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Our Picks for Satellite Internet Service
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Best Potential Among Satellite Internet Providers
Best Satellite Internet for Reliable Speeds
Best Satellite Internet for Plan Variety
For consumers in underserved areas, satellite internet stands as the singular internet connection type boasting nearly ubiquitous accessibility across all 50 states, a reach unmatched by cable or fiber options. Serving as a crucial connectivity solution in remote or challenging locations, satellite internet’s broad availability stems from its operational mechanism: it employs a fixed wireless approach, establishing a link between a home modem and an orbiting satellite. Connection setup necessitates only a satellite dish and an unobstructed skyline view, making it a viable substitute for individuals lacking access to wired alternatives like DSL, cable, or fiber internet.
While satellite internet may not achieve the peak speeds of fiber or cable, it fulfills a vital function in ensuring essential internet access, a necessity underscored during the pandemic. Typically, satellite internet choices narrow to three primary providers: Starlink, Hughesnet, and Viasat. Determining the optimal satellite internet provider necessitates careful evaluation.
Starlink exhibits considerable promise, Hughesnet delivers consistent speeds and economical pricing, and Viasat’s unlimited data plans present noteworthy appeal. To help you secure the most effective broadband experience, we have thoroughly assessed available options, scrutinizing speeds, costs, customer support, and overall value to compile a guide to premier internet solutions. Below is a comparison of the leading satellite internet providers.
Read more: Is 5G Home Internet the Answer to Your Broadband Needs?
Comparing Satellite Internet Providers
Please note that the plan information below reflects the most budget-friendly tier offered by each provider. Maximum advertised speeds are shown, but actual speeds may vary by location. The optimal and most economical plan for you might be a different tier, balancing faster speeds at a higher cost with enhanced overall value. For a deeper understanding of value assessment, consult FASTNET’s guide on cost per Mbps analysis.
| Provider | Speed Range | Starting Monthly Cost | Regular Monthly Cost | Contract | Monthly Equipment Costs | Data Cap | FASTNET Review Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hughesnet Read full review |
50-100Mbps download, 5Mbps upload | $50-$95 | $75-$120 | 2 years | $15-$20 per month or $300-$450 one-time purchase | Unlimited, 100-200GB (soft cap) | 6 |
|
Starlink Read full review |
25-220Mbps download, 5-25Mbps upload | $120; $65-$540 (Priority); $50-$2,150 (Mobile) | $120; $65-$540 (Priority); $50-$2,150 (Mobile) | None | $349 one-time purchase for Standard ($599-$1,499 for Priority) | Unlimited, 50GB-2TB | 6.5 |
|
Viasat Read full review |
25-150Mbps download, 3Mbps upload | $100-$150 (varies by location) | $100-$150 (varies by location) | None | $15 or $250 one-time purchase | Unlimited, 850GB (soft cap) | 6.1 |
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Source: FASTNET analysis of provider data.
Top Satellite Internet Service Providers
20 – 250 Mbps
$90 – $120 per month
Our Take: Starlink, a satellite internet initiative from SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, is making significant strides. Despite Musk’s controversial public persona, his company is achieving considerable progress in the satellite internet arena.
20 – 250 Mbps
$90 – $120 per month
Starlink Internet Plans and Prices
| Plan | Monthly Price | Maximum Speeds | Fees and Service Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $120 | 25-100Mbps download, 5-20Mbps uploads | Standard unlimited data, $349 upfront equipment fee and no contracts |
| Priority | $65-$540 | 40-220Mbps downloads, 8-25Mbps uploads | 40GB-2TB data caps (standard unlimited data thereafter), $599-$1,499 upfront equipment fee and no contracts |
| Mobile | $50-$165 | 5-50Mbps downloads, 5-25Mbps uploads | Standard unlimited data, $349 upfront equipment fee or ($499 for the Starlink Mini) and no contracts |
| Mobile Priority | $250-$2,150 | 40-220Mbps downloads, 8-25Mbps uploads | 50GB-5TB data caps (standard unlimited data thereafter), $1,499 upfront equipment fee and no contracts |
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Source: FASTNET analysis of provider data.
