Mobile Broadband

3G mobile broadband

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3G, or third-generation, mobile broadband is available through mobile networks. 3G offers mobile internet access at speeds of up to 7.2Mbps. This guide advises you what to look out for when choosing a 3G mobile broadband package. (28/07/09)

3G mobile broadband packages

There are five major 3G networks in the UK, each of which now offers customers the ability to access the internet on-the-go using a 3G dongle to connect wirelessly, over their network.

Getting connected is simply a case of inserting your 3G USB dongle into your laptop and clicking 'connect'. As long as you have mobile reception you are ready to surf, check emails, and catch up with Stephen Fry on twitter.

If you are a light user, pay-as-you-go mobile broadband may be right for you. For more heavy usage, you may opt for a contracted monthly plan. 3 and Vodafone both charge £15 per month for 3G usage on a 12-month contract.

Free laptop offers with 3G mobile broadband are alsoavailable and are a good way to get up-and-running on a laptop without a high up-front cost. You pay for mobile broadband and the laptop over a period which is usually 24 months. The following companies all offer a range of 3G mobile broadband packages:

• 3 mobile broadband
• Orange mobile broadband
• Vodafone mobile broadband
• T-Mobile mobile broadband
• O2 mobile broadband

You may find it easy to compare mobile 3G mobile broadband packages using our 3G mobile broadband comparison tool.

3G mobile broadband coverage

Firstly, 3G mobile broadband requires mobile reception to function. Whilst all networks are expanding their coverage, there are still differences between the areas that each network covers. Importantly, several parts of the UK have no coverage at all. Just because one network offers good mobile broadband coverage in your area does not mean that all networks will. The maps below highlight how 3G mobile broadband coverage can differ between networks:

Source: www.ofcom.com/3gmobilebroadband

Our verdict on 3G mobile broadband

3G mobile broadband offers an alternative to traditional fixed-line based broadband connections, especially if you are constantly on the move or looking to avoid paying for line rental.

3G broadband packages tend offer lower download limits than fixed-line broadband. You may feel it's worth it though for the freedom of a connection wherever you are.

However, speeds are much slower - less than 1Mb, according to a recent Epitiro study, compared to the 3.6Mb average of fixed-line broadband.

Finally, free laptop with broadband offers may seem tempting at first, but be sure to read all the details to be certain you are getting the best deal.

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