LTE vs. WiMax difference. Select 4G LTE or WiMAX .. 4G WiMax versus 4G LTE?

4G LTE and WiMax comparision.

Introduction of 4G LTE and WiMax followed by LTE vs. WiMax comparison.

LTE (Long Term Evolution)

Detailed LTE introduction can be referred from this link.

In brief LTE is a fourth generation (4G) wireless standard for broadband mobile technology. This standard is developed to meet long term future requirements of higher data rates, lower latency, better cell coverage and seamless handover.

WiMax (Worldwide Interoperability of Microwave Access)

WiMax is a name of organization which is responsible for promotion of Boradband Wireless Access (BWA) technology defined under standard 802.16. The end-to-end network architecture which supports WiMax networks is controlled under guidelines of WiMax forum. This architecture is also based on all-IP.

Comparison of LTE and WiMax or LTE vs. WiMax

1. 4G LTE or WiMax Technology -

3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) has created a 4G all IP core based LTE technology. Details at this link.

IEEE 802.16 and WiMax forum has promoted 4G all-IP based WiMax technology.

2. 4G Coding Technology -

LTE uses OFDMA for downlink and SC-FDMA for uplink transmissions.

WiMax uses OFDMA for both uplink and downlink transmissions.

3. LTE and WiMax Duplex schemes -

LTE and WiMax supports both FDD (Frequency Division Duplex) and TDD (Time Division Duplex).

4. Radio Channel -

LTE and WiMax both supports flexible carrier bandwidths from 1.25 MHz up to 20 MHz.

5. 4G WiMax or LTE Data rates -

LTE FDD supports very high data rates, best in industry. Peak data rate for 20 Mhz spectrum is around 100 Mbps in DL and 50 Mbps in UL. Refer this section for details.

WiMax FDD also delivers very high data rates upto 128 Mbps in 20 MHz for downlink and 56 Mbps in 20 MHz bandwidth for uplink.