Having access to the Internet 24/7 from virtually any location is something most users have come to expect from their smartphones and tablets. With the development of 3 and 4G technology, Wi-Fi hotspots are quickly becoming obsolete as people switch to using devices that are connected to the Internet around the clock. Wi-Fi technology may still be the preferred method of accessing the web, but mobile internet speeds are constantly increasing. In the year of the tablet, consumers have flocking to stores to get their hands of the latest Android tablets. When purchasing a tablet, you cannot help but notice the big price difference between a 3G and Wi-FI only device. We all know the upsides of having 3G, but are there any benefits to have a Wi-Fi only device?
I assume that most consumers are willing to shell extra money to purchase a 3G tablet just to have an internet connection at anytime, anywhere. Although that's perfectly understandable, purchasing the more expensive 3G tablet also comes with a set of unexpected and understated problems:
1) Most 3G tablets require a two-year data plan (in addition to the one you have on your smartphone). So more flexibility will cost you a hefty sum in the long run.
2) With Android tablets, the Wi-Fi versions get the latest software updates way before their 3G counterparts.
So when making the decision between 3G and Wi-Fi, keep in mind the long-term costs and the software update issue. For most people (like myself) that are totally addicted to the Internet and cannot live without their emails and IM: 3G tablets will always reign supreme.
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