Dual sim or LTE?

[jamike77]

Why is it that so many phones are offered either in a dual-sim version (with 3G), or in an LTE version (with a single-sim). I don't see how having the LTE chip prevents inclusion of two SIMs. Is it a matter of space? I am interested in a dual-sim LTE phone, but there seem to be only one or two available worldwide for Vodafone's 800Mhz band...

[hrym]

I suspect it's because dual-SIM phones tend to be aimed at markets where 4G hasn't taken off yet.   The second slot tends to be 2G only.   As far as I know, none of the major manufacturers offers a dual-SIM device for the UK market.  All the ones I've seen are Chinese imports (but that may just be the ones I've seen?)

[hrym]

After a bit of research (aka a guick Google), I found this:

http://www.androidauthority.com/best/dual-sim-android-phones/

You'll see from the prices that this is US-based, but there's an HTC which appears to be compatible frequency-wise (the Samsung further down doesn't appear to operate on 800mhz)

[jamike77]

Yeah, HTC Desire 816 is actually also one of those phones that is either offered with LTE or with dual-sim, but not both. GSMArena have the specs wrong, I've looked into it. I have yet to find a phone that has both dual-sim and 800 Mhz LTE.

Maybe I'll just go with HSPA+, from what I'm hearing the difference between HSPA and LTE is not huge in the UK anyway...

[hrym]

Never trust 't internet, eh? :smileysad:

I haven't experienced 4G, but I rather think its main advantage is when it comes to streaming.  That's partly because of the increased speed, but also because of the way the connections work.   Once you've got one, it's yours and you won't lose it.  3G is contended and, especially at the edge of a cell, it can drop.  And 4G contracts mostly give you larger data allowances, of course.

If you just want normal web browsing and the occasional download of not more than 100mb or so, 3G should be fine.

[MohamedGamal]

Just chipping in here but Vodafone also offers 4g in 2600 MHz

[jamike77]

I might be wrong but I'm hearing that 95% of Vodafone's LTE towers are 800 Mhz with the 2600 Mhz only starting to be rolled out. That would mean a phone that only supports 2600 and not 800 Mhz, would rarely ever get LTE. Could you correct me if that is not the case?

[Retired-Wayne]

Hi jamike77,

Yes, most of our towers at the moment are 800Mhz, because it’s the frequency that does the best in terms of distance and building penetration.

2600Mhz sites are also being rolled out though.

Thanks,

Wayne

[hrym]

Generally speaking, as I understand it, Vodafone are trying to move their systems to lower frequencies due to the greater range and, as Wayne says, building penetration.   3G is moving to 900mhz, for instance.  I believe they specifically went for these frequencies in the last round of sell-offs.

If I had to choose between a device that was compatible with only the higher or lower range, I'd opt for the lower.  Both would be best, of course, for complete coverage, but I'm guessing there will be fewer of the higher frequencies available as time goes on.

[jamike77]

Thank you for the clarification everyone. Is seems that I'd need at least 800Mhz, preferrably 800Mhz+2600Mhz.

As mentioned, I have yet to find a single dual-sim phone that supports 800 Mhz. It's a mystery to me why all dual-sims are designed for the India market or for Asia. In Europe, we seem to be stuck between the choice of either LTE, or dual-sim. For now I'll have to stick with HSPA+.