Viasat vs. Rise Broadband

As a satellite internet provider, Viasat has 100 percent coverage in the U.S., making it the most accessible choice in rural areas. Its download speeds range from 12 Mbps to 50 Mbps. So while it isn’t the fastest, it’s faster than DSL or dial-up internet services. Viasat has several plans with different speeds, so depending on what type of internet user you are, you can choose slower or faster speeds.

Rise Broadband also provides internet to rural areas where wired connections like DSL, cable, and fiber aren’t available. Although the download speeds, which range from 25 Mbps to 100 Mbps, won’t be as fast as wired connections, it’s faster than satellite internet speeds. To top it off, Rise Broadband has more budget-friendly rates.

Getting freebies when you sign up for services can be exciting, but Viasat and Rise Broadband know that customers would prefer discounted services or waived fees instead. Viasat frequently offers a one-time discount on select home internet plans. Rise Broadband, on the other hand, often offers discounts on professional installation when you sign up.

Viasat has fast download speeds for a satellite provider. It also doesn’t have hard data caps; soft data caps make it possible for customers to continue using internet service even after maxing out for the month. Although Viasat has great customer service ratings, it does have pricey equipment fees because of the satellite dish.

Rise Broadband has a lot of things going for it, from great customer service to free installation for some plans. It also has bundle options if you want to pair your internet with phone services. Because Rise Broadband primarily operates on a fixed wireless connection, it needs a “line of sight” connection with the signal tower, which is often disrupted by stormy conditions. So if you live in an area where it storms often, you might not have a stable connection all the time.

Viasat vs. Rise Broadband: Packages Compared

Viasat partners with DISH TV to offer satellite TV service as well as phone services. You can choose your preferred internet speed and number of channels you want DISH to pick up. Double and Triple Play bundles are a great way to save money on more than one type of service. One important point to keep in mind: Viasat’s bundle prices are only locked in for the first three months.

Rise Broadband doesn’t offer TV services, but it does have phone and internet security services that can be bundled. Pricing is typically locked in for the first 24 months.

Viasat vs. Rise Broadband: Extra Fees and Contracts

Viasat and Rise Broadband don’t require contracts, but you’ll miss out on promotional rates if you don’t sign on the dotted line. If you do sign one, be aware of the early termination fee from both providers.

Installation

Viasat’s professional installation comes at a one-time fee, but it does have a self-installation option available at no cost. Rise Broadband also offers free self-installation, but it charges a hefty fee for professional installation.

Data cap

Although Viasat promotes that it offers unlimited data, it does impose soft data caps. Once customers reach the data cap limit, they’ll experience a slower connection. Rise Broadband has unlimited data on all its plans.

Viasat vs. Rise Broadband: Customer Satisfaction

Both Viasat and Rise Broadband earned A+ ratings from the Better Business Bureau for customer service. Viasat’s customer complaints involved the occasional billing error or service disruptions that were quickly fixed. Rise Broadband has waived fees for customers in the past when confronted with issues or complaints.