Hughesnet Internet Review 2024
4.5/5
- Download speeds up to 25 Mbps
- Plans start from $64.99/mo.
- Available across the U.S
- 2 years price lock guarantee
Call to Order (877) 479-4491
With the ever-increasing demand for high-speed internet, Hughesnet Internet has become one of the top contenders in the satellite internet service provider market. Whether you are working, studying, or just trying to unwind and relax, having reliable service is key to keeping up with activities and tasks. Hughesnet is a great provider that offers its customers high-quality services and can help ensure you’re never disconnected. This Hughesnet Internet review will examine why Hughesnet is one of the top satellite internet providers in 2024.
Table of Contents
HughesNet Internet Service
HughesNet is a satellite internet provider that specializes in serving customers in rural and underserved areas of North and South America. HughesNet internet service is available across all 50 states in the U.S. and provides clear access to the southern sky, giving users reliable and fast internet access. Although HughesNet internet is typically slower than other types of internet service, it is the best option for many people living in rural areas.
HughesNet internet service uses satellite technology to deliver internet service to customers. The signal is beamed to a dish on the customer’s property and then sent to the customer’s device via a modem. There is a wide range of HughesNet internet plans with varying speeds and data allowances, with the fastest plans offering speeds up to 25 Mbps. HughesNet also offers a feature called “Gen5”, the latest version of their satellite technology that allows for reliable speeds and more data.
HughesNet internet plans come with built-in Wi-Fi, making it easy to connect devices in your home, and it has no hard data limits – although speeds may be throttled after you have exceeded your monthly data limit. With their simple internet plans, HughesNet is a good choice if you’re looking for a basic internet service and don’t need high-speed or unlimited data.
Pros:
- Consistent broadband speeds across service areas
- Fixed pricing for two years
- Transparent plans and pricing options
- Available across the U.S.
- Suitable for remote locations
Cons:
- High initial equipment costs
- Only one-speed option (25Mbps)
- Required to commit to a 2-year contract.
HughesNet Internet Plans Review
As one of the country’s top satellite internet service providers, HughesNet internet plans are known for providing fast and reliable internet to thousands of customers nationwide. HughesNet Internet plans are divided into multiple budgets and needs. They offer both Residential and Business plans, depending on your specific needs.
HughesNet Residential Internet Plans
HughesNet’s Residential internet plans range from 10 GB to 50 GB of data per month and offer download speeds of up to 25Mbps and upload speeds of 3Mbps. Prices start at around $64.99 per month for the 15 GB plan and go up to around $124.99 for the 100 GB plan. All HughesNet internet plans have a two-year price lock guarantee and no hidden fees or additional charges.
| HughesNet Residential Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Price | Speed | Data Cap |
| HughesNet Gen5 | $64.99/mo | 25 Mbps | 15 GB |
| HughesNet Gen5 | $74.99/mo | 25 Mbps | 30 GB |
| HughesNet Gen5 | $99.99/mo | 25 Mbps | 50 GB |
| HughesNet Gen5 | $124.99/mo | 25 Mbps | 100 GB |
When choosing a HughesNet internet plan, it’s important to consider your specific internet usage needs. Each HughesNet internet plan offers a different level of data usage.
15 GB – The 15 GB HughesNet internet plan is best for basic internet use, such as checking email and light internet browsing.
30 GB – The 30 GB plan is suitable for connecting to social media, checking email, and light or moderate internet browsing.
50 GB – The 50 GB HughesNet internet plan is a good choice for customers that need moderate data usage for activities such as downloading their favorite music, online shopping, email, and surfing the internet.
100 GB – The 100 GB HughesNet internet plan is the most robust and enables customers to stream more videos, upload more docs and images, and listen to more audio files, but it’s only available in some areas.
Ultimately, the right internet plan for you will depend on your specific internet usage habits and the available plans in your area.
