Convenience – The user is able to connect to the internet anywhere, provided that they have a wireless connected device, such as a laptop, netbook, Smartphone or tablet. This means that the user is able to check emails and even connect to their favourite social networking sites.
Portability – The consumer can take their broadband connection with them, wherever they go and this means that work is never too far away. Therefore, the idea of taking a holiday or even a day off seems to fade away!
Choice – Mobile broadband is available through a modem in the same way as fixed line broadband is obtained. This can be in the form of a USB Dongle, Data card or in some cases an internal modem.
SMS Messaging – Because the consumer is essentially using a mobile connection this means that SMS messaging is available on the laptop, so no typing on a tiny keypad anymore.
The Disadvantages of mobile broadband
Speed – Although this is called mobile broadband the chances are that in certain areas or if there are a lot of people connected at the same time, the speed obtained will be no faster than dial up broadband.
Cost – When it comes down to cost, the initial outlay is obvious as this is the monthly charge, but care has to taken when using mobile broadband over a long period, because the monthly data allowance can easily be eaten up and then the consumer is facing additional charges.
Dongles – The pros and cons
The Pros
Internet anywhere – The consumer is able to connect to the internet wherever they are.
Easy to install – With most USB dongles installation is easy; simply insert the dongle into the USB port and the software does the rest.
Cost – The price of USB dongles are typically around the £10 range or in many cases it can be free.
The Cons
Signal – Access to mobile broadband through a dongle is fine, provided that the consumer lives an area with good coverage.
Cost – Even though the consumer may have opted for a 15GB per month data allowance, going over will cost the user dear as in many cases there will be a charge per MB over the allowance.
Inconvenience – The dongle has to be carried around all of the time and inserted to access to the network.
The pros and cons of a Tablet PC
The Pros
Lightweight – Easy to carry around as these devices are made to light and portable.
Connectivity – Accessing the internet through the wireless network is easy through either a 3G or Wi-Fi connection.
Speed – A tablet is ideal for people who find that writing down notes with a pen is old school.
The Cons
Delicate – The tablet is a delicate piece of equipment, it can be easily damaged or scratched.
Internet – Not all tablets come with USB ports so using a dongle is out of the question, so the user is reliant on the built in 3G or Wi-Fi.
Cost – Tablets are almost double the price of an equivalent netbook.
The Pros and Cons of a Smartphone
The Pros
Ease of use – A Smartphone will come already set up; the user can begin surfing the internet straight away using a 3G or Wi-Fi connection.
Affordable – The cost of running a Smartphone has fallen considerably with data allowances included in with the mobile phone contract.
Tethering – It is possible to use the Smartphone as modem for a laptop, although this will depend on the device and mobile phone service provider.
The Cons
Screen Size – A three to four inch screen is not the best this size for surfing the web.
Cost – the cost of the device can be very expensive, in some cases this can be reduced with a new contract, but these devices are very rarely free!
Keyboard – The keyboard can be tiny and therefore typing can be a hit and miss affair.
About the author: David Allen writes on behalf of www.broadbandgenie.co.uk, the independent comparison website for broadband, mobile broadband and smartphones.
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