There are moments when 5G feels like magic: fast downloads, smooth streaming, and apps that behave as if they had three cups of coffee. Then there are moments when your Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, or S23 keeps bouncing between 5G and LTE like it cannot decide what it wants for dinner. If your battery is draining faster than expected, your signal feels unstable, or you simply prefer the reliability of 4G LTE, learning how to turn off 5G on Samsung can be surprisingly useful.
The good news is that on many Samsung Galaxy phones, the process is simple: open Settings, go to Connections, choose Mobile networks, tap Network mode, and select an option that does not include 5G. The slightly annoying news is that some U.S. carriers hide or restrict this option, especially on certain Verizon, AT&T, or carrier-locked models. In other words, your phone may have the setting, your friend’s phone may not, and both phones may look almost identical. Welcome to modern mobile life.
This guide explains how to disable 5G on the Samsung Galaxy S21, Galaxy S22, and Galaxy S23, what to do if the Network mode option is missing, when turning off 5G makes sense, and how to turn it back on when you want maximum speed again.
Why Turn Off 5G on a Samsung Galaxy Phone?
Before tapping through settings like a tiny IT wizard, it helps to know why someone would turn off 5G in the first place. After all, 5G is marketed as the shiny future. Why walk back to LTE?
1. Better Battery Life in Weak 5G Areas
5G can use more power when your phone constantly searches for or switches between signals. This is especially common in rural areas, inside large buildings, or in neighborhoods where 5G coverage exists but is not strong. Your Galaxy may cling to a weak 5G signal instead of using a stronger LTE connection, which can make the battery work harder.
2. More Stable Calls and Data
If your phone keeps switching from 5G to LTE and back again, you may notice slow loading, delayed messages, poor video calls, or random connection hiccups. Turning off 5G forces the phone to use LTE or lower network modes, which may be steadier in some locations.
3. Less Heat During Heavy Use
Streaming, gaming, navigation, and mobile hotspot use can warm up any phone. If your Galaxy S21, S22, or S23 gets warm while using mobile data, disabling 5G may reduce modem activity in areas where the 5G signal is weak.
4. You Simply Do Not Need 5G All the Time
For messaging, email, browsing, music streaming, maps, and social media, 4G LTE is usually more than enough. Unless you are downloading a huge file or running speed tests for emotional support, LTE can feel perfectly normal.
Quick Answer: How to Turn Off 5G on Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, and S23
On many unlocked or supported Samsung Galaxy models, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Connections.
- Tap Mobile networks.
- Tap Network mode.
- Select LTE/3G/2G auto connect, LTE only, or another option that does not include 5G.
Once selected, your Samsung phone should stop connecting to 5G and use LTE instead. If you later want 5G again, return to the same menu and select 5G/LTE/3G/2G auto connect.
How to Turn Off 5G on Samsung Galaxy S21
The Galaxy S21 series includes the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra. The basic path is usually the same across all three models.
Steps for Galaxy S21
- Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon, or open Settings from the app drawer.
- Tap Connections.
- Select Mobile networks.
- Tap Network mode.
- Choose LTE/3G/2G auto connect or LTE only, if available.
For most users, LTE/3G/2G auto connect is the safest non-5G choice because it allows your phone to use LTE while still having fallback options where available. However, keep in mind that 3G networks have been phased out by major U.S. carriers, so LTE is the important part of that setting.
How to Turn Off 5G on Samsung Galaxy S22
The Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra use a similar One UI layout. If your carrier allows the setting, you can disable 5G in less than a minute.
Steps for Galaxy S22
- Open Settings.
- Tap Connections.
- Choose Mobile networks.
- Tap Network mode.
- Select a network option without 5G, such as LTE/3G/2G auto connect.
If you are using dual SIM or eSIM, you may see separate network settings for SIM 1 and SIM 2. Choose the SIM that handles your mobile data, then adjust its network mode.
How to Turn Off 5G on Samsung Galaxy S23
The Galaxy S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra may show the same network menu, but carrier restrictions are more commonly reported on newer models. Still, check the standard path first before assuming the option is missing.
Steps for Galaxy S23
- Open Settings.
- Tap Connections.
- Tap Mobile networks.
- Look for Network mode.
- Select LTE/3G/2G auto connect or another non-5G option.
If your Galaxy S23 does not show Network mode, do not panic. Your phone is not broken, and you have not failed the secret Samsung exam. The setting may be hidden by your carrier profile, SIM configuration, or software build.
What If the Network Mode Option Is Missing?
This is the big frustration for many Samsung owners. You open Settings, tap Connections, tap Mobile networks, and the Network mode option is nowhere to be found. It is like looking for your keys while they are already in your hand, except more annoying.
