Comparative performance characterization of 4G (LTE) and 5G NR network bands in a hilly rural region: a case study in North Thingdawl, Kolasib District, Mizoram, India

C. Lalngaihzuala

Science Vision 26 (2), 64-71 | Published on 27 October 2026 | https://doi.org/10.33493/scivis.26.02.03

Abstract

Mobile network performance in rural hilly regions is often affected by terrain and environmental conditions. The present field study examines the comparative performance of 4G LTE and 5G New Radio (NR) networks in North Thingdawl, Kolasib District, Mizoram. Field measurements were conducted using iPhone devices in Field Test Mode and the Ookla Speedtest application. Data were collected across three terrain conditions, namely hilltop, slope, and valley, under different weather conditions including clear sky, cloudy sky, and rainfall. Key performance indicators including Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR), download speed, upload speed, and latency were analyzed. Measured data indicate 5G NR provides substantially higher download throughput and lower latency compared to 4G LTE, with an average download throughput of 747.53 Mbps compared to 95.89 Mbps for 4G LTE. Although 5G provides superior throughput, its performance is more sensitive to terrain variations, particularly in valley regions where signal degradation is observed due to higher frequency propagation characteristics. In contrast, 4G LTE demonstrates more stable coverage under challenging terrain conditions. The findings highlight the impact of terrain and environmental conditions on mobile network performance in rural hilly regions and provide useful insights for future network planning and deployment.

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