Modem firmware 05.12.01 slow?

[TXEX09]

Using an unlocked 3GS with modem firmware 05.12.01 on T-Mobile, and the data is slow as hell- even on wi-fi. I am fully aware that I am only able to get Edge, but compared to my buddy's unlocked 3G, it is wwaayy slower. Thoughts or suggestions?

 

[California King]

What firmware is your friend running? He's on T-Mobile Edge too, right?