Reviewing The Best-Satellite Internet: Viasat
Pablo Mendoza
Looking to upgrade or switch your service to satellite? When shopping for the best provider, explore the best satellite internet review of Viasat.
Viasat: The Best Satellite Internet Review of 2024
Viasat has long been a key player in the satellite internet market, offering reliable and high-speed internet to areas where traditional broadband options are limited or unavailable. This review provides an updated look at Viasat's offerings in 2024, including new plans, pricing, features, and how it compares to other providers.
Key Features of Viasat Internet
- Speeds: Up to 150 Mbps
- Price Range: $49.99 - $119.99 per month
- Data Cap: Unlimited (850 GB soft cap)
- Contract: No annual contract
- Installation: Professional installation available
- Equipment Lease: $15/month or $250 lifetime prepaid lease
Viasat Internet Plans
Viasat offers several plans to cater to different needs and budgets. Here is a detailed comparison of Viasat's current plans:
| Plan Name | Price | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Data Cap | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Bronze 12 | $49.99/mo | Up to 12 Mbps | 3 Mbps | 40 GB | Suitable for basic browsing and email |
| Unlimited Silver 25 | $69.99/mo | Up to 25 Mbps | 3 Mbps | 60 GB | Good for streaming and light gaming |
| Unlimited Gold 50 | $99.99/mo | Up to 50 Mbps | 3 Mbps | 100 GB | Ideal for multiple users and HD streaming |
| Unlimited Platinum 100 | $149.99/mo | Up to 100 Mbps | 3 Mbps | 150 GB | Best for heavy usage and 4K streaming |
| Viasat Unleashed | $99.99 - $119.99/mo | Up to 150 Mbps | 3 Mbps | Unlimited (850 GB soft cap) | No contract, professional installation, built-in Wi-Fi |
Viasat Unleashed Plan
In 2024, Viasat introduced the Unleashed plan, simplifying its offerings and providing a more consistent and enhanced user experience. The Unleashed plan includes:
- Unlimited High-Speed Data: No hard data caps, but speeds may be reduced after 850 GB of usage in a 30-day period.
- Reliable and Consistent Speeds: Up to 150 Mbps download speeds.
- No Annual Contract: Month-to-month service with no long-term commitment.
- Professional Installation: Certified technicians ensure your service is up and running quickly.
- Built-In Wi-Fi: Easy connectivity for all your home devices.
Pros and Cons of Viasat
Pros
- High-Speed Rural Internet: Viasat offers some of the fastest satellite internet speeds available, making it a great option for rural areas.
- Unlimited Data: No hard data caps, allowing for more consistent internet use.
- No Contracts: Month-to-month service without long-term commitments.
Cons
- High Latency: Satellite internet generally has higher latency compared to cable or fiber, which can affect real-time applications like gaming.
- Price Variability: Prices and speeds can vary by location.
- Installation Fees: Installation fees can range from $50 to $500, depending on the location and specific service requirements.
How Viasat Compares to Other Providers
Viasat performs well compared to other satellite ISPs like HughesNet and Starlink. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Provider | Plan Price Range | Speeds (Download) | Data Cap | Contract | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viasat | $49.99 - $119.99/mo | Up to 150 Mbps | Unlimited (850 GB soft cap) | No contract | High-speed rural internet, no data overage fees |
| HughesNet | $49.99 - $79.99/mo | Up to 100 Mbps | 50 - 100 GB | 24 months | Reliable speeds, nationwide availability |
| Starlink | $110/mo | 50 - 250 Mbps | Unlimited | No contract | Low latency, high speeds |
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews of Viasat are mixed, with some praising the high speeds and reliability, while others criticize the high latency and variable speeds. Here are some insights from users:
- Positive Reviews: Many customers appreciate the reliable high-speed internet in rural areas where other options are limited. The professional installation and customer support are also frequently praised.
- Negative Reviews: Common complaints include high latency, especially for real-time applications like gaming, and slower speeds during peak usage times.
Viasat's Additional Services
Viasat also offers several additional services to enhance your internet experience:
- Viasat Voice: A feature-packed, reliable, and affordable home phone service.
- Viasat Shield and Shield Premium: Internet security services to protect your home network.
- EasyCare: An extra level of service protection, assistance, and support.
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Conclusion
Viasat continues to be a leading choice for satellite internet, especially for those in rural or remote areas. With its new Unleashed plan, Viasat offers high-speed internet with no hard data caps and no annual contracts, making it a flexible and reliable option. While it may not compete with fiber or cable in terms of latency, it remains a top choice for those without access to traditional broadband options.
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