Satellite Internet Newbie

[SpringerTigger]

I'm getting ready to move to the "country". The only internet options available are satellite or a hotspot on my phone. Due to my ancient phone plan, to add a hotspot, I would have to change plans - which would cost me an additional $150/month. So, I'm exploring satellite.

I know it's slow. It's not great. It's expensive. What else do I need to know? Viasat (Excede) or Hughesnet?

Thanks!
Springer Tigger

 

[stardust3]

Satellite internet is mediocre on its best day. A little weather and the service degrades quickly. It's really too much money for the little amount of data you get. Read the fine print, once activated it's a 2 year agreement for something that will likely be disappointing.

*edit added links

From the reviews not much difference between the 2.

Top 729 Reviews and Complaints about Exede Satellite Internet

Top 2,711 Reviews and Complaints about Hughes Network Systems

 

[SpringerTigger]

Yeah, I know it's not great, but literally my choices are increasing my cell phone bill by $150/month or satellite internet. OR, no internet. Where my new house is located, there is no dsl; no cable; no dialup. The current owners told me that there isn't even a landline phone option.

 

[stardust3]

How much data on the cell plan for the additional cost?

 

[SpringerTigger]

Changing plans would mean going from 12Gb/month (I currently use 9 to 10 of that) to the new "Above Unlimited", which allows 20gb on the hotspot.

 

[Tampa8]

I say keep your plan and get the Satellite internet. You understand the shortcomings. Changing the plan is permanent getting the internet service does not necessarily need to be. (If you move or find it's unbearable)
There is possibly another option. Look into other cellular data like from companies Red Pocket Mobile and many many others. They have Data only plans that allow you to use hotspots. Can be with a hotspot device or get an inexpensive smart phone (One of the best less expensive ones are the Moto G Play) Keep your present Phone company and plan and use that for most internet related things.

 

[stardust3]

Pretty bad either way, I agree with Tampa. Keep your phone plan and do something else for internet.

 

[Dudalicious]

Since you mention you are in cellphone range, you might look into setting up a Ubiquity network:

Ubiquity on Amazon