I wouldn't say that they are entirely different, just mostly different. I mean there is a GSM radio in the 8830. It doesn't support domestic GSM bands, but it is there.
EDGE speeds are 50-90 kbps average, 235 kbps max or up to about 285-300 kbps on modified towers.
EVDO average is 400-800 kbgp and about 3.1 mbps max on Rev A.
Keep in mind however, that speed is related to the connection, the processor, available memory, distance to the tower and tower congestion. Also, voice always has the priority over data.
I wouldn't say that they are entirely different, just mostly different. I mean there is a GSM radio in the 8830. It doesn't support domestic GSM bands, but it is there.
Different processors, different radios. It's really enough from a practical standpoint to make them two completely different models (hence the difference in model numbers). It's nothing like the 8700c versus 8700g.
I am getting about 100 kpbs while tethered. I am reading the speed off my Mac. Anyone know how to get the 400 to 800K speeds I have heard about?
And anyone know of a link to test speeds directly from the BB browser?
As I said, there are a lot of variables in play here. Not sure if any of the speed tests will be very accurate. One I know of for cable and DSL is Rioplex Broadband - Bandwidth Meter