Help !I have a question! Wifi connection and/or 3g?

[Brookie]

This might sound stupid (haha) but I don't care I'm curious. Ok, I have a Samsung Transform with the Sprint Network; what exactly is the difference of using 3g or using wifi? Does it even make a difference? If so could you please give me a few pros and cons on each if you wouldn't mind? I would really appreciate it!
Thanks so much,
-Heather

 

[THE VIRUS]

This might sound stupid (haha) but I don't care I'm curious. Ok, I have a Samsung Transform with the Sprint Network; what exactly is the difference of using 3g or using wifi? Does it even make a difference? If so could you please give me a few pros and cons on each if you wouldn't mind? I would really appreciate it!
Thanks so much,
-Heather

Wifi doesn't use your carriers data, u can use it on an airplane, you can access I terms et even if your phone is deactivated, I use wifi when I want to access my data without getting phone calls. It might be faster if your in a low coverage area with a bad 3g signal. Some say it consumes less battery (I am not too sure about that one)

Just to name a few )

 

[dylo22]

3g means you're using your carrier's cell towers to transmit data. For wifi, you are using a regular internet connection to transmit your data. So if you're at home and you're connected to your wifi, then you're using your home internet connection to transmit you data.

3g pros:
-mobility: data is available anywhere you have a 3g signal.

3g cons:
-typically slower than wifi
-uses more battery

wifi pros:
-uses less battery
-typically faster data speeds

wifi cons:
only available in certain areas (ie home, coffee shop etc...)

 

[MikeyCooperH]

I have to agree with Dylo, I find WiFi faster on downloading, plus in the UK you could be tied into a limited data usage plan i.e 500mb a month. Using WiFi means you aren't touching the data usage.

Plus it's great for watching Videos from You Tube.

WiFi - all round winner.

 

[MyNamesTooLong]

I think the wifi killing battery concern stems from leaving it on when there is no access point availaible making it constantly scan...

 

[John Redcorn]

I think the wifi killing battery concern stems from leaving it on when there is no access point availaible making it constantly scan...

This is what I've heard too. wifi when avaialble = less batt than 3g. wifi on when not avail = constantly scanning and using battery.


I installed an app/background service called "Y5 battery saver" When you connect to a wifi network Y5 remembers the cell towers you're using and will turn off wifi when you get about half mile - mile away from that network. And turn it back on when you get withing about a mile- half mile of it.

I have it set just for my home and work. wifi still stays on a lot when I'm going to stores and restaurants close to home and work so it's not perfect using cell tower location but still better than wifi being on all the time (i'm not going to remember to turn on and off) and probably better than using gps to really get it turned on/off at the right range since gps probably would use more power being activated all throughout the day.

 

[MyNamesTooLong]

Sounds like a neat app...I often times leave wifi on for a while till I happen to catch it scanning. With the other settings helping battery life I haven't had wifi debilitate the battery

 

[stueycaster]

I only use WiFi when I'm at home. Otherwise I use 3g or 4g (depending on my location). If I'm in a bad or no service area I shut off data. If your phone is searching for non existent signal, whether wifi or 3g, it WILL drain the battery fast.