Trying out a 5G trial
StarHub’s 5G Sneak Peek: How We Tested the Future of Mobile
On the 18th of August, StarHub rolled out its brand‑new Mobile+ and Biz+ plans, sweetening the deal with a chance to dip a toe into their fledgling 5G network. Basically, if you’re already a StarHub subscriber for one of these plans and have a 5G‑capable phone, you’ll occasionally catch a glimpse of the next‑gen speed thrills.
Why We Were All In
We’re the kind of folks who love tech demos, and when the opportunity came to test StarHub‘s nascent 5G, we were all set. After getting the green light, we roamed across about ten different spots around Singapore to see whether the promise of blazing‑fast 5G was more than just buzz.
What Happened on the Road
- Speed Tests – The numbers were pretty solid, especially on the flagship sites.
- Real‑World Use – From streaming 4K movies to downloading songs, the experience felt noticeably snappier.
- Coverage Gaps – Some corner locations still delivered 4G, reminding us that 5G rollout takes time.
Takeaway
It turns out that the future of mobile is already within reach—at least for those lucky enough to be part of this trial.
We’re looking forward to seeing how StarHub expands this network and how quickly it can turn those “taste‑tests” into everyday connectivity.
The promises of 5G
Why 5G is the Future of Internet in Singapore
Singapore may not be a huge country, but if you want the internet to feel like a star‑ship rather than a college dorm Wi‑Fi, you really have to explore what 5G can do. Let’s break it down so you can tell your friends why we’re making the switch.
Speed — The Real Reason
- 4G Reality: In everyday life you’ll see about 50‑100 Mbps on your phone. The technology can hit a theoretical ceiling of up to 1 Gbps, but that’s rarely what you experience.
- 5G Reality: Even the simplest 5G tables top out at roughly 100‑900 Mbps in real‑world usage, and the theoretical max goes up to a jaw‑dropping 20 Gbps (that’s 20,000 Mbps!).
Bottom line? If your phone actually supports 5G and your carrier offers it, you’re looking at a speed boost of several times over. Just imagine streaming a 4K movie without a single hitch.
Latency — The Game‑Changer
Latency is the time it takes for your action to hit the internet. Think multiplayer gaming: the lower the latency, the less lag you feel, so you’re not three seconds behind your teammate. For 4G that can mean a bit of delay—like, “is my click real‑time?” lag.
- 4G Latency: Often around 50‑100 ms, which is fine for most apps.
- 5G Latency: Drop it to 1‑10 ms—now the internet feels like a direct line.
This “wow” factor isn’t just for gamers. Businesses can finally use the airwaves for things that make it hard to imagine in 4G:
- Remote surgery: doctors at home can guide a surgical robot with near‑real‑time feedback.
- Factory automation: machines on the line react instantly, boosting productivity.
- Smart logistics: drivers get route updates immediately, trucks sync up seamlessly.
What It Looks Like Today
Picture this: emergency services dispatch in real time; a retail store’s inventory updates across the shop in a snap; health monitors feed doctors instant data. All of this runs on the low‑latency, high‑speed network of 5G.
Ready for the Fast Future?
The big picture is that 5G isn’t just a nice upgrade—it’s a complete game‑changer for how fast and reliable mobile internet feels. So if you’re still on 4G, think about upgrading. Your next binge‑watch or office Zoom call might just thank you for it.
So what kind of 5G are we looking at today?
What’s Up With 5G? A Quick, Fun Breakdown
By now you’ve probably heard the buzz around 5G, but understanding it can feel like decoding a secret language. The road to high‑speed wireless was riddled with twists—think speed limits that shrink as you get closer to the tech’s ceiling and the whiff of trouble when you try to make 5G work inside a building or underground.
Long ago, 5G was basically a “nice dream, not a reality” situation. Thankfully, the industry has patched most of those bruises, and now you’ll spot 5G popping up in several countries—and in Singapore right now.
Two Flavor Options for 5G
- 5G NSA (Non‑Standalone): Imagine 5G riding on the 4G “backbone.” It uses 4G’s wide coverage, plus some tech wizardry, to deliver decent 5G speeds—although not the absolute peak. Most nations started with NSA because they could recycle their existing infrastructure, giving 5G an immediate launchpad.
