4G mobile Internet access roundup
Dong Ngo
Senior associate editor May 20, 2011
With the introduction of 4G, mobile Internet access is no longer considered inferior to home broadband. In fact, it can actually be much faster than many residential DSL plans.
However, as you roam around, you'll experience changes in connection speed and coverage, and for now none of the wireless providers can guarantee the availability of service throughout the U.S. For this reason, most 4G service comes with a backup 3G portion, which is much slower but much closer to ubiquitous.
The following list covers the current 4G data services that have been reviewed by CNET. They are of two types: modem and mobile hot spot. The former provides access for a single computer only, and the latter provides simultaneous access for up to five Wi-Fi clients. All of them have pros and cons. Check out the full reviews to find out which service best fits your needs and budget.
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| Price | $104.99 | $121.36 | $0.00 to $49.99 | Check Prices | Check Prices |
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| The Bottom Line | Business users who need a superfast mobile Internet connection will be happy with the Samsung 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot SCH-11. Others, be aware that its data plans are expensive and it runs hot. | For mobile users who want a fast and flexible mobile Internet access solution and have moderate data usage needs, the T-Mobile 4G Mobile Hotspot ZTE MF61 will make a good investment. | For mobile users who travel within good Sprint 4G coverage areas--especially those traveling with laptops-- the Sprint MiFi 4082 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot makes a good companion. | The Clear 4G+ Mobile Series S USB modem can provide a great Internet connection if you live in an area where Clear's 4G coverage is available. | Verizon's LG VL600 LTE USB Modem offers arguably the fastest mobile Internet access solution for those who can afford Verizon's data plans. |
| Similar Products | Compare more products | Compare more products | Compare more products | Compare more products | Compare more products |
| Features | |||||
| Cellular enhancement protocol | LTE CDMA | HSPA EDGE GPRS UMTS HSPA+ | CDMA 2000 1X EV-DO Rev. A | Info unavailable | CDMA 2000 1X EV-DO Rev. A LTE |
| Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications |
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