Is it any wonder why more and more customers are signing up with these carriers? But what entices these customers is the fact that they have the option to get the “data-only” plan. Thus, they can take advantage of these services without the voice/cell service plans.

Now if you consider each of the carrier’s performance you’ll notice that T-Mobile is way behind. Regardless of the fact that their plan is the cheapest available, about $30 per month for unlimited access, customers find the price a poor substitute for quality. The carrier’s performance is similar to a dial-up connection. However, if dial-up speed is enough for you, then this may be a very mobile and cost-effective option for you.

As for the others, Verizon’s offer high-speed option in some areas with an average download speed that measures at 563k, a speed that even higher than the average home DSL or cable users. Currently, Verizon offers this service to about 70 markets.

Meanwhile, Sprint’s high-speed version has an average download speed of 641k, and is available in nearly 108 markets nationwide. As for Cingular’s equivalent, their average download speed is 581k. However, this is only available in some areas.

So before jumping in the bandwagon, be sure that you set your expectations correctly first. Remember that a strong cell signal is needed from the carrier in order to get the best possible speed. This is somewhat similar to a voice cell connection, wherein the caller’s voice becomes scratchy if the cell signal in your location is marginal.