[jchin]

My contract with T-Mobile has been up for 2 months now. I currently have the 7100t. I want something that is faster. Any recommendations?

My only requirements:
1. the mobile unit (doesn't have to be a Blackberry, but I prefer a Blackberry) must have an addressable email address
2. can connect it to my laptop and use it to surf the Internet for free

Since my contract is up, I can switch providers. What would you recommend? Thanks.

[ezrunner]

Stick with TMO. they don'tcharge extra for tethering where other carriers do. Also their Data fee are significantly cheaper. If you want max discount on phone get a new number and keep old one for a bit with a voicemail saying your number changed and leave that number. you could also buy an new device from ebay or MyWorldPhone.com - Cellular phones, gsm unlocked phones, world phones and a full line of accessories since a BB isn't a necessity. If ya like the 7100t give the PEARL a try

[JSanders]

Ditto ezrunner, it will be easiest transition for you coming from 7100 to the pearl, both are suretype. Similar size, etc.

And ditto TMO. The only complaint I have for them is their spotty coverage in some more rural areas of our state...

[ezrunner]

Originally Posted by JSanders

Ditto ezrunner, it will be easiest transition for you coming from 7100 to the pearl, both are suretype. Similar size, etc.

And ditto TMO. The only complaint I have for them is their spotty coverage in some more rural areas of our state...

J
I have the same rural issue here in VA. perhaps when TMO fully rolls out WiFi Cellular tranfer it will rapidly change

[takeshi]

I have coverage issues with TMO in the city (that I don't have with Cingular) but discussing such issues is kinda pointless unless you're in the same area...

In any case, to address the actual topic, I'd suggest sticking with TMO and getting the Pearl. If you're looking for non-BB possibilities this isn't the best place to ask for hopefully obvious reasons.

[jchin]

Actually ... I prefer the BlackBerry. I would like a full keyboard, if only TMO had the 8800. I guess I'll wait or see what TMO can do for me on the Pearl.

How much faster is the Pearl compared to the 7100t that I have when it comes to using it as a modem on my laptop? NOTE, I only need to attach it to my laptop in situations where I cannot get WiFi (rare, maybe 10 times a year). Thanks.