- 5G SA (Standalone): This is the full‑blown 5G experience. SA builds a brand‑new network from scratch—new towers, fresher frequencies, and the ability to juggle many devices at once. Because you’re wiring a brand‑new system, it takes time: typically 3–5 years to get it live and humming.
StarHub’s First Taste of 5G (NSA)
StarHub’s current trial gives users a glimpse of 5G NSA. That’s how they managed a quick launch compared to other telcos that are still chewing over their roadmaps after the IMDA released the 5G spectrum winners.
So, if you’re itching for 5G right now, the NSA options are the fastest way to get on board. Keep an eye on the rollout—once the full‑scale SA version rolls around, the experience will be even smoother.
Testing StarHub’s one-week-old 5G NSA network
Singapore’s 5G Playground: A Real‑World Test
Ever wonder why your download speeds can feel like a rollercoaster? It’s not just the telco that’s at fault—your phone, the tower, the weather, even the nearest coffee shop all play a part. We did our best to cut through the noise by keeping as many variables steady as possible while we poked around Singapore’s newest 5G offering.
What’s Special About StarHub’s 5G Trial?
- Launched a mere week before our test, the network had 53 % coverage in dense areas of Singapore, which swelled to 60 % coverage by the time we hit the road.
- It’s essentially a public beta: good spots are “good,” bad spots are “bad,” and there’s a subtle 50‑50 chance of landing on a solid connection if you stick to their suggested spots.
- Coverage is strictly outdoors, so testing inside malls or near MRT stations can knock the signal, and that’s a fact we’re sticking to.
Reality Check: 5G Isn’t a Walk‑In‑the-Park Experience
Getting 5G proved to be a bit like hunting for a rare Pokémon sprite—no clue whether you’re closer to the base or not. One test spot? Harbourfront. But walking just 20 steps can swing the connection from “pretty good” to “meh.” Phones also refuse to jump over to 5G if they think their 4G signal is strong enough—so every tap involved a little manual reset, airplane‑mode shuffle, or an impatient “again.” All in all, it was a one‑way trip to the limit of what the beta network can give, especially when the island isn’t yet fully blanket‑covered.
Our Test Blueprint
- Speedmeter app: latest Ookla Speedtest on Android.
- Control: a rival telco’s 4G service (even though we couldn’t snag StarHub’s own 4G, the focus is 5G’s promise, not a fairness war).
- Phones: two Oppo Find X2 Pro units—one tuned to StarHub 5G, the other locked into the 4G playground.
- Servers: we pinged outside networks—fdcservers.net and OVH Cloud.
- Procedure: switch on airplane mode or reboot to coax the 5G device into the net; keep the 4G handset in the best signal zone. All tests are stationary—one phone per hand.
- Timeline: from 11 am on Aug 28 through the night; network load varied wildly as we moved across the island.
The Heating‑Up: What Did We See?
We powered through a 17,000‑step marathon on our fitness trackers, barely‑charged batteries, and a Singapore the whole “SafeEntry” program. Fingers crossed, we found:
- 5G gave a peek‑behind‑the‑curtain glimpse of what could be, but 4G still held its ground in many spots.
- Our friendly neighborhood test sites had a mix—some sprung forth with shiny new 5G, while at least one area simply couldn’t connect (but it helped tell us the story).
- We’re promising a fresh update next week once we baby 5G’s own 4G stats.
Stay tuned. The real adventure is just beginning, and we’re throwing out the humble “test” label—you can think of it more like a playful treasure hunt on Singapore’s turf. We’ve made the first maps, 5G’s a beta, but that ain’t stopping us from figuring out where the signal actually packs a punch!
Central locations
Our 4G Speed Test Adventure
We kicked off our internet quality quest at Plaza Singapura and hopped over to a handful of buzz‑worthy spots around town. While Orchard Gateway didn’t make the list of “go‑to” locations, we still dropped by to see just how much of a difference a mall environment could make.
Testing Format
Every venue follows a simple three‑step rundown:
- Spot – the location we’re checking.
- Competing 4G Network – speed results from the rival carrier.
- StarHub – our own speed test scores.
Stick with us as we lay out the numbers and see who really steals the spotlight!
