Low-speed internet can be frustration-inducing, especially if you watch movies online or enjoy online games.
But fret no more, as all your low-speed internet problems are set to go away, as internet service providers like Hughesnet deliver high-quality internet services that allow smooth, seamless online experiences. A compatible router only makes all of this better.
But there is no one-size-fits-all router for satellite internet services. The router you choose must be capable of fulfilling your internet needs and should meet the size, performance, and price requirements as well.
You must be wondering, then, with all the options available, which one should you choose? Well, we’ve carefully curated a list of five modems and routers best compatible with Hughesnet, along with pros, cons, features, and other details that will help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
5 Best Modems for HughesNet Internet Service
TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit Smart Wi-Fi Router
Our Top Modem Recommendation for HughesNet Internet Service!
- Dual band router upgrades to 1200 Mbps high speed internet
- USB Access Share your USB drive content wirelessly
- TP Link Tether app Easily set up and manage your home network
- Does NOT support WISP for wireless interface to Internet Provider
When it comes to HughesNet, having the right modem is a game-changer. In this section, we present the crème de la crème of modems meticulously chosen to ensure your HughesNet experience is nothing short of exceptional.
- TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit Smart Wi-Fi Router
- Gryphon Tower Super-Fast Mesh Wi-Fi Router
- Linksys N300: Wi-Fi Wireless Router
- NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 AD7200 Quad-Stream Wi-Fi Router
- Netgear R6400 AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router
1. TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit Smart Wi-Fi Router
The TP-Link Archer C1200 is a gigabit router that operates on bands and has an impressive wireless range of up to 150 meters.
It is an upgraded version of the Archer C5 aiming to provide enough bandwidth for video game streaming and other media consumption.
If you enjoy watching movies or TV shows, this router offers a streaming experience without disruptions while you indulge in your favorite content.
TP-Link assures that the C1200 delivers performance without any delays, which can significantly affect gaming success or failure.
Equipped with three antennas positioned at the back of the unit, this router boosts your signal strength, ensuring it covers a larger area.
You can freely roam around your house with your phone or Tablet without worrying about losing your Wi-Fi connection.
Features
- Dual-Band
- MU-MIMO
- 4 Ethernet ports
- Beamforming
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Manufacturer | TP-LINK |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $75.97 |
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to install
Cons
- Overheating
2. Gryphon Tower Super-Fast Mesh Wi-Fi Router
The GRYPHON AC3000 is a high-speed internet powerhouse of three gigabits per second! It has Bluetooth, 5GHz radio frequency, 802.11bgn, and 2.4GHz radio frequency. With a sleek, modern design that fits in any home, it also can be controlled remotely via the Gryphon app.
It also comes with futuristic features like malware filtering protection and ad blockers. Moreover, you can also control parental controls through the app.
It comes with six high-powered antennas, which allow for high-speed downloading and gaming, all at the same time, which certainly makes this modem a good choice for people who use high-speed internet plans like the 50GB plan from Hughesnet. It also has a wide coverage range, which is 3000 square feet.
One of the only downsides to this choice is the high price point, which makes it the most expensive device on this list. However, with all its features and high-end technology, it is most certainly worth it.
Features
- MU-MIMO technology
- OFDMA
- 3 Ethernet ports
- Up to 3,000 sq. ft. of coverage
- Beamforming
- Tri-band
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Gryphon |
| Manufacturer | Gryphon Online Safety, Inc. |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, Gaming Console, Personal Computer, Tablet, Printer, Smartphone |
| Color | White |
| Price | $147.50 |
Pros
- Best parental controls
- Easy setup
- Robust security
- Sleek design
Cons
- No Wi-Fi 6
3. Linksys N300: Wi-Fi Wireless Router
A low-cost router that meets all your needs and has brilliant specs is the Linksys N300 Wi-Fi wireless router. This is perfect for people who want good performance but don’t want to spend too much. But the great part is even though the price is low, you’re not compromising on anything! It is engineered to give other routers a run for their money.
It is capable of handling incredible speeds of up to 300 Mbps, which makes your online experience smooth and lag-free. It is user-friendly in terms of installation as well! It features incredibly advanced security features such as WPA/WPA2 and SPI firewall protection.
This router is a great choice if you’re looking for a router that is budget-friendly and offers high speeds!
