Industry news

4G vs 5G Body Worn Camera: How to Choose the Right Solution?

January 26 , 2026

Body worn cameras are no longer just simple recording tools. In real-world use, they have become communication devices, evidence collectors, and mobile command terminals.

For law enforcement, private security, emergency response, and industrial safety teams, the question is no longer whether to use a body worn camera, but whether a 4G or 5G body worn camera is the better fit.

To answer this, we need to look at how both technologies actually perform in daily operations.

 

1. 4G Body Worn Cameras: Stable, Practical, and Cost-Effective

 

A modern 4G body worn camera is designed around reliability and wide network coverage. LTE networks are mature, stable, and available in most countries, which makes 4G devices a safe and predictable choice.

 

4G body worn camera

 

Grandtime 4G Body Worn Camera

 

 

One Device, Two Functions

 

The F2S-A 4G body worn camera uses a 2-in-1 design, combining:

 ● Push-to-talk radio

 ● Body worn video camera

This means end users only need to carry one device instead of two, reducing equipment load during long shifts. With a dedicated PTT button, voice calls can be made instantly, which is critical in patrol and on-site security work.

 

Built for Long Shifts and Harsh Environments

 

In real deployments, durability matters more than specifications on paper. A typical 4G body worn camera like the F2S-A offers:

 ● Rugged, body-mounted design

 ● IP68 protection and 2-meter drop resistance

 ● 3050mAh removable battery for extended use

 ● Android 13 OS for better system compatibility

These features make it suitable for municipal patrol, private security, property management, and traffic enforcement.

 

Core Functions That Cover Daily Needs

 

From a functional perspective, a 4G body worn camera supports most daily tasks, including:

 ● Voice single call and group call

 ● Video call and live video streaming

 ● 1080p video recording with pre- and post-recording

 ● GPS real-time location tracking

 ● Infrared night vision

 ● SOS emergency alerts

For many users, 4G body worn cameras already solve 90% of operational requirements, while keeping device and data costs under control.

 

2. 5G Body Worn Cameras: Real-Time, Visual, and Intelligent

 

A 5G body worn camera is built for a higher level of command and coordination. The Grandtime S1 is a representative example of how 5G changes body camera applications.

 

5G body worn camera

Grandtime 5G Body Worn Camera

 

What 5G Really Brings to Body Cameras?

 

The biggest advantage of 5G is not just speed, but low latency and higher data capacity. In practice, it enables:

 ● Faster and more stable HD video transmission

 ● Less compression and clearer live images

 ● Near real-time interaction between field staff and command centers

This is especially important in law enforcement and emergency response scenarios, where decision-making depends on what commanders can see immediately.

 

Higher Video Standards and Dual Streams

 

Unlike standard 4G devices, the Grandtime S1 5G body worn camera supports:

 ● 4K HD video recording

 ● Dual video streams

 ● Local recording while transmitting video in real time

It allows field officers to keep high-quality evidence locally, while command centers receive live video without delay.

 

Intelligence and Data Security

 

The Grandtime S1 goes beyond recording by integrating intelligent features such as:

 ● AI intelligent recognition

 ● Automatic infrared night vision switching

 ● Built-in acceleration sensor and NFC

 ● Precise location and movement tracking

For sensitive operations, TF card encryption ensures that recorded data remains secure and compliant with operational requirements.

 

4G or 5G: How to Choose the Right Body Worn Camera?

 

Choosing between 4G and 5G depends on how the device will actually be used, not just on technology trends.

 

Choose 4G If You Focus on Practical Daily Operations

 

A 4G body worn camera is usually the right choice if your work involves:

 ● Routine patrol and supervision

 ● Voice communication as a priority

 ● Standard video recording and evidence collection

 ● Large-scale deployment with cost control

Industries such as private security, logistics supervision, campus safety, and property management often benefit more from stable 4G solutions.

 

Choose 5G If Real-Time Command Is Critical

 

A 5G body worn camera like the Grandtime S1 is better suited when you need:

 ● Real-time visual command and scheduling

 ● Ultra-clear live video streaming

 ● Multi-team coordination during incidents

 ● Intelligent analysis and fast response

It is common in police departments, emergency rescue, fire services, and large public events.

 

Think About Infrastructure and Future Growth

 

5G performance depends on network availability and data cost.

In areas with stable 5G coverage, the advantages are clear. In other regions, 4G may still offer more consistent results. Many organizations start with 4G and gradually upgrade to 5G.

Working with an experienced manufacturer like Grandtime, we provide both 4G and 5G body worn camera solutions, making this transition easier.

 

Conclusion: Choose Smart Today, Upgrade with Grandtime Tomorrow

 

Both 4G and 5G body worn cameras have clear value. The key is matching the technology to real operational needs.

4G body worn cameras remain reliable, practical, and cost-effective. 5G body worn cameras, especially the Grandtime S1, unlock real-time visual command and intelligent applications.

Grandtime continues to support customers with advanced, scalable body worn camera solutions. If you are planning a new deployment or upgrading an existing system, now is the right time to contact Grandtime and find the solution that truly fits your operation.

Related News
[2026-01-22] What Industries And Areas And How Can AI AR Glasses Be Applied To Assist Users At Work [2025-12-20] 4G 5G Body Worn Camera Frequently Asked questions Part 1 [2025-12-11] 5G Smart Safety Helmet: Revolutionizing Workforce Safety [2025-11-27] The Professional Applications of AI-Powered AR Glasses
We value your privacy
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept", you consent to our use of cookies.