Quick Answer: HughesNet vs Viasat
Viasat wins our 2026 head-to-head comparison with a 3.4/5 rating vs HughesNet''s 3.2/5. Viasat leads on speed (up to 150 Mbps), while HughesNet offers the lower starting price ($50/mo).
View the latest HughesNet plans and pricing to find the best deal for your household.
View the latest Viasat plans and pricing to find the best deal for your household.
Learn more about Viasat review and see what they offer in your area.
HughesNet vs Viasat: Side-by-Side (2026)
HughesNet is a geostationary satellite internet provider available across all 50 U.S. states, offering speeds up to 100 Mbps for rural and remote areas.
Use our compare all internet providers tool to see how top ISPs stack up side by side.
Viasat is a geostationary satellite internet provider serving all 50 U.S. states, offering speeds up to 150 Mbps with plans designed for rural and underserved communities.
| Feature | HughesNet | Viasat |
|---|---|---|
| Max Download Speed | 100 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| Max Upload Speed | 3 Mbps | 3 Mbps |
| Starting Price | $50/mo | $70/mo |
| Technology | Geostationary Satellite | Geostationary Satellite |
| Data Caps | Yes | Yes |
| Annual Contracts | Yes | Yes |
| States Served | 50 | 50 |
| Editorial Rating | 3.2/5 (956 reviews) | 3.4/5 (823 reviews) |
Speed: HughesNet (100 Mbps) vs Viasat (150 Mbps)
Viasat wins on speed. HughesNet tops out at 100 Mbps download / 3 Mbps upload. Viasat reaches 150 Mbps download / 3 Mbps upload.
HughesNet plan tiers: Select (50 Mbps), Elite (100 Mbps), Fusion (100 Mbps).
Viasat plan tiers: Unleashed 25 (25 Mbps), Unleashed 75 (75 Mbps), Unleashed 150 (150 Mbps).
Advertised speeds are theoretical maximums. Real-world throughput depends on network congestion, equipment quality, and infrastructure distance. Check FCC Broadband Facts labels for each plan before signing up.
Pricing: HughesNet vs Viasat Plans & Costs
HughesNet starts at $50/mo — $20 less per month than Viasat ($70/mo). Over a year, that saves you $240. However, base prices often reflect different speed tiers, so compare what you actually get at each price point.
| Provider | Plan | Speed | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| HughesNet | Select | 50 Mbps | $50/mo |
| HughesNet | Elite | 100 Mbps | $75/mo |
| HughesNet | Fusion | 100 Mbps | $95/mo |
| Viasat | Unleashed 25 | 25 Mbps | $70/mo |
| Viasat | Unleashed 75 | 75 Mbps | $100/mo |
| Viasat | Unleashed 150 | 150 Mbps | $150/mo |
Both providers enforce data caps — check each plan for specific limits and overage policies.
Technology: Geostationary Satellite vs Geostationary Satellite
HughesNet delivers internet via Geostationary Satellite infrastructure. Viasat uses Geostationary Satellite technology. The difference in underlying technology directly impacts speed consistency, upload performance, and latency.
HughesNet operates a geostationary satellite network, which is available virtually anywhere with a clear view of the sky. Viasat requires physical infrastructure at your address. If you live in a rural area where Viasat is unavailable, HughesNet may be your best option. However, Viasat delivers faster speeds (150 Mbps max vs 100 Mbps) and lower latency for gaming and video calls.
Availability: Where Can You Get Each Provider?
HughesNet (national coverage) serves customers in 50 U.S. states. Viasat (national coverage) is available in 50 states. Service area within a state varies by address — always verify availability at your specific location before ordering.
HughesNet standout features: Available anywhere in contiguous U.S., Built-in Wi-Fi, No hard data limits (deprioritized after cap).
Viasat standout features: High-capacity satellite network, Unlimited data options, Available in rural areas.
Installation & Customer Service
HughesNet: Professional installation required ($199-$399, often discounted with promotions). Technician mounts satellite dish, runs cable, and configures modem (2-3 hours). Appointments within 3-7 business days.
Viasat: Professional installation required ($199-$299). Technician installs satellite dish and indoor modem (2-3 hours). Free installation available during promotions. Appointments within 3-5 business days.
HughesNet support: Mon-Fri 8AM-1AM ET, Sat-Sun 9AM-10PM ET; 24/7 technical support; MyHughesNet portal and app for account management
Viasat support: Mon-Fri 8AM-12AM ET, Sat-Sun 9AM-10PM ET; online support and chat 24/7; My Viasat app for account management
Our Verdict: HughesNet vs Viasat (2026)
Choose HughesNet if: budget is your priority (starts at $50/mo); you live in a rural area without wired internet options. HughesNet scores 3.2/5 in our editorial review based on 956 data points.
