T-Mobile cellular is responsible for those laptops seen in Starbucks nationwide. They also service Borders, Kinko’s, Hyatt Hotels, Red Roof Inns, airports, as well as the airline clubs of American, Delta, United, and US Airways through secure SSL T-1 speed. T-Mobile patrons have the option to sign up on a monthly basis for about $20.00. On the other hand, non-customers need to enter an annual contract and pay $30.00 each month. Although the connection is fast, the speeds still vary depending on the number of users at any single location.
Verizon is also head to head with other wireless program that uses their cellular network, plus there is no need to look for a particular access location. For nearly $80.00 a month, they offer broadband access that can download at an amazing speed of 400kb to 700kb in a growing list of cities. Although it’s relatively slower compare to T-1, keep in mind that the whole city is your hotspot and it fast enough for most surfing. However if you are outside of these broadband service areas, then the connection defaults to a slower connection (like a 56kb dial-up). You would need to buy a separate laptop data card from Verizon in order to connect with their network.