Excellent network systems are the major ingredients for effective communication like making calls and attending online meetings on data networks.
This is where we find the importance of a high-speed GSM or CDMA network.
But what's the difference? Does my carrier offer GSM or CDMA? Do they all work on my phone?
Let's solve the mystery of poor network connections by knowing the main types of networks, their features, and how they serve you.
We'll even review the top network providers and provide solutions for users locked to one network.
Ready to roll? Let's dive in.
What is GSM?
GSM is a network that is commonly used in Europe and other regions of the world by mobile phone users. The GSM initials stand for Global Systems for Mobile Communications.
It was officially launched in 1991 in Finland, with an initial frequency band of 900MHz.
It uses Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) and Time Dimension Multiple Access (TMDA) technologies to provide its signal to its mobile phones and users.
The GSM is part of the evolutions of mobile wireless technologies such as General Packet Radio Services (GPRS), High-Speed circuit-Switched Data (HSCSD), Universal Mobile Telecommunications Services (UMTS), and Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE).
Even more interesting, in 2010, the GSM represented almost 0.8% of the worldwide market.
You May Like: What's the Meaning of a GSM Unlocked iPhone?
What is CDMA?
A Code Division Multiple Access System (CDMA) is a kind of multiplexing i.e a method where multiple digital and analog signals are put together into one signal over one shared medium.
It also refers to protocols that are imposed on 2G and 3G wireless communication that are used in mobile communication.
CDMA is a system where a user can access a full bandwidth all the time and the CDMA codes are used to differentiate from other different users.
The frequency band used by the CDMA is 824 MHz - 894 MHz.
Its frequency channels are divided into different code channels. And, the higher the number of codes, the higher the number of users.
What's the Main Difference Between the GSM and CDMA?
GSM and CDMA are mainly differentiated in the way in which their calls and data transfer takes place on their network.
Basically….
GSM uses the physical SIM card to connect your mobile phone with your service provider while CDMA connects its users are connected to their service provider by an electric serial number that is embedded permanently on your phone.
Detailed Comparison Between GSM and CDMA
We have created the table below to show you detailed comparisons between GSM and CDMA.
Let's take a look!
| Comparison | GSM | CDMA |
|---|---|---|
| The Type of Sim Card used | GSM phone needs a SIM card in order to make call transmissions and also data services. The SIM card can store information and can be replaced and used with another phone. | A CDMA phone does not require a SIM card as it uses an Electric Serial Number (ESN) to transmit signals. |
| Flexibility | The unmountable SIM card used in GSM makes it to be more flexible than CDMA. You can remove it and use it in any unlocked phone that has a SIM card slot. | The CDMA uses an Electric Serial Number (ESN) registered only on their database. Replacing your number might force you to buy a new phone. |
| The Global Reach | GSM is used across 210 countries globally with approximately 80% of the mobile networks | CDMA operates in Japan, Canada, and the USA. |
| Security | The unmountable SIM card used by GSM makes it very easy to be stolen, all they have to do is to get rid of your SIM card. | A CDMA provides effective security compared to GSM. The CDMA has an inbuilt encryption for data transmission making it less attractive to thieves. |
| Rate of transfer of data | With the GSM you will enjoy a download speed of up to 384Mbps as it uses the EDGE data transfer technology. | Whereas, the CDMA can download a file with a speed of up to 2Mbps due to the EVDO data transfer technology which is generally faster than that of the GSM. |
Which is Better, GSM or CDMA?
The question that still lingers in the mind of many potential owners is this.
That's why we are here to help.
Here are a few things that stood out in this article as both companies are out to achieve the same goal.
Unlike the CDMA which has nationwide coverage, the GSM is termed the best as its network capabilities cover the expansive world.
CDMA lacks international network coverage. And that's where GSM beats CDMA as it has the capability to have network coverage internationally.
In addition...
The GSM can be used in almost every part of the world and can change users from almost 80% across the world.
How do you Tell if Your Phone is GSM or CDMA?
Here's a quick review on how to check if your phone or handset is GSM or CDMA enabled for both Android and iPhone users.
1. Check if Your Phone has a Slot for a SIM card
All GSM phones use SIM cards as compared to most CDMA phones. So you can physically check if your phone has a SIM slot.
NB:
The one thing that stood out was that due to the increased use of 4G LTE technology, many CDMA-enabled devices have been modified to use SIM cards. So surprisingly, this method may not be the best in checking if your phone is GSM or CDMA-enabled.
2. Go Through Your Phone Settings
For all Android users
Go to the phone settings > phone system > about the phone > check the status of the phone then finally check for the IMEI, ESN, and MEID number.
For iPhone users
First, go to your phone settings. Then, click General and from the list, select About phone. Next, look for the ESN, MEID, or IMEI number. These will appear in the bottom section of the pop-up menu.
Basically…
If you see the ESN or MEID number for both the Android and iPhone then your phone is CDMA-enabled.
But..
If you see an IMEI number that means that your phone is GSM-enabled.
Also important to note is, some devices have the ability to support both technologies meaning they have the IMEI, ESN, and MEID numbers.
The Future of CDMA and GSM
As time goes by, new technology is being invented. If you have been using the 2G or 3G networks then I think it's high time for you to start thinking about an upgrade since 4G and 5G have come into play, pronto.
Many companies such as AT&T have started shutting down their 2G GSM networks. And, they've eventually agreed that they are shutting down operations of their 2G GSM soon.
Interestingly enough, some other companies such as T-Mobile and Verizon have started planning to shut down all their 3G CDMA networks.
With this, it means nothing else but if you are using a 3G CDMA network you will have to get an upgrade to avoid being locked out of the new technology.
Though almost every part of the world has 4G network coverage, 5G has started to be functional in some parts of the world which means that stiff competition is yet to take place.
The 5G / Fifth generation of wireless technology and services is termed the future of technology as it will be a huge game changer in the field of telecommunication.
5G will create a single global standard which will be known as the 5G-NR.
How to Unlock Your Phone from GSM or CDMA Network?
The main purpose of this article was to help you choose the network provider that you think has a promising future and will work best for you.
For all those who want to shift from the networks they are tied to, I have a permanent solution for you.
DirectUnlocks is the only unlocking site that will unlock your phone and leave it in the same condition it was. Only that, this time, you are free to use any network you wish.
Using DirectUnlocks to unlock your phone will never void the warranty of your phone. It has the ability to unlock any type of phone as long as it is not blacklisted.
DirectUnlocks is very easy and straightforward, and their website is very easy to navigate. You don't have to be a tech geek.
The correct steps for unlocking your phone on DirectUnlocks are:
- Find your IMEI number: Simply dial *#06# and it will pop up on your screen. Keenly jot it down somewhere you can retrieve it easily.
- Fill in the form below: All the information that you fill in the form should be 100% true. The process will be delayed or stopped if you key in the wrong information.
- Submit payments: DirectUnlocks will charge you a small token before the process begins remotely. The charge is based on the type of phone and the subscription plan that you have.
- Unlocking process: After DirectUnlocks has received your payment, they begin the process remotely.
Unlock Your Phone Now
Android phone users will receive unlock codes while iOS phones are unlocked remotely.
Final Thoughts
In this century everybody is craving for an excellent network. A network that will never disappoint them in any way even if they travel to the most interior parts of the country.
After choosing a service provider wisely, if you want to unlock your phone make sure you use the correct medium that will never harm your phone.
So far no other third-party site can put up with the explicit services DirectUnlocks offers.
Help in making the world a better place by spreading this gospel. Cheers mate!