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3G/4G for your iPad WiFi

F

francisq

macrumors member
Original poster
Mar 22, 2010
77
0
francisq said:
The Sprint 3G/4G Overdrive allows you to use Sprint's 3G/4G network with any WiFi capable device. including the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.


http://www.tuaw.com/2010/03/20/sprint-features-iphone-in-4g-ad


Verizon 3G MiFi does the same thing

http://www.tipb.com/2010/03/10/verizon-sell-data-ipad-mifi/




This means, if you prefer Sprint's 3g/4G or Verizon's 3G service, you don't have to buy the iPad 3G version, just get the Wifi version.


FYI for people who are not aware of this.
Click to expand...

I have been testing it out with the Sprint Overdrive the last few days and in Chicago the 4g is very fast. I also have run speedtest on my phone with the Overdrive in 3G vs the ATT 3g and the Sprint 3G has been faster 9 out of 10 times. The advantage with the Overdrive is that I can connect my Macbook to it if I travel, disadvantages is another device to charge and the higher monthly cost.
I have 28 more days to decide if I am going to keep it.

Kenal0
 
Kenal0 said:
I have been testing it out with the Sprint Overdrive the last few days and in Chicago the 4g is very fast. I also have run speedtest on my phone with the Overdrive in 3G vs the ATT 3g and the Sprint 3G has been faster 9 out of 10 times. The advantage with the Overdrive is that I can connect my Macbook to it if I travel, disadvantages is another device to charge and the higher monthly cost.
I have 28 more days to decide if I am going to keep it.

Kenal0
Click to expand...


Wow you're absolutely right. I haven't even thought about that.

I can use the Overdrive 4G with my Macbook, iPad and iPhone and iPod Touch!

WOW!
 
Results may vary.
I'm in Tampa, Florida (3G only), and the Overdrive has been a huge disappointment. While my iPad is connected to the Overdrive, I routinely get speeds as slow as 60-75kbps. I average 150-300kbs. AT&T 3G on the iPhone, on the other hand, is consistently >1000kbps.

The Overdrive has been nearly useless.

I've ordered the iPad Wi-Fi 3G. I'm returning the Overdrive.
 
How about the Verizon MiFi? anyone's using this with their iPad?

Specifically in the Palo Alto/Redwood City Area?
 
The 3G version of the iPad will be locked to AT&T's network, which doesn't even compare to the 3G coverage that Verizon has. iPad 3G owners would have to pay $30/mo for a data plan that can only be used on the iPad.

I would recommend getting a Verizon MiFi, which will provide better 3G coverage, on a more reliable 3G network. Not to mention you can connect up to 5 devices at a time to the MiFi.

3Gstore just announced a No Contract MiFi Option for iPad for only $49.95/mo

3gstore.com/lease
 
I have the "WiFi only" iPad and the Overdrive. Could not be happier. Our town has strong 4G coverage. I'm getting up to 5000Kbps download speed. It never drops below 2500Kbps. And it also works with my MacBook Pro and iPhone 3GS (which has poor 3G data connection most of the time).

Plus, the Overdrive has its own GPS. I use Safari to enter the Overdrive's IP address which gives me access to the GPS "Map me" function which then sends me to Google Maps showing my exact location.
 
barefeats said:
I have the "WiFi only" iPad and the Overdrive. Could not be happier. Our town has strong 4G coverage. I'm getting up to 5000Kbps download speed. It never drops below 2500Kbps. And it also works with my MacBook Pro and iPhone 3GS (which has poor 3G data connection most of the time).

Plus, the Overdrive has its own GPS. I use Safari to enter the Overdrive's IP address which gives me access to the GPS "Map me" function which then sends me to Google Maps showing my exact location.
Click to expand...

I have the same setup. Just bought Copilot for Ipad and it works like a charm!
 
4G Options

Clear.com

$40.00/month
No 2 year contract
Clearspot router $190.00

Sprint.com

$60.00/month
2 year contract
Overdrive router $99.00 with rebate
Sprint = Reseller of Clear network

Sprint HTC EVO 4G Phone due June 6

Mobile 4G hotspot $10.00 to 20.00/month extra speculation

AT&T 3G boost to 4G like speeds this Summer

3 to 6 MBPS rumor
 
I just can't justify the >$50/mo on a 2 year contract... 4g isn't in all markets either. I use clear for my MBP but it's nice that I can put it in vacation mode for a few months or cancel all together if I want.
 
mozartwon said:
I have the same setup. Just bought Copilot for Ipad and it works like a charm!
Click to expand...

Are you saying that CoPilot Live HD for iPad can access the GPS in the Overdrive?
 
I believe those contracts also impose caps on data qty per month.

So you:
- Pay more
- Are locked into a contract
- Have to carry around an extra device
- Are limited on data qty

No thanks.
 
ScubaCinci said:
I believe those contracts also impose caps on data qty per month.

So you:
- Pay more
- Are locked into a contract
- Have to carry around an extra device
- Are limited on data qty

No thanks.
Click to expand...

There is no quota on the Sprint 4G Overdrive.

And since it supports 5 devices, cost per device is $12 per month. We have two iPads, two MacBook Pros, and two iPhone 3GS.

The Overdrive fits in my pocket or in my iPad's messenger bag. Weighs 4 oz.
 
francisq said:
The Sprint 3G/4G Overdrive allows you to use Sprint's 3G/4G network with any WiFi capable device. including the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.


http://www.tuaw.com/2010/03/20/sprint-features-iphone-in-4g-ad


Verizon 3G MiFi does the same thing

http://www.tipb.com/2010/03/10/verizon-sell-data-ipad-mifi/




This means, if you prefer Sprint's 3g/4G or Verizon's 3G service, you don't have to buy the iPad 3G version, just get the Wifi version.


FYI for people who are not aware of this.
Click to expand...

Only issue that there is a $60 a month bill attached to them. :( And many of us don't need the ability to connect to our laptops with these... we are looking only for our iPads....
 
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