The Best Satellite Internet Providers in 2026
Three. That's the total number of satellite internet providers that you get to pick from in the United States. Naturally, if you're used to living in a metropolitan area, this might be a bit disappointing if you normally pick from up to 20.
Of course, if you're living in a rural (or remote) area, beggars can't be choosers. In this case, satellite internet is a blessing. After all, you can have fairly fast internet where there was previously nothing. That's a pretty sweet deal if you ask me.
But if you live in one of these remote areas, which satellite internet provider do you pick? That answer depends heavily on your priorities. But before we get into this satellite review, let's dig into some basics, such as why you might get satellite internet and how it compares to other types of internet.
Jump to: Viasat | Starlink | HughesNet
What is Satellite Internet?
Satellite internet is internet provided by a satellite dish. This satellite dish is installed somewhere at your home, communicating with other satellites hovering in Earth's orbit. The satellites bounce back to the internet provider's communication station, finally getting you to the internet.
Under normal circumstances, your internet is sent through a physical cable or a more direct wireless connection. A more direct connection has some notable advantages and a few surprising disadvantages.
When Should I Get Satellite Internet?
In most situations, the only time to get satellite internet is when you have no other options. Virtually all other internet types, which include DSL, cable, and fiber, are faster and more reliable. After all, these connection types don't have to rely on satellites rotating around the Earth to send a message. To see what options you have available, you can use our Internet Providers by Address or Internet Providers by City” tools to search all providers.
Here are some pros and cons of satellite internet to give you an idea:
Unless there are extreme cases, such as failing infrastructure, standard connection types almost always outperform satellite internet. The only exception to this rule is fixed-wireless internet, which companies like Rise Broadband offer. Fixed-wireless performs similarly to satellite, only with better potential latency because its connections don't leave the Earth's atmosphere.
The Three Best Satellite Internet Providers in 2024
Based on our research, the three best satellite internet providers are Viasat, Starlink, and HughesNet. Viasat is the best of the three because it requires no contracts and offers its equipment with a monthly leasing fee, offering the most potential for savings and speed.
| Provider | Cost Range (Monthly) | Features | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Viasat | $50 to $130 |
|
(10) |
| 2. Starlink | $80 to $120 |
|
(19) |
| 3. Hughesnet | $40 to $150 |
|
(11) |
Despite this order, each provider excels in different areas. Below, you'll learn a bit more about why you might consider each provider.
1. Viasat – Best Overall
- Pricing: $50 to $130
- Download Speeds: Up to 150 Mbps
- Extra Costs: $15 monthly for equipment or $250 one time to purchase outright
- Why You Should Pick It: Viasat doesn't have any contracts, so you can leave if the service isn't ideal for your area.
Viasat is the best overall option because it offers the most price flexibility, doesn't require contracts, and also offers equipment leasing. These three reasons alone make Viasat better overall than Starlink and HughesNet. For a more complete analysis, please visit our Viasat Satellite Internet Page.
Starlink requires you to pay for equipment costs upfront, which isn't impossible for some people. Meanwhile, HughesNet requires users to sign up for 12-month contracts, meaning that they are stuck with the service if it ends up not working. Compared to Viasat, these two satellite internet providers seem to thrive on massive investments. Viasat, as a result, is more approachable for the average.
Does Viasat offer unlimited high-speed internet?
From a technical standpoint, Viasat does offer unlimited data. However, this data isn't always what you might consider “high speed,” especially if you're used to cable or fiber internet.
Viasat Unleashed, its most common unlimited plan, starts throttling your data if you exceed 850 GB in 30 days. This means you lose higher speeds when you exceed the threshold, which is easy to do in heavy-usage households.
Even if you get Unleashed, internet speeds typically won't exceed 150 Mbps, which is really good for satellite internet. Its throttled speed, however, might not exceed 25 Mbps, which is good for watching Netflix on a single device.
What does Viasat offer in my area?
If you're in some locations, you might notice Viasat only offers one type of plan: Unlimited. You might also have some of the old-fashioned “liberty” plans, which vary based on location.
The Unlimited plan typically costs about $120, which makes it about average compared to some satellite providers. However, what makes this new plan better is that the pricing is steadier than what you get from HughesNet, which will increase your pricing after 12 months with them.
You might need to contact customer service to see if Viasat offers alternative, slower-speed, cheaper plans in your area.