Features
- 4 Ethernet ports
- MIMO
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Linksys |
| Manufacturer | Linksys |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Compatible Devices | Printer, Smartphone |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $55.19 |
Pros
- User-friendly installation
- Classy design
- Affordable
- Simple setup
- Advanced security
Cons
- No USB ports
- Single band
4. NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 AD7200 Quad-Stream Wi-Fi Router
The Netgear Nighthawk X10 is packed with networking features that you won’t find in wireless routers. Its main purpose is to enhance your gaming and media streaming experience like no router can. It succeeds in some aspects and falls short in others.
This router is ideal for homes, perfect for gaming and 4K video. What is impressive is that it even comes with a built-in Plex server!
It’s a bit on the heavier side, but that is necessary to accommodate all these amazing features! One notable feature of the NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 is its MU MIMO capability, which allows the router to simultaneously send data to devices instead of doing it individually.
Additionally, beamforming technology directs Wi-Fi signals toward devices rather than covering a wide area indiscriminately. This results in more stable connections.
Another significant advantage of the NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 is its backups to a cloud-based storage service and support for Plex Media Server. With this feature, users can easily manage their photos, audio files, and other data stored on USB hard drives.
Features
- 6 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- MU MIMO
- Plex Media Server Support
- Beamforming
- Link Aggregation
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | NETGEAR |
| Manufacturer | Netgear Inc |
| Connectivity Technology | WiFi^Wired |
| Compatible Devices | Phone, Mac, PC, Wireless Devices, Media Streaming Devices, Laptops, Computers, Tablets |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $174.00 |
Pros
- Easy setup
- Cloud storage backup
Cons
- No detailed Quality of Service (QoS) settings
- Expensive
5. Netgear R6400 AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router
Netgear never disappoints when it comes time for reliable and robust modems and routers. The Netgear R6400 AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router is a great high-speed router. It has a classy, elegant design that is one of the many things that make this one a great choice!
If you use high-speed internet to watch movies or play games, then this is the perfect router for you because it is capable of providing internet speeds of up to 1000 Mbps! It also provides dual-band support for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Its high-powered amplifiers help improve its Wi-Fi coverage and range! You can easily adjust its antennas to ensure you get high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity at every corner of your home, too!
Features
- Supports both WLAN and LAN devices
- Firewall protection
- Open VPS Support
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | NETGEAR |
| Manufacturer | Netgear, Inc |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi Fi |
| Compatible Devices | phone, computer, gaming |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $138.95 |
Pros
- Easy to install
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Only one USB port
- Average NAS performance
- Connection drops
How we Picked and Tested Modems for HughesNet Internet Service?
Our selection process was rigorous and comprehensive, aiming to provide you with the confidence that the modems we recommend have been carefully evaluated, both in terms of technical specifications and practical performance. Here are the steps we took to ensure that only the best modems are available at your disposal:
Comprehensive Market Research
Our selection process started with holistic market research. We identified a wide range of modems that were compatible with Hughesnet internet service. This involved reading product specifications and modem manufacturers’ offerings and examining user reviews, which helped us compile a diverse list of candidates.
Our list includes a wide range of modems capable of meeting a wide range of needs.
Compatibility Assessment
One of the key factors we considered is assessing the compatibility of the modems we selected with Hughesnet’s internet service. We went through the approved list of devices by Hughesnet and checked routinely for any updates to the list.
This ensured that the modems on our list were compatible with Hughesnet, reducing compatibility issues for potential buyers.
User and Expert Opinions
To gain a well-informed perspective on the performance and statistics of the modems, we checked for user and expert opinions.
User reviews helped us understand the actual problems or the feedback people had with the modems, and it served to highlight their strengths and weaknesses. We also consulted experts in the field to assess and help us understand the technical aspects of the modems.
Real-World Testing
Testing how the modems work in real life is a crucial aspect of our selection process. Our team conducted real-world tests on the modems we shortlisted to ensure that they would live up to our expectations.
We evaluated their performance in practical scenarios, which involved connecting the modems to Hughesnet’s internet service and assessing their compatibility, performance, and reliability. This helped us understand how these modems would perform in real-life environments.
