Quick Answer: Viasat vs WOW! Internet
Best Overall: WOW! Internet for most users in 2026. WOW! Internet offers superior Cable technology with speeds up to 1.2 Gbps. However, availability is the key factor: Viasat is best for rural users wanting faster satellite speeds, while WOW! Internet excels for midwest/southeast users wanting affordable cable.
Call now to check availability: 1-855-463-9333 (Viasat) or Visit provider website for details (WOW! Internet)
Head-to-Head Comparison Table
| Feature | Viasat | WOW! Internet |
|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | 150 Mbps | 1.2 Gbps |
| Starting Price | $70/mo | $20/mo |
| Technology | Satellite | Cable |
| Data Caps | Varies by plan (40-300 GB) | None |
| Contract Required | Yes | No |
| Best For | Rural users wanting faster satellite speeds | Midwest/Southeast users wanting affordable cable |
Viasat: High-speed satellite internet
Founded in 1986 and headquartered in Carlsbad, CA, Viasat has established itself as a leading satellite provider. With maximum speeds reaching 150 Mbps and plans starting at $70/mo, Viasat serves nationwide.
Key Features
- Faster than HughesNet
- Available nationwide
- Higher data allowances
Potential Drawbacks
- High latency
- Expensive plans
- Contracts required
- Data caps
Contact Viasat: 1-855-463-9333
WOW! Internet: Affordable cable in the Midwest/Southeast
Established in 1996 with headquarters in Englewood, CO, WOW! Internet specializes in cable technology with maximum speeds of 1.2 Gbps. Plans start at just $20/mo, and the provider requires no long-term contracts.
Key Features
- No data caps
- No contracts
- Low starting prices
- Transparent billing
Potential Drawbacks
- Very limited availability
- Fewer speed tiers
- Regional only
Contact WOW! Internet: Visit provider website for details
Speed Comparison: Which Provider is Faster?
When comparing internet speeds between Viasat and WOW! Internet, the differences are substantial and directly tied to their underlying technologies. Viasat delivers maximum download speeds of 150 Mbps using Satellite technology, while WOW! Internet reaches speeds up to 1.2 Gbps via Cable infrastructure.
Speed-conscious users will find Viasat more appealing. Satellite technology typically suffers from higher latency (500-700ms) which makes real-time applications like gaming and video calls challenging. Cable connections offer competitive performance for streaming, browsing, and moderate gaming.
Real-world speed tests conducted in 2026 show that Viasat customers typically experience 60-70% of advertised speeds during peak hours. WOW! Internet users report generally reliable speeds with some variation during peak usage times. Upload speeds are particularly important for video conferencing and cloud backups.
For households with multiple connected devices, Viasat provides sufficient bandwidth to support 5-8 connected devices comfortably. Gamers should note that latency is the critical factor, and WOW! Internet offers sub-50ms ping times ideal for competitive gaming.
Pricing Breakdown: Which Offers Better Value?
Pricing structures between Viasat and WOW! Internet reveal important differences that go beyond the advertised starting rates. Viasat plans begin at $70/mo, which includes standard installation but often requires a 24-month commitment. WOW! Internet offers competitive entry-level pricing starting at $20/mo.
Hidden fees and equipment costs significantly impact total ownership expenses. Viasat charges $12.99/month for equipment rental or requires a $299+ upfront purchase for professional installation equipment. WOW! Internet charges standard equipment fees comparable to other cable providers. Early termination fees can reach $300-400 if you cancel a Viasat contract prematurely.
Promotional pricing versus long-term costs presents another critical consideration. Viasat frequently offers introductory rates that expire after 12-24 months, potentially doubling your monthly bill. WOW! Internet offers price lock guarantees on select plans, protecting you from unexpected increases. Over a typical two-year period, customers should budget approximately $1,680-2,400 for Viasat service including equipment and fees.
Value propositions extend beyond monthly costs to include data allowances and overage charges. Viasat implements strict data caps ranging from 40-300 GB monthly, with reduced speeds after exceeding limits. WOW! Internet enforces no data restrictions, allowing unlimited streaming and downloads. For families consuming 500+ GB monthly through streaming, gaming, and remote work, unlimited data saves an estimated $30-50/month in potential overage fees.
Coverage & Availability: Where Can You Get Service?
