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Using a mobile hotspot versus phone tethering?
I was considering picking up a mobile hotspot off contract for month-to-month use when needed. I can also use tethering from my phone if I choose too but I know that can drain the battery. How easy is it to deal with month-to-month plans on the mobile hotspots? If it's a headache to renew/cancel is there a better option like a pre-paid hotspot?
I've used PdaNet like Mitchell on an HTC Hero and a Samsung Epic 4G to similar results. I do find that if I start with a fully charged phone, your computer does a pretty good job of keeping the battery charged, assuming it is plugged in to the wall. My guess is that the battery drain on your laptop would be considerable if you were mobile.
I don't know how much you like to tinker with your phone; if you do the option of rooting and installing wifi tether is a good one. This is what I'm currently doing with my Epic 4G, avoiding the extra fees to use wifi tethering when needed. Granted I rarely use it, but it is nice to have in a pinch.
code.google.com/p/android-wifi-tether/
I don't know how much you like to tinker with your phone; if you do the option of rooting and installing wifi tether is a good one. This is what I'm currently doing with my Epic 4G, avoiding the extra fees to use wifi tethering when needed. Granted I rarely use it, but it is nice to have in a pinch.
code.google.com/p/android-wifi-tether/
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I use PdaNet everyday on the train into work. I use a Droid X so I'm on 3G, so the speeds aren't amazing, but I'm still able to get quite a bit done. The battery usage is tolerable (moderate usage, maybe 10-15% drain after 45 minutes). If you had a 4G phone it would probably be better speeds, but I assume more battery drain as well. Mobile hotspot devices can be a little bit more convenient though; no usb cable connection needed.
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