Want to add on-the-go connectivity to your Wi-Fi-only tablet or e-reader? Wal-Mart could have just the thing for you.

Our sister blog Gadgetell reports on a new prepaid MiFi plan coming out through a deal between Wal-Mart and TruConnect (whose $5/mo + 3.9 cents per megabyte plan I currently use). The plan will use the same MiFi 2200 model as TruConnect’s, but instead of a monthly fee, there will be a one-time charge for megabytes that never expire (as long as you use the device at least once a year so your account stays active).

The press release explains the rates:

Customers can buy Internet on the Go service with refill, credit or debit cards in increments of $10 for 100 MB, $25 for 500 MB or $45 for 1 GB and use this bandwidth as quickly or as gradually as they want. Online automatic refills are also available for $20 for 450 MB.

I’m almost regretting being on TruConnect’s $5 + 3.9 cent plan when I check out that pricing. Obviously, the $10 rate is not as good a deal as what I have, but I’d have to use a whole gigabyte worth of data in a month ($5 + $39) to beat the pricing on that $45 for 1 GB package. And needless to say, I’d probably have to buy a whole new MiFi to switch over to Wal-Mart’s pricing scheme because I don’t think TruConnect will just happily switch me over with the service I have. On the other hand, it’s just a difference of a few bucks a month.

For people who just want to check their email every now and then—or download e-books to a Wi-Fi-only device—and don’t want the hefty monthly fees or contract lock-ins that come with regular MiFi service, this is easily the best deal yet.

2 COMMENTS

  1. I saw it on Gadgetell today, and I’m heading out to Wal-Mart later to pick this up. It’s exactly what we’ve been looking for while on travel. We’re heading to a family reunion in early July, so I’ll be able to try it out. I really like the pre-paid option that we can use as gradually as we like. Should be perfect for us while camping!

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