Geographic coverage represents the most decisive factor when choosing between Viasat and WOW! Internet, as the best provider is ultimately the one available at your specific address. Viasat operates a nationwide satellite network covering all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, making it available virtually anywhere with a clear view of the southern sky.
WOW! Internet operates in limited geographic regions, making availability checks essential before considering this provider. Urban and suburban customers typically have access to both providers, while rural users may find Viasat as their only high-speed option.
Infrastructure differences explain availability patterns. Viasat uses geostationary satellites positioned 22,000 miles above Earth, requiring no ground infrastructure at your location beyond a small satellite dish. WOW! Internet delivers service through cable infrastructure originally built for television service.
Contract Terms & Flexibility
Contract requirements fundamentally differ between these providers, impacting your long-term commitment and flexibility. Viasat mandates 24-month service agreements on most plans, with early termination fees decreasing monthly but starting at $300+. WOW! Internet requires no long-term commitments, providing month-to-month service that you can cancel at any time.
Installation commitments and equipment obligations add complexity to contract terms. Viasat requires professional installation of satellite equipment, with installation costs ranging from $0-99 during promotions or up to $299+ at regular rates. WOW! Internet typically includes free professional installation as part of signup promotions. Equipment remains property of the provider, requiring return upon service cancellation to avoid $300-600 non-return fees.
Price guarantee policies protect against unexpected rate increases during your service period. Viasat locks introductory rates for the initial contract term, though prices may increase substantially upon renewal. WOW! Internet advertises price lock guarantees on select plans, ensuring your rate remains constant for as long as you maintain service. Reviewing contract terms carefully before signing prevents unpleasant surprises, particularly regarding promotional period durations and post-promotion pricing.
Local Insights: Customer Experiences in 2026
Real customer experiences from 2026 reveal important patterns in service reliability and satisfaction. Viasat customers report frustration with weather-related outages, as heavy rain, snow, and storms commonly disrupt satellite signals. WOW! Internet users experience service quality that varies by location and local network congestion.
Customer support quality significantly impacts overall satisfaction. Both providers offer 24/7 technical support, though response times and resolution effectiveness vary. Viasat maintains US-based call centers for sales but routes some technical support internationally. WOW! Internet offers standard customer service channels typical of national providers. Average hold times range from 5-15 minutes during business hours, extending to 20-30 minutes during evening peak periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which provider offers faster speeds, Viasat or WOW! Internet?
Viasat provides superior speeds reaching 150 Mbps versus WOW! Internet's 1.2 Gbps. However, actual speeds depend on your specific location, plan selection, and network conditions.
Does either provider require a contract?
Viasat requires 24-month contracts on most plans, while WOW! Internet offers month-to-month service with no contract required. Contract-free service from WOW! Internet provides greater flexibility for customers who may need to relocate or change providers.
Are there data caps with these providers?
Viasat implements data caps of Varies by plan (40-300 GB), after which speeds may be reduced during peak hours. WOW! Internet enforces no data caps, allowing unlimited usage. For heavy users streaming 4K content, gaming online, or working from home, unlimited data prevents overage charges and speed throttling.
Which provider is better for rural areas?
Viasat serves rural areas effectively through its satellite network, providing connectivity where wired options are unavailable. Satellite internet reaches virtually any location with a clear view of the sky, making it the default choice for remote properties.
What are the installation costs?
Viasat charges $0-299 for professional satellite installation, with promotional periods offering free installation. WOW! Internet charges standard installation fees comparable to industry norms. Installation timing varies from same-day service for self-install kits to 1-3 weeks for professional appointments.
Can I use my own equipment?
Viasat requires proprietary satellite equipment that cannot be substituted with consumer devices. WOW! Internet generally permits use of compatible customer-owned equipment. Check with each provider for approved equipment lists before purchasing your own devices.
How do I check availability at my address?
Call 1-855-463-9333 to verify Viasat availability or Visit provider website for details for WOW! Internet service confirmation. Both providers offer online availability checkers on their websites, though phone verification ensures the most accurate and up-to-date information. Satellite providers like Viasat are available virtually everywhere, but installation may require a clear line of sight to specific satellite positions.
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InternetProviders.ai is an independent comparison service. We may earn affiliate commissions when you sign up for internet service through our links, which helps us maintain this free resource. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers, and we provide unbiased comparisons based on publicly available information, user reviews, and industry analysis. Pricing, speeds, and terms are subject to change and should be verified directly with providers. Last updated: February 2026.