Research on wireless internet access

After finding out how crappy and restrictive the wireless access on iPad 3G (provided by AT&T) was, I started researching on whether there's a plan B.

First I came across Sprint's mobile internet. I hated it instantly when I saw that it required a 2 year contract. Also it's not cheap as it cost US$60+ each month. On the bright side, it's a 3G + 4G plan, meaning that while the 3G has 5Gb cap, 4G is unlimited. Still, I just hate committing on a 2 year contract. Another problem: the MiFi router thing doesn't have as long battery life as iPad 3G, and it also means another piece of device to carry. But the this modem is relatively lightweight, and 3 hour plus battery life should be enough to do my work. One good thing: based on the coverage map, the connection on my living place should be pretty well. I can also using it with at most 5 internet device, meaning that my iPod Touch, my tablet, iPad, Dell M6400 and Nintendo DS can all got mobile internet connection everywhere I go within Houston. That sounds pretty sweet.

Then I came across Clear. I liked the fact that I don't have to committee on a 2 year contract, even thought that means I have to have my own equipment, like a US$250 WiFi USB device and US$130 HotSpot device. US$40 for 4G only each month, or US$55 for 4G + 3G. But the biggest problem is the coverage. Based on the map on the site, my living place is barely covered, that means the connection speed will be terrible. NOT GOOD.

So I think I will still get a iPad 3G. After all when I use it in HK or other places, I am pretty sure the connection will be so much better than those in AT&T. Plus it's always nice to have a "back up plan" with me. I instead of using the slow and restrictive AT&T, I may just get Sprint 4G. It has all the benefit of MiFi but with much better speed. The thing is keep me from getting Sprint 4G right away is that many people report that the firmware for the modem is very buggy and require a lot of reboot. So I better wait for a while. Well, at least a 4G option is coming very soon.

Gotta continue monitoring the Sprint 4G forum.

BTW, still haven't decided which size of iPad 3G to get. 16, 32, or 64 .....