The satellite internet plays an integral part in keeping remote areas connected to the internet for communication, entertainment, work, and even studies. It allows people in rural areas to get access to the same opportunities most people have. However, when considering satellite internet as your home internet, you’ll face one of the toughest questions: Which is better between Viasat and HughesNet?
These two leading satellite internet provider has been in the industry for many years, and they have been serving millions of households in the US. But the biggest question always remains: which one offers the best packages? Let’s explore the battle between Viasat vs. HughesNet to help determine the best package for you.
Viasat
Viasat is one of the leading satellite internet providers in the US, and it also has some operations in other countries. It’s known for offering higher internet speeds even though it’s a bit more pricey than most providers. The quality of signal Viasat subscribers receive highly depends on the location, just like any other provider.
Viasat offers numerous internet plans, ranging from low-data caps to unlimited plans. Their cheapest plan, Liberty 12, starts at $30 per month with a 12Mbps and a 12GB data limit. The $30 is only a promotional price that’s good for 3 months. After the promo price, you will need to pay the regular price. As for Liberty 12 plan, the regular price is $50. Their fastest internet plan is the Unlimited Platinum 100, which comes with a 300GB data cap per month with speeds up to 100Mbps. The promotional price is $149.99 per month for the first three months, then you’ll have to pay $199.99 per month onwards.
Viasat can be highly expensive as a long-term internet provider, especially if you need better speeds and higher data caps. It can be challenging to pay for it in the long run, given that Viasat requires a 2-year contract for their internet plans.
HughesNet
HughesNet is another leading satellite internet provider in the US. They offer high-speed internet, but their packages are relatively affordable and more straightforward compared to Viasat. HughesNet uses a different satellite network compared to Viasat, which means that their coverage area may differ. Same as Viasat, HughesNet requires a 2-year contract for all their broadband internet packages.
HughesNet offers four internet plans, all come with 25Mbps speed. The varying factor between plans is the data capacity. Their cheapest plan offers 15GB data capacity for $64.99 per month, while their highest package offers a 100GB data cap for $124.99 per month. HughesNet also features a no-price-hike guarantee for two years. It means that these prices are guaranteed until the end of your contract.
How to Choose Between Viasat and HughesNet
These two providers are always compared due to their offerings, but there are several factors that you must consider before choosing each because they have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the factors you must keep in mind when choosing between the two of them:
- Speed and Data Capacity Needs
Consider your internet usage requirements and your data consumption. If you need higher speeds and higher data caps, Viasat might be a better option. But HughesNet can be a more cost-effective choice if you have moderate data usage and don’t require higher speeds. You should choose a plan that meets your internet needs and fits your budget.
- Contract Duration
Both satellite internet providers require a 2-year contract for their broadband internet. You should be aware of the contract duration before choosing a provider, as it can be challenging to get out of a contract once you sign it. So, make sure you’re comfortable committing to the contract terms and the monthly costs.
If you’re not sure if satellite internet is the best option for you, consider opting for a shorter contract, if available, or looking for providers with more flexible terms.
- Pricing and Promotional Offers
Both Viasat and HughesNet offer promotional pricing for new subscribers. Viasat’s promotional price lasts for three months, while HughesNet guarantees that their prices will not increase for two years.
Keep in mind that promotional pricing is usually only available for new customers, and after the promotional period, the price will increase. Ensure that you understand the regular pricing and any other fees associated with the plan before signing up.
Viasat also offers a promotional Free Zone, which gives its users free data caps for a period of time every day that will not be credited to their data balance. On the other hand, HughesNet offers its Bonus Zone every day from 2 AM to 8 AM (off-peak hours). They give users 50GB of extra data that they can use for downloading heavy files, games, or movies.
- Customer Service
Good customer service is a crucial factor that must be considered for any internet provider. In case you have any issues or need assistance with your internet connection, you want to be sure that the provider has a reliable customer support system in place. You can research each provider’s customer service reputation by checking customer reviews and ratings.
Final Thoughts
require higher speeds and have a higher budget, Viasat might be a better option for you. But if you have moderate data usage and are looking for a more cost-effective choice, HughesNet might be the better fit. Both Viasat and HughesNet offer competitive packages and pricing for satellite internet, so make sure to do your own research to determine which provider and plan best meet your needs and budget. Good luck!