AT&T Outpaces T-Mobile in Download Speed Test Results

Recent tests conducted by the Tech Life Channel have revealed that AT&T significantly outperforms T-Mobile in download speeds, reaching a peak of 1,543 Mbps compared to T-Mobile’s 1,120 Mbps. The tests were carried out near a tower that services both networks, highlighting a notable difference in download performance of over 400 Mbps in favor of AT&T.

While AT&T excelled in download speeds, T-Mobile demonstrated advantages in other metrics. The carrier exhibited lower latency, which is crucial for applications requiring real-time responses, such as online gaming, video calls, and streaming services. Interestingly, T-Mobile also outperformed AT&T in upload speeds, achieving 138 Mbps compared to AT&T’s 132 Mbps. It is important to note that these results came from tests conducted under ideal conditions, close to the tower. Real-world performance can significantly vary based on location and network congestion.

T-Mobile has previously achieved peak speeds of up to 6.3 Gbps in certain areas, although its median speeds for typical users average around 299 Mbps. This disparity highlights the variability in service quality across different locations.

5G Networks: A Closer Look

The tests utilized the carriers’ 5G SA (Standalone) networks. AT&T launched its nationwide 5G SA network five years after T-Mobile introduced its own. Despite this delay, the results suggest that AT&T’s entry into the 5G market may not be a hindrance to its performance.

For clarity, 5G SA represents a substantial upgrade from earlier 5G technologies. Carriers offering 5G previously relied on existing 4G LTE infrastructure, known as Non-Standalone (NSA) networks. These NSA networks used 4G cores to deliver 5G speeds, which limited their performance. In contrast, SA networks operate independently with their own core infrastructure, providing benefits such as lower latency, improved network efficiency, and enhanced capacity, contributing to faster overall speeds.

As the competition between AT&T and T-Mobile continues, these speed test results provide valuable insight for consumers prioritizing download speed in their mobile plans. With the ongoing rollout of advanced 5G technologies, both carriers are likely to continue evolving their services to meet the demands of their user base.