Wi-fi or no wi-fi

Can someone tell me why it should matter whether a phone is wi-fi enabled or not. I am tied into Verizon for reasons that aren't relevant here and I like the BB Storm, but it has no wi-fi, I like the Samsung Saga that just came out also; which does. Does it really matter since you have to buy the data package with any smartphone with Verizon anyway?

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In this instance it's more of a convenience. Wi-fi is faster than the verizon network so you'll be able to surf the internet faster. That's really the only reason you would need it since you have to buy the data plan anyways.

Would the amount of access you might have to the internet be any different with the data plan vs. wi-fi? Does the speed difference amount to much?

As X-Factor said, it's convenience, and that Wifi is faster than using the internet via your carrier's towers. Also if you happen to be in an area or building where you don't have a tower signal, Wifi allows you to still connect to the internet.

In my case when visiting friends at work in the bowels of their buildings, where no one will have cell service, I can still make and receive calls as well a browse the web on wifi if I can log into their routers. Big help at some friends home's where basement dwelling nerds that they are, are forced to use Wifi to get any sort of cell service at home.

But it's all really in where you use your phone. If you have great signal in 99% of the places you use it without Wifi, then it's a moot point.

There is a pretty big speed difference normally, however the wi-fi card in the phone also affects how quick things will load. The data plan offers you much more access, unless you tend to use the phone in areas without coverage as BlkBear said. If this is the case and there are routers in the area where you don't have coverage, I would go with the wi-fi.