Verizon is a strong choice for users in areas with good 5G/4G or Fios coverage who want bundling options and potentially lower monthly costs. Starlink is better suited for those in rural or remote areas where traditional broadband is limited, and unlimited data is a priority, despite higher equipment costs and potential weather-related connectivity issues.
| Attribute | Verizon | SpaceX Starlink |
|---|---|---|
| Network Coverage Area | Verizon's LTE network covers over 98% of the US population. They have nationwide 5G and 5G Ultra Wideband, but 5G coverage is still expanding. Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network covers around 60% of the U.S. population, while their more extensive Nationwide 5G network covers just over 69%. | Covers around 130 countries and territories, fully operational in every state in the United States, aims to provide global mobile broadband. |
| Data Speed (Download/Upload) | 5G Home Internet: Download speeds typically range from 50-300 Mbps, but can reach up to 1 Gbps in select areas. Upload speeds max out at 75 Mbps. 4G LTE Home Internet: Download speeds of 25 Mbps, with peak speeds up to 50 Mbps and single-digit uploads. Verizon's advertised 4G speeds: Range from 5-12 Mbps, but average user experience is around 32.2 Mbps. Fios: Offers varying speeds, including symmetrical download and upload speeds of 300, 500, 940 Mbps, and 2 Gbps in some areas. | Download speeds range from 25 to 220 Mbps, with many users experiencing over 100 Mbps; upload speeds are typically between 5 and 20 Mbps. Speeds vary based on location, time of day, network usage, and service plan. Ookla data from Q1 2025 showed median download speeds of 104.71 Mbps and median upload speeds of 14.84 Mbps. |
| Latency/Ping | Verizon's overall latency averages around 30.8ms. For regional round trips within North America, they target 45ms or less. | Latency ranges between 25 and 60 ms on land, but can be 100+ ms in certain remote locations. Starlink aims for <20ms latency. |
| Service Reliability/Uptime | Verizon Business offers a 99.99% uptime SLA. | Aims for ≥99% availability. Weather conditions can affect connectivity, with potential signal degradation during extreme events. The Starlink dish has a built-in heater to combat snow and ice buildup. |
| Pricing Plans and Data Caps | 5G Home Internet: Plans start at $35.00/mo with Auto Pay. LTE Home Internet: Costs $40/month for existing Verizon wireless customers and $60/month for non-Verizon customers. Unlimited Plus plan: Offers access to Ultra Wideband 5G with no data caps for premium mobile data. Unlimited Welcome plan: Provides access to standalone 5G, but may have data caps (speeds may drop to 4Mbps after 500GB of data usage). | Residential plans start at $120 monthly, not including equipment costs. Mobile plans range from $50 to $2,150 per month. Roam Unlimited plan for $165 a month offers unlimited data and in-motion use up to 100 mph. Starlink offers unlimited data with no throttling. |
| Customer Service Quality | Some customers report challenges with customer service, particularly regarding response times. | Dedicated customer service is sparse, with DIY installation. The only way to connect with support is through tickets on the website or phone app. Some customers have noted challenges with customer service. Once a response is received, Starlink tends to try to make things right, sometimes issuing service credits for prolonged outages. |
| Equipment Costs (Installation, Modem/Router) | LTE Home Internet requires purchasing a $240 router. An $18/month router charge applies for TV plans if not subscribed to Fios internet. Verizon Fios may waive the $99 setup charge when ordering online. | Equipment costs $349-$2,500. Starlink Mini equipment costs $599. Standard kit is a one-time purchase of $349. Priority equipment can cost $599-$1,499. Free professional roof installation may be available in select areas. The Starlink app uses augmented reality to help customers pick the best location and position for their receivers. |
| Contract Length and Cancellation Fees | Verizon Fios internet plans generally have no annual contracts. | Starlink has no contracts. The Starlink Mini includes a 30-day trial without a contract requirement. |
| Technology (5G, Satellite) | Verizon uses both 5G and 4G LTE. They are also working on satellite connectivity. They successfully conducted a live video call via satellite using AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 2. | Satellite internet constellation using low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. It uses Ku-, Ka-, and E-band phased array antennas. Some units have laser transponders. T-Mobile US and SpaceX are partnering to add satellite cellular service capability to Starlink satellites, starting with text messaging. |
| Bundling Options (TV, Phone) | Verizon offers bundling options for TV, internet, and phone services. Bundling can provide convenience, and savings of up to $25/month are possible with a qualifying Verizon Wireless plan. | Primarily focuses on internet service. |
| Security Features | Verizon Digital Secure app: Includes features like web security, Wi-Fi security, antivirus protection, system check, app privacy, VPN, and ID theft protection. Two-factor authentication is available for Verizon accounts. | Uses strong encryption, follows strict privacy rules, supports VPNs and firewalls, and employs a 'Zero-Trust Networking' approach. |
| Availability in Rural Areas | Verizon is expanding its 5G network in rural areas. They also offer LTE Home Internet in some rural locations. | Ideal for rural and remote areas lacking traditional broadband. |