Satellite Internet Guide: Starlink, HughesNet, and Viasat Compared

Satellite internet is often the only option for rural and remote areas where cable and fiber don't reach. In 2026, Starlink leads the market with its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, offering speeds up to 400Mbps with latency as low as 20ms — competitive with terrestrial connections. Starlink's Residential plan costs $55/mo. with a one-time equipment fee, but its speed and latency are unmatched by traditional satellite providers.

HughesNet and Viasat remain options for areas without Starlink coverage. HughesNet offers plans from $49.99 to $99.99/mo. with speeds up to 100Mbps, but high latency (600ms+) makes real-time applications like video calls and gaming difficult. Viasat's plans range from $69.99 to $149.99/mo. with speeds up to 150Mbps, though data caps are restrictive on lower-tier plans.

Satellite internet has improved dramatically, but it still has limitations. Weather can affect service, equipment costs are higher, and most plans have data caps (Starlink's standard plan is unlimited). If you live in a rural area, check if fixed wireless or DSL options are available first — they often provide better value than satellite for comparable speeds.