Flat rate surfing with LTE or 5G – Which mobile Internet flat rate is right for you?
In today’s digital world, a reliable and fast internet connection is essential. Whether for working from home, streaming movies, or simply browsing the web, choosing the right mobile plan can make a significant difference. Many users face the question: Is an LTE flat rate still sufficient in 2025, or is it worth switching to 5G?
At the same time, there are numerous mobile providers offering different phone plans with varying data volumes. While some users manage with a limited data package, others need an unlimited flat rate to stream, work, or play without restrictions. Another key question is whether a traditional phone contract, a prepaid offer, or even a data-only SIM is the best option.
The decision depends on various factors, including availability, cost, and individual usage habits for calls and internet browsing. In this article, we take a close look at both technologies, compare their pros and cons, and help you find the best internet flat rate for your needs.
What is an LTE Flat Rate? A Beginner’s Guide
LTE stands for “Long Term Evolution” and is a modern mobile network standard. An LTE flat rate means you can surf without a fixed data limit—provided that your mobile plan includes unlimited internet in its package. However, there are often hidden restrictions with a flat rate, such as speed throttling after reaching a certain data usage. In Switzerland, providers such as Wingo, Yallo, M-Budget, and Salt offer various LTE plans. Some phone plans even include roaming, allowing you to surf and make calls abroad for free.
While LTE offers solid coverage in Switzerland, it is no longer the latest technology. 5G promises even higher speeds and lower latency, which is particularly beneficial for users who frequently rely on data-intensive applications such as streaming or cloud services. However, LTE remains a reliable alternative, especially in rural areas where 5G network coverage is not yet widespread. Depending on your usage behavior, an LTE flat rate may still be sufficient—or not.
Advantages of an LTE Flat Rate:
✔ Stable connection in most regions
✔ More affordable plans compared to 5G
✔ Compatible with almost all current smartphones
Disadvantages:
✘ Slower speeds compared to 5G
✘ Can slow down in congested networks
✘ Uncertain future, as 5G is becoming more prevalent
5G Explained: Speed, Coverage, and New Possibilities
5G is the latest mobile network standard and offers significantly higher speeds than LTE. While LTE speeds typically range between 50 and 300 Mbps, 5G can theoretically exceed 1 Gbps. This means downloads, streaming, and online gaming run much faster and more stably. If you use your phone as a mobile hotspot, 5G is particularly useful, as it can also provide internet for your tablet or iPad. Additionally, 5G boasts lower latency, which is crucial for real-time applications like video calls or gaming.
However, there are also challenges: network coverage is not yet fully available everywhere, especially in rural areas. Users also need a compatible device to access the 5G network. If you own an older smartphone, an LTE flat rate may still be the better choice for now. On the other hand, those with a newer device living in a city with good 5G coverage can benefit significantly from the new technology.
Comparison: LTE vs. 5G
| Technology | Average Download Speed | Latency | Coverage |
| LTE | 50-100 Mbps | 30-50 ms | High |
| 5G | 300 Mbps – 1 Gbps | <10 ms | Medium |
Mobile Internet Flat Rate in Daily Life – How Much Data Do You Really Need?
Before choosing a mobile plan, consider how intensively you use mobile internet. Streaming Netflix or YouTube, gaming, or home office applications such as video conferencing require a stable and fast network with sufficient data volume. If you primarily check emails or use messaging apps while on the go, a more affordable LTE plan with limited data may be enough.
Here’s an estimate of monthly data usage based on different activities:
| Usage | Estimated Monthly Data Consumption |
| Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) | 2-4 GB |
| Music Streaming (Spotify, Apple Music) | 3-6 GB |
| Video Streaming (Netflix, YouTube) | 10-50 GB |
| Online Gaming | 5-20 GB |
| Home Office (Emails, Video Calls) | 5-15 GB |
If you frequently stream videos in high resolution or connect multiple tablets, phones, or laptops simultaneously, an unlimited internet flat rate is worthwhile. This ensures your connection won’t suddenly be throttled, and everyone can surf at maximum speed.
Technical Check: LTE vs. 5G – A Detailed Comparison
Beyond speed, LTE and 5G differ in other technical aspects:
| Factor | LTE | 5G |
| Latency | 30-50 ms | <10 ms |
| Max Speed | Up to 300 Mbps | Up to 10 Gbps |
| Device Compatibility | Almost all smartphones | Only newer smartphones |
| Network Coverage | Very high | Still expanding |
Network Coverage: Where LTE Still Dominates
Despite the ongoing expansion of 5G, LTE remains the better choice in many regions. Particularly in rural areas, 5G coverage can be patchy, while LTE still provides reliable access. It’s best to check network coverage in your area before comparing phone plans.
Price Comparison: LTE Flat Rate vs. 5G Plans
A key factor when choosing an internet flat rate or data plan is price. LTE plans are generally more affordable than 5G plans while still allowing unlimited browsing. Prices can change frequently, so it’s worth comparing offers.
LTE or 5G Flat Rate – What’s the Best Value for Money?
LTE offers solid performance at a lower price, while 5G is ideal for demanding users with high-speed requirements. If you live in a Swiss city and rely on ultra-fast connections, 5G may be the better choice for mobile browsing.
Who Really Needs 5G? User Profiles at a Glance
There are three main user groups who benefit from 5G data plans:
🎮 Gamers: They enjoy low latency and lag-free gaming.
✈ Frequent Travelers: They experience high speeds in well-developed locations.
📺 Streaming Fans: They can watch 4K videos on tablets or laptops without buffering.
For occasional users, an affordable LTE phone plan is usually sufficient.
LTE for Rural Areas – Opportunities and Limitations
While 5G is expanding rapidly in cities, LTE remains the best choice in rural areas. The coverage is better and more than adequate for everyday tasks.
Tips for Switching Providers: How to Find the Best Internet Flat Rate
If you’re considering switching providers, keep these points in mind:
✔ Check network coverage in your area
✔ Compare data volume and price
✔ Ensure your smartphone supports 5G
✔ Use a phone plan comparison tool to find the best deal
Conclusion
Whether LTE or 5G is the better choice depends on your usage habits. LTE remains a good option for average users who browse and make calls. For power users, 5G represents the future. Compare mobile plans and data packages carefully to choose the right option.
Frequently asked questions about LTE flat rates
At the moment, 4G still provides the backbone for telephony and mobile data in Switzerland. However, the expansion of 5G in Switzerland is progressing rapidly.
Yes, especially with 5G you can work efficiently from home as the speed is more stable than with LTE.
Think about how much data volume you need per month and use our Internet subscription comparison as a tariff calculator.
Some providers, such as Sunrise, offer combined packages with mobile Internet and Wi-Fi.
It’s worth comparing them on alao.ch. Various filters allow you to make a simple comparison.
LTE is more widespread and cheaper, while 5G offers higher speeds and lower latency.
If you only surf infrequently or need a mobile hotspot, a cheap LTE or prepaid offer is sufficient.
Are unlimited subscriptions really without restrictions? Sometimes the contract is limited to a certain amount of data. After using up 10 GB, for example, there is throttling. You can still surf the net, but at a reduced speed. However, providers do not usually charge you anything extra.
How much does mobile Internet cost abroad and what should I look out for? It depends on the data plan.
