Do You Really Want That New 3G Connection

 

This is a guest post by Kelly Jones. If you wish to write one kindly check out the guidelines to write a guest post.

Nowadays having a 3G connection on your mobile is the latest fad. Whether you use it or not is a different story altogether. 3G allows you fast speed internet access but there is a catch. The huge bills that are caused by expensive data plans and data consumption that can spiral out of control due to you being always connected on the internet, which can be pretty heady and become a habit.

If you only need intermittent access to the net and emails, then even the older GPRS / EDGE connection will suffice as it is considerably cheaper. So how do we decide whether to shift to 3G or not. Some points to ponder over:

1. Email – If you need only basic email access, then the older GPRS / EDGE service or blackberry service is sufficient. 3G is only recommended if you want to send and receive huge attachments
2. Browsing and Video calling – If you browse sporadically on the go, then chose an older connection but if you want fast speed access then 3G is the way to go. 3G has the additional benefit of video calling.
3. Connectivity – 3G services and connectivity is inconsistent and you may be better off with a GPRS / EDGE connection as the speeds may be the same while roaming. Pre-paid 3G cards can be bought if required for heavy usage for specific purpose while keeping the old connection as the main one.  If you use the Phone as a modem, then a 3G one is always better as the speeds are a lot better.
4. Battery Usage – The other main area of concern with 3G is the heavy battery drainage that all 3G phones suffer from. You may need to keep a spare battery as it may drain out in 4 to 5 hours. GPRS mobiles are way ahead and may carry on for two days or even more.

Now that you have decided that you need that 3G connection badly and have gone ahead and got one, you should keep some key points in consideration to keep a check on the monthly data bills.

1. If you are not using 3G, then it is best to turn it off and the phone will switch to 2G and email will be still there. You will save on the battery and when 3G is required, you can switch it back on.
2. When you visit a website, go to the mobile version as it is light on data usage vis-a-vis the desktop version. Use Opera as the browser as it compresses the web pages and you save money on the data charges.
3. A number of apps are available that let you track data usage and you should have one on your phone.