Rural internet used to be a distant dream, but in 2019, no matter where you live in the U.S., you can have access to reliable internet. Satellite internet delivers high-speed internet to those living in rural areas across the United States. Download speeds are faster than ever with more data allowance so customers can enjoy fast internet, even if they live in areas where DSL, fiber, and cable internet aren’t available. Compare two of the top satellite internet providers, HughesNet vs. Viasat, in 2019 to see which ISP offers the top features and the best price for your lifestyle.

HughesNet vs. Viasat 2019: Who Offers the Most Affordable Satellite Internet?

When comparing satellite internet services, first compare HughesNet vs. Viasat 2019 prices to see who offers the most affordable service. HughesNet internet and Viasat internet are competitive when it comes to price. HughesNet internet service starts at around $59.99/month with a two-year commitment. Viasat (formerly Exede) internet service starts at $50/month. Customers must use HughesNet or Viasat equipment and can choose to purchase, lifetime lease, or lease monthly the hardware for around $9.99 per month. The hardware includes built-in Wi-Fi for improved connectivity. Both providers offer bundling for additional savings. Viasat can be bundled with Viasat Voice and DIRECTV. HughesNet can be bundled with the HughesNet voice service.

Who Offers the Best Customer Service?

When exploring customer service for HughesNet vs. Viasat in 2019, both providers are competitive when it comes to customer service. Both Viasat customer service and HughesNet customer service can be reached by phone, email, and online chat service, and both have an online community for additional help. Viasat and HughesNet offer free installation by either a Viasat technician or a HughesNet technician. Customers cannot install their equipment. Customer service will set up a time for a certified technician from the provider, and they will install and set up your satellite internet service. Satellite internet requires hardware set up outside of the house and the placement of the hardware affects internet reliability.

Comparing HughesNet vs. Viasat 2019 Data Plans

Another important factor when comparing HughesNet vs. Viasat 2019 data allowances is answering the question, “How much data do you actually need?” The answer depends on your internet habits and how many devices and users will be on the internet each month. Ask yourself, “When users are on the internet, are they streaming videos, using social media, listening to music or gaming?” Each gigabyte of data (1 GB) will let you stream approximately 30 minutes of HD video or 1.5 hours of DVD quality video, browse 500 web pages, use social media for an hour, or stream the radio for 14 hours.

HughesNet internet prices are based on data allowance and are powered by the Gen5 satellite. All plans include 25 Mbps download speeds. The starting HughesNet internet plans offer 10 GB of data per month while the biggest data plan offers 50 GB of data. If you go over your monthly data threshold, you won't be charged any overages—you can continue to use your internet at reduced speeds of around 1-3 Mbps. HughesNet satellite internet includes a bonus zone of 50 GB of additional data every month to use between off-peak hours from 1 a.m.-8 a.m.

Viasat internet plans depend on where you live. There are two types of Viasat satellite internet plans— the Liberty and the Unlimited. The Liberty plans offer 12 Mbps download speed, and the Viasat internet prices are based on priority data per month. The Liberty plans include free extra data late night from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. daily. Viasat also offers unlimited satellite internet with unmetered access to all the internet has to offer, powered by the Viasat 2 satellite.

Who Offers the Fastest Satellite Internet Service?

Internet speed is important for streaming video, downloading content, and using multiple devices at one time. Satellite internet service is faster than ever with speeds often better than those provided by DSL and even cable in some areas. DSL and cable are affected by distance, so customers living far away from the provider’s hub will have slower speeds and more reliability issues compared to someone who lives closer. When comparing HughesNet vs. Viasat, 2019 speeds are tied on unlimited plans. Both HughesNet and Viasat Unlimited offer up to 25 Mbps download speed.

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