What are the benefits of CDMA vs GSM?

Question

As far as I understand it, GSM is the global standard of wireless technology, why do some companies in the United States use CDMA? Is there any large benefit to this?

Answer 1

Advantages of GSM:

• Better signal and less deterioration inside buildings/basement.
• Talk time is generally higher in GSM phones due to the pulse nature of transmission.
• GSM covers virtually all parts of the world so international roaming is not a problem.

Disadvantages of GSM:

• Interferes with some electronics, especially certain audio amplifiers.
• GSM has a fixed maximum cell site range of 120 km, which is imposed by technical limitations.

Advantages of CDMA:

• It can accommodate more users per MHz of bandwidth than any other technology. So less call cost
• Consumes less power and covers large area
• Able to produce a reasonable call with low signal

Disadvantages of CDMA:

• More users per MHz of bandwidth causes distorted call
• Bad performance in hilly terrain
• There are not many CDMA providers worldwide hence it is not suitable for users who travel across countries and rely on roaming service.