satellite
Starlink
4.5
Low-earth-orbit satellite internet from SpaceX — the only realistic fixed-wireless option for truly remote locations.
Satellite
Coverage
Available virtually anywhere in the US with a clear view of the sky — including remote rural, mountain, and off-grid locations.
99% of US households
Starlink is the default answer for anyone outside cellular fixed-wireless coverage — rural homes, cabins, RVs, and anywhere terrestrial ISPs can’t or won’t serve.
Real-world speeds typically range from 50-250 Mbps download with 10-20 Mbps upload. The main gotchas are the $349+ upfront hardware cost, needing an unobstructed sky view, and higher monthly pricing than 5G home internet (typically $80-120/mo depending on plan).
Pros
- Works anywhere with sky view — covers rural gaps no carrier can fill
- Low latency (25-50ms) compared to geostationary satellite
- Roam plans for RVs, boats, and travel
- Rapid network expansion keeps improving speeds
Cons
- $349+ hardware upfront (Standard kit)
- Monthly cost higher than 5G fixed wireless
- Obstructions (trees, buildings) seriously degrade performance
- Congestion in popular areas can slow peak speeds
Starlink plans
2 Starlink plans
Starlink
Residential
$120 /mo
Down
220 Mbps
Up
15 Mbps
Data
Unlimited
- No contract, cancel anytime
- $349/mo equipment
ruralhomework
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Starlink
Roam Regional
$50 /mo
Down
100 Mbps
Up
10 Mbps
Data
50 GB
- No contract, cancel anytime
- $499/mo equipment
rvrural
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Compatible equipment
Modems that work with Starlink
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