What Are Network Bands?

When buying a new smartphone—especially an imported one—many people focus on the processor, camera, or battery, but overlook a crucial factor: network compatibility. Network Bands determine whether your phone will receive strong signal, connect to 4G or 5G properly, or struggle with weak reception.

What Exactly Is a Network Band?

Every mobile operator in the world uses specific frequency bands to transmit and receive signals. Each band has a number, such as B3 or B20. Countries choose their bands based on coverage needs, terrain, government regulations, and population density.

Types of Bands by Network Generation

2G / 3G

Older generations that were widely used worldwide. Common GSM bands include 900, 1800, 850, and 1900 MHz. For 3G, Band 1 (2100 MHz) is the most common.

4G LTE

A global standard used almost everywhere. Key worldwide LTE bands include:

B3 (1800 MHz) – widely used
B1 (2100 MHz)
B7 (2600 MHz)
B20 (800 MHz)
B28 (700 MHz)

5G NR

Modern 5G networks use two types of bands:

Sub‑6: n41, n78, n28, n1
mmWave: n260, n261 (mainly in the U.S. and Japan)

Why Do Phones Have Different Versions?

Because every region uses different frequency allocations. For example:

– Chinese versions often lack Band 20.
– U.S. models support mmWave but may miss important global 4G bands.
– Global versions support the widest range of bands.

Network Bands in Major Countries

Egypt 🇪🇬

Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦

United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪

United States 🇺🇸

Europe 🇪🇺

Qatar 🇶🇦

Kuwait 🇰🇼

Jordan 🇯🇴

United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Turkey 🇹🇷

Netherlands 🇳🇱

Sweden 🇸🇪

Brazil 🇧🇷

Argentina 🇦🇷

Chile 🇨🇱

Essential Bands for Global Compatibility

for Global Compatibility

If your phone supports the following bands, it will work in more than 90% of countries worldwide:

B3 – B1 – B7 – B20 – B28 – n41 – n78