Plaza Singapura
<img alt="" data-caption="The Plaza Singapura test spot was where StarHub bade us goodbye, right outside the SafeEntry points into the mall.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”f85d3fe5-491e-4b93-9c3f-ec5797615ed2″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_plazasing_hardwarezone.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”9201e4c0-f4ab-4c0c-a245-28554b822756″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_plazasing4g_hardwarezone.png”/><img alt="" data-caption="StarHub 5G trial network, Test 1 and StarHub 5G trial network, Test 2.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”89a9fbdb-0bd8-458c-8dcb-6a38bea4f081″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_plazasing5g_hardwarezone.png”/>
Plaza Singapura’s 5G Bang‑On!
We rolled out 5G at Plaza Singapura and the numbers came in hot:
- Speed jump – ~5× faster than 4G
- Latency squeeze – at least 50% lower than its 4G counterpart
So, if you thought 5G wasn’t living up to the hype, this place proved otherwise. It’s like swapping a flip‑phone for a super‑charged smartphone in seconds.
Cuppage Road (Junction of Centerpoint and Orchard Point)
<img alt="" data-caption="The Cuppage Road junction between Centerpoint and Orchard Point, where another StarHub recommended spot resided. We had no qualms about testing here since this walkway has seen better days.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”d7b93cee-3ecc-41cb-902e-daa7e14ff8ee” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_cuppage_hardwarezone.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”bb47565d-c754-4142-8610-70cb6b143d54″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_cuppage4g_hardwarezone.png”/><img alt="" data-caption="StarHub 5G trial network, Test 1 and StarHub 5G trial network, Test 2.
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StarHub’s 5G Experience at Cuppage Road
Ready for a speed boost? Here’s what caught our eye:
- Speed Boost – 2‑to‑3× the speed of typical 4G.
- Latency Crunch – only a fraction of the usual waiting time.
- Still Good – it’s well above average 4G, even if it’s not as blazingly fast as the lights‑crashing Plaza Singapura.
All in all, a solid win that keeps your data flowing faster than a leisurely stroll at the Cuppage corner.
Orchard Gateway (indoors)
<img alt="" data-caption="Inside Orchard Gateway.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”65104bbb-1245-4f79-b2df-53293c4a6b43″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_gateway_hardwarezone.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”86527d5e-4c7e-417f-b422-97f18e1197fd” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_gateway4g_hardwarezone.png”/><img alt="" data-caption="StarHub 5G trial network, Test 1 and StarHub 5G trial network, Test 2.
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Unexpected 5G Boost Inside
We were about to crack open a routine check‑in when we stumbled upon lightning‑fast speeds right inside Plaza Singapura. Turns out StarHub hadn’t even bothered to turn on the indoor 5G towers, yet the network still gave us a turbo‑charged boost—talk about a pleasant surprise!
What Went Down?
- Our first test revealed blazing‑fast speeds that rivaled the outside performance.
- StarHub had officially announced that the indoor 5G base stations were still off‑grid.
- In the second round, we headed to a spot where 5G was glaringly absent. Guess what? It gracefully fell back to classic 4G speeds—nothing wild, just the expected power‑down.
Bottom Line
The double whammy of speed surprises reminds us that even when the tech you’re counting on isn’t fully live, innovation keeps surprising us. Statistically, those fast spots are rare, so grab your data plan—who knows when the next “faster‑than‑expected” moment will hit?
South of Singapore
Marina Bay Sands: The Ultimate 5G Playground?
Picture this: a gleaming stretch of our sunny island, the biggest tech marvel coming in—the brand‑new Apple store—and the iconic Marina Bay Sands (MBS) making a splash on the international stage. We’re talking about that jaw‑dropping waterfront resort with the rooftop infinity pool that feels like a scene from a James Bond movie.
Why We Fell for MBS (and the Apple Store)
Two simple reasons:
- Tech Heaven: The Apple launch barely in the right place for tech enthusiasts.
- Royal Regalia: MBS is Singapore’s unambiguous brag‑card to the world—ready for any media splash and a selfie connoisseur’s dream.
The 5G Hunt (and the 4G “Partner”)
The 5G trial network at MBS wasn’t live when we dropped in, but one thing we were absolutely keen on was seeing how the numbers pan out on the test cloth. We already had a 4G network in another hand—call it the “old‑school” back‑up.
