Best satellite internet providers (2025)
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Satellite internet is a lifeline for people in rural and remote areas, offering connectivity where traditional broadband simply isn’t an option. Whether you’re a remote worker or you’re running a business in an isolated area, reliable internet access is crucial, and satellite internet could be just what you need.
I worked with the Cybernews research team to evaluate the performances of different satellite internet services and dive deep into user feedback.
Based on our findings, I’ve put together this guide to the best satellite internet providers in 2025. I’ll break down the top providers and compare their features, speed, coverage, pricing, availability, and user satisfaction to help you identify the satellite internet service that best suits your needs.
Best 3 satellite internet providers - shortlist
HughesNet – affordable satellite internet with nationwide coverage
Viasat – fast, reliable satellite internet provider with flexible plans
Starlink – high-speed satellite internet for remote areas
What factors to consider when choosing a satellite internet plan?
Choosing the right satellite internet plan can feel overwhelming. To make this decision easier and ensure you select an internet plan that’s suited to your needs, I’ve broken down all the key factors you need to consider:
- Speed. Internet speed matters, especially if you’re streaming or working online. Basic plans with slower speeds work fine for simple tasks like browsing or checking emails. However, if you stream videos, download large files, or use multiple devices simultaneously, you’ll need a high-speed plan. Consider your daily internet habits and the number of devices you'll connect when choosing your internet speed.
- Data limits. Most satellite providers have data caps, even if they advertise "unlimited" data. If you go over the cap, your speeds might slow down, or you could face extra charges. For heavy internet users — like those who stream, download a lot of content, or rely on video calls — a plan with a higher data allowance is essential. Knowing how much data you typically use will save you headaches later.
- Latency. Since satellite signals travel to space and back, latency (or lag) is higher compared to cable or fiber internet. This can affect activities like online gaming, video calls, and live streaming. So, be prepared for occasional delays.
- Equipment costs. Installing a satellite dish and modem is the first step in getting started with satellite internet. Providers usually let you rent or buy this equipment. Renting might seem cheaper upfront, but it could cost more over time. Buying involves a higher one-time payment, but it could save money in the long run. I recommend weighing your budget and long-term goals when deciding.
- Contract and fees. Most satellite plans require a 12- to 24-month contract, and canceling early often comes with hefty fees. While some providers offer no-contract options, which give you more flexibility, they may cost more per month. Generally, it’s best to read the fine print to avoid surprises.
The best satellite internet providers – our complete list
Below, I’ll assess my top 3 satellite internet providers in-depth, focusing on their services, performance, pricing, and user feedback. This should give you a well-rounded insight into each provider's quality and overall performance.
1. HughesNet – affordable satellite internet with nationwide coverage
| Monthly cost range: | $64.99–$149.99 |
| Download speeds: | 100Mbps |
| Upload speeds: | 3Mbps |
| Data cap: | 15GB–100GB |
| Latency: | 600ms |
| Equipment fees: | $15/month for rental; $450 to purchase |
| Contract length: | 24 months |
HughesNet is one of the largest satellite internet providers in the U.S., and it has good coverage across the country, even in remote areas. While it lags behind competitors in terms of speed, HughesNet stands out for its reliability and exciting promotional discounts.
Speed and reliability. HughesNet offers download speeds of 100Mbps and upload speeds of 3Mbps, which are sufficient for streaming, browsing, and working from home. Due to its relatively slow speeds, it may not be ideal for heavy gaming or video conferencing. While HughesNet’s service is generally reliable, you may experience slowdowns after exceeding your data limit. However, you can purchase additional data tokens to maintain speeds.
Pricing and value. HughesNet satellite internet plans start at $64.99/month for 15GB of data, with higher data plans costing up to $149.99/month. Equipment rental is $15/month, and a $99 installation fee applies (waived with modem purchase). While HughesNet's pricing is competitive, its 24-month commitment and the additional cost of data tokens can add up for heavy users.
User reviews. HughesNet has many good reviews highlighting its affordability and nationwide coverage. Users appreciate the 50GB bonus data during off-peak hours (2 to 8 a.m.). However, some users complain about slow speeds after exceeding their data limits. There are also complaints about its high equipment rental fees and expensive termination fees.