HughesNet Business Internet Plans
Businesses of all sizes are competing in a digital world, and having access to an internet connection is essential for success. High-speed, reliable internet is a must for businesses that rely on online services, such as file sharing or video conferencing. Understanding the type of connection and speed needed for businesses looking for the best internet plan can take time and effort. Thankfully, HughesNet offers various business internet plans to meet budget and bandwidth requirements. HughesNet business internet plans offer even more data, making them a great option for small businesses or remote workers.
| HughesNet Business Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Price | Speed | Data Cap |
| Business 35 | $79.99/mo. | 25 Mbps | 35 GB |
| Business 50 | $94.99/mo. | 25 Mbps | 50 GB |
| Business 75 | $124.99/mo. | 25 Mbps | 75 GB |
| Business 100 | $134.99/mo. | 25 Mbps | 100 GB |
| Business 150 | $159.99/mo. | 25 Mbps | 150 GB |
| Business 250 | $299.99/mo. | 25 Mbps | 250 GB |
Internet Speed
The importance of a good internet connection cannot be overstated in today’s digital world. We rely on the internet for everything from work to leisure activities, and a slow connection can harm our productivity and enjoyment. Of course, not all internet connections are created equal. There is a variety of factors that influence the speed of your connection and just how effective it is. HughesNet uses the Gen5 system, which can deliver download speeds of up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 3 Mbps. Latency, or the delay in data transmission, is generally higher with satellite internet than with other internet access types, such as cable or DSL.
HughesNet Internet speeds are suitable for basic internet activities such as web browsing, email, and social media but may not be ideal for more demanding activities like streaming high-definition video or gaming. Due to the latency, HughesNet satellite internet may not be the best option for activities that require real-time communication, such as online gaming or video conferencing.
Data Caps
Data caps are increasingly becoming a reality for internet users. As technology advances, the need for data usage is growing exponentially, and consumers must understand their data limits to ensure they stay within them. Data caps are restrictions imposed by internet service providers (ISPs) that limit the amount of data customers can use each month.
When it comes to HughesNet data caps, it can seem a bit confusing. On the surface, they claim that you can use as much data as you want each month – but there’s a catch. All of your data is allotted at 25 Mbps speeds. Once you exceed the data limit of your HughesNet internet plan, your download speeds will be reduced by up to 3 Mbps until the start of the next month.
In case you’ve exceeded the data limit of your HughesNet internet plan and would rather have speed sooner rather than later, you can purchase these data tokens.
| Data Token | Price |
| 3 GB | $9 |
| 5 GB | $15 |
| 10 GB | $30 |
| 25 GB | $75 |
Understanding that these data caps can make or break your internet experience is important. If you use more than your data allotment, you’ll be stuck with slower speeds for the rest of the month. It’s always best to pick a HughesNet internet plan that offers a good balance between cost and data so that you don’t find yourself struggling with slow speeds.
HughesNet Bonus Zone
The HughesNet Bonus Zone is a great feature that can help you get the most out of your HughesNet internet plan. All HughesNet internet plans come with an extra 50 GB of monthly data during off-peak hours, from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. This bonus data can be incredibly helpful for customers who need more than their plan’s data allowance can provide, as it can effectively double their total data allotment each month.
While 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. may not be the most convenient time to access the extra data, there are ways to make it work. You could schedule larger downloads or activities like streaming movies during those hours and take advantage of the bonus data while minimizing the impact on your regular data usage.
It’s also worth noting that, depending on your chosen HughesNet internet plan, the Bonus Zone might not be available at all, or it may provide only half of the 50 GB of extra data – so be sure to check your specific plan details before signing up.
Contracts
When signing up for a HughesNet internet plan, customers are required to commit to a two-year contract. This means that customers are locked into the service for the duration of the contract, and if they choose to cancel early, they may incur a termination fee. For many potential customers, this is a major concern as it limits flexibility and freedom when it comes to changing your plan or even switching to another provider.
Customers should take the time to carefully read and understand their HughesNet contract before signing it. This will ensure that they know what they are getting into before committing to a two-year contract.
Additional Costs
While there are numerous benefits to using HughesNet’s internet service, it’s important to consider the additional costs associated with subscribing to their services.
Installation
Subscribers should be aware that installation fees apply if they opt for a professional installation, which can cost as much as $99. But this fee is waived if you purchase your modem instead of renting it. This upfront investment comes with a technician visit, HughesNet satellite dish, and Wi-Fi modem setup.
Currently, HughesNet internet plans include free standard installation when you order online as a limited-time offer. If you choose the self-installation route, however, you won’t be able to take advantage of this deal. All in all, the installation fee is fairly standard and unlikely to break the bank.
Equipment
When signing up for the HughesNet internet plan, customers will not be able to use their own modem. To lease the HughesNet Wi-Fi Modem (which doubles as a Wi-Fi router), customers will need to add an additional $15 a month to their bill. Customers who plan on sticking with HughesNet internet service for the long term should consider buying the equipment outright instead, as they can avoid the monthly fee by paying a one-time fee of $450 (including standard installation). This is a hefty price, but it pays off in under two years if they stick with the service and could save them money in the long run.