$50 – $80 per month
Our Take: Hughesnet plans are distinguished by robust download speeds and consistent performance. Since the launch of their Jupiter 3 satellite in 2023, customers have reported speeds reaching up to 100Mbps. Hughesnet’s availability extends even to the most isolated locations. Furthermore, a 2018 Federal Communications Commission broadband report (the latest involving Hughesnet) indicated Hughesnet as the leader in delivering actual median download speeds at 150% or more of advertised rates among participating providers.
$50 – $80 per month
Hughesnet Internet Plans and Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Maximum Speeds | Fees and Service Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Select Plan | $50 ($75 after 12 months) | 50Mbps download, 5Mbps upload | Unlimited data (100GB soft cap), $15 monthly equipment or $300 upfront and 2 year-contract | |
| Elite Plan | $65 ($90 after 12 months) | 100Mbps download, 5Mbps upload | Unlimited data (200GB soft cap), $15 monthly equipment or $300 upfront and 2-year contract | |
| Fusion Plan | $95 ($120 after 12 months) | 100Mbps download, 5Mbps upload | Unlimited data (200GB soft cap), $20 monthly equipment or $450 upfront and 2-year contract |
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Source: FASTNET analysis of provider data.
12 – 150 Mbps
$70 – $300 per month
Our Take: Viasat’s Unleashed plan represents a shift in customer experience, offering a straightforward, all-inclusive package, departing from their previous complex offerings. While pricing fluctuates by location, expect a consistent monthly charge between $100 to $150 for speeds reaching 150Mbps. Introduced in early March 2024, this Viasat plan eliminates annual contracts, currently available to new customers in select areas. Service availability should be verified by location.
12 – 150 Mbps
$70 – $300 per month
Viasat Internet Plans and Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Maximum Speeds | Fees and Service Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Viasat Unleashed Read full review |
$100-$150 (varies by location) | 150Mbps, 3Mbps upload | Unlimited data (850GB soft cap), $15 monthly equipment or $250 upfront, and no contracts |
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Source: FASTNET analysis of provider data.
Our Methodology for Evaluating Satellite Internet Providers
Numerous internet service providers operate across different regions. Unlike tangible products such as smartphones, laptops, routers, or kitchen appliances, it is impractical to personally assess every ISP within a specific city. Our strategy begins with examining pricing, accessibility, and speed metrics, drawing from our historical ISP data, provider websites, and mapping resources from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
Our analysis extends to the FCC website to validate our data, ensuring inclusivity of all ISPs in a service area. We also utilize provider websites to pinpoint specific options available at local addresses. Customer satisfaction is gauged through sources like the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power. Given the dynamic nature of ISP plans and pricing, all information presented is current as of its publication date.
With this localized data, we address three core inquiries:
- Does the provider facilitate access to adequately fast internet speeds?
- Do customers receive satisfactory value relative to their expenditure?
- Are customers content with the provided service?
The responses to these questions are often nuanced. Providers nearing an affirmative answer across all three criteria are those we endorse.
For a comprehensive understanding of our evaluation process, please visit our page detailing how we test ISPs.
Guidance on Selecting a Satellite Internet Provider
Choosing the appropriate ISP for your household can be challenging, particularly in underserved regions of the US. We advise carefully assessing your household’s online habits to ascertain necessary download and upload speeds. This understanding will streamline your decision-making regarding plan pricing tailored to your budget and internet requirements.
Finding the ideal internet plan need not be intricate. Refer to FASTNET’s 10 tips for optimizing your internet service.
