Smartphone Wi Fi Hotspot or 3G Dongle?

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robbieg

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I have a netbook which I use with a 3G Dongle-Vodaphone being the supplier. It works well when in 3G range but I don't use all the data I pay for on my monthly contract.

I see that many smartphones now can provide a mobile hot spot so I am wondering if it is worth cancelling my 3G dongle contract and investing in a smartphone which for a few quid more will not only connect up my net book via wi fi for data transfer but also give me a new smartphone toy to play with.

Anyone use a smartphone for data transfer via wi fi and if so is it any good/better/worse than a 3G dongle. Any comments on good network suppliers for data (not worried about calls and text cos I have a work phone for that).

Crusing area Falmouth to Brighton if it helps.

TIA
 
Hi, I have a 3G vodafone dongle which has been very good.
I got an iphone with data tethering on Orange which I though could replace it.
It does work, but not very well and not nearly as well as the 3G dongle.

I don't know if the problem is Orange or the phone but either way, I've kept the 3G dongle and dont use the data tethering feature.
 
martinrh said:
Hi, I have a 3G vodafone dongle which has been very good.
I got an iphone with data tethering on Orange which I though could replace it.
It does work, but not very well and not nearly as well as the 3G dongle.

I don't know if the problem is Orange or the phone but either way, I've kept the 3G dongle and dont use the data tethering feature.
Click to expand...

I've had limited success with tethering a smartphone to a laptop and iPad. Prefer to use the 3G dongle for internet and phone for phoning so I can do both at once if required.
 
Being an occasional user I use the tethering feature on the iPhone. It's fine and does what I expect. As u have rubbish broadband at home it's quicker to tether on the 3G connection so speed seems reasonable to me!
One advantage of the tethering rather than 3G dongle is that you can put the phone in the best place for a signal with no additional wiring. The downside is that it eats batteries.
 
I have used an HTC desire as a mobile hotspot for a samsung tab 10.1 and it seems to work fine, anchored in Keyhaven last week, makes use of my existing contract, no need for a second contract on a dongle and works for occasional use, i expect if i was going for longer?
 
I certainly find the Iphone much slower than a decent dongle on the laptop. My dongle here runs a laptop, and an Ipad much faster than my Iphone even on wifi.
 
I use nothing but 3G connection, I have no landline at home, and no intention of getting one (connection speed is slower than Three 3G)

I have a latest generation dongle from Three, and it's performance is exceptional (and I've used a few over the years). I also have hotspot tethering on an iPhone, also on Three. There is a considerable speed difference on the dongle. It's designed to do one job well and does it better. I do use the smartphone tethering when I'm out and about, and for occasional use, it's excellent. If you want to use it regularly, then a dongle is better. So it's down to a decision on cost vs performance, and what you find a reasonable compromise.
 
Ihave a tmob/orange dogle and unlimited iPhone contract with same company, both cost the same £15per month, dongle is really v quick, but..sailing Coastal the smartphone superb at multiple weather sources, chart etc, and of course low power/ easier to charge. Decisions decisions eh!
Nb when you own the phone unlocked, the deals are much better.
 
chubby said:
I have used an HTC desire as a mobile hotspot for a samsung tab 10.1 and it seems to work fine, anchored in Keyhaven last week, makes use of my existing contract, no need for a second contract on a dongle and works for occasional use, i expect if i was going for longer?
Click to expand...

+1. As a relatively infrequent 3g user from the netbook i abandoned my 3 dongle and use the HTC WiFi hotspot when necessary. Haven't noticed any speed difference but mainly just browser for weather sites or outlook for email
 
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