Clearwire Broadband versus HughesNet

What is The Difference Between Clearwire and HughesNet?

When you sign up for HughesNet, you get...

  • High-speed internet connection, no matter where you live!
  • Speeds up to 50x faster than dial-up
  • Always on, instant internet access with no phone line or dialing in!
  • 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee
  • Extra rebates and cash back offers!

Clear wire and HughesNet both provide High Speed Internet Service. The major difference is HughesNet provides a direct satellite internet service while Clearwire utilizes pre-existing cell phone towers to deliver internet service. The use of cell towers by Clearwire Broadband limits their ability to provide nationwide service, as well as providing inconsistent "spotty" service.

General Overview of Internet Providers HughesNet Clearwire
How Many States Services are Available All US States 16 States
Cities Service is Available All US Cities 53 Cities
Years providing Internet service 13 years 5 years
Years in business operation 30 years 5 years
Services large-business, enterprise (Fortune 1000) customers Yes No
Email Addresses Available 5 to 10 3 to 8
Download Capability Per Second up to 5000Kbps up to 2000Kbps
Upload Capability Per Second up to 300Kbps up to 256Kbps
Nubmer of times faster than dial-up 104X 69X
Spam Protection Yes Yes
Technical Support 24 hours a day 9am to 10pm daily
Warranty on Equipment Free No Warranty
Services home-office and residential customers Yes Yes
Monthly Cost $59.99 $49.99
Upfront Cost $299.98* $100
Satisfaction Guarantee, Return Policy 30 Days 7 Days
Credit Check Only Leasing Plans All Plans
Satisfaction Guarantee, Return Policy 30 Days 7 Days

HughesNet offers an overall speed advantage over clearwire when comparing upload and download speeds. While speeds vary with both services, HughesNet provides dedicated satellite internet service to their customers, allowing for greater speeds, faster downloads, and an overall better internet experience.