Future Outlook for Satellite Internet Providers
Keep abreast of Starlink’s ongoing advancements as it persistently surpasses expectations within the satellite internet sector, outpacing competitors like Hughesnet and Viasat. SpaceX introduced the Starlink Mini in July 2024, a satellite dish designed for mobile users, integrating dish and router functionalities. Elon Musk demonstrated the Starlink Mini achieving download speeds up to 100Mbps and 11.5Mbps uploads, notably rapid for a mobile satellite internet connection. Starlink is heavily focused on reducing latency nationwide, aiming to enhance videoconferencing, gaming, and live streaming – activities previously hampered by slower satellite speeds.
According to Ookla’s Q1 2024 speed test results, the latest available data, Starlink’s median download speed in the US reached 64.54Mbps, a 13Mbps increase from prior reporting. Viasat followed at 34.72Mbps, with Hughesnet at 15.87Mbps. Ookla’s report also indicated high user satisfaction and recommendations for Starlink’s connectivity. Perceptions of satellite internet capabilities are demonstrably evolving. (Note: Ookla shares parent company with FASTNET, Ziff Davis.)
The satellite internet landscape is poised for further competition with Amazon’s Project Kuiper, spearheaded by Jeff Bezos, anticipated to launch residential services in late 2025. While trailing Starlink’s current progress, Project Kuiper promises to be a significant entrant.
Innovations in low-Earth-orbit satellites are crucial for enhancing internet access for millions still lacking reliable broadband. We will continue to update this article as satellite internet options improve.
Alternative Internet Connection Types to Satellite
Indeed, several broadband options offer potentially faster and more economical service than satellite internet.
Cable Internet
Cable internet provides connection through shared infrastructure with TV services, often utilizing hybrid fiber-copper lines. Generally more dependable than satellite, it delivers superior download speeds. Cable services are often marketed with bundled TV packages. Major cable providers are Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity.
DSL Internet
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) employs telephone lines for internet connectivity. Providers include AT&T, CenturyLink, and Frontier. While phone lines are widely available, DSL speeds typically fall short of cable, often not meeting FCC broadband standards. In some instances, DSL may even be slower than satellite internet.
Fixed Wireless and 5G Home Internet
5G home internet is a subset of fixed wireless services, but not all fixed wireless is 5G. Fixed wireless denotes a non-wired connection between provider and residence, potentially via cellular networks (3G to 5G) or satellite. Fixed wireless is usually slower and with higher latency than wired. 5G home internet from Starry, T-Mobile, and Verizon aims to provide speeds comparable to cable.
Fiber Internet
Fiber internet is considered the leading broadband technology, offering top-tier plans and symmetrical speeds. Fiber is more reliable than cable and less susceptible to congestion. However, fiber network deployment is costly and complex, limiting availability in rural areas, with providers like AT&T, Google Fiber, and Verizon Fios concentrating on urban centers. Further details can be found in our fiber connectivity review.
Mobile Hotspots
Mobile hotspots also use cellular networks, like fixed wireless, but offer portability, usable across locations, not tied to a fixed address.
Connection types vary significantly in availability, cost, and performance. Thorough research and comparison are crucial to selecting the optimal option for individual requirements and financial considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Satellite Internet
Is Satellite Internet Dependable?
Satellite internet is a reasonably dependable internet option for rural or less populated regions. While speeds may be slower than cable and fiber, its independence from terrestrial wiring makes it widely accessible. However, satellite connections can be more susceptible to disruptions from adverse weather conditions compared to other broadband types.
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Who Benefits Most from Satellite Internet?
Satellite internet is especially beneficial for residents in remote or rural areas where it may represent the primary or sole connectivity option. Its universal availability across rural regions of all 50 states makes it a valuable solution where other connection types are unavailable.
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What is the Typical Cost of Satellite Internet?
Satellite internet pricing is subject to location-based variations. Areas still undergoing provider infrastructure development might encounter higher connectivity costs. For Hughesnet, Viasat, and Starlink, prices span from $50 to $2,150. Starlink pricing can also fluctuate based on local demand. Comparing provider websites for location-specific value propositions is recommended.
