subject: When Are Broadband With No Landline Services Worth The Cost? [print this page] . Mobile broadband has improved in the last few years, and while it still has some problems for many people who travel a lot the service can come in very handy. Many still don't consider it a true replacement for landline broadband though, so here's a few of the things you need to know about mobile broadband before making a decision.
Speed: The speed of the average mobile broadband connection is usually advertised at 'up to' 3 Mbps or up to 7 Mbps. Obviously the faster option is more expensive. However, just like ADSL there's a big gap between the advertised speed and the speed you'll receive. In most areas of the UK you can expect around 2 Mbps outside with mobile broadband, and usually around 1 Mbps indoors, depending on where you live. Most of the time this makes mobile broadband a poor choice if you want to do any sort of streaming, but it should be fast enough for basic internet use and even most Voice Over IP (VOIP) services like Skype.
Bandwidth: Bandwidth on mobile broadband deals is normally extremely limited compared to landline options. Every deal has a limit on the amount you can download and going over that limit can cost you a lot of money. Usually though, combined with the slower speeds of mobile broadband these limits aren't a problem, providing you don't accidentally leave your phone or laptop downloading when you're out! Most mobile broadband operators provide customers with counter that monitors broadband use, so you'll find it easy to keep track on just how much you've been using.
Pricing: Mobile broadband has two main pricing schemes that are very similar to what most people will be used to with mobile phones. You can choose to pay for a contract deal or a pay as you go option. Just like mobile phones you can save more money in the long term with a contract deal, but you'll only be saving money if you make sure you get a contract that gives you what you will use. There's no point getting out a contract that gives you 10GB a month usage when you only use 2GB a month. Pay as you go deals can be a bit more expensive but are perfect if you want to use your mobile broadband as an alternative rather than a replacement for a landline.
