Standby time: 2G vs. 3G vs. 4G

[ykgoh]

Is there a noticeable difference in a phone standby time when left connected to 2G, 3G or 4G network in Singapore, regardless of handset and telco?

In theory, when idle it should not introduce any major differences in the standby time, under the condition that the signal quality and coverage is good / excellent. However, many Singaporeans complain that 3G/4G coverage of local telcos can be rather poor, and thus it impacts the battery life, especially comparing between 2G and 3G.

Have anyone tried before comparing between 2G, 3G or 4G LTE?

 

[simon.fookk]

phone standby time

Is there a noticeable difference in a phone standby time when left connected to 2G, 3G or 4G network in Singapore, regardless of handset and telco?

In theory, when idle it should not introduce any major differences in the standby time, under the condition that the signal quality and coverage is good / excellent. However, many Singaporeans complain that 3G/4G coverage of local telcos can be rather poor, and thus it impacts the battery life, especially comparing between 2G and 3G.

Have anyone tried before comparing between 2G, 3G or 4G LTE?

You are partially right when you say that there are no major differences in the standby time, under the condition that the signal quality and coverage is good/excellent. However, for a mobile phone that had data connection on and with multiple messaging apps activated, the mobile phone will constantly keep a lookout for incoming message even in excellent coverage condition. This will affect battery life as well bec mobile phone had to "wake up" constantly to check for incoming message via LINE/Whatsapp messaging apps etc.

In 3G network, there is a feature called Fast Dormancy which allow mobile phone to go into "standby" mode which will help in improving battery life. In LTE network, a similar feature called Discontinuous Reception (DRX in short) is available.

The best way to reserve your phone battery life is to switch off the data connection to keep your battery life as long as possible.