How to Compare 3G Laptop Cards

3G laptop cards allow for a constant Internet connection from almost anywhere you are located. When using 3G laptop cards, the connection coverage is important because you want to connect in the places you frequent the most.

Coverage

Check the provider's coverage maps and compare them to your needs. Usually you can find the provider's coverage map through their website. Most providers also have hot spots in various places throughout the U.S. that allow users to use their Internet without using their data byte allowance.

Data Limit

3G cards vary according to their provider's plans and packages on how much megabytes you are allotted to use each month. The data limits can range from 100 megabytes per day to 5 gigabytes per month.

Connection Type

There are two different ways 3G laptop cards can be connected to your laptop: a 3G USB connector or a 3G PC laptop card. This may be a factor in which kind of connection device you choose for your laptop.

Pricing

Depending on your provider, you may or may not need to sign a contract. At times, you can receive a free 3G card with a signed two-year contract. Contract packages range from $24.99 to $60 a month (as of October 2010). Session pricing ranges from $15 a day to $80 a month (as of October 2010).

References

• AT&T mobile broadband
• Verizon Wireless Mobile Broadband
• T-Mobile Mobile broadband

Resources

• AT&T Coverage Viewer
• Verizon Wireless Coverage Locator
• T-Mobile Coverage