Mobile broadband buyers want 'added extras' more than high speeds

The latest survey findings from Broadbandgenie.co.uk show that, when looking for a mobile broadband deal, the most sought after consideration is 'added extras'.

Getting extra for your money took more than 30 per cent of the votes, ranking ahead of both fast speeds (23 per cent) and lowest price (22 per cent). Lower still were the usage cap (13 per cent) and stability (11%). It suggests so-called 'free' laptop deals will remain popular, while mobile broadband providers may have to become more imaginative to make a mark in this competitive market.

Broadbandgenie.co.uk editor Chris Marling said: "These results are very interesting and may surprise, and frustrate, the UK's mobile broadband suppliers. The desire for added extras is a hangover from the mobile companies' insistence on giving away everything from free handsets to games consoles with mobile phone tariffs - people know dongles come from the same firms, and want more freebies.

"As for speed, it seems like the one thing the mobile broadband internet suppliers can't provide. As fast as they improve their networks and add base stations, more customers are signing up to mobile broadband and/or smartphone deals and using up all the bandwidth. 4G can't come soon enough."

The poll asked, 'What would most affect your mobile broadband purchase?' The full results can be found over in our  blog.