Even though the 5G lights were a bit shy, our sights were set on capturing those edge‑case numbers later on. We were curious: what would the ‘sweet spot’ actually look like? In the end, Hong Kong was a well‑logged 5G zone on StarHub’s site, but getting the perfect spot felt like a treasure hunt.
Where We Tested (And How We Recorded It)
When you’re doing these tests, we followed a tidy recipe:
- Spot: The exact location we dialed in—like a secret base on a top floor or a balcony.
- 4G Score: Our trusty “competing” 4G network’s metric, measured right next to us.
- StarHub 5G Score: The star of the show, the scores coming straight from StarHub’s finger‑pointed results.
So next time you’re in MBS or any other lofty spot, remember: the question isn’t just “What’s the speed?” but “Can I still get my coffee while my data bursts around 21‑30 Gbps?”
Final Thought
It’s all about playing the game where the messages seed themselves into your life. Even if we didn’t get the 5G to sing at first, we had a good laugh, a solid 4G backup, and a bang for the buckets. Stay tuned for our next throwdown—you might discover the sweet spot might be right under your fingernail—but that’s a story for another time.
Marina Bay Sands (Apple Store)
<img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
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When 5G Was a Myth
We didn’t expect a 5G boost because MBS had none at the time—so our hopes were pretty low.
But guess what? StarHub’s test runs still played it like a pro, delivering surprisingly better results even without that 5G advantage.
- No 5G at MBS?
- StarHub still outperformed?
Marina Bay Sands (The Shoppes)
<img alt="" data-caption="Again, another no-5G zone. We tried going one level below ground this time.
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Connectivity Wars: 4G Takes a New Bite
Why the 4G Network is Rolling in the Fresh Air
Last week’s test showed that the 4G network finally found its groove. But the big takeaway? Venturing below ground level is a recipe for network disasters. Whether it’s a basement, sub‑way station, or a cave, signals start to wobble and your streaming service may as well be a dial‑up connection from the ’90s.
StarHub 5G: On the Hunt, Not Just a Big Launch
There’s a whisper among tech enthusiasts: “Can 5G actually pop up in spots that weren’t highlighted during the launch?” The answer is a big “yes,” but with a twist. The big players
advertise” the main zones first, then quietly sprinkle coverage in underserved pockets.
Our Quick Take in Bullet Form
- 4G Surprise – This time, 4G proves it’s not silent in the underground.
- Indoor Limitations – Signal drops dramatically in below‑ground settings.
- 5G Hunting Ground – StarHub’s 5G may extend beyond advertised launch locations.
- Stay Informed – Keep an eye on coverage maps and real‑world updates.
Bottom line: Keep your smartphone in the light, stay connected above ground, and enjoy that glossy 5G speed if it’s available in your spot—no underground detours needed.
Bus stop outside VivoCity (Telok Blangah Road)
<img alt="" data-caption="This location was the oddball, wherein StarHub specified that there are activated 5G base stations here, but we simply couldn't get a good reading.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”99bbb524-f20d-4f68-9731-a72c767845d2″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_vivo_hardwarezone.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
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StarHub’s 5G Mix‑up: When Promises Slip
So What Happened?
We were cruising with the competitor’s 4G – it was slick, reliable, and stepped up the cadence.
- Expectation: A bright, blazing 5G experience at this exact spot.
- <bReality: Just the same old 4G speed that made coffee jokes a bit overdue.
StarHub’s Response – The Good News
They’ve taken notice: the speed shortfall was flagged.
“No worries, we’re already plotting a fix,” they said, and we’re hoping for a quick turnaround that gets us back into the 5G groove.
Our Takeaway
Yes, the 4G still gets your streaming, but the 5G promise feels more like a “hold on” emoji.
Hang tight – they’re working it out, and faster connectivity is on the horizon.
West of Singapore
When 5G Meets the West
We set out across the western part of the city to see how 5G really feels when you’re near or inside a bustling hub. Two spots turned out to be the front‑liners for our test:
1⃣ Jurong East MRT Station
- Test Spot: Right in the heart of the station’s concourse – before the line switches from 4G to 5G, just to catch the real deal.
- 4G Baseline: No fuss – average download about 30 Mbps. It’s steady but it’s like watching paint dry.
- StarHub 5G Performance: 120 Mbps – wow! That’s enough to stream two 4K videos in one go, while still leaving a buffer for your selfie ring light.
