The 2G landscape is a patchwork, with varying timelines for network 2G shutdown across different regions. While some countries have already pulled the plug, others are maintaining 2G for legacy systems. However, the writing is on the wall: 2G’s days are numbered — and LTE-M is being positioned as the successor.
This presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in upgrading existing infrastructure, which requires investment and planning. The opportunity lies in leveraging the right technologies to optimize operations, enhance efficiency, and create new possibilities for IoT.
The transition is more than just LTE-M vs 2G tech show down; it’s a strategic move towards a more robust, secure, and future-proof IoT ecosystem. Embrace the change, and position your organization for success in the connected world today and in the future. Let’s begin with benefits, comparisons, and scenarios between LTE-M vs 2G in this article.
Table of Contents
Quick definitions
What is 2G?
2G (Second Generation Cellular Networks) refers to the second generation of mobile communication technology, introduced in the 1990s and based on GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) standards. It supports voice calls, SMS, and limited data transmission via GPRS (2.5G) and EDGE (2.75G). 2G played a crucial role in building the foundation of early IoT technologies, enabling basic telemetry and communication. However, 2G networks are being phased out globally as operators transition to 4G and 5G to meet modern bandwidth demands.
What is LTE-M?
LTE-M or Long Term Evolution for Machines is a cellular connectivity technology designed to meet long-range, low-data, low-power, and low-cost requirements for many IoT devices. It’s also referred to as LTE Cat-M1/M2 as it’s infrastructure is largely based off LTE, which is part of 4G. Read this guide for a deep dive into LTE-M.
What are the benefits of LTE-M vs 2G for IoT?
1. Energy-efficient power consumption
One of LTE-M’s standout features is its ability to operate with significantly lower power consumption compared to 2G.
Testing to compare the two found that LTE-M consumed nearly half the energy of 2G during network registration, PDP context activation, and detachment. For battery-powered IoT devices, such as asset trackers, this efficiency can translate into dramatically longer operational lifespans, reducing maintenance costs.
With advanced features like power-saving modes (eDRX and PSM), LTE-M enables devices to stay connected while consuming minimal energy—ensuring it remains relevant as IoT needs continue to grow.
Looking to optimize your IoT devices for power efficiency? This guide to low-power IoT design walks you through practical ways to save power to make devices last longer.
2. Bandwidth that fits IoT
Unlike 2G, which was retrofitted for IoT applications despite being designed for consumer use, LTE-M was built from the ground up for machine-to-machine and IoT communication. The result? A much more efficient use of telco resources.
LTE-M leverages existing 4G infrastructure, offering widespread coverage and seamless global roaming. Because 2G is legacy technology, it still works great in rural or remote areas where 2G is still operational. LTE-M’s penetration capabilities are designed to match or exceed this, making it a robust alternative for IoT solutions in challenging environments.
2G networks consume large amounts of bandwidth relative to the data transmitted. So while 2G works with connected devices, it is not very efficient especially for devices that have limitations in hardware or data. Initially, this wasn’t problematic, but as IoT connections grew globally, 2G networks have buckled under the strain. LTE-M solves this by offering dedicated channels specifically optimized for IoT traffic.
To get the full picture on the different radio access technologies used by different devices, read our guide on cellular IoT network technologies.
3. Future-proof technology for IoT devices
It’s only a matter of time until 2G will no longer be supported by telco providers globally to free up resources for more efficient technologies such as LTE-M for IoT and 5G IoT.
Meanwhile, LTE-M is aligned with the future of cellular communication since it is a modified LTE technology specifically designed for IoT. While 5G is still getting rolled out globally (with some estimates saying it won’t become dominant until 2030), LTE-M and other similar technologies such as NB-IoT (to some extent even LTE Cat 1 bis) will be the de facto standard for low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) requirements.
For device deployments that need to be in the field for 10 years, LTE-M ensures long-term support, ongoing development, and seamless integration with evolving network infrastructure. Migrating to LTE-M safeguards investments and avoids the impending obsolescence of 2G.
For certain IoT deployments, device longevity is a high priority. There are several ways to make sure your device is future-proof, we have this future-proof IoT guide to get you in the right path as easrly as possible in your device lifecycle.
4. Enhanced security
The security differences between 2G and LTE-M are substantial and represent one of the most compelling reasons to transition to newer technology.
2G networks use outdated security protocols that were designed in the 1990s. They use relatively weaker encryption (A5/1 algorithm) that has been successfully broken, and lack many modern authentication features. This makes 2G connections vulnerable to eavesdropping, man-in-the-middle attacks, and SIM cloning.
LTE-M, being part of the 4G/5G ecosystem, incorporates significantly stronger security measures specifically for low-power devices:
- More robust encryption using 128-bit AES algorithms
- Enhanced mutual authentication between devices and networks
- Support for end-to-end encryption at the application layer
- Over-the-air security updates capability
For critical infrastructure and industrial applications, these security improvements are particularly important, as they help protect sensitive operational data and prevent potential system compromises that could lead to service disruptions or safety concerns.
The security vulnerabilities in 2G represent another reason beyond network sunsets why organizations should prioritize migration to LTE-M for their IoT deployments.
Do you wonder how secure your devices are? When you have the cloud, the network, and devices to secure, not to mention the regulations you need to comply to, how do you know what is best for your deployment? Get tips from security experts on our webinar about end-to-end IoT security, on-demand.
5. Enhanced mobility management
LTE-M outperforms 2G for mobile devices through improved handover capabilities. Its efficient cell reselection protocols require less signaling and power during tower transitions.
