The fundamentals of Sprint 4G mobile broadband haven’t changed since last year’s review.
What has changed is 4G coverage availability in a total of 82 cities, 3 new 4G mobile broadband devices and even talks of leaving WiMAX in favor of LTE.
With multiple changes on the table, a lot is happening now for the “Now Network”. As always, this review will be split into 4 detailed sections:
- Sprint 4G Plans
- Sprint 4G Speed
- Sprint 4G Coverage
- Sprint 4G Broadband Cards & Mobile Hotspots
Sprint 4G Plans
Out of AT&T, T-Mobile & Verizon, Sprint 4G plans are the only truly unlimited mobile broadband plans being offered by any of the major providers.
Plans specific to tablets and netbooks are also available but aren’t unlimited since they operate on the Sprint 3G network.
Sprint 4G Speed
Sprint 4G speed is advertised as up to 10 times faster than 3G. Speed tests show its more like 3-5 times faster.
However, since last year Sprint mobile broadband speeds (3G & 4G collectively) have increased 170%.
Sprint 4G Coverage
The Sprint 4G coverage game plan last year was to cover 80 markets by the end of 2010. However, at 4 months into 2011, the Sprint 4G cities list count is 82.
With over a quarter of the year already past and only 2 cities worth of 4G coverage growth past 2010 goals, things aren’t looking optimistic.
By the end of this year, they’ll make a decision on whether or not to transition from WiMAX to LTE.
Sprint 4G Broadband Cards & Mobile Hotspots
Since last year, Sprint has added 2 new 4G broadband cards and 1 new mobile hotspot while shelving 5 devices for a revamped mobile broadband device line.
Out of the 6 Sprint 4G broadband cards & mobile hotspots available, you’ll want to get your hands on the Overdrive Pro or U600.
Looking For A Comparison?
If you’re looking to see how AT&T compares to other providers, check out the Mobile Broadband Comparison.
