IoT connectivity: how to choose in 2026
Short answer
Picking IoT connectivity in 2026 means choosing between LTE-M, NB-IoT, 4G/5G, LoRaWAN, or Sigfox based on mobility, data, and coverage. In Spain/EU, new deployments must assume 2G and 3G are sunsetting, NB-IoT dominates fixed metering, and LTE-M dominates moving assets. Wrong calls cost 3x more by year three.
The rule in one line
Stationary and little data → NB-IoT. Moving or medium data → LTE-M. High throughput/video → 4G/5G. Private campus network → LoRaWAN. Ultra-low-cost global sensors → Sigfox (with caveats).
2G and 3G: plan for the sunset
Orange closed 3G in Spain and Movistar/Vodafone keep retiring it. 2G has an expected sunset between 2028-2030. Any new deployment supporting only 2G/3G is a mistake.
Multi-tech is the default answer
Spec modems supporting at least LTE-M + NB-IoT + 2G fallback. Extra cost: €1-3. Benefit: switching standard without replacing hardware.
- NB-IoT: fixed metering, buried sensors
- LTE-M: fleets, payments, health
- 4G/5G: video, gateways
- LoRaWAN: private campus
- Multi-tech by default
Free connectivity audit
We review your project and tell you which network per use case, which operators to contract, and how to dodge the 2G/3G sunset.
Frequently asked questions
Does 5G make sense for IoT yet?+
Massive 5G (mMTC) isn't deployed yet. 5G RedCap is arriving 2025-2026 and is the bet for the next cycle. Today, for IoT, LTE-M/NB-IoT remains the productive choice.
Which network penetrates indoors best?+
NB-IoT and LTE-M outperform traditional 4G deep-indoor by design. LoRaWAN is also good when your gateway is nearby.
Can I mix networks in the same fleet?+
Absolutely. Typical: NB-IoT for fixed metering, LTE-M for mobile trackers, and 4G for gateways aggregating LoRaWAN. A decent IoT platform handles that without friction.
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