Comparing The iPad 3G With A Mi-Fi

I have the 3G model of the Apple iPad, which enables me to connect my iPad to the Internet from just about any location. I paid an extra $129 for the 3G model, and I will pay $29.99 per month for as long as I chose to use AT&T"s 3G network. Using the iPad 3G is not the only way to get ubiquitous connectivity, another option is to use one of the iPad Wi-Fi versions with a Mi-Fi, which is a small wireless LAN access point that uses a cellular data connection for Internet access. By using a Mi-Fi, such as the ones sold by Sprint and Verizon, you can connect any device that has Wi-Fi to the Internet and unlike other cellular Internet connection options, the Mi-Fi enables multiple devices to use the same Internet connection at the same time. I considered purchasing a Mi-Fi and buying the Wi-Fi only version of the iPad and decided against it because it would be too expensive. The New York Times has compared the cost of the two options and finds that the iPad + Mi-Fi approach costs $449 more over two years, due largely because the monthly cost of the Mi-Fi data plans from Verizon and Sprint are double the monthly cost of Apple's iPad 3G plan. In fact, if you chose Sprint's version of the Mi-Fi that works on their 4G network the cost is more than double. The New York Times says the ability to use any device with the Mi-Fi and the quality of Verizon's network may be worth the extra cost. However, one important point the Times fails to point out is that the $90 Mi-Fi they chose for the price comparison requires a two year contract with Verizon, if you don't want to sign a contract the Mi-Fi costs $269.99. The ability to use multiple devices with the Mi-Fi is very appealing, and I am usually willing to pay more for flexibility. However, I asked myself how often I would use the Mi-Fi with other devices or support multiple connections at the same time, and concluded I really wouldn't take advantage of the flexibility all that often. For me the iPad 3G was the best choice for how I intend to use my iPad.

Social Pro Daily

Comparing The iPad 3G With A Mi-Fi

Frank McPherson

About

Subscriptions

Events

Publications

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Subscribe today!

Frank McPherson