There are numerous compelling reasons to purchase a tablet. And, like many other users, you’ll most likely go with an Android device.
However, you may be undecided about whether to choose a Wi-Fi-only Android device or a 4G version. Let’s look at some of the concerns you’ll have to think about.
What are Tablets with LTE and Wi-Fi Only?
LTE and Wi-Fi-only tablets are the most common types of tablets. The term “LTE tablet” refers to a device that enables 4G connectivity in addition to Wi-Fi.
You can obtain full internet access without having to stay inside the range of a Wi-Fi hotspot if you have a 4G-enabled tablet and a data package.
However, a Wi-Fi-only tablet can only connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. That is the fundamental distinction between an LTE and a Wi-Fi tablet.
Which one is a better option for you?
There are a variety of factors to consider. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
- Price
The cost is the most important consideration when deciding whether to go for a 4G or Wi-Fi-only device. The addition of an LTE radio to a tablet often increases the price.
Even if you have the extra cash, think about whether you require 4G or you’d be better off spending it on a model with more features.
You can purchase a Wi-Fi-only version with double the storage for about the same price as the 4G model.
- Costs of Ongoing Data
The up-front cost is simply the beginning. There’s no use in having a 4G tablet if you can’t use it with a 4G internet subscription.
The cost of 4G data is usually high. Also, most plans have stringent usage limits. For a few megabytes, you might expect to pay upwards of $20 each month. It means you’ll pay more on a 4G device than a Wi-Fi-only tablet.
- Convenience
The ease of use of a 4G tablet is one of the reasons many people consider buying this device. You’ll enjoy seamless connectivity wherever you are as long as you’re in an area with the adequate network coverage.
Now consider how often you use Wi-Fi: at home, at your workplace, at college, at your neighborhood coffee shop, and at several other locations.
Wi-Fi is becoming more widely available on different mode of transports these days. So, you might not require 4G as frequently as you think.
- Battery Life
Since 4G LTE consumes more power than Wi-Fi, the battery life on 4G tablets is reduced compared to Wi-Fi-only tablets.
In general, battery life is 10% lower on 4G than Wi-Fi; however, this is only true when you use a 4G network.
In Wi-Fi enabled devices, the battery consumption will remain the same. It’s highly likely that your tablet’s battery life will decrease if you frequently use 4G data.
The Bottom Line
Although 4G tablet might be a good option, you should only consider it if it is an absolute necessity or if you have no budget constraints.
4G internet subscriptions aren’t cheap, and even if you can afford them, you might find that investing in a Wi-Fi-only Android device is a much better option.