3G USB Modem

[DaBump]

Hi Guys, i'm pretty new to the 3G USB Modem scene. I want to buy a usb modem to work with my desktop pc. Whats my best choice. Price plays a factor here. I went to vodacom today, and they want to charge me R2300 vir die huawei USB modem. MTN will charge me exactly same modem, just rebranded vir MTN R1800...and around the corner in a local pc shot, I can get a generic one vir R1800...

Why are these modems so expensive? Is there any other alternatives out there, and no, I don't want to use a phone as a modem I Have done this for a couple of months.

Any suggestions?
Cheers,
Martin

 

[bwanadave]

I am in exactly the same position. And how can MTN sell the Huawei modem for R500 less?

 

[Iam3G]

I am in exactly the same position. And how can MTN sell the Huawei modem for R500 less?

Probably because they can?

 

[AirWolf]

I think you should get it on a top up contract - you get the modem free plus you get air time to use for data bundles [only Vodacom though]

 

[DaBump]

Contract?

Yes Saule, but then I need to take out a contract...so then I'm bound to it for 2 years, and in the next 2 years, broadband prices may drop even further, then I'm stuck with a contract.....

 

[AirWolf]

That may be true but the top up contract still works out better value for money

 

[SoTrue]

Yes Saule, but then I need to take out a contract...so then I'm bound to it for 2 years, and in the next 2 years, broadband prices may drop even further, then I'm stuck with a contract.....

As far as I know, Vodacom (and MTN) is not allowed to charge different rates for new and existing customers? Meaning that if prices drop, it will be equally applicable to new and existing customers.

 

[AirWolf]

Exactly

 

[DaBump]

Thanks

Thanks guys...Saule, can you direct me to a page where I can find the specials on top-up contracts? I must say, It's the first time I've heard of the top-up contract...

 

[AirWolf]

Thanks guys...Saule, can you direct me to a page where I can find the specials on top-up contracts? I must say, It's the first time I've heard of the top-up contract...

Go here then choose Vodafone, then E220 USB. But best to visit your local Vodashop, I think.

The good thing about the top up contract (as opposed to a data contract) is that you can buy prepaid data bundles and won't run the risk of huge data bills.

 

[Yotch]

It might be a good idea to investigate MTN's Prodata contract. You get an E220 for R999, the SIM costs R236 and there is a monthly fee of R9-99. I would think that you could just replace the Prodata SIM with any other prepaid one but you better check out the offer carefully. There are cheaper options if you are prepared to buy a secondhand PCMCIA datacard rather than an E220.

http://www.mtn.co.za/?pid=9522&fullstory=410

 

[AirWolf]

But the E220 is way better

 

[bwanadave]

With the difference in costs, why isn't MTN the better service?

 

[AirWolf]

With the difference in costs, why isn't MTN the better service?

Possibly because they have nowhere near the same 3G/HSDPA coverage as Vodacom. That said, you might as well check the coverage from both networks in your area, before you make your final decision.