Having the ability to whip out your personal tablet and connect it to a WiFi network at any time is empowering and convenient, but you are not always in close proximity to a WiFi hotspot. Early tablets were limited to basic WiFi connections, but nowadays many tablets are built with 4G LTE connectivity.
Additionally, there are other methods of accessing 4G LTE networks with tablets that do not already have built-in 4G connectivity. If you’re in need of a tablet with access to a 4G LTE network, let’s take a look at your options.
Regardless of which option you decide to go with, you’ll find that having access to 4G LTE connectivity gives you a lot more freedom, and makes every task more convenient.
Purchasing a tablet with built-in 4G
Many tablets already have built-in 4G connectivity, allowing users to connect to the 4G networks of carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint. This is clearly the most convenient option for users, so if your device is 4G compatible, you should definitely take advantage and add it to your data plan.
Unfortunately, devices must be purchased with this feature included, so if your tablet is older and unable to connect to 4G, this cannot be changed. Luckily, most newer tablets are built with 4G connectivity. Apple offers versions of its iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 3 with integrated 4G. Many of Samsung’s high-end tablets are also built with 4G connectivity, and the new Microsoft Surface 3 can also be purchased with 4G.
You should also note that most carriers charge a premium for devices with built-in 4G connectivity–these devices will usually be $100 or so more than regular devices. Obviously, you must also pay for the data plan, and most carriers charge around $10 to add a device to an existing data plan. However, while tablets with built-in 4G are more expensive, you should not let this deter you from purchasing one–the convenience is well worth the extra cost.
Other options
If you’ve already purchased a device with no built-in 4G connection and you really need access to internet on-the-go, have no fear! There are still a couple more options for you.
Use your smartphone as a hotspot. Many newer smartphones, including Apple’s iPhone 6, allow you to use them as mobile hotspots. If your phone has this feature, you can enable it in your phone’s settings and connect any number of devices to your phone, including laptops, tablets, and even game consoles. This is also a great option if you want to connect your tablet to the same network as your smartphone without having to pay a fee. You should note, however, that some carriers charge a fee for this service–check with your carrier to find out if this service is free.
Dedicated mobile hotspots. While using your personal smartphone as a mobile hotspot is an effective, inexpensive option, it can really be a drain on your phone’s battery. If you don’t want to have to worry about your tablet eating up your phone’s battery power, then you may want to consider purchasing a dedicated mobile hotspot, which are available from most, if not all, carriers. These devices have their own batteries, so they don’t overwork the user’s phone. The only downside of these devices is that they can be somewhat costly–a good mobile hotspot is around $200. While this is a good option if your device does not have built-in 4G, it is not always convenient to have to carry around a separate device in order to gain that connection, so this may not be ideal for all businesspeople.
Watch your data usage.
When using your tablet or laptop on a 4G LTE network, it is very important that you watch how much data you’re using. People tend to use much more data on tablets than they do when using smartphones on a 4G network. Why? Well, the user experience when using a tablet is much smoother, and more enjoyable. Therefore, it can be very easy to get carried away and stream a million YouTube videos.
When using your tablet on a 4G network, you must be very careful not to go over your allotted data amount. A typical data plan is good for checking email, social media sites, and limited web browsing.
If your employees are constantly on-the-go and travel often, they’re going to need 4G LTE Connectivity. DataXoom can provide this connectivity in packages that are suitable and affordable to businesses. Interested in what DataXoom can offer your company? Drop a note today! Shoot us an email at sales@dataxoom.com to learn more.
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