2. Viasat - fast, reliable satellite internet with flexible plans
| Monthly cost range: | $69.99–$299.99 |
| Download speeds: | 12–35Mbps |
| Upload speeds: | 3Mbps |
| Data cap: | Unlimited on select plans; 40GB to 300GB on choice plans |
| Latency: | Around 600ms |
| Equipment fees: | $14.99/month (equipment lease) |
| Contract length: | 2-year contract with price lock |
Viasat is a well-known satellite internet provider that offers reliable service in rural and underserved areas. It stands out for its faster speeds and broad coverage compared to many competitors.
Speed and reliability. Viasat speeds range from 12Mbps to 35Mbps, with a consistent 3Mbps upload speed. These speeds are sufficient for streaming and browsing, but gamers may struggle with its high latency (around 600ms). While it’s generally reliable, you may experience slowdowns during peak hours or in bad weather.
Pricing and value. Viasat’s prices start at $69.99/month for a 25Mbps, 40GB plan, with higher-tier plans going up to $299.99/month. An equipment lease fee of $14.99/month is added to each plan. While its prices are high, Viasat is a good option in rural areas, especially with unlimited data options and no overage charges.
User reviews. Users appreciate Viasat’s reliability in rural areas and good speeds, which are suitable for everyday use. However, there are complaints about its high equipment costs, peak-time slowdowns, and latency issues for gaming. Overall, it’s a solid satellite internet service.
3. Starlink – high-speed satellite internet for remote areas
| Monthly cost range: | $110–$5,000 |
| Download speeds: | 50–350Mbps |
| Upload speeds: | 10–40Mbps |
| Data cap: | Unlimited |
| Latency: | 20–40ms |
| Equipment fees: | $599–$10,000 (depending on plan) |
| Contract length: | No long-term contracts required; month-to-month flexibility |
Launched by SpaceX in 2019, Starlink provides high-speed satellite internet, focusing on underserved and remote areas. Its low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite network ensures low latency and fast speeds.
Speed and reliability. Starlink offers speeds of 50–200Mbps for residential plans and up to 350Mbps for business and maritime users, with upload speeds of 10–40Mbps. Its latency averages 20–40ms, making it ideal for gaming and video calls. However, its speeds can fluctuate based on your location, congestion, or obstructions. Despite occasional dips, user feedback indicates a mostly stable performance.
Pricing and value. Starlink plans range from $110/month for residential users to $5,000/month for maritime users. Its equipment cost ranges from $599 to $10,000, depending on the plan. With no data caps and fast speeds, Starlink offers good value despite its high upfront fees.
User reviews. Users praise Starlink’s fast speeds and low latency, especially in rural areas. Most complaints center on its high equipment costs and limited availability in some regions.
Comparison of the best satellite internet providers
For a quick comparison of the best satellite internet providers in 2025, I’ve created the table below highlighting key features of my top picks, such as their speeds, data caps, pricing, latency, equipment costs, and contract terms.
| Provider | Monthly cost | Download speeds | Data cap | Latency | Equipment cost | Contract term |
| HughesNet | $64.99–$149.99 | 25Mbps | 15–100GB | 600ms | $15/month rental | 24-month commitment |
| Viasat | $69.99–$299.99 | 12–35Mbps | Unlimited on select | 600ms | $14.99/month rent | 2-year contract with lock |
| Starlink | $110–$5,000 | 50–350Mbps | Unlimited | 20-40ms | $599–$10,000 | No long-term contracts |
How we tested and ranked the best satellite internet providers?
At Cybernews, we take a user-first approach to reviewing and ranking internet service providers (ISPs). With that said, here’s an overview of the criteria I used to assess the best satellite providers to ensure my rankings are thorough and trustworthy.
Performance testing. I tested the download and upload speeds, latency, and overall reliability of different satellite internet providers under different conditions. By simulating real-life scenarios like heavy traffic during peak hours or bad weather, I could evaluate how well each provider holds up when it matters most.
Plan evaluation. I assessed the features and costs of each plan to gauge their value. I checked the balance between speed and price, data limits, and whether the plans cater to different usage needs, from casual browsing to more demanding activities like gaming or streaming.
