I will be back in the States for a total of 2-3 months next year. Since AT&T doesn't offer prepaid services for iPhones (bastards!), I want to get a portable hotspot wifi device that can get both 3G and 4G coverage for my laptop. The big thing for me is that I can't do any of that contract crap; it has to be service on the fly (prepaid). I also need to be able to charge/power the device from my USB port, a wall outlet, or an AC adapter for a car.

Do any of you recommend any specific device? I will be in D.C., Vegas, and Spokane, WA during those times if that has any impact on your insight based on coverage areas.

Thank you in advance for your help!

I don't know of anyone who offers 4g off contract right now, at least not without paying full retail for the device itself along with the monthly fee.

I know that virgin mobile sells prepaid wireless data cards, but that's 3g only.

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World of Warcraft: Kallaystra, Gweila, Steakumn, Tarathia [ Feathermoon/Horde ]

This isn't really what you were asking about, but if you get an iPad, I am fairly certain that the 3G fee is month-to-month - no contract.

Not willing to buy an iPad when I already own two laptops and an iPhone. LOL

I think I might check into Virgin's device. It should suit my needs nicely, Thank you!

I'd be very skeptical about Verizon's LTE offerings right now. If you're just checking email, fine, but if you event think about doing more since you have a faster connection, watch out. That 5GB cap is a killer.

Yeah, you can burn through verizon's 5gb cap in 30 minutes if you're actually getting the advertised maximum speed.

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World of Warcraft: Kallaystra, Gweila, Steakumn, Tarathia [ Feathermoon/Horde ]

If you can afford $299.99 Sprints 3G/4G device has no cap on the 4G (3G side has 5G) side if you get coverage for 4G in your area.

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"Creating Havoc and Pie Since 2001!"
My Website: http://www.anthonyhays.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cakvala

That sounds appealing if I were to be in the States for a year...but I'm not sure if paying $300 plus monthly fees would make sense when I am going to be in the States for 1-3 months. Thanks for the tip though, Anthony!

Maybe I'll just suck it up and go to Starbucks, pay their fee, check my emails, and be on my way. LOL

Didn't think of this before, but if you want an iPhone, you should be able to buy one used and hook it up sign AT&T w/o a contract.

I actually have an iPhone. I cancelled my contract with them back in May because of my military obligtations. Aer you sure they offer a no-contract service for the iPhone?

I'd much rather do that than anything else...if they offer that service.

Well, I have an iPhone. I'm was, but am no longer, under contract. So their system can likely support it.

I don't see why they'd lock you into a contract if you already have the phone. I'd try that first, seeing it's your preference.

No no no, the device costs $299.99 one time, the monthly fees are only $59.99 a month.

You would need to pay for the full SRP to get the no contract option.

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"Creating Havoc and Pie Since 2001!"
My Website: http://www.anthonyhays.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cakvala

Take into consideration that you may need to speak to a AT&T supervisor. Most fine print states even if you don't take a discount on signing up a new line of service there may still be a two year contract.

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"Creating Havoc and Pie Since 2001!"
My Website: http://www.anthonyhays.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cakvala

for two months of internet service that price tag is just ridiculous.

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World of Warcraft: Kallaystra, Gweila, Steakumn, Tarathia [ Feathermoon/Horde ]

An official response from AT&T:



Woot I get to use my iPhone!

Talk about bass-ackwards. GG ATT

I'm glad we've solved your phone dilemma, Bello.