Hey New Yorkers — are you always finding yourself sending an urgent, last-minute email in the morning rush to the subway? Better hope you’re riding the Q line. According to new NYC subway testing data released Monday byGlobal Wireless Solutions(GWS), riders of the Q train enjoy the best overall data performance, the best mobile data performance, and also are privy to pretty decent transit wireless Wi-Fi. While this may be information that the savvy New Yorker has always somewhat anecdotally known, now there’s evidence to back up your preference for some lines over others when it comes to connectivity.
According to study results, the best overall data performance can be found on the Q line — in fact, the majority of the NQR seems to do quite well overall. The worst in terms of overall data performance would be the 4 and the 5. followed by the B line, the R line, the N line, and the A line. The worst would be the 4 and 5 lines. In terms of mobile data performance, the NQR still stands strong, though the 6 apparently takes the number two spot. The 5 line still finds itself on the bottom, along with the J and Z lines.
As for WiFi performance, the B, A, and C lines do very well, whereas once again, the 4, 5, and 6 are more problematic. In fact, “the 4 line was by far the worst performing line for WiFi connections, with just 2 out of 22 stations on the line (9 percent) having Wi-Fi available.”Dr. Carter noted, “Our data shows a number of trends that inform what type of mobile experience commuters are having throughout the borough of Manhattan. For instance, those traveling between Midtown and lower Manhattan along the Q, R, and N lines are likely to experience solid connectivity throughout their journey, as all three lines appeared in the top five best overall performing lines. If riders are heading uptown north of 57th Street, they will want to jump on the B or A lines for a regular and reliable connection. Unfortunately, if those uptown riders are looking to connect on their Upper East Side commute, they will be left wanting as the 4, 5, and 6 lines all appear in the top five worst-performing lines overall.”
So there you have it, New Yorkers. You need no longer wonder about where to get the best service while underground. Stay on the Q and stay connected.
