4G Networks Sometimes Run Faster than 5G, for the Moment

In some cases, a 4G network is faster than a 5G network, and there is a simple explanation. That easily can happen when the 4G network uses 10 MHz of bandwidth for each channel and the 5G network uses just 5 MHz, and both networks use the low-band spectrum. 

In other cases, 4G using LTE-Advanced, in the low band, also can be faster than low-band 5G. 

In the case of AT&T, if a smartphone uses 5 MHz of Band n5 for 5G NR then it forgoes using 10 MHz of Band 12 or Band 14 for LTE. Arguably, the end user data speeds would be higher with 10 MHz of LTE versus 5 MHz of 5G NR, Signals Research says.