Here are the most common reasons:
- Carrier restrictions: Some U.S. carrier-locked phones limit access to network selection.
- Software updates: A One UI or carrier update may change which options appear.
- eSIM or SIM profile: Certain carrier profiles control available network settings.
- Region differences: Samsung menus can vary between U.S., unlocked, and international models.
Fix 1: Restart the Phone
It sounds basic because it is basic, but restarting can reload carrier settings and restore missing menu behavior after an update. Hold the side button and volume down button, choose Restart, and check the Mobile networks menu again.
Fix 2: Check for Software Updates
Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Updates can improve mobile network performance, add carrier configuration changes, and fix bugs. Of course, updates can also occasionally move settings around, because technology likes to keep us humble.
Fix 3: Reset Mobile Network Settings
If network behavior is strange, reset mobile network settings:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General management.
- Tap Reset.
- Choose Reset mobile network settings or Reset network settings.
- Confirm the reset.
Depending on your One UI version, this may reset mobile settings only or include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings. If Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are included, you may need to reconnect saved Wi-Fi networks and pair Bluetooth devices again.
Fix 4: Contact Your Carrier
If Network mode is missing on a carrier-locked Galaxy S21, S22, or S23, contact Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or your mobile provider. Ask whether LTE-only or non-5G network selection is allowed on your plan and device model. The carrier may say it cannot be changed, but it is worth confirming before using workarounds.
Fix 5: Be Careful With Hidden Menus and Third-Party Apps
You may see online advice about dialer codes, band selection tools, or hidden Android testing menus. These methods can work for some users, but they are not officially supported for everyone and may behave differently after updates. If you change bands incorrectly, you could make your connection worse. For most users, the safest path is the built-in Samsung settings menu or carrier support.
Which Network Mode Should You Choose?
Samsung phones may show several choices depending on model and carrier. Here is what they generally mean:
- 5G/LTE/3G/2G auto connect: The phone can use 5G when available and fall back to LTE or older networks.
- LTE/3G/2G auto connect: The phone avoids 5G and uses LTE when available.
- LTE only: The phone stays on LTE and avoids 5G and older networks.
- 3G/2G options: These are mostly outdated for U.S. users because major carriers have shut down 3G networks.
For most Galaxy S21, S22, and S23 owners who want to turn off 5G, LTE/3G/2G auto connect is the best starting point. If your phone offers LTE only, that can also be useful in areas with strong LTE coverage.
Will Turning Off 5G Affect Calls and Texts?
Usually, no. Modern calls on major U.S. carriers generally rely on VoLTE, which means voice over LTE. Your texts, calls, and mobile data should continue working as long as LTE coverage is available and your plan is active.
However, because U.S. 3G networks have largely been shut down, you should not intentionally force your phone to 3G-only mode. Stick with LTE-based options. If calls stop working after changing network mode, switch back to 5G/LTE/3G/2G auto connect and contact your carrier.
Does Turning Off 5G Save Battery?
It can, especially if your phone is in a weak 5G area. When the signal is strong, the difference may be small. When the signal is poor, your phone may use extra power searching for 5G or switching between towers. In that situation, LTE can be the calmer, more battery-friendly choice.
Think of it like driving. If 5G is a smooth highway, great. If 5G is a pothole-filled back road with three detours and a confused raccoon directing traffic, LTE may get you there with less drama.
Does Turning Off 5G Make Internet Slower?
Sometimes. 5G can be much faster than LTE in strong coverage areas, especially with mid-band or mmWave 5G. But speed depends on your carrier, location, building materials, network congestion, and plan. In some places, LTE may feel nearly the same or even more stable than a weak 5G signal.
If you are unsure, test both modes. Use your phone normally for a day on 5G, then a day on LTE. Compare battery life, call quality, web browsing, maps, streaming, and hotspot performance. Real-life performance matters more than a speed test screenshot you will forget about in five minutes.
How to Turn 5G Back On
Turning 5G back on is easy if the Network mode setting is available:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Connections.
- Tap Mobile networks.
- Tap Network mode.
- Select 5G/LTE/3G/2G auto connect.
Your Samsung Galaxy phone will reconnect to 5G when coverage is available, your plan supports it, and your SIM is provisioned for it.
Tips for Better Samsung Network Performance
Use Wi-Fi Calling at Home
If your home has poor cellular reception, Wi-Fi Calling can improve call reliability. Look under Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi Calling. Availability depends on your carrier.
Turn Airplane Mode On and Off
If your phone is stuck on a bad signal, toggle Airplane Mode for 10 seconds, then turn it off. This forces the phone to reconnect to the network.
