Hughesnet overview
Hughesnet is a satellite internet provider with nationwide availability. Its satellite internet service offers plans up to 200 GB of data and speeds up to 100 Mbps. Its newer Fusion service, a combination of fixed wireless and satellite technology, provides high-speed internet up to 100 Mbps with lower latency.
Hughesnet offers two satellite internet plans up to 50 and 100 Mbps and one Fusion plan with speeds up to 100 Mbps with lower latency. Enter your address to find Hughesnet internet plans near you.
Plan | Starting price* | Download speeds** | Data limit | Standard rate* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Select | $49.99/mo. | Up to 50 Mbps | 100 GB | $74.99/mo. |
Elite | $64.99/mo. | Up to 100 Mbps | 200 GB | $89.99/mo. |
Fusion | $94.99/mo. | Up to 100 Mbps | 200 GB | $119.99/mo. |
Methodology
We rated the largest internet providers in the U.S. for 2024. Each provider was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 based on over a dozen factors, including speed, cost, availability, fees, customer satisfaction, connection type and more. We also used data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compare the average speed offered by internet companies in the U.S. to set a baseline for what is considered a good internet speed. Additionally, we analyzed data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) to understand how each internet service provider (ISP) fares in customer service and perceived value.
How we reviewed Hughesnet
We scored Hughesnet a 2.4 out of 5 on our internet provider ranking scale. Satellite internet service provides lower speeds than other internet technology in general, which helps explain Hughesnet’s 1 out of 5 rating for internet speed. Hughesnet scored a 5 on price due to its discounted rates during promotional periods and a 5 on availability since it has nationwide coverage. Otherwise, however, the provider earned low scores in the fees, data caps, connection type and contract categories.
Hughesnet internet plan breakdown
Hughesnet plans range from $49.99–$79.99/mo. with speeds up to 100 Mbps, depending on which plan you choose. Be sure to check for extra fees with Hughesnet. Equipment leasing can reach as high as $20/mo. depending on your plan, and activation and installation fees can tack on an extra $100–$300.
Select – Best for small households
Select is Hughesnet’s cheapest and slowest plan. At $49.99/mo., it provides 100 GB of priority data and speeds up to 50 Mbps. With this plan, you can browse, shop, use social media and stream. It is best for smaller households with few connected devices; if you have a medium to large-sized home with multiple users connecting to the internet at the same time, opt for a faster plan.
Elite – Best for active internet users
Hughesnet’s Elite plan offers 200 GB of priority data per month and up to 100 Mbps in download speed. This is a better option for more active households and can handle internet-intensive activities such as light gaming and video chatting.
Fusion – Best for low latency
Hughesnet Fusion combines satellite and fixed wireless technology to deliver home Wi-Fi speeds with lower latency than a satellite-only service. Fusion provides 200 GB of priority data per month for $79.99/mo. and up to 100 Mbps of download speed — the same speed and data as the Elite plan, but with faster response times. Fusion can handle additional activities like real-time gaming with multiple players.
Hughesnet vs. other providers
Hughesnet falls short compared to other top providers. It is less reliable and has slower speeds, hefty fees and data caps, but its availability makes it an accessible option for those without access to other technology types in their area.
Provider | Starting price range* | Speed range** | Connection type |
---|---|---|---|
Hughesnet | $49.99–$79.99/mo. | 50–100 Mbps | Satellite |
$55–$180/mo. | 300–4,700 Mbps | Fiber | |
CenturyLink | $30–$75/mo. | 100–940 Mbps | Fiber, DSL |
Frontier | $39.99–$154.99/mo. | 200–5,000 Mbps | Fiber, DSL |
T-Mobile 5G Home | $60/mo. | up to 245 Mbps | 5G |
Hughesnet availability
Hughesnet is widely available, serving 99% of the U.S. You are likely to have access to service wherever you live, making Hughesnet especially popular in rural areas where other internet technologies are unavailable. Excluding other satellite providers, Hughesnet is unmatched in its coverage.
Hughesnet customer service
You can manage your Hughesnet account on their website by entering your login information. You can also contact Hughesnet directly by phone or online chat:
- Call Hughesnet customer support at (866) 482-1777.
- Chat with a Hughesnet representative here.
- Order new services at (866) 737-2700.
You can also manage your account through the Hughesnet app. Find answers for issues such as what to do if your Wi-Fi is not working or how to fix slow internet speeds from the Hughesnet community forum and customer FAQs and support articles.
Hughesnet bill pay
You can pay your Hughesnet bill online by entering your account information and ZIP code. You can also call (866) 482-1777 to pay by phone.
Hughesnet FAQs
How much does Hughesnet cost per month?
Hughesnet internet prices range from $49.99–$79.99/mo.
Can you get out of a Hughesnet contract?
Hughesnet has two-year contracts, so if you terminate service before the 24-month period, you’ll face an early termination fee.
How do I cancel Hughesnet?
To cancel your Hughesnet internet plan, call customer service at (866) 482-1777.
How can I speed up Hughesnet internet?
There are a few ways you can speed up your internet. First, make sure you’re subscribed to the right plan. You can always upgrade your plan to get a faster connection. You can also add some equipment to your network to boost your speed, like Wi-Fi extenders. Also, optimize your connection by adhering to the types of activities and number of devices your Hughesnet plan can handle. If you have the 50 Mbps plan, don’t try to connect too many devices at once or participate in heavy internet activities like gaming.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line withUSA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.Read moreabout our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
Camryn SmithAllconnect.com
Cammy is a writer with Allconnect, growing her broadband industry knowledge for over a year on the internet marketplace. Her expertise lies in home internet and broadband service with a focus on providers, plans, speeds, equipment and industry news. She enjoys reporting on important developments in the broadband industry that affect consumers. Some of Camryn’s favorite bylines include “Celebrating Women’s History Month: Female leaders in broadband to celebrate Women’s History Month” and “Federal programs provide millions for rural internet access.” Her credentials include a bachelor’s degree in Professional Writing and Strategic Communications from Miami University.
Hannah WhatleyAllconnect.com
Hannah Whatley is an editor who enjoys collaborating with writers to offer readers the most relevant, accurate, and up-to-date information for their home purchases. She has previously edited for The Motley Fool, The Modest Wallet, Grammarly, JoinCake.com and SaveOnEnergy.com, gaining expertise in several industries. Hannah has a B.A. in English from Thomas Edison State University. When she isn’t editing, she enjoys studying linguistics and languages.
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