Is GSM Better Than CDMA? Learn It Here

Part 1. What is GSM?

Among the radio technologies, GSM or Global System for Mobile Communication was highly popular worldwide as the top choice for mobile networks. It was most commonly used in around 210+ countries, primarily in the Europe and Asia regions.

The technology works on four frequency bands, specifically, 850 MHz/1900 MHz in the Americas and 900 MHz/1800 MHz in Asia and Europe. It has been operating in the market since its inception and runs on TDMA format that cuts the frequency bands within multiple channels. One of the most popular carriers of GSM technology currently is AT&T.

Part 2. What is CDMA?

In the context of GSM CDMA meaning, CDMA stands for Code Division Multiple Access, and it is a Qualcomm-patented network standard. It works for the WCDMA and CDMA2000 standards for 3G technology, and the proprietary technology is not widely used globally.

These networks layer multiple digitalized calls on top of each other with unique codes available for differentiation. The receivers also have special keys individually that cut the combined signal into two.

It is prevalent in the United States primarily. For example, popular carriers that run with the CDMA technology are Sprint and Verizon Wireless.

Part 3. CDMA vs. GSM: What's the Main Difference?

After understanding what CDMA carriers and technologies, specifically concerning phone connections, are, you can focus on how they differ. Both of these technologies are not mutually compatible. So, if you have a GSM smartphone, you cannot run it via a CDMA network. So, buying a new device will become necessary if you change to another carrier.

Plus, both technologies are globally used, but GSM is widely spread while CDMA, with its proprietary nature, is available to a limited group. The latter is a type of new dynamic technology and costs higher than GSM usage. Plus, from the coverage perspective, CDMA operates well in areas with high radio frequency interference, unlike GSM devices.

Part 4. Detailed Comparison Between GSM and CDMA

Of course, when considering GSM and CDMA differences, it is essential to look at each version's differences in detail. The main differences are available based on their functions, specifications, and more.

Comparison Chart Between GSM and CDMA

Here is a comparative chart between what is CDMA and GSM, detailed as per their usage quality and capacity.

Let's explain this further.

1. Technology Used - GSM has an edge

GSM-powered smartphones and tablets stand out compared to CDMA since it runs with TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) and FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access) technologies. Plus, it supports both voice and data transmission benefits.

In terms of CDMA and GSM and the technologies in use, the CDMA phones run with CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) and do not support special transmission features.

2. Network Coverage – GSM has an edge

This GSM technology is more widely covered across different regions, while CDMA is limited within the specified zones. So, as per network coverage, GSM assures a more extensive range.

3. Global Reach - GSM has an edge

One difference between GSM and CDMA is that the latter was made in the United States for usage in these regions. Therefore, it is available for US citizens, Canada, and some Asian counties like Japan and South Korea. In contrast, GSM phones are available in 200+ countries globally. 

4. The Use of SIM Cards - GSM has an edge

Regarding GSM and CDMA comparison, GSM operates on a SIM card basis while CDMA stores data directly in the Phone. GSM is better in this context since it is easier to change SIM cards in case of theft, damage, etc. But you have to change the whole CDMA with another in case of any error, which is not cost-effective.

5. GSM and CDMA Carriers – GSM has an edge

GSM is supported on more carrier types than CDMA. This makes it easier to use GSM long-term since you can replace it with another SIM card from the same carrier. On the other hand, CDMA users must change the whole device if there are connectivity issues, which is highly inconvenient.

6. Data Transfer Methods - CDMA has an edge

CDMA works on a packet switch mode. This means the data is split during transmission into multiple consistently sized blocks. Thus, data transfer between different devices is smoother, more efficient, and faster.

Alternatively, GSM devices with circuit switching mode will only run data transmission via one true path.

7. Data Transfer Rate - CDMA has an edge

GSM phones using EDGE data transmission operate at 384 kbps typically, while 3G phones run at 42 Mbps transfer speed while running on High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) technology. Comparatively, the CDMA phones run on EVDO technology at 2 Mbps. Thus, CDMA phones assure faster data transfer rates.

8. International Roaming - GSM has an edge

GSM mobile phones have international roaming support, while CDMA phones limit their roaming range.

9. Spectrum Frequencies - GSM has an edge

In GSM or CDMA differences, the latter operates on a spread spectrum system while the former works in the Spectrumwedge spectrum. They all run the 900 MHz, 1900 MHz, and 1800 MHz frequencies, but CDMA runs on a native technology while GSM technology is more expanded.

10. Radiation Exposure - CDMA has an edge

Electronic interference happens with GSM phones, making using the device/network unsafe in sensitive locations like airplanes and hospitals. This issue is not available for CDMA phones.

