A system and method for operation mode adaptation is operable by a network entity that determines channel conditions between the network entity and a second network entity. The network entity determines its hardware constraints and power consumption requirements. The network entity balances data throughput with power consumption for the network entity by selecting a hardware allocation, based at least in part on the channel conditions, the hardware constraints, and the power consumption requirements. In some implementations, the network entity balances data throughput with power consumption for the network entity by selecting an operation mode, based at least in part on the channel conditions, the hardware constraints, and the power consumption requirements.