question about 3G and Edge

[Bacong]

When I turn off 3G and get Edge coverage, my wireless reception drops dramatically. Is this normal? 5 bars all the time on 3G.

 

[OneMike]

Are you talking about your cell service or wifi?

With my wifi I get 3 bars regardless.

Cell service I get 5 bars

 

[maflynn]

I assume you mean you get less bars when on the edge network. Its normal if you don't have any edge towers close to you but have better 3G network coverage.

For me, I see a higher bar count when on the 3G as opposed to EDGE where I work. At home, its about the same.

 

[MACoconut]

Hmnm. same for me too.

I understand that by turning on 3G, it utilises battery

On EDGE, with low signal bar, it'll sap the battery as well. (sometimes 2-3bars)

So which option should I go with?

 

[ctt1wbw]

Always go with 3G if you have it. It doesn't drain the battery that bad. That's like saying I have a Hayes TurboModem at 300/400/1200 baud and a Cox Cable modem. Which would I go with?

 

[matttye]

It just means you have better 3G coverage than EDGE coverage.

 

[maflynn]

Always go with 3G if you have it. It doesn't drain the battery that bad.

. For me it's quite a noticeable difference so much so that I'll stay on EDGE when I'm not needing the data or speed for instance at night

It just means you have better 3G coverage than EDGE coverage.

agreed it's a balancing act coverage vs battery life