Power-saving features like eDRX and PSM keep mobile devices connected while conserving battery. LTE-M provides better coverage consistency and smoother indoor-outdoor transitions thanks to improved building penetration.
Higher data rates enable more frequent location updates without excessive battery drain. These advantages make LTE-M ideal for fleet management, asset tracking, and wearable applications where reliable connectivity during movement is critical.
Connected mobility is taking off and is seen to redefine how we use vehicles. Connected Cars is leading the smart mobility revolution powered with cellular technology to deliver vehicle data to the cloud wherever they go. Learn from their success story in connected mobility.
6. Seamless integration
LTE-M offers a smoother transition for existing 2G deployments compared to other LPWAN technologies. Its similarity to 2G in terms of integration simplifies the migration process and minimizes disruption.
Whether you’re in the testing, deployment, or scaling phase, you’re not alone
in feeling overwhelmed by the sea of connectivity options for your devices. Get practical tips with our free cellular IoT connectivity playbook.
Direct comparison between LTE-M vs 2G
Feature-wise, especially for IoT deployments, LTE-M is a clear upgrade over 2G in terms of security, mobility, speed, power efficiency, and scalability. Its advanced encryption standards and ability to handle high-speed devices make it ideal for modern IoT deployments, particularly for use cases like transportation, smart cities, and industrial IoT. 2G, on the other hand, is increasingly obsolete and less secure, with limited capabilities for modern IoT demands.
| Feature | 2G | LTE-M |
|---|---|---|
| Core technology | GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) | LTE (Long-Term Evolution) optimized for IoT |
| Maximum data rate (DL/UL) | Very low (50/20 kbps) | Moderate (300/375 kbps) |
| Latency | High latency (not suitable for real-time use) | Low latency (suitable for real-time IoT apps) |
| Coverage | Wide coverage, but limited in some regions as 2G networks are being phased out | Wide coverage (uses existing LTE infrastructure with extended range features). |
| Power efficiency | Moderate (can drain battery quickly for some devices) | Highly optimized for low-power operations, supports extended battery life (up to 10 years) with low-power modes. |
| Device density | Low device density per cell | High device density per cell (supports massive IoT). |
| Security | Basic GSM encryption (A5/1 or A5/2) | Advanced 128-bit AES encryption algorithms |
| Cost | Low-cost modules with performance limitations. | Slightly higher module costs but better scalability and performance. |
| Roaming | Established global roaming support (but declining as 2G sunsets) | Supported globally in regions with LTE-M deployments |
| Availability | Being phased out globally in favor of newer technologies | Future-proof as part of the LTE/4G ecosystem, with long-term support |
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When to use 2G for IoT deployments?
Despite its declining prominence, 2G remains an essential fallback in certain scenarios:
- Remote coverage requirements:
Despite LTE-M’s advantages, there are still pockets of the world where 2G remains the only viable connectivity option. Throughout parts of Africa, South America, and rural Asia, 2G networks continue to provide essential coverage where newer technologies haven’t yet reached.
If your devices must operate in these regions, maintaining 2G compatibility – at least as a fallback option – remains prudent. - Legacy system integration:
Let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: replacing entire fleets of 2G-connected devices isn’t trivial. Many existing IoT devices, such as older smart meters or vehicle trackers, were designed with 2G modems. Organizations with substantial investments in 2G infrastructure face legitimate challenges in transitioning.
For these scenarios, dual-mode devices supporting both 2G and LTE-M offer a practical bridge. This approach allows for gradual migration without the shock of a sudden, complete overhaul. - Low-cost applications:
In applications where cost is a major constraint, 2G modules and connectivity remain a viable option due to their affordability. This is particularly relevant in markets where the cost of upgrading to LTE-M is prohibitive. Although it is worth noting that prices for LTE-M devices are falling as it grows in use. - Critical fallback capability:
For applications where connectivity is absolutely non-negotiable – think vehicle tracking across continental routes or monitoring temperature-sensitive medical supplies – 2G can still serve as a valuable fallback when primary networks are unavailable.
Connecting to 2G when the LTE-M network is unavailable could be more power-efficient than scanning and then connecting to a different network provider to establish an LTE-M connection. So while striving for complete network coverage with LTE-M, 2G offers a vital fallback for applications requiring dependable connectivity.
See if LTE-M or 2G, and other network technologies like NB-IoT or 4G are offered in your deployment region. Check out our free coverage map for a global view on available network technologies.
Where we stand now with low-power IoT connectivity and the 2G sunset
The global 2G landscape is fragmented. While some regions, like the US, Japan, and Korea, have already decommissioned their 2G networks, others, including parts of Europe, South America, Africa, and India, still rely heavily on 2G for IoT connectivity. However, the eventual shutdown of 2G is inevitable.
This poses a significant challenge for businesses and utilities operating 2G-dependent IoT devices. Upgrading or replacing hardware is essential to maintain connectivity. While this requires investment, it also presents an opportunity to modernize infrastructure, improve functionality, and leverage the advanced capabilities of LTE-M.
The transition to LTE-M is not merely a technical upgrade; it represents a strategic shift towards a more efficient, secure, and future-proof IoT ecosystem. By embracing LTE-M or even NB-IoT (see how the 2 LPWAN technologies compare here), businesses can create the full potential of the IoT and position themselves for success in the years to come.
In this webinar with Nordic Semiconductor, you can learn more about the practicalities of LTE-M and NB-IoT, another LPWAN technology to consider when transitioning from 2G or designing devices from the start.
