What you need to know about 3G data coverage

As carriers start rolling out 3G services nation wide, you might be wondering which carrier gives you the best data coverage and things you should consider when signing up for a wireless broadband plan. Data speed is no doubt the number one factor when it comes to wireless internet access. Both Verizon and Sprint offer the latest EV-DO rev. A, paired with a decent laptop, they can provide broadband like web experience when you are on the road. AT&T, on the other hand, offers HSPDA which is the latest GSM 3G network that’s popular in Europe and Asia. Comparing HSPDA and EVDO, data speed is really relative. They all depend on the area and signal strength. So, what really matters is the data coverage. By looking at the 3G data coverage map, Verizon Wireless covers most of the United States including small part of Alaska and most part of Hawaii. AT&T, on the other hand, has 2 thirds of what Verizon covers. And for Sprint, it has only half the coverage of AT&T’s. Hey, no wonder Verizon Wireless is the best network (at least that’s how they advertise).