2.4Ghz VS 5Ghz for Gaming: Which One is Better?

The only primary difference between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency is the area coverage and speed of the bandwidth. 

5 GHz network is faster, but it does not provide broader area coverage, and 2.4 GHz frequency can travel at the wider area, but the speed of this frequency is lower.

 When it comes to gaming which has become more than just a hobby or an activity to pass the time, a suitable frequency band is one of the essential aspects. 

While playing games online requires a frequency band that can give you a seamless gaming experience and browsing.

Therefore, this article will be focusing on the differences between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz and which frequency is better for gaming purposes.

2.4Ghz VS 5Ghz for Gaming – Comparison

Lets discuss each term in detail.

1. Interference Level

Interference is the primary aspect that makes the Wi-Fi connection slow. And as we pointed out, that 2.4 GHz frequency is slower, so you can determine that the interference level on 2.4 GHz is more than 5 GHz frequency.

 The reason for the higher interference level on 2.4 GHz is that significant appliances and devices in a home work on this frequency. 

Since so many appliances and devices work on this frequency due to the less availability of the channels, the interference level is high. 

The 2.4 GHz signal only has 11 channels, out of which three are non-overlapping channels. 

On the other hand, the 5 GHz frequency band has 23 channels, due to which it becomes easier for the router to operate on the lesser noisy channel that might have a higher interference level. 

2. Coverage

Coverage is the following comparison parameter between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Even though the interference level in the 2.4 GHz frequency band is higher as compared to 5 GHz, the coverage area provided by 2.4 GHz frequency is more comprehensive than what is provided by 5 GHz frequency. 

Therefore, a 2.4 GHz frequency band can cover a considerable distance, and you can have a good network in every area of your house.

 However, on the 5 GHz frequency band, you do not get broader coverage, because of which you will have to increase the number of access points of the router. 

3. Speed

The next aspect is speed which is one of the most critical factors in Wi-Fi. When you spend money on Wi-Fi, you expect to get good speed to get done with your work faster.

 But what a waste of money it would be if you cannot get good speed while browsing and playing games! Even after providing a more broad coverage area to the users, 2.4 GHz falls back to a reasonable speed.

 2.4 GHz is a good frequency band if you want to have broader coverage, but if the critical factor in Wi-Fi is the speed, you should pick the 5 GHz frequency band.

 Even though 5 GHz does not provide broader coverage, it comes with a good speed as we have stated that there is lesser interference in the frequency, which offers a better speed of the network. 

Because of the incredible speed, the 5 GHz frequency band is considered the best option for business and entertainment purposes. 

Overview of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Frequency Band

2.4 GHz Frequency

5 GHz Frequency

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which Band Frequency is Good for Gaming: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz?

If you want to have a proper and uninterrupted gaming experience, you should undoubtedly use a 5 GHz frequency band.

 You cannot use a 2.4 GHz frequency for playing games; therefore, for larger bandwidth and high graphics, 5 GHz frequency is much better. 

In games that require good speed, you should use 5 GHz. If you notice that your games are lagging while playing, take it as a sign and switch to the 5 GHz frequency band.

How to Check which Frequency Band you are Connected to?

To check the frequency band to which you are connected, go to the device’s settings section that you are using. The device can be a smartphone, laptop, tablet, or anything else. 

There you will find the option network and internet. Click on that option. Click on the wireless network name and go to its properties. There you can see if your network is connected to the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency band.

Final Verdict

Wireless connections have become the regular importance for users involved in business, graphic designing, professional work, or entertainment. 

So if you want to have a good gaming experience, you should use the 5 GHz, frequency band. 

However, you will have to sit close to the wireless router to have an outstanding experience. Because if you sit farther away, you might not get a good connection because the 5 GHz frequency cannot cover a wider area. 

Gamers can use the 2.4 GHz frequency band because of its broader coverage, but they will not get good speed with this frequency. 

However, many of the games are compatible with the 2.4 GHz frequency band, so it might not be a problem when you play those games, but for a high-end gaming experience, 5 GHz frequency is the best.