HughesNet vs AT&T Fiber
Comparing two of the most popular internet service providers. See how HughesNet and AT&T Fiber stack up on speed, price, coverage, and overall value.
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. See our affiliate disclosure
Quick Answer
AT&T Fiber beats HughesNet for most users. Symmetrical upload and download speeds. Choose HughesNet if you need Available in all 50 states.
HughesNet
Traditional satellite for rural areas
Max Download
100 Mbps
Max Upload
3 Mbps
Starting From
$39.99/mo
Coverage
50 states
AT&T Fiber
WinnerPremium fiber with symmetrical speeds and no data caps
Max Download
5.0 Gbps
Max Upload
5.0 Gbps
Starting From
$60/mo
Coverage
21 states
Speed Comparison
Max Download Speed
Max Upload Speed
Feature Comparison
| Feature | HughesNet | AT&T Fiber |
|---|---|---|
| Max Download Speed | 100 Mbps | 5.0 Gbps |
| Max Upload Speed | 3 Mbps | 5.0 Gbps |
| Starting Price | $39.99/mo | $60/mo |
| Data Cap | 15-200 GB | Unlimited |
| Contract Required | Contract | No contract |
| Coverage | 50 states | 21 states |
| Technologies | Satellite | Fiber |
Pros & Cons
HughesNet
- Available in all 50 states
- Works in most remote areas
- Built-in WiFi
- New Jupiter 3 satellite improves speeds
- 2-year price lock
- Professional installation included
- High latency (600+ ms)
- Data caps with throttling
- Expensive for speeds offered
AT&T Fiber
- Symmetrical upload and download speeds
- No data caps on any plan
- Speeds up to 5 Gbps available
- Price lock guarantee
- Free equipment included
- Excellent reliability
- Limited availability (21 states)
- Professional installation required
- Higher starting price than cable
Our Verdict
With a rating of 9.1/10, AT&T Fiber takes the edge in this comparison with its symmetrical upload and download speeds and no data caps on any plan. However, if available in all 50 states is more important to you, HughesNet is an excellent alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HughesNet better than AT&T Fiber?
AT&T Fiber scores higher in our testing (9.1/10 vs 6.5/10). AT&T Fiber excels at symmetrical upload and download speeds, while HughesNet is better for available in all 50 states.
Which is cheaper, HughesNet or AT&T Fiber?
HughesNet is more affordable at $39.99/mo vs $60.00/mo. HughesNet offers 33% savings.
HughesNet vs AT&T Fiber: which should I choose?
Choose HughesNet if you prioritize available in all 50 states. Choose AT&T Fiber if you need symmetrical upload and download speeds. Both are solid internet providers options.
What's the main difference between HughesNet and AT&T Fiber?
The main difference is HughesNet offers traditional satellite for rural areas, while AT&T Fiber focuses on premium fiber with symmetrical speeds and no data caps.