Learn more about HughesNet review and see what they offer in your area.
Choose Viasat if: you need max speed (up to 150 Mbps). Viasat scores 3.4/5 based on 823 data points.
Overall pick: Viasat earns our 2026 recommendation with a 3.4/5 rating. Speed goes to Viasat, and HughesNet wins on starting price. Check availability at your address — the best provider is the one that actually serves your home.
Check Availability in Your Area
Availability varies by address. Use our tools to find which providers serve your location:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HughesNet or Viasat better for gaming?
Neither provider is ideal for competitive online gaming. Satellite internet has inherent latency that affects real-time games. For casual or turn-based games, both work fine. If gaming is a priority, consider a wired or 5G home internet alternative.
Which is cheaper, HughesNet or Viasat?
HughesNet starts at $50/mo vs Viasat at $70/mo. But compare what you get at each price: HughesNet''s base plan (Select) includes 50 Mbps for $50/mo. Viasat''s base plan (Unleashed 25) includes 25 Mbps for $70/mo. Factor in equipment fees and any promotional expiration dates.
Which provider is better for streaming?
Both providers enforce data caps, so heavy 4K streaming households should monitor usage or upgrade to an unlimited tier. A household streaming 4K on 2-3 screens uses roughly 300-500 GB/month.
Can I cancel without a fee?
Both HughesNet and Viasat require contracts. Check your service agreement for early termination fees before canceling.
Is HughesNet or Viasat faster?
Compare maximum download speeds: HughesNet and Viasat offer different speed tiers depending on your location. Check the plan comparison table above for specific speeds. For most households, any plan over 300 Mbps handles streaming, gaming, and video calls without issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is better, Hughesnet Internet or Viasat Internet?
- The best choice depends on your needs. Hughesnet Internet may offer wider availability, while Viasat Internet may provide faster speeds. Compare plans, pricing, and coverage at your address to determine which is the better fit for your household.
- Is Hughesnet Internet cheaper than Viasat Internet?
- Pricing varies by plan, location, and promotions. Hughesnet Internet starting prices may differ from Viasat Internet introductory rates. Compare current plans including equipment fees, taxes, and contract terms for accurate pricing.
- Can I switch from Hughesnet Internet to Viasat Internet?
- Yes, switching providers is straightforward in most areas. Check Viasat Internet availability at your address, then schedule installation. Many providers offer deals for new customers switching from a competitor.
Quick Verdict: HughesNet vs Viasat (2026)
Viasat wins this comparison thanks to higher customer satisfaction (3.1/5 vs 2.9/5). Viasat starts at $50/mo with speeds up to 150 Mbps, while HughesNet starts at $50/mo with speeds up to 100 Mbps. However, HughesNet may be the better choice if you prioritize available nationwide.
Read on for a detailed plan-by-plan comparison, price-per-Mbps analysis, and recommendations based on your usage patterns.
Plan-by-Plan Comparison: Every HughesNet and Viasat Plan
Below is a complete breakdown of every available plan from both providers, including price-per-Mbps calculations so you can evaluate true value at each tier.
| Provider | Plan Name | Download | Upload | Monthly Price | Technology | Price/Mbps |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HughesNet | Select | 50 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $50/mo | Satellite | $1.00 |
| HughesNet | Elite | 100 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $75/mo | Satellite | $0.75 |
| HughesNet | Fusion | 100 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $95/mo | Satellite | $0.95 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 25 | 25 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $50/mo | Satellite | $2.00 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 50 | 50 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $75/mo | Satellite | $1.50 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 100 | 100 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $100/mo | Satellite | $1.00 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 150 | 150 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $150/mo | Satellite | $1.00 |
Technology Deep Dive: Satellite (Geostationary) vs Satellite
Understanding the underlying network technology helps explain why these two providers perform differently in speed, latency, and reliability tests.
Satellite internet beams data between orbiting satellites and a dish at your home. Traditional geostationary satellite (HughesNet, Viasat) operates at 22,000+ miles altitude, creating 600+ ms latency. Low-Earth Orbit satellite (Starlink) orbits at 340 miles, reducing latency to 20-40 ms but still weather-dependent.
HughesNet delivers service over Satellite (Geostationary), while Viasat uses Satellite. This difference directly impacts upload speeds, latency during gaming/video calls, and how well your connection holds up during peak usage hours.
