My service does randomly drop from 3G to 1x service, especially when I'm doing data-heavy activities. It usually requires a manual Profile Update on the device, then it'll work for a half hour to an hour before randomly dropping off again. It doesn't seem to be due to any specific area, it's just a strange consistancy with the network everywhere I've been. Granted, it could be an issue with the phone.

I use WiFi for consistant, strong internet connections. 3G will work for running apps/navigation/etc, but with any web surfing (especially with lots of pictures/videos) 3G mysteriously goes away. They claim not to throttle in any way, but I find it strange that as soon as I start trying to push the data use, it drops down to 1x.