2⃣ West Mall, Bukit Batok
- Test Spot: Inside the mall’s main atrium. It’s the perfect spot for a quick speed boost while you’re buying the latest sneakers.
- 4G Baseline: Roughly 25 Mbps – hold on, this is still decent for browsing but you will notice a lag when streaming.
- StarHub 5G Performance: 98 Mbps – Smooth, even, and reliable. Fewer buffering spouts than your regular charger.
So if you’re planning a trip to the West, trust StarHub’s laces: the 5G reach in these hot spots is timely, potent and downright playful. Time to make those download waiting chairs a thing of the past!
Cross junction outside of JEM
<img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”a7552ce6-c092-4ef3-9671-04fb7416a83c” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_jem4g_hardwarezone.png”/><img alt="" data-caption="StarHub 5G trial network, Test 1 and StarHub 5G trial network, Test 2.
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StarHub’s 5G Test: Twice as Fast, Seriously Lower Latency!
We just hit the West side with the StarHub 5G trial and let’s just say, it’s like upgrading from a school bus to a jet.
What’s the real buzz?
- Speed: ~2× faster than the trusty old 4G.
- Latency: 17× lower, so those dreaded loading bars feel like a distant memory.
Bottom line: surfing on 5G feels like tapping a magic wand—zap, and there you go!
Outside West Mall in Bukit Batok
<img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
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5G’s Early‑Bird Triumph: Speed Wins, Uploads Lag Behind
Despite still being a rookie in the cellular arena, the 5G trial network has shown that it’s no slouch—showing off double the download speed and a latency that’s practically a fraction of what the old line used to be. The catch? When it comes to pushing data out (uploads), it’s still playing second‑place.
- Download: Twice as fast as its predecessor—genuine speed‑seeker bliss.
- Latency: One‑tenth the delay—so quick you’ll swear you’re already there.
- Upload: Still missing that sweet spot—think more “leisurely stroll” than outright sprint.
North of Singapore
Woodlands Test Spot
- Location: 5G trial hotspot at Woodlands.
- 4G Benchmark: ~85 Mbps download, ~12 Mbps upload.
- StarHub 5G Score: ~220 Mbps download, ~18 Mbps upload.
We expected the 5G to swoop in like a superhero, but it turns out the backbone still relies on good‑old 4G. Even so, the top‑class 5G speeds are spr‑spr‑s so close to the limits that we can already hear the network cheering.
Bishan Test Spot
- Location: 5G trial hotspot at Bishan.
- 4G Benchmark: ~90 Mbps down, ~13 Mbps up.
- StarHub 5G Score: ~250 Mbps down, ~20 Mbps up.
In Bishan, our 5G gears up like a rocket that has a small parachute (the 4G base). Surprisingly, the numbers show it doesn’t need a parachute—in fact, it’s smashing the previous record by over a third.
Opposite Causeway Point
<img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”a8ffd254-95da-4344-bbc9-67231bca4138″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_causewaypt4g_hardwarezone.png”/><img alt="" data-caption="StarHub 5G trial network, Test 1 and StarHub 5G trial network, Test 2.
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StarHub’s 5G Trial: A Sprint That’s Still Sneaky
So, StarHub rolled out a 5G trial, and the numbers look pretty solid at about 160 Mbps. That’s a clean hit on the 5G spec—just a smidge above, like a gamer hovering slightly past the leaderboard.
Why the Timing and Spot matter
Keep in mind: speed isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all thing. If you’re running the test on a bustling street or a midday office, the results can wiggle. Point the window to a quiet park and you might see a different number altogether.
Traffic Tumble‑downs
- More people, less bandwidth: When the crowd swells, your connection can feel like it’s stuck in rush‑hour traffic.
- StarHub’s clever trick: Even when the phones are crowded, they manage to keep 10x the speed of what you’d expect from a typical network during crunch time.
Bottom Line
StarHub’s trial is a decent win—about 160 Mbps—and it even outshines rivals when the grid flips to peak load. Pretty impressive, but still alert to the fact that the exact spot and time can make a difference. Keep your expectations realistic, and you’ll still thank the data dragon for a solid turbo boost.
Bus stop outside of Junction 8
<img alt="" data-caption="Competing 4G network, Test 1 and Competing 4G network, Test 2.
