Best 3G phone for tethering to MBP?

[katorga]

What is the best 3G phone to use for tethering to a MBP? (Yes, I'm considering the iPhone, but I really need something less expensive)

I prefer USB tethering.

PDAnet adhoc wifi tethering is not acceptable due to rogue access point scanning at work.

AT&T has the best coverage in my area.

If I go with an iPhone, how much of a hassle is jailbreaking the phone to do tethering?

 

[dinaluvsApple]

hands down n95-3.
or the n95 8gb

in canada you can get one for $99 on a 3 year plan.

it usesless joiku spot or pdanet and symbian os is very battery efficient.

 

[Dalriada]

I'd second that although personally I prefer the Nokia e71. Joiku spot works like a charm and the e71 has a true monster of a battery.

Dal

 

[VPrime]

I wouldnt even consider the iPhone in your case.
1)No USB tethering
2)Tethering is a pain right now... IF you want a free solution.. PDAnet is nice, but you said you dont want to go this route. rest of the options are worse.
3) It seems the quick and easy tethering solutions cost money to buy the software.

Though jailbreaking etc. is very very easy!

edit: I just noticed pdanet now supports usb for windows users..

 

[katorga]

Gawd I hate phones

Jeepers, there are too many options. AT&T doesn't even carry the n95 or e71 variants.

 

[jonnynogood]

i would really like to get a phone that will do this as well, not looking to extend my contract so contract phones are out.

any suggestions on a phone that does not cost $500+ like the ones previously suggested?

i need a super basic no frills phone (no smartphone etc..) that i can tether.

thanks
t

 

[jpk32092]

Go with the iPhone and jailbreak it. It might not be USB, however you don't need to pay for a tethering plan.

 

[mcruzader]

i would really like to get a phone that will do this as well, not looking to extend my contract so contract phones are out.

any suggestions on a phone that does not cost $500+ like the ones previously suggested?

i need a super basic no frills phone (no smartphone etc..) that i can tether.

thanks
t

You can get the previously mentioned phones unlocked. You should checkout newegg.com or amazon.com for the E71. They are going for about $320 now.