Check Your SIM or eSIM
An old SIM card or incorrect eSIM provisioning can cause network problems. If 5G or LTE behaves strangely, ask your carrier whether your SIM is current.
Update Carrier Services and Samsung Software
Keep your phone updated through Settings > Software update. Also update apps from the Galaxy Store and Google Play Store, especially carrier-related apps if your provider uses them.
Galaxy S21 vs. S22 vs. S23: Is the Process Different?
The process is mostly the same across the Galaxy S21, S22, and S23 families because all three use Samsung’s One UI interface. The biggest difference is not the model year; it is the carrier and software configuration.
An unlocked Galaxy S22 may show Network mode clearly. A carrier-locked Galaxy S23 may hide it. A Galaxy S21 on one network may allow LTE-only selection, while the same model on another network may not. If you are writing instructions for someone else, avoid promising that every menu will appear exactly the same. Samsung phones are consistent, but carrier customizations love to add plot twists.
Common Problems and Simple Solutions
Problem: My Phone Still Shows 5G After I Changed the Setting
Restart the phone and check Network mode again. Also confirm that you changed the correct SIM if you use dual SIM or eSIM.
Problem: Mobile Data Stopped Working
Switch back to 5G/LTE/3G/2G auto connect. If data returns, your carrier may require the automatic setting. You can also reset mobile network settings or contact support.
Problem: I Do Not See LTE Only
Choose LTE/3G/2G auto connect if available. Menu labels vary, and some carriers do not offer LTE-only selection.
Problem: I Travel Often
Use automatic network mode while traveling unless you know LTE is better in that area. Automatic mode gives your phone more flexibility when roaming or moving between coverage zones.
Real-World Experience: What It Feels Like to Use LTE Instead of 5G
After testing this kind of setting in everyday situations, the biggest lesson is simple: the “best” network is not always the one with the fanciest icon. A Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, or S23 can feel excellent on 5G when coverage is strong. Open a large app update, stream high-resolution video, or download offline maps, and 5G can feel wonderfully fast. But in weaker coverage areas, the 5G icon can be more decoration than performance.
One common experience is the “almost 5G” problem. You are at home, in a coffee shop, or sitting near a window, and the phone proudly displays 5G. But pages load slowly, videos buffer, and messages hesitate before sending. The phone technically sees 5G, but the signal is not strong enough to deliver a better experience. Switching to LTE can make the phone feel less dramatic. The speed may not break records, but everything becomes steadier.
Battery life is another noticeable area. If you spend most of your day in strong 5G coverage, turning off 5G may not create a miracle. Your battery will not suddenly last three days and start writing thank-you notes. But if your phone constantly searches for 5G, LTE mode may help reduce drain. This is especially helpful during travel, long workdays, outdoor events, or any time you are away from a charger.
For commuters, LTE can sometimes be the practical choice. Moving through different towers on a train, bus, or car ride may cause constant switching. On 5G, the phone may jump between signals, briefly stall, then reconnect. On LTE, the connection may feel more predictable. That matters when you are using maps, streaming music, checking email, or trying to send a message before your stop arrives.
Hotspot use is also worth mentioning. A Galaxy S22 or S23 on 5G can provide very fast hotspot speeds when coverage is excellent. However, if the 5G signal is weak, the hotspot may become inconsistent or cause the phone to heat up. Switching to LTE can make hotspot performance more stable for basic laptop work, video calls, or browsing. It may not win a speed contest, but stability often beats speed when you are trying to finish actual work.
Another real-world lesson: do not treat this setting as permanent. Turning off 5G is not a lifestyle commitment. It is a tool. Use LTE when you need better battery life or stability. Turn 5G back on when you are in a strong coverage area or need faster downloads. The smartest setup is the one that fits your location, carrier, and daily routine.
Finally, if your Samsung phone does not show Network mode, remember that many users run into the same thing. It does not mean you are looking in the wrong place. Carrier software can hide the option. In that case, your best move is to check for updates, restart, reset mobile network settings if needed, and contact your carrier. Avoid random advanced tweaks unless you understand the risk. Your phone should connect better, not become a tiny expensive puzzle box.
Conclusion
Learning how to turn off 5G on Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, and S23 phones can help improve battery life, reduce signal switching, and make mobile data feel more reliable in areas where 5G coverage is weak. The standard method is simple: go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network mode, then choose an LTE option that excludes 5G. If the setting is missing, the cause is usually carrier restrictions, SIM settings, or software differences.
For everyday use, LTE is still strong enough for browsing, messaging, navigation, streaming, and work tasks. 5G is great when it is truly available and strong, but LTE may be the better choice when stability matters more than headline speed. Try both modes, pay attention to your battery and signal quality, and choose the one that makes your Galaxy feel less like a science experiment and more like a phone.