Early Termination Fee (ETF)
When you decide to cancel your HughesNet internet service early, you’ll be charged a hefty Early Termination Fee (ETF). This fee starts at $85 and increases the shorter the length of your contract. Depending on when you cancel, you may be liable for up to $400. If you cancel before your equipment is installed, HughesNet will refund the amount you paid when you placed your order. But if you cancel within 90 days of signing a two-year contract, expect to pay a hefty $400 ETF. To avoid this fee, it’s best to understand the terms of your agreement and decide if HughesNet internet service is right for you before signing up.
HughesNet Bundles
HughesNet offers a range of internet plans, ranging from the basic 10 GB plan to the 50 GB plan. For customers looking to save some money, HughesNet also offers bundled packages with discounted rates. These bundles are designed to help customers save money by bundling their internet and phone services in one package.
The HughesNet internet and Voice bundle includes a 10 GB plan with unlimited calling in the United States and Canada. This bundle starts at $84.98 per month, and so on. You can see all of these packages listed below:
| Bundles | Price | Data Caps | HughesNet Voice |
| HughesNet Gen5 + Voice | $84.98/mo. | 15 GB | Unlimited local & long-distance calling |
| HughesNet Gen5 + Voice | $94.98/mo. | 30 GB | Unlimited local & long-distance calling |
| HughesNet Gen5 + Voice | $109.98/mo. | 50 GB | Unlimited local & long-distance calling |
| HughesNet Gen5 + Voice | $169.98/mo. | 100 GB | Unlimited local &long-distance calling |
HughesNet Affordable Connectivity Program
HughesNet Affordable Connectivity Program is a U.S. government-funded program aimed to provide affordable high-speed satellite internet service to eligible low-income households who do not have access to other types of internet services. The program aims to close the digital divide and provide access to educational, job, and healthcare resources for those who need them.
HughesNet is one the best ACP internet providers, offering affordable satellite internet service. Households looking for an affordable Internet connection can apply to this FCC program. This program allows eligible households to get a $30 monthly discount on their HughesNet service (or up to $75 for Tribal Lands) with no annual contract. Eligible households must meet certain criteria to qualify for the ACP. This program is designed to help eligible households access high-speed Internet. It provides them with a reliable connection at an affordable price so they can stay connected. This program is available nationwide and can make a huge difference in helping bridge the digital divide and provide a much-needed lifeline to those who may not otherwise be able to afford it.
HughesNet Internet Availability Review
The quality and availability of internet coverage are increasingly important. Thankfully, the availability of HughesNet internet service is vast. HughesNet satellite internet may be an excellent connection option if you have a view of the southern sky. The company has wide availability across all 50 states, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, so it’s an excellent connection option for rural residents. HughesNet’s download speeds are slightly slower than Viasat, with plans offering up to 25 Mbps download speeds. While HughesNet’s internet service is slower than Viasat’s.
Before using HughesNet internet services, you will need to install an antenna on your roof with an unobstructed view of the sky. This could be an issue if you have trees, tall buildings, or mountains surrounding your home. Additionally, to get reliable service, make sure the antenna is properly installed and aligned in the right direction.
HughesNet Internet Customer Service Review
Good customer service is essential in today’s digital age, and HughesNet Internet customer service is no exception. As one of the leading providers of satellite internet in the United States, HughesNet has an obligation to provide its customers with reliable service. The American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) report found that HughesNet falls just above the industry average in customer satisfaction, while the 2020 J.D. Power study scored a below-average 578 out of 1000 in the Southern region.
Despite this, HughesNet seems to offer reliable support options with knowledgeable agents who are friendly and willing to help out customers in need.
HughesNet Internet vs. Competitors
With its innovative technology and cutting-edge solutions, HughesNet has established itself as a top player in the market, providing quality internet services to areas with limited access to traditional broadband connections. However, with the increasing number of internet service providers, choosing the best one that suits your needs can be challenging. Let’s compare HughesNet’s internet service with its competitors, weighing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
HughesNet vs. Viasat
When comparing HughesNet and Viasat satellite internet providers, there are several things to consider. HughesNet satellite internet service offers lower prices, and all HughesNet internet plans have the same speed of 25 Mbps. This will let you do basic internet activities such as checking emails and browsing the internet, but it may not be suitable for streaming services or gaming online. You can pay extra to get more data. However, this may not be enough for heavier internet users.
