3G/2G - why switch?

[cbasse]

Maybe a rookie question, but here goes - I've seen a lot of posts about where to find an app/widget that allows you to switch between 3G and 2G. My question is: why would I want to do this? Does switching to 2G lessen the amount of data usage (which could be important, considering I'm on AT&T's 200 MB plan)? Or is there some other benefit/reason for doing this?

Related: I have the SwitchPro widget, which has a 3G-2G switch available -- does this mean I am able to switch if I want to?

Thanks for your replies!

 

[sirlanceem]

umm technically yes you would use less data because it's a much slower bandwidth but some people ( like me ) who live on the edge ( lol edge... ) of a 3g signal so it would bounce back and forth between 3g and edge... which is extremely bad for the battery

 

[Endoran]

3G inherently uses more battery even if you have a solid connection. That's the main reason why, most of us are battery misers.

 

[james27007]

Also, if you are in an area that does not get 3G (like my house), your phone will continue to search for 3G and not really sleep; which kills battery. I can usually add a few hours (3-2) if I disable 3G when I am at home.

 

[alphadog00]

I have not seen or heard of a widget that works yet. People that are switching 3G off have been doing in the phone config menu via the dialpad.

Someone correct me if i am wrong.

 

[TheMasterBaron]

I have not seen or heard of a widget that works yet. People that are switching 3G off have been doing in the phone config menu via the dialpad.

Someone correct me if i am wrong.

If you have rooted your phone and using a compatible ROM, you can use my Toggle 2G app.

Cheers,
MB