Constantly searching for internet connectivity is among the greatest hassles we know.  Having available Wi-Fi just isn’t reliable anymore, and we desperately need to remain connected.  With that in mind, we are determined to find new and better ways of establishing internet connectivity.

Simple, plug-in USB devices now allow you to access the internet wherever there is wireless coverage.  We researched the mobile modems available from AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. While each device had its own perks, we know that these mobile modems all suffer from the same limitation – coverage is governed by the data coverage that the carrier provides.  Don’t expect 3G coverage everywhere.

T-Mobile WebConnect USB Device

The T-Mobile WebConnect USB Laptop stick is, like the other models, a little larger than your typical flash drive device – 3.4 x 1.1 x 0.5 inches.  Manufactured by Huawei Technologies, the WebConnect is available in a pleasant black-and-neon-green color.  We were pleased to see that the WebConnect stick features a swivel design; you can fold it in and not have the USB protrude from the side of your computer.  With a microSD card slot, the WebConnect doubles as a storage solution (it accepts up to 8GB cards).  Unfortunately, right now the WebConnect device is only compatible with Windows Xp and Vista; T-Mobile says that it plans to add Mac support during Summer 2009.

One asset to the WebConnect USB is the coverage.  While T-Mobile does have a smaller coverage area (The T-Mobile HSDPA network is available in 130 cities, covering approximately 100 million people), the WebConnect uses T-Mobile’s Connection Manager software, which will show you other available Wi-Fi networks available.  Like the other wireless carrier’s USB sticks, the T-Mobile WebConnect can also be used in areas without 3G coverage as it does work with GPRS/EDGE networks.

The T-Mobile WebConnect costs $49.99 with a two year contract, after rebate; $99.99 with a one-year contract; or $249.99 with no contract.  You’ll also need a service plan to use it; T-Mobile’s monthly charge for 5GB of wireless data is currently $59.99.

Verizon Wireless USB727

We were pleased with the features offered by Verizon Wireless’ USB727.  A 2 in 1 USB device, the USB727 offers both Broadband access and memory storage (the stick has a 4 MB storage capacity – sold separately).  From a coverage perspective, Verizon boasts a large territory; 247 million people are now covered by the wireless provider.  Verizon’s USB727 provides average download speeds of 600 kbs-1.4 mbs/sec., and average upload speeds of 500-800 kpbs. The USB727 also supports many operating systems, including Windows Vista, Xp, 2000, Mac OS X 10.3.9 or higher, and Linux.

The Verizon Wireless USB727 also offers a unique feature – an integrated dual-band diversity antennae system with a flip up antennae.  This antenna maximizes data speed performance and aids in finding a strong signal reception.  The stick’s cohesion with your laptop is managed by Verizon’s VZAccess Manager software.

Available for $29.99 (after a $50 mail-in rebate, and a new two-year agreement), Verizon’s Wireless USB727 is an excellent choice for locating a broadband signal with your laptop.

AT&T USBConnect Mercury

AT&T offers several LaptopConnect cards, including the Option GT Ultra Express, Option GT Ultra, AT&T USBConnect Mercury, Sierra Wireless AirCard 881, and USBConnect Quicksilver.  We reviewed the AT&T USBConnect Mercury, released in September, 2008.

First, it is important to note that AT&T’s coverage area is enormous, and finding a signal did not prove to be a problem.  AT&T’s 3G network is currently available in 350 cities.  Second, speed was not a problem.  The AT&T USBConnect Mercury boasts connection speeds of between 700kbps-1.7Mbps download, and 500kbps – 1.2 Mbps for upload.  This connection rate is about average among the other USB sticks.

The Mercury stick comes equipped with the AT&T Communication Manager software for Windows Vista, Xp, and 2000, and Sierra’s Watcher software for Mac (versions 10.4.11) or later.

The AT&T USBConnect Mercury is often available for free with a two year, $60 per month DataConnect contract.

Finding internet connectivity does not have to be a struggle, and fortunately, the wireless carriers have met our demand for coverage.  When choosing your wireless plan, be sure to ask about the carrier’s monthly data charge and USB connection sticks. Negotiating a deal for internet connection is best accomplished when starting any new contract, and carriers may offer you a sweet deal to keep connected.

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