Shortly after Steve Jobs’ announcement, I knew without a doubt that I was getting an iPad. The question though was just which one. For weeks, I agonized over whether to go with the 3g model or wi-fi only, and I vacillated many times. In the end, I opted for the 64gb wi-fi only model, and I am confident that I made the right decision – at least the right one for me.
Initially, I wanted the wi-fi model simply because it was available 30 days sooner than the 3g model. However, the more I thought about it, that became less of a factor for me. You see, I’ve had a Verizon wireless 3g USB card for several years that I use with my MacBook Pro when I am away from my office or my home. It costs me approximately $60 per month, and it provides fast speed with good coverage. Of course, the iPad’s data plan will be provided by AT&T and will cost $30 per month.
I began to realize that even with the 3g iPad, I would still need to have portable 3g access for my MacBook Pro. Therefore, did it make sense pay $30 per month for the iPad data plan in addition to the $60 I would continue paying Verizon? I think not. I then realized that the Verizon MiFi 2200 would be the perfect solution for my situation. The MiFi provides a wireless 3g hub for up to five wi-fi devices, which could include both my iPad and MacBook Pro, and that it could do so while measuring only 3.5" x 2.5" and weighing 2 oz.
Is this the perfect solution for everyone? Well, Verizon certainly seems to think so, as seen here. If someone were to only need 3g access occasionally and that person had no other devices to connect too, then perhaps the 3g iPad would make sense. Otherwise, I believe that my solution is the way to go.
That’s the same reasoning I use. I have an iPhone, a MacBook Pro, and Verizon Mi-Fi. I already use both the iPhone and the MBP with the Mi-Fi. The iPad seems like a natural and if I want to travel without anything but the iPad, the mifi doesn’t need a host computer once it has been set up with one. It just sets up and runs. You get 4 hours with the Mi-Fi fully charged, and indefinitely with the included AC adapter. The mi-fi is about the size of the Gen 3 Nano (the boxy one).
I have been thinking the same thing, but with a twist. I have a grandfathered VErizon wireless broadband account with unlimited data. They are upgrading me to a MIFI card anyway for free. I am thinking of getting the ipad 3G, but not activating the 3G with an account and plan on using the MIFI. There may be times when I forget the MIFI or don’t want to carry it, and will want 3G access. I also figure that the 3G ipad will be more marketable when the second generation comes out.
We have clear 4g here. I am thinking of getting their hub to use with my macbook pro and ipad. I think its like $40 a month. Of course, it doesn’t work in as many places as your myfi, so I have a bit of a decision.