Force LTE Only (4G/5G): Change Network, How to Enable
Force LTE Only (4G/5G) guide: Learn how to lock LTE/5G for faster speed, stable network, better gaming, streaming and VoLTE performance on Android. Step-by-step methods here.
Force LTE Only is a powerful method to stabilize your network connection and improve performance in areas with strong 4G/5G coverage. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or simply browsing the internet, locking your device to LTE or 5G can prevent frustrating drops to slower networks.
In today’s mobile-driven world, a fast and stable internet connection is essential for everything streaming, gaming, browsing, online meetings, and social media. But many users still struggle with inconsistent speeds because their phones automatically switch between network types like 2G, 3G, 4G (LTE), and 5G. When this happens, your connection may drop, slow down, or become unstable.
This is where the Force LTE Only option becomes incredibly useful. It allows your smartphone to lock onto 4G LTE or 5G NR only, preventing it from falling back to outdated networks such as 3G or 2G.
What Is Force LTE Only?
Force LTE Only is a manual network setting that restricts your phone from using older cellular technologies like 2G (GSM) or 3G (UMTS/HSPA). Instead, the phone remains locked on 4G LTE or 5G even when the signal becomes weak.
Why Do Smartphones Switch Networks Automatically?
By default, smartphones use Auto Mode (2G/3G/4G/5G). This means your device constantly looks for the best available signal.
Reasons for auto-switching include:
- Some regions still use 3G/2G for voice calls
- Carriers configure their SIM cards to prefer specific networks
- Phones choose networks based on signal strength, not speed
Benefits of Using Force LTE Only
- Faster Internet Speeds
LTE and 5G offer much higher speeds than 3G or 2G. When forced, your phone avoids slow fallback networks that can reduce your data speed.
- Reduced Lag and Network Drops
Frequent switching between network types can cause: Temporary disconnections, Ping spikes, Lag during games or video calls and By locking LTE, your connection becomes more stable.
Better Battery Life
When your device scans for multiple network types (2G/3G/4G/5G), it consumes power. Restricting it to LTE reduces network scanning and often improves battery life.
High-Quality VoLTE Calls
- On LTE-supported carriers, enabling Force LTE Only:
- Improves call clarity
- Reduces call drops
- Speeds up call connection times
Improved 5G Experience (With NR/LTE Only Mode)
- If you choose NR/LTE Only, your phone sticks to:
- 5G NR SA (Standalone)
- 5G NR NSA (Non-Standalone)
- 4G LTE fallback for anchor bands
How to Enable Force LTE Only on Android
Most Android devices hide this option. But there are reliable ways to enable it.
- Method A: Using the Hidden Testing Menu
- Open your Pone dialer
- Type this code: *#*#4636#*#*
- Choose Phone Information
- Find Set Preferred Network Type
- Select: LTE Only for 4G
- NR/LTE Only for 5G
Method B: Using Third-Party Apps
If the dialer code doesn’t work, apps can access the hidden menu. Trusted apps include:
- Force LTE Only (4G/5G)
- 4G LTE Switch
- Network Signal Guru (root-only advanced features)
Risks and Limitations of Using LTE-Only Mode
Though useful, LTE-only mode has potential downsides.
- Calls May Fail Without VoLTE
If your carrier doesn’t support VoLTE, you cannot make or receive calls while in LTE-only mode. - No Signal in Weak LTE Areas
Your phone won’t switch to 3G/2G, so you may lose signal entirely. - Not Allowed by Some Carriers
Certain carriers intentionally block LTE-only configurations. - Network Mode May Reset
Who Should Use Force LTE Only?
- Gamers
To reduce ping spikes and lag.
- Streamers
To avoid buffering or video quality drops.
- Users in Urban Areas
Where LTE/5G signal is strong and consistent.
- People Facing Frequent Network Switching
To stabilize connection.
FAQ: Force LTE Only
Q1: Is it safe to use LTE-only mode?
Yes, it’s safe. It only restricts networks—it doesn’t modify your device.
Q2: Will my phone reboot or crash?
No. The setting is standard in Android’s hidden menus.
Q3: Can this increase battery life?
In many cases, yes.
Q4: Why does my LTE-only reset after reboot?
Some carriers force auto-mode for compatibility.
Q5: Can I force 5G only?
On many devices, yes—using NR/LTE Only or 5G Only modes.
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