Should You Wait for a 5G Phone in 2021 or Go with a 4G One?
When deciding whether to wait for a 5G phone or go with a 4G one, several factors should be carefully considered. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of both options, with a focus on budget, health concerns, and the practicality of 5G technology in India.
Understanding the Technology
5G technology represents a significant leap in wireless communication, promising speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G. However, it also brings to the table various drawbacks, including health concerns and availability of services. The key question is whether the benefits justify the costs and risks.
Health Concerns
Electromagnetic radiation from electronic devices, including smartphones, has sparked debates regarding its impact on health. While some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to 5G signals might have adverse health effects, the science is not yet conclusive. Nonetheless, it is crucial to prioritise health and safety.
Phone Longevity and Budget
Smartphones typically last between 3 to 4 years. If you are constrained by a budget, it may be more rational to invest in a 4G device that meets your needs while remaining within your budget. However, there are compelling arguments for choosing a 5G phone, especially considering that 5G infrastructure and services are expected to become more widespread in the coming years.
Current Context in India
As of May 2021, 5G services are not yet widely available in India. According to experts, it makes little sense to purchase a 5G phone when the technology’s benefits are not yet realised in the market. For example, the iQoo 3 4G version is priced at 36,990 rupees, whereas the 5G version is priced at 44,990 rupees, representing a significant premium for a technology that is yet to deliver its full potential in India.
Practicality and Realism
The focus should be on devices that meet your current needs. If you primarily use your phone for mobile data, a 4G phone could be sufficient for the next 5 years. However, if the primary use case includes smart home devices or other IoT components, a 5G phone might provide more meaningful and advanced capabilities in the near future.
Recommendations and Conclusion
While there is a possibility that 5G technology will soon be more prevalent, the final decision should be based on your specific needs and budget constraints. If your primary use case is mobile data and you are not vastly depending on advanced IoT devices, a 4G phone might be the more practical and cost-effective choice. Conversely, if 5G technology aligns with your future plans and budget, it could be worth considering a 5G device for its potential long-term benefits.
Top 5G Phones Under 20k Rupees in 2021
Here are some 5G smartphone models that offer a good balance of features and affordability:
Vivo V21e 5G64MP, 8MP rear camera 32MP selfie camera 16.35 cm, 6.44 inch display 8GB RAM, 128GB internal memory (expandable up to 256GB) 50W fast charging 1 year manufacturer warranty OPPO F19 Pro 5G
4310mAh lithium polymer battery 50W flash charging technology 48MP quad camera (48MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro, 16MP front) 8GB RAM, 128GB internal memory (expandable up to 256GB) Mediatek Dimensity 800U 5G chip 1 year manufacturer warranty for device and 6 months for accessories OPPO A74 5G
6GB RAM, 128GB storage 48MP front camera Fantastic Purple color 1 year manufacturer warranty OnePlus Nord CE 5G
8GB RAM, 128GB storage Charcoal Ink color 1 year manufacturer warranty
By carefully evaluating your needs and the current state of the market, you can make an informed decision on whether to wait for a 5G phone or invest in a 4G device that better aligns with your immediate and long-term requirements.