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What Are Typical Satellite Internet Speeds?
Speeds vary by provider and plan. Starlink generally offers the fastest speeds among Hughesnet and Viasat. Yet, even with speeds peaking at 220Mbps, they do not match fiber or cable. Fiber ISPs like Ziply Fiber and AT&T offer multi-gigabit plans reaching up to 10 and 5 gigabits respectively. Most cable providers such as Spectrum and Xfinity offer gigabit options. Currently, satellite speeds do not compete with these, and both cable and fiber are typically more dependable.
Is Starlink a Superior Option to Viasat?
Potentially, yes. Starlink users typically experience higher download and upload speeds compared to Viasat (220Mbps/25Mbps versus 150Mbps/3Mbps). Starlink also has reduced latency (25 to 60ms compared to Viasat’s 450 to 700ms), significantly improving gaming and real-time online applications. Latency is expected to decrease further to around 20ms in the near future.
Starlink has also eliminated its nationwide waitlist. Products are now accessible without extended wait times.
Pricing varies by plan and location, but Viasat is generally more affordable. Viasat plans range from $100 to $150 per month, whereas Starlink ranges from $120 to $1,400 (Priority) and $150 to $2,150 (Mobile). For basic connectivity in rural areas with limited options, Viasat might be a more immediate, cost-effective solution, while Starlink could be a more advanced future option.
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Do All Satellite Internet Providers Impose Data Caps?
Technically, neither Hughesnet nor Viasat employ true data caps, as they do not levy overage charges, but each implements data thresholds for their plans. Exceeding these limits within a billing cycle results in significantly reduced, throttled speeds for the cycle’s remainder, without additional fees. While data isn’t strictly “capped,” this functions effectively as a limitation.
Starlink offers genuinely unlimited data for standard users, a considerable advantage. However, in April 2023, Starlink introduced data caps for priority users, set at a substantial 2TB monthly (exceeding Hughesnet and Viasat), yet still a departure from unlimited data. Mobile Priority plans offer higher data allowances at increased monthly costs of $250 to $5,000.
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Is Starlink Faster Than Hughesnet?
Yes. Starlink generally provides faster speeds. Customers can anticipate download speeds ranging from 5Mbps to 220Mbps. FASTNET testing recorded average downloads around 78Mbps, and Ookla reported a median download speed of 65Mbps in early 2023 (Ookla is under the same parent company as FASTNET, Ziff Davis).
Hughesnet, utilizing satellites in higher orbits, which increases data transit time, offers plans with maximum download speeds of 100Mbps. Viasat’s Unleashed plan offers slightly faster speeds up to 150Mbps, but both remain slower than Starlink.
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Are Telesat or OneWeb Viable Alternatives?
Telesat, a Canadian company, and OneWeb, primarily for the UK market, are satellite internet providers, but not available for US residents.
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Which Satellite Internet is Best for Streaming?
Streaming necessitates considerable bandwidth, making higher download speeds critical. Starlink is recommended for streaming due to its superior maximum download speeds compared to Hughesnet and Viasat.
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Which Satellite Internet is Optimal for Gaming?
Gaming performance is heavily influenced by latency. Lower latency ensures quicker data transmission between user and game server, minimizing lag. Hughesnet and Viasat are generally considered suboptimal for gaming. Conversely, Starlink, with its lower satellite orbit and reduced latency, is reported to be suitable for gaming. FASTNET testing has confirmed surprisingly positive gaming experiences with Starlink.
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Does Weather Impact Satellite Internet Service?
Typical weather conditions such as sun, clouds, or rain should not disrupt service. However, intense thunderstorms or heavy snowfall can impede signal transmission, potentially causing slower speeds or temporary service interruptions. Weather conditions at the satellite’s location can also influence service. Normal service should resume as weather improves. Refer to our guide on weatherproofing your internet for more information.
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