Comparing Starlink with Viasat: Which Satellite Internet Provider is Best for You? Starlink vs Viasat

When it comes to satellite internet in the United States, two names stand out prominently: Starlink and Viasat. Both offer internet services via satellites, but they differ significantly in technology, pricing, speed, and user experience.

Here’s a comparative analysis to help you decide which might be the better fit for your needs:

Technology and Coverage

Starlink Technology and Coverage

  • Satellite Type: Uses a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, orbiting at around 550 km above Earth. This proximity reduces latency and can offer higher speeds.
  • Coverage: Starlink has rapidly expanded its coverage, aiming for global reach. However, it’s still rolling out in some areas, and availability can be a constraint.
  • Installation: DIY with a kit provided. No professional installation required, which might appeal to those comfortable with setup.

Viasat Technology and Coverage

  • Satellite Type: Employs Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellites at approximately 36,000 km from Earth, which can lead to higher latency.
  • Coverage: Offers broad coverage across the US, but rural areas might still encounter service limitations.
  • Installation: Requires professional installation, which adds convenience but also a potential cost or wait time.

Speed and Latency

Starlink Speed and Latency

  • Speed: Can achieve download speeds from 25 Mbps to 220 Mbps, with some users reporting even higher.
  • Latency: Typically ranges from 25 to 60 ms, making it suitable for activities like gaming and video conferencing, which require lower latency.

Viasat Speed and Latency

  • Speed: Speeds vary from 25 Mbps to 150 Mbps, depending on the plan. The actual speed can be impacted by data caps.
  • Latency: Higher latency, often around 600 ms or more, due to the greater distance signals must travel to GEO satellites. This makes it less ideal for latency-sensitive applications.

Pricing and Plans

Starlink Pricing and Plans

  • Cost: A one-time equipment fee of around $499 for standard service, then $120/month for unlimited data. Higher tiers for business or mobile use are pricier.
  • Data Caps: Currently offers unlimited data, although there’s network management during peak times which can affect speed.

Viasat Pricing and Plans

  • Cost: Monthly plans range from $100 to $150. Equipment can be leased for an additional $15/month or purchased outright for $250 to $300.
  • Data Caps: Has moved towards unlimited data with its “Viasat Unleashed” plan, but speed might still throttle after a certain data usage.

User Experience

Starlink User Experience

  • Pros: Lower latency, higher speeds, and no data cap. Good for remote work, gaming, and streaming.
  • Cons: Higher upfront cost, potential wait times for service in high-demand areas, and customer support can be less comprehensive due to its self-install model.

Viasat User Experience

  • Pros: More affordable monthly rates, professional installation, and established customer service infrastructure.
  • Cons: Higher latency can impact real-time applications; unlimited data plans might still experience speed reductions after hitting the data threshold.
Starlink Cases

Starlink Cases

Are you ready to take your Starlink experience to the next level? Our collection of Starlink Cases is designed not just to protect but to enhance your satellite internet setup. Whether you’re an adventurer, a remote worker, or just someone who values a reliable internet connection wherever you go, we’ve got you covered.

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Portability

Starlink Portability

  • Starlink Roam:
    • Service: Starlink offers a “Roam” plan specifically designed for those on the move, including RV owners and travelers.
    • Equipment: The standard Starlink kit can be used portably, but for true mobility, especially in motion, Starlink provides a dedicated “Roam” setup, which includes a ruggedized, portable dish.
    • Cost: The Roam plan is priced at about $150 per month with an additional one-time hardware fee for the portable dish setup.
    • Usage: You can use Starlink Roam while parked or in motion. The service allows for global coverage where Starlink is operational, offering flexibility for international travel.
    • Setup: No professional installation is needed; users can set up the dish wherever they have a clear view of the sky.
  • Starlink Mini:
    • Introduction: A newer, more compact version called Starlink Mini has been introduced, aimed at enhancing mobility further with its lighter weight and smaller size. Shop our collection of Starlink Mini Cases to easily travel with your satellite.
    • Performance: Offers decent speeds with lower latency compared to traditional satellite services, making it suitable for remote work or entertainment on the go.

Viasat Portability

  • Viasat’s Mobility Solutions:
    • Service: Viasat does not have a specific “portable” plan in the same vein as Starlink’s Roam. However, they do offer services for mobile applications, particularly through business plans or for specific use cases like boats and RVs.
    • Equipment: While Viasat’s standard residential equipment isn’t designed for frequent mobility, their business or specialized plans might include hardware that can be set up for semi-portable use, but it generally requires professional installation for optimal performance.
    • Cost: Pricing for mobile Viasat services varies widely, often tailored to the specific needs of the customer (like maritime or aviation). Standard residential plans are not meant for portability, and moving the dish around can compromise performance unless professionally re-installed.
    • Usage: Viasat’s mobile services are more suited for scenarios where the antenna can stay in one place for extended periods (like a docked boat or a parked RV), not for constant movement.

Conclusion

Choose Starlink if:

  • You’re in a remote area without other high-speed options.
  • You need low latency for gaming, video calls, or need consistent high-speed data.
  • You’re willing to handle installation yourself and can manage higher initial costs for potentially better service.

Choose Viasat if:

  • You’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with professional installation.
  • Latency isn’t a primary concern, and you’re okay with potentially reduced speeds after hitting data limits.
  • You prefer having the option to lease equipment to spread out costs.

Ultimately, your choice between Starlink and Viasat might come down to specific needs like speed, latency, budget, and the nature of your internet usage, alongside availability in your area.

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