LoRaWAN vs Sigfox: Key Differences in IoT Networks

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.