RFLoRaWAN vs Sigfox: Key Differences in IoT Networks
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Introduction
LoRa, LoRaWAN, and Sigfox are key technologies that are driving the evolution of low power wide area networks (LPWAN) for IoT applications. While LoRa is the physical layer foundation for LoRaWAN, Sigfox takes a completely different approach with its proprietary architecture.
LoRaWAN is known for its scalability and flexibility, whereas Sigfox offers a cost-effective and simple solution for low-bandwidth communication. This guide highlights the key differences between LoRaWAN and Sigfox, helping you understand which technology is the better fit for your IoT project’s needs.
LoRaWAN is a Wide Area Network built on LoRa. LoRa is the physical layer technology responsible for long-range, low-power modulation. LoRa is used in LoRaWAN devices, which support the MAC layer and upper stack as per the desired application or use case. LoRaWAN, on the other hand, is the entire communication protocol and system architecture built on LoRa, enabling efficient device connectivity and network management.
Difference between LoRaWAN and Sigfox
Both LoRaWAN and Sigfox are Low Power Wide Area Network technologies. Let’s compare them:
| Specifications | LoRaWAN | Sigfox |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency band of operation | 433 MHz, 868 MHz, 780 MHz, 915 MHz | 868 MHz, 902 MHz |
| Channel Bandwidth | EU: 8 x 125 KHz US: 64 x 125 KHz, 8 x 125 KHz | Ultra narrow band |
| Modulation | Chirp Spread Spectrum | |
| Coverage range | 2 to 5 Km in urban areas, 15 Km in rural areas | 3 to 10 Km in urban areas, 30 to 50 Km in rural areas, 1000 Km in LOS (Line of Sight) |
| Network Architecture |  |  |
| Transmit power of end node | EU: < +14 dBm US: < +27 dBm | -20 dBm to +20 dBm |
| Message size | 242 bytes | 12 bytes |
| Downlink data rate | EU: 300 bps to 50 Kbps US: 900 to 100 Kbps | 4 messages of 8 bytes/day |
| Uplink data rate | same as above | 100 bps, 140 messages/day |
| Network topology | Star on star | Star |
| Number of end devices per gateway or access point | Uplink: >1M Downlink: < 100 K | 1M |
| References |
Conclusion
LoRa, as the backbone of LoRaWAN, makes flexible and customizable IoT networks possible for many different applications. In comparison, Sigfox’s lightweight and cost-efficient protocol works well for simpler, low-bandwidth IoT deployments.
Both technologies serve specific needs in the IoT ecosystem, and understanding their differences lets you choose the right solution for your network. LoRaWAN’s versatility and Sigfox’s simplicity make them strong options for driving IoT innovation.
