The last few months have been pretty exciting for anyone interested in mobile broadband in the UK. Until now, T-mobile has lead the way with their ‘Web N Walk’ unlimited data tariffs, but as of the beginning of this month both Three and Vodafone have launched competitive data products.
I believe now is the first time that mobile broadband can actually rival fixed line broad band in terms of price, speed and bandwidth allowance.
NB: For this study, I’m only interested in data packages that can be used with a computer or laptop (not phone only).
Mobile broadband packages
| Network | Tarrif | Speed | Inclusive Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-mobile | Web’n’Walk Plus with Phone contract | 1.8 mbps | 3 GB / month | Normal contact + £12.50 per month |
| T-mobile | Web’n’Walk Plus USB Modem / Data card | 1.8 mbps | 3 GB / month | £29 per month |
| Vodafone | Phone contract standard | 7.2 mbps? | 15 MB / day | £1 per day |
| Vodafone | Phone contract + data pack | 7.2 mbps? | 120 MB / month | £ 7.50 per month |
| Three | USB Modem – Broadband Lite | *2.8 mbps | 1GB / month | £10 per month |
| Three | USB Modem – Broadband Lite | *2.8 mbps | 3GB / month | £15 per month |
| Three | USB Modem – Broadband Max | *2.8 mbps | 7GB / month | £25 per month |
* Three’s 2.8 mbps area is being rolled out gradually from September 2007 onwards, with national network coverage expected in 2008.