Viasat vs. Rise Broadband

Reported as the second largest satellite internet provider in the United States by coverage area, Viasat’s satellite services is available in all 50 states. Formerly known as Exede, Viasat offers high-speed satellite internet and phone services to approximately 308.5 million people. Many users residing outside a cable or fiber zone can choose one of Viasat’s plans with speeds up to 25 Mbps in select areas.

As the largest fixed wireless provider in the U.S., Rise Broadband’s fixed wireless service is available to approximately 25.7 million people across 19 states that are primarily in the West and Midwest. They offer a variety of internet plans with speeds up to 50 Mbps. For more affordable rates, Rise Broadband customers have the option to bundle their internet with phone or TV service, which is supplied through DIRECTV or DISH Network as Rise Broadband does not have their own TV service.

Viasat vs Rise Broadband: Extra Fees and Contracts

Installation

Viasat charges a professional installation fee of $99 in most areas, but the fee is often waived for new customers.

Viasat requires the professional installation of a satellite dish, which must have a clear view of the sky. Non-standard installations that require extra materials or labor may incur additional charges.

Rise Broadband customers must have a receiver dish installed to receive the provider’s fixed wireless transmission signal.

For professional installation with Rise Broadband, customers are charged $75 to have the equipment installed, although this fee may vary by location. Contract terms or promotions may reduce or eliminate the fee. Routers are provided free of charge.

Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print

Viasat offers both 24-month contract plans and non-contract plans.

Non-contract plans require a $300 non-refundable upfront fee. Early termination of a Viasat contract plan will result in a fee of $15 for each month remaining on the agreement. Customers have the option to lease a Viasat dish for $9.99/month or pay a one-time “lifetime lease” fee of $299. All equipment must be returned to the provider upon termination of service, or additional equipment charges will be assessed.

Like Viasat, Rise Broadband customers can either opt for a 2-year contract or go contract-free.

Data caps are usually higher and rates and fees are generally lower with contract plans. Early termination fees for customers who cancel their contract early can be as high as $250. For most Rise Broadband plans, the receiver dish rental fees cost $11/month and the modem rental fee cost $10.99/month. Routers and related equipment are provided at no charge. Equipment must be returned to Rise Broadband following contract termination or customers face a $300 penalty.

Data Caps

Viasat offers internet plans with monthly data cap limits up to 50 GB. If you exceed the cap limit, you will still have internet access but with significantly slower speeds.

Rise Broadband employs a monthly data cap limit up to 250 GB and offers unlimited data with select plans.