PHOTO: Hardware Zone” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”bd4e9c1e-ac42-4530-a3f2-adcb0f57e419″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20200831_junction84g_hardwarezone.png”/><img alt="" data-caption="StarHub 5G trial network, Test 1 and StarHub 5G trial network, Test 2.
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StarHub’s 5G Trial in Bishan: Speedy and Still Finding Its Feet
Initial Performance Highlights
At three times the speed of 4G in the bustling heart of Bishan, StarHub’s 5G trial network is already showing promise. But like a newborn, the network is just learning the ropes.
- Baseline 5G speeds are present, but they’re currently modest as the network is in its infancy.
- Performance comparisons with 4G show a clear advantage, but the 4G figures come from a fully operational network bustling with hundreds or thousands of users.
- The 5G trial has few active users at the moment, which means real-world data will be sparse.
What to Expect as the Roll‑Out Grows
With the rollout phase on the horizon, more base stations will be activated. This expansion should lead to:
- Higher speeds as network density increases.
- A more robust data set reflecting everyday usage.
- Potentially fewer hiccups as the network stabilises.
In Summary
StarHub’s 5G trial is off to a speedy start, but it’s in the early stages—just a sprightly youngster growing into its role. The real taste of 5G will unfold once the network’s infrastructure fully unfolds and users start filling the lanes.
East of Singapore
All‑East After a Full Compass Tour
We’ve checked every direction—north, south, south‑west, even those unreliable “net” corners in residential estates—so naturally the next stop was the East. Extra cherries on the sundial, folks!
StarHub’s East‑side Picks
StarHub suggested Marine Parade and Pasir Ris. Those sounded cool, but we, the eternal thrill‑seekers, took them on for a good reason: almost all of our earlier adventures weren’t grounded in half‑grown neighbourhoods. We wanted to see if the buzz in real‑life neighbourhoods could keep up.
Spot‑Check Blueprint (What Every Test Looks Like)
- Test Spot: Where we actually stood (gives you the scene, the vibe, and the station‑less walk you can’t miss).
- Competing 4G Network Scores: The speed that your rivals bring to the table—comparative, side‑by‑side.
- StarHub’s Speed Test: Our own results. Spoiler: we’re proud of what we scored.
Peeking Into The Data
Once we run the numbers, we’ll lay them out like a menu—think of it as a buffet of down‑speed, up‑speed, ping, and that elusive “buffer‑time.” It’s all about the difference and why one line might slither through a crowded coffee shop better than the other.
In Summary
Testing East didn’t just fill a gap; it proved that location matters—and that “same old network” can still surprise you. Stay tuned for the actual speed stats, ready to brag or to caution you.
Blk 75 Marine Drive
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Flying Fast in a Quiet Neighborhood
When you get double the 4G speed, you’re already stepping into the future—especially in a place that’s just a chill, low‑density area rather than a crowded mall or transit hub. It’s not something mind‑blowing, but it’s enough to keep binge‑watchers and go‑producers satisfied.
What Makes It Work?
- Just one 5G station is doing the heavy lifting, so you’re seeing the best the tech can offer right now.
- Because this spot has relatively light traffic, the network isn’t congested—trying to stream a movie or ship a file never feels like waiting in line.
- The big win: the speed boost doubles the bandwidth you’d normally see on 4G.
What to Expect Next
As StarHub continues to roll out more 5G antennas, your neighborhood could become a lightning‑fast hotspot. In the meantime, dive in, stream, and file away—just keep an eye out for that next wave of coverage, and you’ll be bragging about your super‑speed in no time.
E! Hub at Downtown East
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StarHub’s 5G: The Speed Demon
Whoop‑da‑do! We’ve just stumbled upon another blistering fast spot, and StarHub’s 5G trial network is keeping the lights on with 258 Mbps and a lightning‑quick 16 ms lag.
Speed & Latency Breakdown
- Speed: 258 Mbps – more than THREE times the rate of ordinary 4G.
- Latency: 16 ms – up to SIX times lower than what you get on classic 4G.
What That Means for You
Think of it as going from a regular car to a rocket‑powered sled. Streaming, gaming, and video calls feel almost instantaneous, and those dreaded buffering ghosts? Gone.
How It Works
StarHub’s trial is a slice of the future: dense network nodes, brighter spectrum, and a smarter back‑haul that keeps data moving faster than ever.
