First - there's really no standard speed for 'wired broadband'... and it can vary quite a bit based on what you're paying for, who else is using it nearby, what is run to your location, etc. You can run a speed test at DSLReports.com to see what speeds you're getting now.
For your MiFi - so many considerations. Are you looking at the Verizon (20GB) or Sprint (unlimited) plan? 4G is pretty fast - Verizon will give you LTE and Sprint WiMax (different technologies - LTE generally faster). Regardless, 4G is pretty darn zippy, and you'll notice it probably feeling a bit slower than most broadband.
But 4G is only available right now in most major metro areas. Elsewhere (for now), you'll probably get a decent amount of 3G - which is pretty darn good, but definitely slower than anything called 'broadband'. Outside of 3G areas is pretty darn slow.
Basically, don't expect your wireless internet to be anywhere near as consistently fast or reliable as you're used to with wired.
And, more importantly - you'll be living within bandwidth caps. The faster your speed, the faster you blow through it :)
Best wishes, - Cherie
-- Edited by Technomadia on Thursday 3rd of May 2012 09:26:01 PM
crafter32034 said
03:27 AM May 4, 2012
We are living full time in a CG as we prepare to hit the road next year. We are using Comcast broadband at present and it is FAST. When I turn on my iPad and touch the web icon, my page is there in 2 seconds or less.
We're looking at a Millenicom hot spot as our Internet source since we plan to hit the pow wow trail which will mean 3-4 days a week boon docking.
Can anyone tell me how much slower the mifi hot spot will be compared to wired broadband? In English, please. I'm illiterate in Techy. thanks.
crafter32034 said
03:48 AM May 4, 2012
Thanks, Cherie. I guessed we'd have to take a hit in speed in exchange for remote Internet access. At least we'll have campground wifi several days a week so maybe we won't burn through our 20g in the first week.
"It depends"
First - there's really no standard speed for 'wired broadband'... and it can vary quite a bit based on what you're paying for, who else is using it nearby, what is run to your location, etc. You can run a speed test at DSLReports.com to see what speeds you're getting now.
For your MiFi - so many considerations. Are you looking at the Verizon (20GB) or Sprint (unlimited) plan? 4G is pretty fast - Verizon will give you LTE and Sprint WiMax (different technologies - LTE generally faster). Regardless, 4G is pretty darn zippy, and you'll notice it probably feeling a bit slower than most broadband.
But 4G is only available right now in most major metro areas. Elsewhere (for now), you'll probably get a decent amount of 3G - which is pretty darn good, but definitely slower than anything called 'broadband'. Outside of 3G areas is pretty darn slow.
Basically, don't expect your wireless internet to be anywhere near as consistently fast or reliable as you're used to with wired.
And, more importantly - you'll be living within bandwidth caps. The faster your speed, the faster you blow through it :)
Best wishes,
- Cherie
-- Edited by Technomadia on Thursday 3rd of May 2012 09:26:01 PM