User feedback. To get a complete picture, I also checked user feedback. Verified customer reviews gave me insights into the reliability and customer support service of different satellite internet providers.
Coverage and accessibility. Availability matters, so I looked at whether these satellite internet providers serve rural and underserved areas. Providers with the widest coverage earned extra points.
Additional costs and terms. I checked for hidden fees like installation charges or equipment costs and chose providers with no-contract options for flexibility.
Innovation and features. I picked satellite internet providers that push the boundaries with new technology, such as ultra-fast satellite networks or enhanced reliability measures.
Pros and cons of satellite internet
Satellite internet offers unique advantages but comes with notable limitations. Here’s a quick look at the benefits and drawbacks of satellite internet.
Satellite internet alternatives
If satellite internet isn’t cutting it for you — whether it’s too slow, has high latency, or doesn’t offer enough data flexibility — here are other broadband options worth exploring:
Fiber-optic internet. Fiber-optic internet is the gold standard for speed and reliability. It uses light to send data through specialized cables, resulting in super-fast, symmetrical download and upload speeds. Unlike satellite internet, fiber internet is less affected by network congestion or peak-hour slowdowns.
The downside? It’s mostly available in urban and suburban areas since installing the infrastructure is expensive. Big names like AT&T, Verizon Fios, and Google Fiber dominate this space.
Fixed wireless internet. Fixed wireless internet connects your home to nearby towers using radio signals, making it a good option in rural areas. It offers faster speeds and lower latency than satellite internet, and there’s no need for extensive cabling. However, your connection depends on how close you are to a tower. Fixed wireless is generally more budget-friendly than satellite, and it’s a top choice for hard-to-reach locations.
5G Home internet. 5G home internet delivers high-speed connectivity via 5G cellular networks, offering speeds that can sometimes rival fiber and cable. Providers like T-Mobile and Verizon offer flexible, no-contract 5G plans. While it’s faster than satellite and works well in urban and suburban areas, its coverage is still limited to densely populated regions.
A final word on the best satellite internet providers
Staying connected in remote or rural areas can be a challenge. Satellite internet bridges that gap where traditional broadband services often fall short. To help you find the best option, I worked with the Cybernews research team to test leading satellite providers — HughesNet, Viasat, and Starlink.
HughesNet stood out as the most affordable choice, offering reliable service and coverage across the country. Viasat impressed me with its fast speeds and flexible data options. If you want top-tier performance above everything else, Starlink takes the lead with its low latency and blazing speeds, which makes it perfect for streaming, gaming, and other demanding tasks.
While satellite internet isn’t quite on par with fiber or cable in terms of speed or latency, it’s an excellent option for remote workers, families, and businesses. When choosing a satellite internet provider, I recommend focusing on what matters most to you — speed, data limits, cost, or contract flexibility.
FAQs
Is satellite internet suitable for gaming?
Satellite internet is not ideal for gaming, especially fast-paced, real-time games like first-person shooters or multiplayer RPGs. Its high latency can lead to delays, making competitive gaming challenging. However, it works fine for turn-based games or games that are not played in real time.
Can I install satellite internet equipment myself?
Most satellite internet providers require professional installation due to the precision needed to align the satellite dish with the orbiting satellite. Improper installation can result in poor performance or no connection. Some providers, like Starlink, offer self-installation kits for users who are comfortable setting up the equipment.
What happens if I exceed my data cap?
Exceeding your satellite internet data cap usually results in reduced speeds (known as throttling) for the remainder of the billing cycle. Some providers, like HughesNet, allow you to purchase additional data tokens to maintain full speeds. Others, like Viasat and Starlink, may offer unlimited data with prioritization, which means speeds might slow during network congestion but won’t stop entirely.
How does satellite internet fare during storms?
Bad weather — like heavy rain, snow, or storms — can interfere with satellite signals, leading to slower speeds or even temporary outages. This issue, called "rain fade," is a common downside of satellite internet. While providers are working to reduce these disruptions with advanced equipment, severe weather can still impact reliability.
Can I bundle satellite internet with other services?
Yes, some satellite internet providers offer bundles that include TV, phone, or smart home services. For example, HughesNet has partnered with DIRECTV to offer TV bundling options. Bundling can save money and simplify billing, but availability depends on the provider and your location.
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