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Best Satellite Internet Providers for January 2026

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Our picks Why we chose these providers Sort by Results for 90001. Edit location Best potential among satellite internet 100 - 350 Mbps $80 - $120 per month Check with Starlink Or call to learn more: (866) 671-3650 Best satellite internet for reliable speeds 50-100 Mbps $50 - $80 per month Check with Hughesnet Provider not available in 90001 Or call to learn more: (833) 347-4265 Best satellite internet for versatility of plans 12 - 150 Mbps $70 - $300 per month Check with Viasat Provider not available in 90001 Or call to learn more: (866) 671-3650 One month of Residential service free 100 - 350 Mbps $80 - $120 per month Check with Starlink Or call to learn more: (866) 671-3650

Satellite internet isn't the first choice of most people. But if you're stuck somewhere that doesn't have access to the regular types of internet connections, you might not have another choice. Rural households still have some options, but remote areas often only have access to satellite internet. You get a dish and a modem, point it at the sky, and your internet bounces off satellites instead of coming through cables in the ground. For anyone living far enough out without access to wired services such as cable, DSL or fiber, it can be the only real way to connect to the internet.

Cable and fiber are better when they're available, but satellite covers the spots those services don't reach. Your main picks are Starlink, Hughesnet and Viasat. What matters is finding one that doesn't work at dial-up speeds or cost you a fortune every month. A recent CNET survey showing that 63% of US adults saw their internet bills increase last year. That means finding affordable and reliable connectivity is more important than ever. We tested what's out there to help you sort through it.

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What is the best satellite internet provider?

Starlink boasts the greatest potential, Hughesnet features the most reliable speeds and affordable prices, and Viasat's unlimited data plan could attract customers.

We've carefully examined the available options, considering speeds, pricing, customer service and overall value to assemble your top internet options. Here's a look at how the best satellite internet providers compare.

Read more: Could 5G Home Internet Be the Answer to Your Broadband Needs?

Satellite internet provider comparison

Please note that the plans below show each provider's cheapest available tier. The max speed is the top advertised speed for that given plan, but it might not be available in your area. Overall, the best selection for you -- and the most cost-effective plan -- might be a different tier that provides a faster speed at a higher price but a better value. To better understand this value-based approach, check out CNET's guide to examining the cost per Mbps.

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