Unique Demands of Satellite Internet
Hughesnet’s satellite internet service poses unique challenges, such as latency and weather-related issues. We aimed to find modems that would handle these challenges. We assessed how each modem on the list mitigated latency issues and maintained reliable connectivity during adverse weather conditions.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Modem for Hughesnet Internet Service
Several important factors come into play when looking to invest in a modem for Hughesnet Internet Service. The points below will elaborate on the same and, therefore, help you make an informed decision.
Compatibility
Ensuring your modem is compatible with Hughesnet Internet service is crucial because it will enable the smoothest user experience. This task can be made easier by going through the list of Hughesnet-approved modems, which are regularly updated.
Incompatible modems may cause technical issues and service disruptions. You can also contact Hughesnet’s customer support or visit their website for additional information.
Speed Requirements
Everyone has different requirements for their internet services, and the modem you choose should be able to meet all the speed requirements for your needs. You must, therefore, understand your personal internet speed needs.
If you use high-speed internet for tasks like gaming, streaming, downloading, etc, then a high-speed modem would be ideal as it helps meet all your requirements. On the other hand, if you only access the internet for tasks like web browsing and sending emails, a low-speed modem would suffice, too.
Assessing your speed needs and choosing a modem based on your findings will ensure a smooth and lag-free user experience.
Built-in Router
Many modems come equipped with built-in routers. These built-in routers are a combination of a modem and a wireless router. This is incredibly convenient, especially when looking to save space and reduce the number of hardware devices in your home.
Plus, a built-in router can also help save on the expenses of buying a separate router. It is very important to consider if this option meets your network needs. If you already own a high-quality router or if you would like specific advanced features, then this might be the right option for you.
Number of Ports
The number of Ethernet ports available on the modem you’re looking to buy is essential to your decision, too. These ports help connect wireless devices, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and desktop computers.
The number of ports should ideally match the number of devices you want to connect. Having a few spare ports is also a good idea in case the number of devices increases in the future.
Inadequate ports would cause the need for additional hardware and other difficulties, which is why going over the ports is essential before buying a modem.
Wi-Fi Capabilities
If you regularly use Wi-Fi, then consider the Wi-Fi capabilities of the modem you want to buy.
Wi-Fi helps connect laptops, desktop computers, and smart gadgets seamlessly. Modems with Wi-Fi features such as dual-band support, which provides both 2.4Ghz and 5GHz frequency bands.
Dual-band Wi-Fi is a must for better coverage and performance, and it is ideal for bigger homes or households with multiple devices. Features like Beamforming technology and Quality of Service (QoS) can help better your Wi-Fi service by providing stable and reliable connections and prioritizing important activities.
Price and Budget
There are several modems available for several different price points, and your budget has to be considered while selecting your ideal modem. High-end modems might provide advanced features and higher speeds, but budget-friendly modems provide reliable performance, too.
It is, therefore, important to assess your needs and invest in a modem that fits into your budget. Making a well-informed choice that aligns with your budget and your performance expectations is, therefore, crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, HughesNet has a list of approved modems. It’s essential to choose a modem from their compatibility list to ensure seamless and reliable service. Using an unapproved modem may lead to compatibility issues.
Built-in routers aren’t mandatory, but they can simplify your network setup. If you need Wi-Fi connectivity, consider a modem with a built-in router to reduce the number of devices in your network.
For high-speed plans, consider the NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 R9000. Its quad-stream Wi-Fi and advanced features make it suitable for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming and online gaming.
Modem lifespans vary, but a quality modem should last around 3 to 5 years. However, technology evolves, so you may upgrade for improved performance during that time.
While HughesNet recommends using their approved modems, some third-party modems may work. It’s essential to verify compatibility, but using an approved modem is the safest way to ensure reliable service.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing the right modem for your Hughesnet internet service is essential to ensure a smooth online experience! After careful testing and research, we’ve presented you with the 5 top modems to consider buying.
No matter what your needs are, we assure you that there’s a modem on this list that will meet your necessities. Make an informed decision, upgrade your internet connectivity, and enjoy an uninterrupted user experience with Hughesnet.
With the right modem, you can enjoy and make the most out of your Hughesnet subscription, whether you’re watching movies, playing online games, or working from home!
Chris loves technology, specifically smart home technology! With both hands-on and executive leadership experience in his corporate career, Chris stays abreast of emerging technology and solutions and immerses himself in BCCA when not in the office.