11.The Quality of the Call - CDMA has an edge

Since there is no limit to the number of users, you can add to the call. The connection is not constricted during calls via CDMA. The sound quality via GSM phones is also good, but its processing power is lower since it operates with a restricted boundary.

12.Battery Life - GSM has an edge

CDMA technology takes up more battery power since the main transmitter here is active constantly. This also provides low talk time. On the other hand, the transmitter in GSM phones, like the TDMA-based solution, does not need a continuous transmission.

13.Security – CDMA has an edge

CDMA has some user data vulnerabilities, but it has built-in encryption. However, for GSM phones, you must use external apps for encryption.

Part 5. Which is Better, GSM or CDMA?

The next question that naturally comes up is this- which is better: GSM or CDMA? But in this case, there's no easy answer to that question. On the whole, both technologies have their good and bad qualities. For that, let's refresh on the pros and cons of both technology types.

Pros of GSM:

• GSM users get high-quality voice transmissions.
• In addition, users can transfer both voice and data.
• A variety of carriers and devices support this globally.

Pros of CDMA:

• Efficiently utilizes the total bandwidth available.
• No network congestion possibility in CDMA technology, so the call quality is higher here.
• In-built encryption support for user messages between devices.

Cons of GSM:

• Too many users use the same network causing congestion.
• Encryption security is only accessible through other apps or tools you use.
• Slower data transmission rates compared to CDMA-based data transfers.

Cons of CDMA:

• Low-quality voice transmission for users.
• Does not support multiple types of data.
• Available to a limited number of users globally.

Part 6. How to Tell if Your Phone is GSM or CDMA

Now, you may wonder, "is my phone GSM or CDMA?"

Worry not, that is the following natural query for most users, and luckily there are ways to find the answer. Here are some of the best options available.

Method 1: Check via Phone Settings

You can check that the Phone is GSM or CDMA through Settings. Here are the steps.

On Android:

Step 1: Access Settings > System > About Phone.

Step 2: Tap on Status and find the IMEI/ESN/MEID number. (IMEI means the Phone is GSM and ESN/MEID means it is CDMA).

On iOS:

Step 1: Open Settings > General.

Step 2: Go to the About section and find the IMEI/ESN/MEID at the bottom section of the menu.

Method 2: Check SIM Card Slot

CDMA phones do not need SIM cards and have no slot, while GSM phones do. So, you can check by seeing the SIM card slot availability. However, CDMA smartphones now have SIM Card slots, so it's not the best way to check.

Method 3: Find the Model Number

Access the About Phone/About Device section to see the model number. This is also printed on the back of the smartphone.

Or, you can search if your phone model is GSM vs. CDMA through a Google search.

Part 7. The Future of CDMA and GSM

Let's understand what to expect in the future for the two technologies.

The Evolution of Mobile Communication Technologies

Over time, there have been different technologies in the market, like GSM vs. CDMA vs. LTE. The GSM and CDMA versions are mainly available in 2G and 3G versions. This was usable enough before but cannot match up to the network requirements currently.

Most apps and technologies have evolved to become more powerful, faster, and dynamic, like improving scrolling ability in the browser, social media apps, etc. So, the need for 4G and 5G networks is more in demand, which is why GSM and CDMA phones are slowly falling behind.

However, the interest in these is still available as legacy technologies mainly. Although, there are some brands that are incorporating 4G power in GSM smartphones compared to CDMA.

Bonus Tips: How to Bypass iCloud Activation Lock on iPhone/iPad/iPod [GSM & CDMA]?

If you can need to find out detail about your device, like the IMEI number, you need to access the phone. However, the screen may be locked in some cases, especially for iPhone users with Activation Lock enabled. Here, you can bypass the activation lock on iCloud on Apple devices running on CDMA and GSM technology using Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS).

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This software is helpful for various levels of security lock removal from iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch devices, like Face ID, Touch ID, etc. Using this software, you can easily remove the activation lock for iCloud with simple steps.

To know more about how to use this software to bypass iCloud activation, you can read posts written on it.

Key Features:

• Removes multiple types of screen locks.
• Zero data loss when accessing locked screens.
• The three-step process for activation lock is bypassing.

Supported Devices: iOS 9-16, Bypass Activation Lock feature for iPhone 5S- iPhone X, iPod Touch 7/9 (iOS 12.0-14.8.1), and iPad 4-7.

Important note:

You need to jailbreak the iOS device before iCloud Activation Lock bypassing. The GSM phones will return to regular usability immediately afterward, while users will not be able to use unlocked CDMA phones for all functions.

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Conclusion

Overall, GSM and CDMA are both valuable technologies in the context of network connections available for various global users. Understand their differences to decide which will work for you. If you cannot access the device to find information about the device, use Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to bypass safely and see the device information.

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