# Should I use LTE-M or NB-IoT for a global tracker?

**URL:** <https://forum.sequans.com/t/should-i-use-lte-m-or-nb-iot-for-a-global-tracker/220>\
**Category:** LTE-M / NB-IoT (Monarch)\
**Tags:** network\
**Created:** [September 30, 2025, 10:23am UTC](https://forum.sequans.com/t/should-i-use-lte-m-or-nb-iot-for-a-global-tracker/220 "2025-09-30T10:23:30Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Brian\_TK](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex018/user_avatar/forum.sequans.com/brian_tk/32/42_2.png) [@Brian\_TK](https://forum.sequans.com/u/Brian_TK)\
**Post date:** [September 30, 2025, 10:23am UTC](https://forum.sequans.com/t/should-i-use-lte-m-or-nb-iot-for-a-global-tracker/220/1 "2025-09-30T10:23:30Z")

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Hello there,

Beyond domestic usage, I am looking into expanding for global usage.

Is there a better recommendation for using LTE-M or NB-IoT as primary mode? What should my thought process be?

Thanks

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**Author:** ![Greg](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex018/user_avatar/forum.sequans.com/greg/32/7_2.png) [@Greg](https://forum.sequans.com/u/Greg)\
**Post date:** [September 30, 2025, 1:56pm UTC](https://forum.sequans.com/t/should-i-use-lte-m-or-nb-iot-for-a-global-tracker/220/2 "2025-09-30T13:56:54Z")

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> [@Brian\_TK](#):
>
> Beyond domestic usage, I am looking into expanding for global usage.
> 
> Is there a better recommendation for using LTE-M or NB-IoT as primary mode? What should my thought process be?

Dear Brian,

When expanding for global usage, the choice between LTE-M and NB-IoT as the primary mode depends on several factors. Here is a recommended thought process:

**Coverage** : Check the availability of LTE-M and NB-IoT networks in the countries where you plan to operate. The GSMA deployment map can provide this information. [https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/technologies/internet-of-things/deployment-map/](https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/technologies/internet-of-things/deployment-map/)

**Device Mobility** : By definition, your device will be mobile (e.g., in a vehicle), LTE-M is generally better because it supports handover between cells.

**Flexibility** : Consider implementing a solution that can switch between LTE-M and NB-IoT based on the available coverage. This might involve using the AT command +SQNMODEACTIVE to select the appropriate technology dynamically.

For example, in North America, LTE-M might be more widely available and suitable for mobile devices. In Europe, both LTE-M and NB-IoT might be available, but the choice could depend on your specific use case.

About the switching mecanism between LTE-M and NB-IOT please refer to the application note: Monarch2-SystemIntegrationGuideDM-Rev.2.pdf in section 3.5.1.3