| Data Speed | Up to several Mbps (Megabits per second) | Up to hundreds of Mbps | Up to several Gbps (Gigabits per second) |
| Latency | Average latency of tens of milliseconds | Average latency of tens of milliseconds | Ultra-low latency of a few milliseconds |
| Network Architecture | Based on CDMA or GSM technology | Based on LTE (Long-Term Evolution) technology | Based on advanced LTE and new radio technologies |
| Bandwidth | Narrower bandwidth compared to 4G and 5G | Broader bandwidth compared to 3G and narrower than 5G | Broader bandwidth compared to 3G and 4G |
| Capacity | Lower capacity for simultaneous connections | Higher capacity for simultaneous connections compared to 3G | Extremely high capacity, supporting a massive number of connected devices |
| Connection Density | Limited support for dense device connectivity | Supports higher device density compared to 3G | Supports significantly higher device density compared to 3G and 4G |
| Spectrum Efficiency | Less spectrum-efficient compared to 4G and 5G | More spectrum-efficient compared to 3G and less efficient than 5G | Highly spectrum-efficient, enabling more data transmission in less spectrum |
| Use Cases | Voice and basic data services | Multimedia streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and advanced services | Advanced applications like IoT, autonomous vehicles, AR/VR, and smart cities |
| Technology Maturity | Well-established technology | Well-established technology | Evolving technology with ongoing advancements and deployments |
| Deployment | Phasing out in some regions as 4G and 5G networks expand | Widespread deployment, 4G is the predominant technology globally | Ongoing deployment, expanding coverage in many regions |
