Hughesnet vs Viasat Internet: Which ISP Is Better? (2024)

Satellite internet has come a long way from where it originally started and can now offer speeds that rival DSL in some areas. While Hughesnet used to provide more data, Viasat now offers both faster speeds and more data allotments than Hughesnet. In comparison, Hughesnet reaches more rural areas than Viasat, so each provider has strengths and weaknesses.

If you need the fastest speed that satellite internet can offer, Viasat is the best choice. Viasat offers faster speeds and better data caps (including no data caps with Viasat Unleashed plans) than Hughesnet. But fast satellite internet comes at a price. Hughesnet offers cheaper plans than Viasat, which could be a better choice if your online activity is limited to basic uses like email, paying bills, and streaming.

While data is limited with satellite internet, Viasat’s data caps are twice the size of Hughesnet’s (or unlimited if you go with Viasat Unleashed). However, Hughesnet offers a bonus zone from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m., where data expenditure is not calculated. Viasat has something similar called the free zone, where users can get unlimited data usage between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m., 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., or 3 a.m. and 8 a.m. (the time depends on your plan).

Viasat and Hughesnet bundles are limited, as neither provider offers TV service. Home phone bundles are available, as both providers offer discounts of $10 per month on phone service. Each also offers additional security services. Hughesnet offers a six-month discount on Norton 360 Deluxe, while Viasat offers its own cybersecurity software called Viasat Shield. Even after the discount ends, bundling satellite internet with cybersecurity is cheaper with Hughesnet.

Hughesnet usually runs a promotion that allows customers to save on installation costs throughout the year. Another typical deal each provider offers is a discount on the price of specific plans for the first three to six months, depending on the plan and provider.

While you can typically save up to $99 with Hughesnet, Viasat’s promotions offer the most savings since customers can save between $60 and $240.

Less to Fear With Viasat When It Comes to Fees

Contracts Are Better With Viasat

The minimum contract with both Hughesnet and Viasat starts at 24 months. And both providers charge a $15-per-month early-termination fee on your remaining contract if you cancel before your contract ends. However, Hughesnet will charge up to $400 if you cancel your contract within the first 90 days. Viasat, meanwhile, charges you $15 per month left on your contract if you cancel early. If you drop Viasat early into your contract, it can get costly, but not as expensive as Hughesnet.

That all said, Viasat’s newest Viasat Unleashed plans allow you to get satellite internet with no data caps or contracts. That means, you don’t have to worry about early termination fees and contract lengths.

Hughesnet Offers a Better Deal on Installation

Professional installation costs $99 with Hughesnet or Viasat. You won’t have the option to self-install with either provider, but you’re more likely to get your installation fee waived with Hughesnet. Hughesnet and Viasast both sometimes offer new customers free installation during promotions.

Get More Data With Viasat

While Hughesnet’s data plans can reach up to 200 GB, Viasat Unleashed plans come with no data caps at all. Some Viasat plans still have data caps, but Viasat’s newest option makes it much better than Hughesnet in this regard.

Viasat Excels in Customer Service

Our Hughesnet speed test showed an average of 43 Mbps. Customers’ main complaint about Hughesnet is the lack of speed, but many approve of their interactions with the customer service department. Most Viasat customers have shared that the service is reliable and customer service is helpful, while others have experienced trouble getting the maximum speeds. Viasat’s faster speeds make for a more satisfied user base than Hughesnet’s.