reduces content loading times, improving real-time application performance, particularly for time-sensitive uses like gaming.
T-Mobile's slightly better upload speeds are also not unexpected, given the company's increased focus on uplink performance.
AT&T may need time to catch up, as T-Mobile is currently the only provider to have enabled 5G Advanced, a new 5G category that supports technologies like L4S and uplink Tx switching.
Peak Speeds Primarily Serve as Promotional Material for Carriers
While AT&T's download speeds surpassed T-Mobile's in the Tech Life Channel tests, the test location was close to a tower. Since most users are not typically near towers, these peak speeds might not reflect the average user experience.
Moreover, the speed tests were not done in a controlled setting, and it is unclear if the phones utilized identical modems.
These top speeds may have limited impact on everyday usage. For example, T-Mobile reached peak speeds of 6.3 Gbps in March, yet the median 5G download speed is 299.36 Mbps.
T-Mobile's Dominance in 5G Faces Potential Challenges
Despite the informal nature of the test, the generally consistent conditions offer an early indication of the improvements in AT&T's network following the deployment of 5G SA.
AT&T's 5G SA is not yet available everywhere, but the company is actively working to expand its reach.