Which mobile broadband?

[peterfaulkner]

I want to change my landline broadband access at home to access via the mobile network.
But how can I find out which provider will give me the best speed for where I live?
I seem to have two options, neither satisfactory as far as I can see.
1. Yes I can check providers online maps re their area of coverage but these are very crude and who is to say what speed I will actually get in my home?
2. I could try out each in turn, but with 12/18 months contract this is not a practical solution.
Surely, given the growth of mobile broadband there must be a way to find out the provider that will give me the best spped at home?
Perhaps something to do with the nearest mobile mast to my home and the strength of each providers signal from that mast?
Not rocket science, I would think, so someone must know?

[greysts]

I don't think either of the main players in this area (3 and Vodaphone) will give you anything more than vague promises of 'up to 2.8 meg' or whatever their interactive map suggests. As with any broadband connection, there are two many variables to take into account. Even something as mundane as 'how thick are the walls of your house' or 'where in the house will you use the BB receiver' must be taken into account. So yes, it is actually 'rocket science'.

Having used these devices in various parts of the UK I have to say that unless you actually happen to have a mobile phone mast in your back garden, signal strength leaves a lot to be desired. What do the maps show and how does that compare with your current provider?

[Graham1186]

I certainly wouldn't go against Greysts view but I can only speak as I find.

My Vodafone dongle performs very adequately when I am out and about. I drive into Derbyshire quite regularly and have received a usable signal miles from anywhere. At home I am a Virgin cable user so about that aspect I cannot speak.

As Vodafone say in the link, it's £15 per month ( a few pence cheaper now since VAT change) which has saved me lots on Wi-Fi hotspots.
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[thanet]

You could try T-mobile or 3 as the pay as you go option. At least they will not force you to have the 12/18 months contract.

Just an idea.

[Graham1186]

Thanks Thanet. I discovered that in retrospect. But I'm happy enough with my Vodafone. When my contract expires I'll have a rethink.
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