Viasat, on the other hand, offers faster speeds than HughesNet, up to 100 Mbps, with their top plan. However, it comes at a much higher cost than HughesNet internet plans, with the monthly cost increasing once your promotional period ends. Viasat offers higher data caps, which makes it a great option for those who regularly work from home, teleconference, or game online.
HughesNet vs. Starlink
Starlink is the new kid on the block that has made some serious waves with its revolutionary technology and impressive speeds. But these advantages don’t always mean it’s the best option. For many people, HughesNet may be a better choice because of its availability in over 96% of the country, customer service ratings, and cheaper internet plans. With HughesNet internet, you won’t have to worry about long waits for service or expensive contracts like with Starlink. You can get reliable internet access at an affordable price, and be sure that you’re getting the best customer service available. So, if you’re looking for an internet provider in rural or remote areas, HughesNet is your best bet.
Conclusion
This Hughesnet Internet review has provided an in-depth look at the services offered by Hughesnet. This satellite-based internet provider provides a reliable and consistent connection. It offers an affordable price point compared to other internet providers without sacrificing quality or reliability. Installation is easy and fast, customer service ratings are generally good, and users have reported that its speeds are sufficient for everyday activities like checking emails, streaming music, or basic regular activities.
Overall, Hughesnet internet plans can be an ideal choice for rural areas and suitable for basic internet activities, but it may not be ideal for more demanding activities like streaming H.D. video or gaming. Just make sure to compare the available HugheNet internet plans before committing to a specific one. Consider your usage habits and decide which internet plan will best fit your needs so that you get the best value out of this service provider.
FAQs
HughesNet internet service does not offer unlimited data for its customers. The company imposes data caps on its plans, meaning that users are restricted to a set amount of data they can consume within a given month. Once the user exceeds their data limit, HughesNet will slow down their internet speed until the next billing cycle.
HughesNet is a satellite internet provider that offers broadband connectivity to customers with no land-based options. The service operates through satellites orbiting the Earth and beaming down signals to users’ dishes located anywhere in the continental United States.
The main advantages of HughesNet include availability and reliability. It is often seen as one of the best options available in all 50 states, so you can get reliable service no matter where you live.
Once you reach the data plan limit of your selected HughesNet internet plan, your speeds will be drastically reduced to 1 to 3 Mbps. This is a drop of over 75% of your normal speeds.
With speeds of up to 25 Mbps, it can be fast enough for occasional streaming on Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+, or whatever streaming service you prefer. The biggest issue comes with data caps; each HughesNet internet plan has a monthly limit that could prove problematic depending on your usage habits. However, plans with higher data caps offer more leeway for those who stream frequently.
According to Federal Communications Commission (FCC), a 4 Mbps download speed is enough for online multiplayer games. HughesNet’s internet service comes with a 25 Mbps download speed, making it possible to play fast-paced online games without buffering or interruption.
With HughesNet’s satellite internet service, users can enjoy download speeds up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds up to 3 Mbps. This is the same speed as most high-end cable providers.
HughesNet offers a range of residential and business internet plans. Their residential internet plans start from $64.99 per month up to $124.99 per month, depending on your package type. They also offer business internet plans starting from $79.99 per month to $299.99 per month.
Depending on the plan, your monthly fees will also cover the cost of equipment such as modems and routers. Installation fees may apply as well.
users can enjoy download speeds up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds up to 3 Mbps. This is the same speed as most high-end cable providers.
Yes, HughesNet offers low-income internet options through its Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Through this program, eligible households can receive a discounted monthly rate of up to $30 off their HughesNet service (or up to $75 for Tribal Lands) with no annual contract.
Depending on the plan, your monthly fees will also cover the cost of equipment such as modems and routers. Installation fees may apply as well.
users can enjoy download speeds up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds up to 3 Mbps. This is the same speed as most high-end cable providers.
If you are looking for ways to improve the speed of your HughesNet internet connection, there are a few things that you can do.
The first step is to ensure that your modem and router are up-to-date. This means that they have the latest software and firmware installed.
Another way to increase the speed of your HughesNet internet connection is to install an antenna on your roof with an unobstructed view of the sky. This can increase the speed of your connection by allowing your modem to receive a stronger signal from the satellites that provide HughesNet service. It is also important to ensure that you place the antenna in an area where trees or buildings will not obstruct it.
Depending on the plan, your monthly fees will also cover the cost of equipment such as modems and routers. Installation fees may apply as well.
users can enjoy download speeds up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds up to 3 Mbps. This is the same speed as most high-end cable providers.
Related Post
