WiFi 2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz: which band should you use?
Updated: 11 October 2026
Most routers sold with fibre plans broadcast two networks, often with the same name or with "_5G" added to one. They are two radio bands with different strengths.
| 2.4 GHz | 5 GHz | |
|---|---|---|
| Reach through walls | Better | Shorter |
| Speed close by | Lower, often well under 100 Mbps in practice | Much higher, several hundred Mbps on newer devices |
| Interference | Crowded: neighbours, Bluetooth, microwaves | Less crowded |
Which to use
- Same room or next room: 5 GHz.
- Far rooms through two or more walls: 2.4 GHz may hold the connection better.
- Smart plugs and cameras often only work on 2.4 GHz, which is fine: they need little speed.
Newer WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 routers add a 6 GHz band: even faster up close, with shorter reach still.
Test each band in each room with the WiFi speed test.