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When choosing between internet providers, your location often dictates your options. EarthLink offers multiple connection types with nationwide coverage, while Starlink provides satellite-based service with a global reach, making it ideal for rural and remote areas where traditional broadband isn’t available. Both providers have unique advantages. Follow along to see what each has to offer.
Provider Takeaways: EarthLink vs. Starlink
EarthLink:
- Offers multiple connection types, including fiber, 5G/4G LTE wireless, and satellite.
- Provides symmetrical fiber speeds up to 5 Gigs in select areas.
- Features highly-rated customer support and no credit checks for some plans.
Starlink:
- Global availability, perfect for rural, remote, and nomadic lifestyles.
- No long-term contracts required.
- Best-in-class satellite internet with low-earth orbit technology.
- Best internet protection
- Unlimited data included
- No credit checks
- High-speed satellite internet
- Low-latency connection
- No annual contracts
Internet Plans
Our Picks | | |
|---|---|---|
Starting Price | $39.95/mo. | $120/mo.* |
Max Download | 5 Gbps | 200 Mbps |
Data Caps | No | No |
Equipment Fees | Up to $14.95/mo. | None |
| Check Availability | Check Availability |
Pricing, speeds, offers, and availability vary by service address and are subject to change at any time. Additional fees, taxes, and terms may apply. As of 4/14/26.
EarthLink Internet Plans
EarthLink offers a variety of connection types, including fiber, satellite, and 5G/4G LTE wireless home internet, with coverage spanning 48 states. Its fiber plans are a standout feature, providing symmetrical upload and download speeds up to 5 Gbps in certain areas. Customers can choose between month-to-month or contract options, depending on their selected plan.
Starlink Internet Plans
Starlink specializes exclusively in satellite internet, using its advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. This technology allows for faster speeds and lower latency than traditional satellite internet. Speeds typically range from 50-250 Mbps for downloads. Its global availability makes it a premier choice for customers in underserved or remote regions.
Comparing the Differences Between EarthLink and Starlink
| Feature | EarthLink | Starlink |
|---|---|---|
| Data Caps | Unlimited on most plans, including all fiber plans | Unlimited, subject to a fair use policy for network congestion |
| Contract Length | Month-to-month or contract options, depending on plan | Month-to-month standard; contracts available |
| Internet Security | Optional EarthLink Protect security suite (additional monthly fee) | Standard WPA2 encryption; no additional security suite |
| Connection Types | Fiber, 5G/4G LTE wireless, and satellite — urban, suburban, and rural | Satellite only via LEO network |
| Feature | Data Caps |
|---|---|
| EarthLink | Unlimited on most plans, including all fiber plans |
| Starlink | Unlimited, subject to a fair use policy for network congestion |
| Feature | Contract Length |
| EarthLink | Month-to-month or contract options, depending on plan |
| Starlink | Month-to-month standard; contracts available |
| Feature | Internet Security |
| EarthLink | Optional EarthLink Protect security suite (additional monthly fee) |
| Starlink | Standard WPA2 encryption; no additional security suite |
| Feature | Connection Types |
| EarthLink | Fiber, 5G/4G LTE wireless, and satellite â urban, suburban, and rural |
| Starlink | Satellite only via LEO network |
EarthLink vs. Starlink Contracts and Fees
| Feature | EarthLink | Starlink |
|---|---|---|
| Price Increases | Promotional pricing may increase after initial term; some plans offer price locks | Generally stable but subject to change by service area and plan type |
| Installation | Professional installation available; fees vary by connection type | Self-install kit included; user-friendly setup at no extra cost |
| Contracts | Most plans require a 12-month contract; wireless home internet plans are no-contract | No long-term contracts; cancel anytime |
| Termination Fees | May apply if canceled before contract end; fees vary by remaining term | None |
| Equipment | Rental available at $12–$15/mo. | One-time purchase ~$599 for dish and router kit; non-refundable |
| Feature | Price Increases |
|---|---|
| EarthLink | Promotional pricing may increase after initial term; some plans offer price locks |
| Starlink | Generally stable but subject to change by service area and plan type |
| Feature | Installation |
| EarthLink | Professional installation available; fees vary by connection type |
| Starlink | Self-install kit included; user-friendly setup at no extra cost |
| Feature | Contracts |
| EarthLink | Most plans require a 12-month contract; wireless home internet plans are no-contract |
| Starlink | No long-term contracts; cancel anytime |
| Feature | Termination Fees |
| EarthLink | May apply if canceled before contract end; fees vary by remaining term |
| Starlink | None |
| Feature | Equipment |
| EarthLink | Rental available at $12â$15/mo. |
| Starlink | One-time purchase ~$599 for dish and router kit; non-refundable |
EarthLink vs Starlink Deals and Promotions
EarthLink:
- Occasionally offers promotional pricing or discounts for new customers.
- All EarthLink customers have access to EarthLink Perks, a marketplace for retail deals and discounts.
- Sometimes waives installation fees as part of their promotions.
Starlink:
- Will discount starting rates or equipment for select periods and locations.
- Features month-to-month service plans, allowing customers to start and stop service without financial penalties.
Pros & Cons: EarthLink
Pros
Multiple connection types (fiber, wireless, satellite)
Extremely high speeds available with fiber (up to 5 Gbps)
No data caps on most plans and no credit checks
Cons
Fiber availability is limited to select areas
Monthly equipment rental fees
Some plans may require a contract
Pros & Cons: Starlink
Pros
Available globally, including in remote and rural areas
Month-to-month service plans
Faster speeds and lower latency than traditional satellite internet
Cons
High one-time equipment cost
Speeds can vary based on network congestion
Slower maximum speeds compared to EarthLink’s fiber options
Is EarthLink or Starlink better for you?
EarthLink: Best for Variety and Speed
If you live in an area with access to multiple connection types and prioritize speed, EarthLink is an excellent choice. Its fiber plans offer some of the fastest residential speeds available, perfect for heavy internet users who stream, game, and work from home. The variety of plans ensures that there is an option for nearly any household in urban or suburban settings.
Starlink: Best for Remote and Rural Access
If you live in a rural or remote area with limited or no access to traditional broadband, Starlink is a game-changer. It provides reliable, high-speed internet where other providers can’t reach. With no contracts and global coverage, it’s the ideal solution for those in underserved regions or for individuals with a nomadic lifestyle who need consistent connectivity.
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