Price-per-Mbps Analysis: HughesNet vs Viasat
Price-per-Mbps reveals the true cost efficiency of each plan. Lower values mean more bandwidth for your dollar. HughesNet offers better value at most tiers compared to Viasat.
| Provider | Plan | Monthly Price | Download Speed | Price per Mbps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HughesNet | Select | $50/mo | 50 Mbps | $1.000 |
| HughesNet | Elite | $75/mo | 100 Mbps | $0.750 |
| HughesNet | Fusion | $95/mo | 100 Mbps | $0.950 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 25 | $50/mo | 25 Mbps | $2.000 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 50 | $75/mo | 50 Mbps | $1.500 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 100 | $100/mo | 100 Mbps | $1.000 |
| Viasat | Unleashed 150 | $150/mo | 150 Mbps | $1.000 |
Best value from HughesNet: Elite at $0.750/Mbps.
Best value from Viasat: Unleashed 100 at $1.000/Mbps.
Keep in mind that price-per-Mbps is just one metric. Equipment fees, data caps, and installation costs also affect total cost of ownership.
Who Should Choose HughesNet vs Viasat?
Choose HughesNet If You:
- Available nationwide
- Good for rural areas
- Bonus Zone data (off-peak)
- Want a provider using Satellite (Geostationary) technology
- Need service in one of the 50 states HughesNet covers
Choose Viasat If You:
- Available nationwide including rural areas
- No hard data caps
- Speeds up to 150 Mbps
- Prefer Satellite technology for your household
- Live in one of the 50 states Viasat serves
For gamers and remote workers: Either provider works for lower latency and more reliable upload speeds during video calls. For budget-conscious households: Compare the entry-level plans above — HughesNet starts at $50/mo while Viasat starts at $50/mo. For heavy streamers with 4K devices: Prioritize the provider with no data caps or higher data allowances to avoid overage charges.
The Bottom Line: HughesNet vs Viasat
Both HughesNet and Viasat serve millions of customers, but they cater to different priorities. HughesNet (Satellite (Geostationary)) is best for households that value available nationwide and good for rural areas. Viasat (Satellite) is the better pick if you need available nationwide including rural areas and no hard data caps.
Before signing up, check both providers' availability at your specific address — coverage can vary block by block. Also factor in equipment rental fees, installation costs, and any promotional pricing that expires after 12 months. The best provider is the one that delivers reliable speeds at your address for the price you are comfortable paying long-term.
Additional FAQs: HughesNet vs Viasat
- What are the data caps for HughesNet and Viasat?
- HughesNet has a data cap policy of: Soft caps (100-200 GB). Viasat's data cap policy is: Soft caps (deprioritization). Data caps matter most for households with multiple 4K streamers, gamers, or remote workers who upload large files regularly. If you consistently use over 1 TB per month, prioritize the provider with no caps or higher allowances.
- Do HughesNet or Viasat require annual contracts?
- HughesNet's contract policy is: 2-year. Viasat's contract policy is: 2-year. Even without contracts, watch for promotional pricing that increases after 12 months. Always calculate the two-year total cost, not just the introductory rate.
- Which provider has better upload speeds, HughesNet or Viasat?
- HughesNet offers upload speeds up to 3 Mbps, while Viasat reaches 3 Mbps. Upload speed matters for video conferencing, cloud backups, live streaming, and uploading content to social media. Cable providers typically offer better upload speeds than other technologies.
- Can I bundle TV or phone service with HughesNet or Viasat?
- Bundling options vary by provider and location. Check each provider's website for current TV, phone, and mobile bundle deals at your address. Bundling can save $10-$30 per month compared to purchasing services separately, but make sure you actually need all the bundled services before committing.
- How do installation and equipment fees compare?
- Both providers charge installation and equipment fees that are not reflected in advertised monthly prices. Typical installation runs $50-$100 (often waived during promotions), and modem/router rental adds $10-$15 per month. You can reduce costs by purchasing your own compatible modem and router — check each provider's approved equipment list before buying.
Find the Best Internet Provider at Your Address
Availability and pricing vary by location. Enter your ZIP code below to see which providers serve your area, compare current plans, and find exclusive deals near you.
Check availability by ZIP code to see real-time pricing and plans at your specific address.
You can also browse all provider comparisons or read our guide to choosing an internet provider for expert recommendations based on your household's needs.
Related Comparisons & Resources
- HughesNet Review & Plans (2026)
- Viasat Review & Plans (2026)
- Compare All Internet Providers
- How to Choose an Internet Provider
- 2026 Broadband Access Report
- Internet Speed Guide: How Much Do You Need?
- Our Review Methodology
- Search Internet Providers by ZIP Code
- AT&T vs Spectrum Comparison
- Xfinity vs Verizon Fios Comparison
Sources
This comparison references data from FCC Broadband Map, HughesNet, Viasat, and the U.S. Census Bureau. Pricing and availability are subject to change.
Market Context
The broadband market concentration in areas served by both HughesNet and Viasat varies significantly. According to FCC broadband deployment data, median household income and population density are key factors in determining which provider offers better value. The BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program may expand options in underserved areas where neither provider currently has strong coverage.