Other Viasat features worth noting
There are also a few other features worth noting.
Viasat does offer professional installation services. While this can cost up to $200, Viasat does offer promotions for free installation. However, the extra $15 for equipment leasing is non-negotiable.
Here are some add-ons as well:
- Viasat Voice: A phone line for a minimum of $10 per month or more if you want international calling.
- Viasat Shield: A home internet security system that only costs extra if you choose to integrate antivirus software and browsing protection.
- Easy Care: For an extra $10 monthly, you can enjoy premium customer service and no charge for service calls or annual dish relocations.
- DISH Network: Viasat also offers bundles with Dish Network for some potential savings.
HughesNet offers very similar add-ons. But first, let's examine the unique satellite provider on this list: Starlink.
2. Starlink – Highest Speeds
- Pricing: $80 to $120
- Download Speeds: Up to 220 Mbps (often 100–220 Mbps in practice, with peak reports around 300 Mbps)
- Extra Costs: One-time payment of $349
- Why You Should Pick It: If you want low-latency, high-speed internet.
Starlink is an ISP (internet service provider) connected to Elon Musk and his related venture, SpaceX. Despite being relatively new (started in 2015), it's made some waves in the satellite internet industry. For a more complete analysis, please visit our Starlink Satellite Internet Page.
Starlink's claim to fame comes from its satellites in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). Logically, it means that the satellites are in clusters and closer than other kinds of satellites. This results in less lag, which is ideal if you want to watch your favorite Netflix show or play video games without your screen looking like a bowl of oatmeal.
Starlink is also the only provider on this list that offers mobile internet. For example, you could mount a satellite to the top of your RV, bringing the internet with you. This makes Starlink particularly useful for those who want internet service and mobility. No more stealing the internet from unsecured public connections.
Does Starlink charge extra for equipment?
Starlink's biggest pain for customers is its high upfront costs. The company requires its internet users to “invest” in the company by paying $349 upfront for the standard residential kit (which includes a WiFi Router). For many families, this is unreasonable. None of this includes the cost of surveying your location for satellite internet or optional mounting accessories.
Of course, the benefit to only having to pay once is that you don't have to pay again. Starlink can be considered cheaper than Viasat if you plan on sticking with the company for a long while. After all, paying an extra $15 per month can add up over time.
Starlink's unique selling proposition (for businesses and regular people)
Beyond RVs, Starlink offers two optional features: support for internet on boats and companies in remote locations. Beyond these Starlink's doesn't offer any traditional add-ons. It avoids the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) or home security features you expect from regular internet providers.
Getting internet on your boat isn't cheap, costing a minimum of $250 monthly. Getting internet for your business is also isn't cheap; it costs a few hundred dollars per month. Simply put, Starlink isn't cheap, and the only time it is when you need only 50 GB of high-speed data under its “Mini Roam” plan.
3. HughesNet – Most Flexible Plan Options
- Pricing: $40 to $150
- Download Speeds: Up to 100 Mbps
- Extra Costs: $15-$20 monthly (with a 2-year contract) or one-time purchase of $299.99-$449.99
- Why You Should Pick It: Best for rural customers near cellular towers.
HughesNet is a bit closer to what we might consider traditional internet. It starts at a 12-month heavy discounted rate of $40 and requires a 2-year contract where the price will increase in the 2nd year. Like other satellite internet plans, customers are given an allotment of priority data, which is 200 GB at most. This is lower than the priority data you get from Viasat, which is about 850 GB under its Unleashed plans. For a more complete analysis, please visit our Hughesnet Satellite Internet Page.
HughesNet's most expensive plan is the Fusion plan, which combines fixed wireless and satellite internet under one roof. This provides greater potential for low-latency networks, resulting in less lag and making HughesNet less of a traditional satellite service. However, this does mean bad weather is less of a factor, relying on networks similar to mobile devices.
Does HughesNet offer add-on services?
HughesNet offers a variety of add-on services associated with traditional internet providers. Here is a short list:
- HughesNet Voice: The nationwide phone plans cost $29.95 per month, and international options cost $9.99 or $22.95.
- Whole-Home WiFi: HughesNet offers mesh WiFi systems that are ideal for larger homes.
- Data Tokens: Additional one-time data purchases that vary from $3 to $50 to get more priority data.
- Internet Security: Bundled access to Norton 360 for antivirus protection.
