Satellite and cable are known as the most common connection types for TV and internet packages. With an increasing demand for high-speed internet, both cable and satellite internet connections have enabled people to surf, play, and stream as much as they want. In addition, satellite and cable internet is available in remote areas as well, which makes them convenient for people living in small towns in the US. However, it can be difficult to determine which connection type works well for your online needs. Therefore, in this article, we have compiled everything you need to know about these two connection types. Keep reading to find out!

Satellite Internet

Satellite internet is a type of internet connection that makes use of satellites to transmit signals to your devices through a dish receiver. These satellites are installed in orbit, whereas the dish receiver is mounted on the rooftop of your home or a nearby area. These signals are delivered from space; hence, you can find satellite internet connections available in almost any city or town in the US. It is well-suited for internet users living in rural areas, where other connection types, such as fiber or cable internet are not readily available.

If you are looking for the best high-speed satellite internet connection, then HughesNet offers exactly what you are looking for!

Speeds and Performance of Satellite Internet

Your internet service provider (ISP) determines the speeds you get. However, you should expect download speeds ranging from 25 Mbps to 150 Mbps on average. Besides, your monthly data allowance may differ, depending on the internet plan you have signed up for. 

With satellite internet, you can carry out your everyday tasks, such as browsing the web, checking social media accounts, and even streaming movies and TV shows on Netflix or Hulu. However, you may encounter issues while playing online games. This is because your ISP may impose monthly data caps, which may affect your gaming experience. Besides, it comes with a high latency, which can become a barrier in delivering the right speeds and quality of internet connection for your online needs. The reason why it offers higher latency is that the satellite internet transmits signals from space, which results in higher lag and latency.

Cable Internet

Cable internet has revolutionized the internet game across the world. With high speeds and reliable connectivity, it has proven to be the best connection type for high-bandwidth online activities. It carries data signals through coaxial cable wires to your device; therefore, these signals cannot be disrupted by any physical obstructions. 

Speeds and Performance of Cable Internet

Cable internet is known to deliver speeds that are much higher than what you get with most of the other internet connection types. It is capable of delivering speeds as high as 2,000 Mbps. Even the minimum cable internet speeds are much faster than the satellite internet. This is because it makes use of coaxial cable wires, which can carry internet signals much faster than DSL, dial-up, and satellite internet. Hence, it is preferably the most commonly used connection type for professional gamers as it can respond quickly to your commands. 

When it comes to data caps, your ISP may impose monthly data usage limits, depending on your internet plan. If you are looking for an internet connection that lets you stream on multiple devices at the same time, then you should go for cable internet. However, your ISP may throttle your network speeds when too many devices are connected to the same network during peak usage hours.

Which One Should I Go For? 

If you are living in a city or town that offers cable internet connection in your area, then cable internet is the best option for you. You will get a high-speed internet connection with strong signal strength that allows you to perform bandwidth-intensive tasks without any hassle. Besides, its speeds and connection quality are not affected by the presence of solid objects, such as furniture or walls in the way. Therefore, it is ideal for most internet users.

However, if you are living in a remote area with limited options available in your area, then it is better to go for satellite internet. You will get high speeds that will allow you to perform various online tasks; however, it comes at competitive prices, which can put a dent in your wallet. But, if you can afford it, then there is no better option than satellite internet for rural areas.

The Bottom Line

Cable and satellite internet connections provide reliable speeds, which makes them ideal for small to medium households. The only thing that sets them apart is availability. Therefore, you should go for the one that is available in your local area. Make sure you subscribe to a plan that fits your speed and data needs for seamless connectivity.