Good USB mobile internet dongle + prepay package?

[Glen Garry]

In 7-11 they have two True USB dongles for getting online on your laptop/computer. The main difference looks like the speeds.

Are these a good option or should I shop around for a better product? Are those ones locked into True?

If so any recommendations?

Also, I take it they use a sim card to get online - which is a good data package for this type of connection?

I won't be downloading any large files as can do that at home so will be mostly accessing web pages for a few hours a day and uploading the occasional photo (50k in size).

I would be using it in Bangkok and Phuket occasionally.

Thanks!

[lomatopo]

IME, some (most? all?) branded aircards are locked to the promoting provider, this is legal here. They may be able to be unlocked reasonably easily.

I always recommend an unbranded device, although these may be more expensive.

That said, if you only plan to use TrueMove H then I'd recommend you buy an aircard/SIM combo from them as they have great service/coverage.

I wouldn't worry about the higher speed, more expensive option, just buy the least expensive combo. You won't notice a difference.

Yes, these devices require a SIM (some standard.mini, some micro).

http://www.totalaircard.com/

For use here I would recommend a device which supports (minimally) 850/2100 MHz 3G.

There are dozens of mobile data plans - most recommend a monthly, unlimited, volume-based plan as this reduces the possibility of incurring additional charges. You can get 1 GB for ~ 430 baht; 2 GB for ~ 645 baht.

If you understand your data requirements, and speed is not a concern, there may be other, most cost-effective options: smaller, capped volume-based, time-based, etc.

http://truemoveh.truecorp.co.th/3g/toppings/iplay/entry/654

DTAC and AIS are other options.

[Mooner]

Is there a dongle option that will give me 3-5mb speed?