Amazon’s Project Kuiper low-Earth orbit satellite internet is finally coming together as Amazon puts together a five year plan to launch satellites. The plan includes deploying over 3,200+ satellites into orbit in over 83 launches during this time. 83 launches over 5 years are surely ambitious, but if any company can pull it off, the giant can.
Agreements To Start Deploying Satellites
They’ve reached agreements with huge companies like Arianespace, United Launch Alliance, and Blue Origin to make Amazon’s mission of creating fast and affordable broadband available to completely unserved and underserved communities around the world. Amazon plans to reach millions in residential, business, and government. These communities currently do not have reliable high-speed broadband internet alternatives like cable, fiber optic, or even DSL.
To Compete With HughesNet, Viasat & Starlink
HughesNet, Viasat, and Starlink might be shaking in their boots right now. Amazon is a huge company that shakes up industries all the time. Amazon’s Project Kuiper, when ready, will directly compete with all three internet providers in addition to Amazon’s own interests. Their satellite internet will be similar in quality, internet speeds and low latency to that of SpaceX’s Starlink service. As of today, both HughesNet nor Viasat do not have the low-Earth orbit satellite constellation infrastructure to improve their services to have a competitive advantage.
HughesNet Internet
HughesNet dominates the satellite and rural internet space. With internet speeds up to 25 Mbps and no hard data caps, HughesNet is an excellent option for those who don’t have other options and need to be connected. HughesNet is by far Amazon’s biggest competitor with many years of experience providing broadband internet.
Viasat Internet = HughesNet internet
Internet Speeds = 25 Mbps
Price = $64.99/month to $159.99/month
Plan Details
- No hard data limits
- 15 GB to 75 GB data caps
- Free professional installation
- 2 year contracts
Also read: Why High-Speed Internet is Important For Business?
Viasat Internet
Viasat is a close second in satellite and rural internet. While HughesNet’s internet speeds are consistent no matter what plan you choose, Viasat’s offers a pretty wide range. 12 Mbps is below the FCC’s minimum requirement of 25 Mbps to be considered broadband internet and an unrealistic option for people to get connected. However, in some of Viasat’s coverage areas, their customers can get internet speeds up to 50 Mbps with a hefty jump in their monthly bills.
Viasat Internet = Viasat internet
Internet Speeds = 12 Mbps to 50 Mbps
Price = $49.99/month to $199.99/month
Plan Details
- No data caps!
- 2 year contract
- Modem with Wi-Fi extra
- Promo rate lasts 3 months
Starlink Internet
Starlink could be a major game changer in the satellite internet space, but so far there’s tons of reports from potential customers already being disappointed. Starlink’s waitlist is long with orders taking 6 or more months to be fulfilled. Even worse their equipment fee is astronomical at $599; way higher than any other service provider out there. Although if you’re a rural resident with only satellite internet options, Starlink is the only futuristic option with speeds that will meet and exceed your needs for years to come, while HughesNet and Viasat consistently underdeliver.
Starlink Internet = Starlink internet
Internet Speeds = 50 Mbps to 500 Mbps
Price = $110/month
Plan Details
- Unlimited data!
- No contracts
- Free self installation
- $599 initial equipment fee
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