HughesNet Satellite Internet Review 2024

In an era where internet connectivity has become a necessity for work, education, entertainment, and communication, the limitations of rural America's access to high-speed internet have become all too evident. While urban and suburban areas enjoy the benefits of cable and fiber connections, those residing in less densely populated regions often find themselves left in the digital dark. You can also compare and choose the best internet plans with one of the leading internet providers i.e., Club HDTV. HughesNet internet service is a pioneer in the satellite internet industry, offering a lifeline to rural residents.

The HughesNet Advantage

Earlier, Hughes Network Systems made waves by becoming the first satellite internet service to provide broadband speeds of 25 megabits per second. This feat was a significant leap for satellite internet, offering faster speeds than traditional phone-line-based DSL connections.

One of HughesNet's most significant advantages is its widespread coverage. Their service extends across all 50 states, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. For rural residents with limited connectivity options, HughesNet becomes an excellent choice.

Plans and Pricing

HughesNet keeps its pricing straightforward. Regardless of the plan you choose, you'll receive download speeds of 25 Mbps and upload speeds of 3 Mbps. Depending on your location, promotional rates may be available with HughesNet plans, providing potential savings for new customers.

The main differentiator between HughesNet plans is the monthly data allowance. As you pay more each month, you'll receive a higher data cap. Here's an overview of the current plans.

• HughesNet Gen5 - $65 per month (15GB data allowance)

• HughesNet Gen5 - $75 per month (30GB data allowance)

• HughesNet Gen5 - $100 per month (50GB data allowance)

• HughesNet Gen5 - $175 per month (100GB data allowance)

These plans ensure that all customers receive the same maximum download speeds, setting HughesNet apart from providers with varying speeds based on location. In fact, the Federal Communications Commission's report on broadband performance highlighted HughesNet's consistency in delivering actual versus advertised speeds, with median speeds exceeding the advertised rates by 150% or more.

Comparatively, HughesNet offers competitive pricing when pitted against its main rival, Viasat. To match HughesNet's 25 Mbps download speed with Viasat, you'll need to pay $100 per month, which increases to $150 after three months. Viasat's plan comes with a 60GB data cap, twice the data offered by the $50-per-month HughesNet plan. Moreover, in certain areas, Viasat provides faster plans, including download speeds of up to 100 Mbps, potentially making it a more cost-effective choice per megabit compared to HughesNet.

Data Limits and the HughesNet Bonus Zone

While HughesNet advertises "unlimited data," there's a catch. There are no hard data limits, so you won't be disconnected or charged extra if you exceed your monthly data allowance. However, once you reach your data cap, expect a significant slowdown in download speeds, dropping from 25 Mbps to 1 to 3 Mbps for the remainder of the month.

Additional Cost Considerations

Before signing up for HughesNet, it's crucial to understand all potential costs.

• One-time Installation Fee - HughesNet charges $99 for standard installation, but this fee is waived if you opt to purchase the modem for $450 upfront. Self-installation is not an option, but as a limited-time offer, HughesNet is providing free standard installation for online orders.

• Monthly Equipment Fee - HughesNet Gen5 plans require the use of their modem, which doubles as a Wi-Fi router. You can either lease it for $15 per month or purchase it upfront for $450, which includes standard installation. While the upfront cost may seem steep, it becomes cost-effective if you plan to use HughesNet for an extended period.

• Early Termination Fee - All HughesNet plans come with a two-year contract. Cancelling before the contract's expiration can incur an early termination fee, which can be as high as $400 if you cancel within the first 90 days. The fee decreases by $15 a month thereafter, meaning you'd still need to pay $100 if you cancel during the last month of your contract.

• Affordable Connectivity Program - HughesNet participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), an FCC initiative aimed at assisting low-income families. Eligible households can receive a discount of up to $30 per month, or up to $75 per month for qualifying tribal lands, towards their internet service. This program is open to both new and existing HughesNet customers facing financial hardships.

Conclusion