> At a Glance
> – T-Mobile Home Internet tops CNET’s rural rankings with 60% US coverage
> – Plans start at $50/month with unlimited data and free equipment
> – Alternatives include Ziply Fiber, CenturyLink, Rise Broadband, and Starlink
> – Why it matters: Rural users finally get reliable, affordable broadband options
Reliable rural internet remains elusive, but a fresh CNET review spotlights eight providers delivering solid service where cable and fiber fear to tread.
The Standout Winner
T-Mobile Home Internet blankets more than 60 percent of US households, according to FCC data. Speeds range from 133-415 Mbps for $50-$70 monthly, with no data caps or rental fees.
Best of the Rest
- CenturyLink DSL – 16-state footprint, $55/month, unlimited data
- Rise Broadband Fixed Wireless – 25-50 Mbps, $45-$65, 16 states
- Kinetic by Windstream – Fast rural DSL up to 1 Gbps, $40-$70
- Ziply Fiber – Blazing 50 Gbps in parts of Northwest, $20-$900
Satellite Fallback
When wired or fixed wireless fails, satellite steps in:
- Starlink – 100-350 Mbps, $80-$120, no data cap
- Hughesnet – 25-100 Mbps, $40-$65, 100-200 GB priority data
| Provider | Starting Price | Speed Range | Data Cap | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | $50 | 133-415 Mbps | None | None |
| CenturyLink | $55 | 30-100 Mbps | None | None |
| Rise Broadband | $45 | 25-50 Mbps | None | None |
| Hughesnet | $40 | 25-100 Mbps | 100-200 GB | 2 yrs |
How to Boost Rural Speeds
- Switch to a faster provider or tier
- Use Ethernet for stationary devices
- Upgrade routers or add extenders
- Limit active devices during heavy use
Key Takeaways
- T-Mobile Home Internet leads on coverage and value
- DSL and fixed wireless beat satellite where available
- Unlimited data plans eliminate streaming worries
- Prices and speeds vary sharply by location
Check coverage maps before signing up-rural broadband still depends on geography, but the gap is finally narrowing.
