not complaining about speed. but Why not compare it? if the tower is further away the connection speed should depend on the signals right?
Actually, here are the factors:
- distance from the tower
- number of users on that specific tower you're connected to
- time of the day,
- signal strength (in dbm, and not in bars) and the signal quality (low or minimal interference is the best, as the greater the interference, the slower the ping and speeds).
Take note of the last point - open air would give you the least interference, metal bars and grills would interfere a lot. Concrete interferes as well, and other reflective things nearby as well. Kinda difficult to list down when everything is a potential source of interference (including electrical signals).
This applies to all wireless tech - be it 2G, 3G, 4G, CDMA, walkie talkies or even cordless phones. So if you're not getting good speeds, the first thing I'd do is change the placement and position of the device, and try again. If that still doesn't work (moving a few centimetres can help a LOT!), then it means either the tower is choked, or something else.
This is the nature of wireless.