3G options : USB+router vs stand-alone

[Hiro ZA]

hi guys

from a performance/reception/connectivity perspective, is it better to get a stand-alone 3G router like this :http://www.takealot.com/electronics/networking/huawei-e586-wifi-device,10984835

or would i be better off with 3G USB and wifi adapter like this :
http://geewiz.co.za/3g-wireless-routers/134-mifi-3g-hsdpa-adsl-wifi-wireless-router.html

also, i would appreciate product suggestions for the options above.

i am still on the fence about network, but leaning towards CellC. Is it true their 900mhz range would give stronger signal ? i am planning to go the monthly pre-paid route.

 

[b1nary]

I would just go with the cheaper option,from a wireless connectivity standpoint both devices should be pretty much the same, i have a R201 from vodacom they go for about R1000, the mifi router looks like a good deal if you already have a 3g dongle, although i would suggest checking compatibility with you particular dongle first.

are there any particular features you want on the device?

 

[Hiro ZA]

i need to be able to connect my xbox and ps3 to the device. i am concerned about NAT issues

 

[sajunky]

In this price range would be better to go with Huawei B683 router R1100+ from 8ta store. It has faster 3G modem and strong internal antenna. Good feedback from users.

 

[Hiro ZA]

In this price range would be better to go with Huawei B683 router R1100+ from 8ta store. It has faster 3G modem and strong internal antenna. Good feedback from users.

awesome dude, thanks! i almost bought a B683 online for R1,600+ but i checked with 8ta store and its R1198. going with that option. do you know if they are network locked ?

 

[sajunky]

awesome dude, thanks! i almost bought a B683 online for R1,600+ but i checked with 8ta store and its R1198. going with that option. do you know if they are network locked ?

Nope. Not locked and supports WCDMA 900MHz for Cell C.

 

[Hiro ZA]

Nope. Not locked and supports WCDMA 900MHz for Cell C.

just picked up the router now. i decided to try out the 8ta 2+1 (R149) to see what sort of speeds i will get, but happy that its not network locked, so can swap over if required.