Choosing between Kindle WiFi Vs 3G
Revised:
3G connectivity is available with Kindle 3 (now referred as Kindle Keyboard) and Kindle Touch which will be released on November 21, 2011. There is no 3G option for Kindle 4 and Kindle Fire.
There are two versions of connectivity with Kindle Keyboard and Kindle Touch: kindle Wi-Fi only and kindle 3G + Wi-Fi. They are identical in looks and hard to differentiate. However, there are certain differences between them when you compare Kindle WiFi Vs 3G
The primary difference is their connectivity. Kindle Wi-Fi model can connect to the internet only through Wi-Fi connection whereas Kindle Wi-Fi + 3G model can connect to the internet via Wi-Fi and 3G connection. The 3G model has a global wireless coverage of more than 100 counties and territories
The second difference is their weight. Kindle Wi-Fi devices weighs less than Kindle 3G devices. However, you won’t feel the difference while holding even long-form and is negligible.
Finally, when you compare kindle WiFi Vs 3G there is a price difference of $50 between the two versions.
So, which one is the better e-reader for you? Let’s compare between kindle 3G Vs WiFi in more details and see which one suit your needs better.
Is Kindle WiFi only right for you?
The kindle Wi-Fi only model is suitable if you have Wi-Fi set up in your home and you do not need the convenience of a 3G connection. The Wi-Fi model is cheaper than the 3G model with a price difference of approximately $40 – $50 depending on kindle versions. Many users prefer this model unless there are some specific requirements for 3G.
Kindle will automatically detect Wi-Fi hotspots at home or other places that offer Wi-Fi access. But you will need to first configure a Wi-Fi network whenever using any Wi-Fi network for the first time. After the configuration, the Wi-Fi network will be used whenever possible when you are in the range without the need to re-configure. Your kindle comes without any connection until you configure a Wi-Fi network.
You may also need to provide a password if the particular Wi-Fi set up has password protection. You can configure your kindle with many Wi-Fi networks, and if multiple networks are in range kindle will connect to the one most recently used. These days free Wi-Fi hotspots are available almost everywhere unless you travel to countryside or overseas destinations where Wi-Fi hotspots are not easily accessible.
Keep in mind that you don’t need to be always connected to internet to read from Kindle. Once you download a book at home with Wi-Fi, you can read it anywhere even if you are not connected. When you compare kindle 3G Vs WiFi, keep in mind that Wi-Fi connection downloads are faster in most cases and easier on battery life which is why many users prefer the Wi-Fi version.
Is Kindle 3G right for you?
Kindle 3G wireless model is great for someone like me who travel frequently and need internet connection while on the go. The Wi-Fi network is not always available like 3G network. This is also true for people who are non-techie because there is no set up to be done like Wi-Fi and kindle uses 3G connection by default unless you configure a Wi-Fi network as both connection type will work on this device. Moreover, 3G is free with Kindle.
Sometimes kindle is unable to connect to Wi-Fi networks because of the router set up issues or the Wi-Fi network is not compatible with Kindle. Though all these problems can be solved with little bit of troubleshooting it can be hard for someone not very knowledgeable about computers. With the built-in 3G wireless, connectivity is automatic with no configuration or set up from your end. You can shop, purchase and download books right out of the box.
3G will use the same wireless signals for cell phones, and now it is free to use 3G with kindle. There are no monthly fees or contract, and Amazon pays for kindle’s 3G wireless connectivity. This is an advantage and hassle free offer for paying the extra dollars. You can also take the advantage of Webkit for internet surfing on the go for free. Kindle uses GSM technology and the wireless coverage is in over 100 countries and territories. International customers are advised to check their country listing and coverage from Amazon.
If you don’t have Wi-Fi hotspots at home or if you travel out of station frequently or if you live in the countryside with no access to Wi-Fi networks, then this kindle version is a perfect match for your requirement. It works exactly like a cell phone with broader coverage area from a single cell tower, whereas Wi-Fi hotspots cover only some few hundred feet.
This basically summarize the difference between Kindle WiFi Vs 3G, and if there are any other differences they are negligible. You can read our kindle Touch review for more general information.