- Bonus Data: An additional 50 GB of data during off-peak hours (2 to 8 am)
HughesNet's optional services are similar to Viasat, offering optional satellite internet services. These can also be found with some traditional internet services.
Is HughesNet good for online gaming
HughesNet's higher speed plans and lower latency give it great potential when it comes to high-need internet activities. Online gaming, for example, would be suitable for limited online gaming.
HughesNet is not the best choice for online gaming or 4K watching. The limited amount of priority data makes it easy to exhaust your internet speed. As a result, HughesNet is better for people who use the internet less. The company offers cheaper plans, especially for those who use the internet less.
For more details on satellite for gaming please visit our article on Best Satellite Internet For Gaming Online.
Which Satellite Internet Provider Should I Choose?
When deciding on a satellite internet provider, factors such as speed, data limits, pricing, and overall customer satisfaction must be considered. Because all companies have average customer satisfaction, it's important to look at where they are.
Viasat is the best overall because it maintains high-speed internet, unlimited data, and larger high-speed data caps than other providers. Those willing to spend more will find Viasat to be an excellent provider.
Starlink is ideal for people who prefer high-speed data and mobile providers. Those who drive motorhomes, for example, can benefit from Starlink's plans. The company even provides services for remote, small businesses and boats. Other providers lack this same offering.
HughesNet is ideal for people who prefer to save money, while Viasat mainly offers its Unleashed plan. The greater flexibility is ideal for those who want to save money, especially for the first 12 months. But be aware of pricing increases after that first year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is satellite internet, and how does it work?
Satellite internet is a type of internet service that uses satellite technology to provide connectivity. Unlike traditional broadband like DSL or cable, satellite internet transmits data from your dish to satellites orbiting the Earth, which then relay the information back to a provider's ground station. This means you can access the internet from virtually anywhere, making it a fantastic option for rural areas where traditional internet options may be limited.
How fast is satellite internet?
Speeds can vary significantly depending on the provider and the specific plan. Viasat offers speeds of up to 100 Mbps, while HughesNet typically provides speeds of up to 25 Mbps. Starlink has been reported to offer speeds ranging from 50 to 150 Mbps. However, it’s vital to remember that factors such as weather conditions and network congestion can affect these speeds.
Are there data caps with satellite internet?
Yes, most satellite internet providers impose data caps. For example, HughesNet provides a maximum of 25 GB to 850 GB per month, depending on your plan. Viasat generally offers larger data plans but also introduces a throttle after a certain usage threshold is reached.
What are the advantages of satellite internet?
Satellite internet offers several advantages, including:
- Widespread Coverage: Available in remote and rural areas where other forms of internet service are not.
- Mobility: Some providers, like Starlink, offer services that are suitable for moving vehicles, boats, or temporary setups.
- Quick Installation: Satellite internet can often be set up relatively quickly compared to laying down cables for traditional broadband.
What are the potential downsides of satellite internet?
While satellite internet has benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- Latency: Due to the distance data must travel to and from the satellite, there can be noticeable delays in response time (latency), which can affect online gaming and video conferencing.
- Weather Sensitivity: Bad weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, can disrupt the signal and affect your internet speed and reliability.
- Higher Costs: Satellite internet can be more expensive than traditional broadband options, especially for plans with higher speeds or larger data caps.
Can I use satellite internet for streaming?
Yes, you can use satellite internet for streaming, but your experience may vary based on the speed of your plan and data caps. If you plan to stream HD or 4K content, it’s advisable to choose a higher-speed plan to ensure a smooth viewing experience and avoid quickly reaching your data limit.
How do I choose the best satellite internet provider?
When choosing a satellite internet provider, consider the following factors:
- Coverage Area: Ensure the provider services your specific location.
- Speed and Data Allowance: Assess the speeds offered and whether the data caps meet your needs.
- Installation and Equipment Fees: Check for any installation costs or equipment rental fees.
- Contract Terms: Review the length of contracts and any early termination fees.
- Customer Reviews: Look at customer feedback to gauge reliability and customer support.
Is satellite internet a good option for remote work?
Satellite internet can be a viable option for remote work, especially in areas without other high-speed internet access. However, users should be mindful of potential latency issues and data caps, as video calls and large file downloads can quickly use up data allowances. If your remote work requires consistent high-speed internet, it’s important to choose a plan that meets those needs.