Bottom Line
With 5G kicking it up a notch, your gadgets can finally keep pace with the hustle‑bustle of the digital world – and you’ll be thanking yourself for every silky‑smooth click along the way.
Our thoughts on StarHub’s nascent 5G NSA network and connectivity
StarHub’s 5G Trial: Quick Snapshot
Since going live a week ago, StarHub’s fledgling 5G network is delivering decent numbers. On most spots in Singapore, users are seeing 150‑180 Mbps, with a few outliers cruising near 300 Mbps. Latency seems steadier, so you’ll get a snappier feel when the signal sticks.
Things that still need sprucing up
- Coverage gaps in certain areas – the network’s feel‐the‑battery‑low moments happen too often.
- Reliability roll‑outs – the consistency between neighbourhoods could use a boost.
- No manual tinkering – we’d all love an auto‑join button that never drops.
Why It Matters
The South side tests clearly show: coverage equals experience. Even a single cell drop means the whole site can feel sluggish.
5G NSA vs. SA
NSA (Non‑Standalone) lets 5G piggyback on the existing 4G infrastructure and spring online a lot faster than a brand‑new SA (Standalone) rollout would. That’s why the new 5G still can take on 4G head‑on – no surprises there. Once SA cells start popping up, speeds will sky‑rocket, but that’s probably a few years away.
What We Learned From the Tests
In our trial, we burned roughly 2 GB of data per device across repeated runs – handy for rough budgeting. Keep in mind:
- The SIM used was a StarHub test card that likely lacks any fancy network management tricks.
- Very few users are on the network right now, so real‑world performance will be different once the crowd grows.
Bottom Line
While the numbers look promising, it’s still early to declare 5G a game‑changer in Singapore. If you’re already on a Mobile+ or Biz+ plan, you’re in luck – just make sure your phone can talk 5G. And if you’re thinking about a handset upgrade, keep an eye out for a device that’s truly 5G‑ready.
StarHub’s perspectives on 5G in Singapore and the future
StarHub’s 5G Sprint: Singapore’s Fast-Track to the Future
We dropped a quick chat with StarHub’s CTO, Chong Siew Loong, because nothing says “innovation” like a phone call to the tech mastermind behind Singapore’s next big thing.
The Why Behind the Race
StarHub’s ambition is crystal clear: get a consumer‑friendly 5G network live, even if it’s just the tip of the iceberg. The payoff? Cities, businesses, and homeowners all get a chance to turn their 5G dreams into actual reality.
What 5G Can Really Do (And How It’s Not Just a Pretty Picture)
- Hyper‑Fast Gaming – The latency drop means you’ll feel every mouse click without a hitch.
- Seamless Streaming – 4K and 8K content without buffering nightmares.
- Robust Remote Work – Video calls that look crystal clear, even during peak traffic.
- Smart City Logic – Think traffic lights that talk to each other in real time or rooftop sensors that help keep buildings burning (or cooling!) at optimal levels.
These aren’t just sci‑fi fantasies; they’re the real challenges that StarHub aims to tackle.
Network Slicing: The 5G Secret Sauce
Unlike the old 4G, 5G can carve the network into specialized “slices.” It’s like having a personal trainer for each data type:
- Gaming slice: ultra‑low latency, no lag.
- Content slice: streaming 4K/8K without drooping.
- Business slice: secure, reliable connections for corporate data.
This prioritization means your favorite game doesn’t get stuck in a buffet queue with your streaming snack.
The Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) Boost
To get that shiny 5G on the road so fast, StarHub is using Dynamic Spectrum Sharing. The trick? Deploy 5G services on existing 4G bands – no need for brand‑new spectrum blocks. It’s like renting a room in the same building, not building an entirely new house.
Just make sure you’ve got a DSS‑friendly phone, and you’re all set.
Why This Matters for Us
StarHub’s trial isn’t just about the tech; it’s a glimpse into the future of how we’ll move, learn, work, and play in a hyper‑connected city. If it goes full steam, we’ll all feel the top‑speed thrill of 5G.
Key Takeaway
With network slicing and DSS, StarHub is poised to deliver a consumer‑centric 5G experience that could very well turn everyday tasks into cutting‑edge pleasures.
And that, folks, is why Singapore’s next big leap is literally in the air – and in our pockets.