vB Easy Archive - Best 3G USB data card and US carrier for MacBook?

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Best 3G USB data card and US carrier for MacBook?
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Posted by: solipsism

The title says it all. I'm using a MacBook, but wish to connect to cell towers for unlimited/unlimited internet access.

I will be driving a lot and so usually close to major highways and thoroughfares, though sometime perhaps in the boonies.

I see that both AT&T have unlimited/unlimited (I think) data plans for $60/month. I already have an account with AT&T, but since I have an iPhone I can't tether it (not that I'd want to tether with EDGE).

So far, I'm leaning toward Sprint's Ovation U727 by Novatel Wireless.

I also would like to not have a 2 year contract. I assume if I buy it at full retail price or from someone, say on eBay, I'll be able to bypass the contract and still get the $60 unlimited/unlimited rate.

• Which is the best carrier?
• Which is the best HW from that carrier?

Thanks for your assistance

Posted by: coolcellmunda

Quote:

Originally Posted by solipsism

The title says it all. I'm using a MacBook, but wish to connect to cell towers for unlimited/unlimited internet access.

I will be driving a lot and so usually close to major highways and thoroughfares, though sometime perhaps in the boonies.

I see that both AT&T have unlimited/unlimited (I think) data plans for $60/month. I already have an account with AT&T, but since I have an iPhone I can't tether it (not that I'd want to tether with EDGE).

So far, I'm leaning toward Sprint's Ovation U727 by Novatel Wireless.

I also would like to not have a 2 year contract. I assume if I buy it at full retail price or from someone, say on eBay, I'll be able to bypass the contract and still get the $60 unlimited/unlimited rate.

• Which is the best carrier?
• Which is the best HW from that carrier?

Thanks for your assistance

You are in the wrong section for this question.

Posted by: scaredpoet

Quote:

Originally Posted by solipsism

So far, I'm leaning toward Sprint's Ovation U727 by Novatel Wireless.

Sprint WILL lock you into a 2-year contract, there's no way around that. On the other hand, the price will be cheap and the 3G coverage will be quite good.

Be aware though, their 2G speeds are abysmal. So if you are unlucky enough to find yourself in a non-3G area, the performance will be quite bad.

You can get a no-contract option with AT&T, however the card and the service will be more expensive. For now, 3G coverage is not nearly as good as the other top two carriers. However, where there is 3G coverage, it's REALLY fast. And EDGE coverage is tolerable.

I went with AT&T mainly because my corporate discount applies on the data line, the 3G coverage is good for the places I travel to, and my experience with Sprint customer service was so bad that I don't think I'd ever go back, no matter the price.

Posted by: Quake97

Quote:

Originally Posted by coolcellmunda

You are in the wrong section for this question.

How was this helpful to the OP? Trying to up your post count?

To OP:

I recommend going to Sprint or Verizon, if you can deal with the contract. You should be able to get a one year if you bring your own equipment. They have MUCH better 3G coverage than AT&T does right now. If you think you'll be in a major city most of the time, then stick with AT&T.

Joe

Posted by: solipsism

Quote:

Originally Posted by coolcellmunda

You are in the wrong section for this question.

It was listed as Apple and the MacBook that I'll be using is the only thing I know for certain.

Since I'm a first time poster it might be behoove you to explain why it's the wrong section and where I should have posted, otherwise I learn nothing and your post is wasted.

Quote:

Originally Posted by scaredpoet

Thanks for the reply.

I'll be going with AT&T so I don't have a contract and I get to keep it all on one bill. I'll also be getting the AirCard 875U (looks to be $50 after $100 mail in rebate on Google Products), though I wish I could get ahold of the 880U/881U, Apex 880 or Compass 885 USB modem.

edit: I see that price is only for a 2 year contract. I'd rather pay full price.

PS: Thanks, Quake97.

Posted by: solipsism

UPDATE FOR THOSE INTERESTED:

Radio Shack—an authorized AT&T Wireless retailer—wanted $100 (after $100 mai-in-rebate) for the same card that the AT&T store was selling for $50 (after $100 mai-in-rebate).

I opted for the 2-year contract because canceling is $175, which is cheaper than buying the card outright. ($175 + $50 = $225 < $350)

DLed the OS X software from Sierra, popped in the SIM card and battery (not sure why it need a battery). That was it. Conencted instantly and worked great. Switched between WIFI, Ethernet and 3G card was seamless to my apps. Nothing discoed.

My speeds are holding at 900Kb down/ 300Kb up.

Thanks for the help.