USB Mobile Broadband Sticks
Mobile broadband is a great option for many people, especially if you need to be connected at all times. Mobile broadband companies have made being connected to the Internet easier than ever with the advent of mobile broadband sticks. At Broadband Expert we love these little devices and you rarely find one of our team without one in easy reach! However before you spend that hard earned cash take a read of our guide to make sure you make an informed purchase. If you’re still not sure after this head over to our review section and read what other customers think of the mobile broadband providers.
A mobile broadband stick plugs right into your PC or your laptop, and gives you instant access to the Internet wherever you can receive a signal. Speeds for mobile broadband will be slower than fixed broadband, and the download limits are more restrictive than those you see with fixed line services.
You can expect mobile broadband speeds to be at best about half of what you would see on an average fixed broadband line. However, the speed on mobile broadband is expected to increase as networks are upgraded and in particular with advent of 4G which is likely to start rolling out to large areas of the country in 2013 or 2014. As of now, for activities such as simple web surfing or emailing, mobile broadband speeds will be quite good for most users so long as you are in an area of reasonable 3G coverage.
Part of what makes a mobile broadband stick such an attractive option is its ease of use. You simply plug the mobile broadband stick into your USB port on your laptop or computer, and you are connected. It really is that simple!
USB Sticks allow internet access on the move
Mobile broadband makes it easy to stay connected and the little mobile broadband stick is easy to use so even those who count themselves as technophobes should have no problems. This small device for mobile internet use has many advantages; chief among these advantages is that the stick can easily be moved from computer to computer and is highly portable making it ideal for laptops and use on the move.
A mobile broadband USB stick allows users to forgo the installation of fixed broadband and really is a case of plug and play. An added advantage is that if you move you don’t need to worry about a new installation or being stuck in a contract with a fixed line provider that doesn’t cover your new area. In general, mobile broadband is a great option for those who are primarily laptop users. Being able to plug a USB modem stick into your laptop wherever you are and having easy access to the internet in the park, down the pub or sat on the bus used to be the stuff of dreams (well for us and fellow techies anyway) but is now a reality!
Advantages and disadvantages to consider
Broadband sticks have other advantages in addition to being very portable; however there are a few downsides too, we’ll run through a few more of the pros and cons here. You can use these devices out of the country, which can be extremely convenient for travellers. However, a quick word of caution is to note that there will be additional charges which can be very expensive so please, please make sure you know the costs before watching the latest East Enders omnibus on BBC iPlayer or you could be in for what is known in the industry as bill shock!
The main disadvantages are slower speeds than fixed line broadband and lower data limits which can make usage expensive, particularly if you exceed your download limit. This means that fixed broadband is usually a better option for activities such as downloading films and online gaming.
What’s the right option for me?
Broadband USB sticks will let you work and play anywhere you are receiving a mobile signal. If you are in a 3G mobile broadband area, you will receive faster speeds than outside of 3G areas so check this with different providers before making a decision. Most users with 3G coverage will find that for average web surfing and email mobile broadband via a broadband stick works perfectly well and even watching video clips and downloading music is fine for most users. We advise going for a network with strong coverage in your area wherever possible. The most common cause of complaints for mobile broadband users is slow speeds and unreliable connectivity so remember to check coverage first and you’ll have a much better chance of being happy with your new purchase!
The price of broadband USB sticks has fallen dramatically recently, if you use our Broadband Expert comparison tables you should be able to find the cheapest option that suits your needs and has suitable coverage. Today, mobile broadband has been made available at a variety of price levels and is consequently, accessible to almost all budgets but remember to consider you data usage and pick a package accordingly. If you are not sure what option is right for you a safe bet can be to start with a pay as you go package as you can always upgrade to a contract deal later once you know how much data you use each month. The added advantage of a PAYG deal is that if you are disappointed with the coverage and performance in your area you are not stuck with a lengthy contract.
