Top 5 Helpful Hints when Buying Mobile Broadband

Posted by GadgetGirl

December 8, 2009

If you need the flexibility of broadband on the move then mobile broadband could definitely be the right option for you. There are lots of deals out there that are offering mobile broadband packages, but what things do you have to consider to make sure that you are buying the right mobile broadband package for you?

1. Payment Options

There are 3 ways to pay for mobile broadband you need to decide which option best suits your needs.

a. Pay Monthly Contract

Very much like a mobile phone contract, the lengths range from one month to 24. These will vary in price between £10 and £30, as with mobiles you pay via direct debit and the longer the contract the more value for money they are with free equipment and lower tariffs, however if you settle for a longer contract you need to make sure it is right for you contract and cancellation fees can be steep.

b. Pay As You Go

Similar to pay as you go mobile, you pay for the equipment upfront and buy access credit in the same way. Pay as you go is good for anyone who does not want to be tied to a contract however you will not get as good value for money as the pay monthly contract but it does mean you are not tied into anything and can cancel at anytime.

c. One off Fee

Some networks like BT and 3 offer a one off fee for customers taking out a 18 month contract which includes a dongle fee and are offered a set amount of data usage for the 18 months then after that you can continue using the service as pay as you go.

2. Compare Mobile Broadband

You can compare broadband easily to make sure you get the best tariff that suits you for all 3 options above, some providers very competitive offering incentives to take up their mobile broadband like giving away free laptops or notebooks with some of the bigger contracts.

3. Be Aware of Restrictions

Also be aware of restrictions on some tariffs such as any download limits, if you have a certain amount of downloads each month you need to keep an eye on what you use to avoid going over and been charged large amounts, also some plans offer unlimited usage however a “fair usage policy” will apply where there is a maximum limit to prevent abuse.

4. Adequate Network Coverage

You need to make sure when buying mobile broadband you have network coverage for your area by checking on the provider’s website.

5. Returns Policy

When purchasing your mobile broadband online you should check the returns policy to make sure if it is not suitable you can return it in time, so make sure you set it up as soon as you receive it. If you buy online you will be automatically covered by distance selling regulations which mean you have 7 days from the day after the goods arrive to change your mind and return it.

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