Verizon's 5G network employs different strategies for varying population densities. In densely populated areas, Verizon uses High-Band 5G, known as 5G Ultra Wideband, which provides the ultimate 5G experience[9]. This technology can reach speeds up to 20 Gbps and has a latency as low as one millisecond[9]. However, the signals are easily disrupted and don't travel far, making them suitable for densely populated areas[9]. Verizon's Ultra Wideband 5G service is available in over 1,700 cities and covers over 100 million people[9].
In contrast, Verizon uses Low-Band 5G, branded as 5G Nationwide, to deliver reliable 5G coverage throughout the country, including rural areas[9]. Low-Band 5G signals are far-reaching and not easily disrupted; however, their performance is similar to 4G and LTE[9]. As of January 2022, Verizonâs Nationwide 5G service is available in over 2,700 cities[9].
While Verizon has the best 5G network in America, its 5G network may struggle in more populated areas, and towers are running at capacity more often[2][3]. Some customers report poor signals in areas that previously had good coverage[2]. In addition, some customers have found that the network is overloaded, which reduces coverage[5]. Despite these issues, Verizon is continuously working to improve and expand its 5G coverage[3][9].
Citations:
[1] https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/whitepapers/5g-technology-for-public-safety.pdf
[2] https://community.verizon.com/t5/5G/Poor-signal-in-formerly-good-areas/td-p/1733130
[3] https://www.verizon.com/about/news/verizon-has-best-5g-network-america
[4] https://www.efani.com/blog/verizon-vs-mint-mobile
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/verizon/comments/1b20gdt/why_is_verizon_5g_so_bad_in_arizona_right_now/
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/verizon/comments/14wy8iu/why_does_verizons_cell_service_suck_now/
[7] https://nybsys.com/does-5g-have-better-coverage/
[8] https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/verizon-5g-home-internet-review/
[9] https://www.wilsonamplifiers.com/blog/verizon-wireless-5g-network-what-you-need-to-know/