USCellular vs Viasat

UScellular, founded in 1983 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, was long known as one of the most established regional wireless carriers in the United States. Before the T-Mobile acquisition, they focused heavily on serving rural and Midwestern communities, offering dependable 4G coverage and expanding 5G availability in select areas. Their home internet service operated entirely on their wireless network, giving households an alternative where cable or fiber options were limited. The company's plans centered on 5G and 4G home internet, along with a wide range of prepaid and unlimited mobile plans. Home internet options included tiered data allowances from 25 GB up to 150 GB, while 4G customers could choose between capped data or an unlimited plan. Mobile plans offered practical features such as hotspot access, SD video streaming, multi-line discounts, and priority data on higher-tier options. Customer experience was generally positive, with above-average ratings across review platforms and an A- rating from the Better Business Bureau. Users appreciated the straightforward pricing, predictable monthly costs, and coverage in areas underserved by larger carriers. While they did not offer fiber, UScellular’s wireless home internet appealed to those wanting simple installation, reasonable pricing, and reliable service in harder-to-reach locations.

Viasat is a U.S.-based satellite internet provider founded in 1986 and headquartered in Carlsbad, California. They focus on delivering broadband access to rural, suburban, and underserved areas where cable and fiber service are limited, while also supporting businesses, remote sites, and travelers through their broader global communications network. Their internet lineup includes flexible residential plans, contract-free options on select services, bundled VoIP phone offerings, and dedicated business solutions that can function as either primary service or backup connectivity. Viasat has continued to expand their reach, including through major moves such as their acquisition of Inmarsat in 2023, strengthening their international satellite capacity. Customer feedback shows a mix of appreciation for availability and coverage in remote locations, alongside concerns about pricing, speed consistency, and support experiences. As one of the few providers capable of bringing broadband to hard-to-serve regions, they play a notable role in bridging connectivity gaps. Readers exploring this provider can expect a blend of strengths, tradeoffs, and unique capabilities worth understanding in more detail throughout the full review.