Quote:
Originally Posted by VineGal
So, I'd love to get any input from you all about what tools you use (smartphone, tab, etc). If you have opted not to use smartphone, then what you use.
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I have a smartphone which nowadays, is almost always plugged into a power outlet of some sort and is used almost exclusively as a Wi-Fi hotspot. With my work discount, I'm paying $38/per month for 4GB data with tethering. Recurring monthly expenses such as data plans are another thing you should take into consideration and in the long run, would probably cost a lot more than your device.
While a 7" tablet might be lighter and more portable, I would suggest going with a bigger tablet (at least 8.9"). I'm betting that book your doctor wants you to bring is in PDF format with letter-sized pages. The iPad 2's screen and resolution was barely acceptable when I read a letter-sized PDF technical review manual on it. I tried the same PDF on a Nook Color (running CM7) and that was an exercise in frustration. Had to constantly zoom and pan around the page. Not fun.
I don't suggest an Air Card/Netbook combo. It's just not as convenient as a smartphone or tablet. A portable wireless hotspot such as the Mi-Fi would be good though, and will work with multiple devices. Again, though, data is quite expensive. I reckon the monthly data plan for the Mi-Fi would cost the same as a smartphone tethering plan.
Are you up for contract renewal? If so, with online sales and weekend specials, there are plenty of Android phones (you want something running Android 2.2 or higher) you can get for $0.01 or free. How much do you need internet on the go?