While they sound similar, 5G and 5GHz refer to different technologies.
- 5G is for cellular/mobile networks, while 5GHz is a Wi-Fi frequency band.
- They serve different purposes and are used in different contexts.
A Traeger grill cannot connect to 5G mobile/cellular data. Grills lack the hardware and capability to connect to 5G mobile networks. They are built to connect to home Wi-Fi networks, which run on 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
5G vs 5GHz
|
5G |
5GHz |
|
| Stands For | Fifth Generation | 5 Gigahertz |
| Type |
Cellular network technology |
WiFi frequency band |
| Purpose | Provides faster speeds, higher bandwidth, and lower latency for mobile devices compared to previous generations (like 4G LTE). | One of the two frequency bands (the other being 2.4GHz) used by WiFi routers to transmit data. |
| Use | Used for mobile internet, enabling faster downloads, streaming, and improved connectivity for smartphones and other mobile devices. | Offers faster speeds and less congestion compared to 2.4GHz but has a shorter range and is less effective at penetrating walls. |
5G Mobile Network
| 5G is the short form of stating fifth generation of wireless technology. It offers faster speeds and lower latency. The closer you are to 5G towers, the faster your speeds. However, a grill cannot connect to 5G as it is not a mobile device. |
5GHz WiFi Network
|
|
5GHz refers to a Wi-Fi frequency band used for wireless networks within the home or office. It is faster than the 2.4GHz band and has a shorter range and doesn't go through walls as effectively. Traeger grills with WiFi capabilities are designed to connect to 2.4GHz WiFi networks, not 5GHz or 5G mobile networks This is because 2.4GHz offers better range and penetration through obstacles, which is ideal for outdoor use. See 2.4GHz vs 5GHz - Why We Use One Over the Other. |
2.4GHz vs 5GHz
Wi-Fi operates on two main frequency bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Each has its own advantages and limitations, making them suitable for different scenarios.
Below you will find key differences between the two frequency bands
2.4GHz is better for wider coverage and going through obstacles, like walls, while 5GHz is ideal for faster speeds and less congestion.
| 2.4GHz | 5GHz | |
| Range | Longer range, covers larger areas | Shorter range, covers smaller areas |
| Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Strength | Better at passing through walls and obstacles | Less effective at passing through walls |
Why 2.4GHz over 5GHz?
Like most smart home devices, Traeger WiFIRE grills will only connect to 2.4GHz networks. In fact, the Traeger App only displays available 2.4GHz networks during the pairing process.
Why 2.4GHz and not 5GHz?
2.4GHz networks are able to span greater distances and can more easily pass through barriers like walls and trees than 5GHz bands. The strength of the 2.4GHz network is what makes this band the most suitable for outside location of the grill.
Isn't 5G the newest and best technology?
5G is not the same as 5GHz. 5G refers to the fifth generation of cellular networks; 5GHz refers to the frequency band used by WiFi.