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Best 3G Options for Macbook Air?

Hello,
I'm considering purchasing a Macbook Air for Web-site creation work. It seems like the perfect tool for this! But I'd need to have 3G access so I can work on site developments on the road.

I'm curious to hear opinions... What's the best option for adding 3G access to a Macbook Air? More importantly, how well does the Macbook Air handle this task? Is a Macbook Pro a better choice for this kind of thing?

Mac OS X (10.6.5), iMac 27", Mac Mini, iPad 16GB 3G+WiFi, iPod Touch 8GB/16GB, Airport Extreme

Posted on Nov 23, 2010 7:46 AM

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Posted on Nov 23, 2010 7:55 AM

The MacBook Air can handle it. And if you need to travel a lot to different sites then I strongly recommend the MacBook Air. As for 3G connection, not sure where you're located but reports has shown that Verizon is pretty good and AT&T has a fast download speed. I would go with Verizon first though it cost more then AT&T as the second choice.
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Nov 23, 2010 7:55 AM in response to mattschenker

The MacBook Air can handle it. And if you need to travel a lot to different sites then I strongly recommend the MacBook Air. As for 3G connection, not sure where you're located but reports has shown that Verizon is pretty good and AT&T has a fast download speed. I would go with Verizon first though it cost more then AT&T as the second choice.

Nov 23, 2010 2:37 PM in response to Zapdoc

Mifi is definitely better ergonomically than the USB Dongle approach. They look big and cumbersome on a regular laptop, and even more so on a MBA. I know, because I have to use one for work related activities. The limited number of USB Ports also is an issue. The dongle will not work on the Magsafe Side with Magsafe plugged in, due to physical interference. The same issue comes up on the Display Port side if I want to use my Display Port adapters. I wind up using a small extender cable.

Mifi needs no mechanical connection, as it works as a standalone WiFi Hot Spot for up to five(5) connections. MiFi devices are available from all of the major carriers, including a no-contract prepaid program from Virgin, which is backed by Sprint.

Nov 24, 2010 7:09 AM in response to mattschenker

I use the Verizon MiFi "deck" with my MBA and it works great. It has a couple of important advantages for my application: it doesn't take up a valuable USB port and it broadcasts a WiFi signal that can be used by up to five devices simultaneously.

Battery life on the MiFi is good - I get about four hours of Internet usage per charge. It's small enough that it's no problem to carry in my messenger bag. I really like the ability for my wife and I to be able to use the device simultaneously.

Dec 3, 2010 4:38 AM in response to Pastor John

Pastor John,
Thanks for the help. I'm still trying to figure out what to do here.

It seems redundant to pay for an AT&T subscription for the iPad, and another one for a MiFi card.

The problem for me is, I like the Macbook Air and want something mobile like that, but I also like the platform of the iPad. I guess what I wish for is a tablet with full laptop capabilities!

Thanks again,
Matthew

Best 3G Options for Macbook Air?

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