Introduction
Selecting the right cellular module for your IoT project can be daunting with the wide variety of options available. SIMCom provides an extensive range of wireless communication modules, each designed to meet the diverse needs of IoT applications. From cutting-edge 5G modules to cost-effective LTE and GNSS modules, this comparison guide will help you choose the best SIMCom module for your project.
How to Choose the Right SIMCom Module for Your IoT Project
Choosing the right module depends on the specific requirements of your project, including data rate, power consumption, and coverage. Whether you're looking for high-speed 5G modules, cost-effective LTE, or precise GNSS solutions, SIMCom has a module to meet your needs.
In our comparison table below, we have tried to cover an entry level and high performance module in each of the 6 categories but this is by no means an exhaustive list. If you have specific requirements in terms of data rates, size, territory certification and even budget constraints, please get in touch with Ineltek to find the best solution for you.
N.B. We have also only concentrated on modules with Qualcomm silicon and a 'G' suffix certifying that it will work all over the globe, but specifically in North America as well. However, modules which cover smaller territories can be much more cost-effective. Also, most of the SIMCom range has an equivalent model based on a chipset from ASR Microelectronics, which offers a considerable saving over the American equivalent.
Don't forget SIM Provisioning
For IoT applications, reliable SIM provisioning is essential, as it guarantees seamless, secure communication across devices over the life of the product.
At Ineltek, we offer two SIM provisioning solutions tailored to different IoT project requirements. The first is a fixed-cost, up-front flat fee option, which covers low monthly data usage for up to 10 years. This is ideal for long-term, low-maintenance IoT deployments where data demands are minimal, such as utility meters, environmental sensors, or basic tracking systems.
For projects with higher data demands, our second option provides a custom-tailored solution that can manage terabytes of data traffic. This enterprise-grade provisioning supports secure, ultra-robust networks, making it suitable for high-performance IoT applications like real-time video monitoring, industrial automation, and mission-critical systems. Both solutions ensure your devices are securely connected and capable of meeting your specific data and network needs. Contact us for details.
How to Use This SIMCom Cellular Modules Comparison Table
The comparison table in this guide is structured to help engineers quickly identify the key features of a selection of popular SIMCom cellular modules.
Here’s how you can interpret and use the table:
Module Name: Each module name is linked to its datasheet, providing detailed technical information.
Network Technology: This indicates the type of network (5G, LTE, RedCap, etc.) each module supports, which helps you determine if it’s suited for your project - or the GPS system in the case of GNSS modules.
Data Rates: Displays the download and upload speeds each module can achieve, an important factor for real-time data and video streaming.
GNSS Support: For modules that include GNSS functionality, this column indicates whether the module supports GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, or other satellite systems.
SIM Slots: This column details the type of SIM support (eSIM, single SIM, or multi-SIM), which is crucial if your project involves multi-carrier support.
Features: Highlights special characteristics, like power efficiency, VoLTE support, or real-time positioning, helping you find the most suitable module for your application.
By reviewing the comparison table, you can easily match your project’s requirements with the appropriate SIMCom module, ensuring the right balance between performance, power efficiency, and cost.
SIMCom 5G Modules Comparison
5G modules are ideal for IoT applications that require fast data transmission and low latency. SIMCom’s 5G modules are tailored for high-performance IoT applications in industries like smart cities, industrial automation, and autonomous vehicles.
SIM8202G-M2
Applications:
Smart cities (real-time traffic monitoring, smart grids)
Industrial IoT (predictive maintenance, high-speed data acquisition)
Autonomous vehicles and drones (real-time data streaming)
SIM8200G
Applications:
Telemedicine and remote healthcare (high-speed video and data transmission)
Smart agriculture (real-time crop monitoring, precision farming)
Manufacturing automation (machine-to-machine communication)
SIM8260G-M2
Applications:
High-performance IoT systems (mission-critical applications)
5G-enabled drones (real-time aerial monitoring)
Video surveillance (high-bandwidth video streaming)
Reduced Capability (RedCap) SIMCom Modules
RedCap modules are designed to offer lower power consumption while maintaining reliable 5G connectivity, making them ideal for applications that require moderate data rates without the need for full 5G capabilities.
SIM8970EU
Applications:
Smart metering (electricity, water, and gas usage monitoring)
Environmental monitoring (air quality sensors, weather stations)
Industrial sensors (factory automation, predictive maintenance)
SIM8230G
Applications:
Wearables and fitness trackers (low-power, real-time data)
Smart home devices (appliances, security systems)
Fleet management (vehicle tracking, telematics)
SIMCom NTN Modules Comparison
Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) modules, i.e. satellite, are designed for IoT projects that require connectivity in remote or rural areas where traditional networks aren’t available. This is an exciting development area and SIMCom is actively developing technologies in this sector. We have already covered this burgeoning category in an earlier article 'Bridging the Gap between Satellite and Cellular'.
SIM7070G-HP-S
Applications:
IoT solutions in remote and off-grid areas (disaster relief, wildlife monitoring)
Agriculture (monitoring soil moisture, weather, and livestock in isolated areas)
Satellite IoT (data transfer over satellite networks)
4G LTE SIMCom Modules for IoT
For many IoT applications, 4G LTE provides a balance of performance and coverage. SIMCom’s LTE modules are versatile and reliable, supporting a range of industrial and consumer applications.
SIM7672G
Applications:
Remote monitoring (security cameras, smart parking systems)
Retail (point-of-sale terminals, connected vending machines)
Fleet management (vehicle tracking, telematics)
SIM7912G-M2
Applications:
Industrial automation (high-speed data transfer in factories)
Healthcare (remote monitoring of patients, connected medical devices)
Smart buildings (energy management systems, HVAC controls)
LTE CAT M / NB-IoT SIMCom Modules
LTE CAT M and NB-IoT modules are perfect for low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN) applications. These modules are often used in IoT projects that require extended battery life and operate in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
SIM7080G
Applications:
Smart meters (utility monitoring and reporting)
Wearables (fitness trackers, health monitoring devices)
Asset tracking (low-power tracking of shipments and equipment)
SIM7090G
Applications:
Smart cities (connected streetlights, parking sensors)
Agriculture (soil and weather sensors)
Smart home devices (connected appliances, security systems)
SIMCom GNSS Modules for Precise Positioning
SIMCom’s GNSS modules offer accurate positioning solutions for a wide range of IoT applications, from asset tracking to high-precision RTK systems.
SIM33ELA
Applications:
Asset tracking (vehicles, cargo, and equipment)
Navigation systems (fleet management, turn-by-turn directions)
Geofencing (security systems, location-based services)
SIM68M
Applications:
Drones (flight path planning and positioning)
Autonomous vehicles (precise location tracking and navigation)
Environmental monitoring (positioning for remote sensors)
SIM66MD-R
Applications:
High-precision agriculture (field mapping, automated machinery)
Construction and surveying (precise location data for machinery)
Robotics (real-time kinematic positioning for autonomous robots)
Conclusion
SIMCom offers a wide range of cellular modules that cater to various IoT needs, from high-speed 5G modules to low-power NB-IoT solutions. Whether your project requires real-time positioning, reliable satellite communication, or cost-effective LTE solutions, SIMCom has a module that fits the bill. By comparing the features, applications, and specifications in this guide, you can confidently choose the best SIMCom module for your IoT application.
Ready to integrate SIMCom modules into your next IoT project? Contact Ineltek Ltd to learn more and get expert advice on choosing the right SIMCom module for your needs.