Is Satellite Still Worth It: Find the Best Satellite Internet Providers of 2023.

Yolisa Motha
Internet Provider Comparisons

There are many pros to having cable TV — and one of them is certainly being able to tune into every live NBA basketball game and being able to record it if you’re busy. Nothing’s better than pre-game excitement as your friends get the snacks, and you grab your favourite team’s jersey for that post-victory selfie. However, not everybody that loves watching the NBA has cable, or can afford it.

That’s why HomeLinkd has compiled a list of all the websites and streaming services that stream live TV and broadcast each game. Pass the ball — let’s go! Find out how you can watch your favorite games online through services like NBA League Pass, and so much more!

Eleven of the best streaming service options to watch NBA games in 2023

NBA League Pass:

If you’re a fan of a specific team, then this might be the best choice for you. For $200 per season, you get to watch every out-of-market game for the team of your choice. You also get to choose from multiple camera angles, and there are no commercials. The only downside is that if your team makes it to the playoffs, you won’t have a way to watch games live —you’ll have to wait until they’re over.

The NBA League Pass is the best place to watch the NBA Playoffs. The “International League Pass” is free from blackout restriction and covers a wide array of countries. It also gives you flexibility to find a country that accepts your chosen payment method. Plus, there’s a 7-day free trial available if you’d like to try the service before committing.

NBA TV Live:

This is a great option for the basketball fan that wants to watch the NBA playoffs without cable or satellite TV, all season long. For $6.99 per month, you get access to live games, highlights, analysis, and classic games. You also get a 7-day free trial when you first sign up.

AT&T TV Now:

The premium plan that offers 45+ channels with its starter package with ABC, ESPN, and NBC included for play off streaming. AT&T TV Now starts at $54.99 per month for the “plus” package while the “max” costs $79.99 per month.

DAZN:

This is a great option for international fans as it is the only place you can watch every single game of the NBA season. It costs $19.99 per month, and you also get a 1-month free trial when you first sign up.

It is also one of the cheapest ways to stream the NBA and other international sports. No hidden fees, and you get access to every broadcast game on the TV schedule.

fuboTV:

A great option for NBA fans. Fubo gives you a 7-day free trial and then costs $54.99 per month. You get access to live games, as well as on-demand content. Plus, there are no ads during the live games.

You can also watch behind-the-scenes content with access to NBA TV!

Hulu + Live TV:

A huge amount of national and regional sports channels and TV networks can be accessed with a premium subscription. You can try it risk-free with a 7-day free trial. After that, it’s $54.99 per month.

It’s one of the most comprehensive streaming services as it offers 60+ channels, which is perfect for cord-cutters. You also get access to Hulu’s huge on-demand library with your subscription.

Sling TV:

If you’re only following one team, you can get a more affordable “Team Pass”. You also have the option for an NBA League Pass cable package to have access to pre-season games through the playoffs, letting you watch every single NBA game.

Sling TV starts at $30 per month, and you can add sports extras like the NBA League Pass for an additional $29 per month.

Sportsnet:

One of the most affordable options on the list covers a range of international sports, including the NHL, NFL, UFC, and MLB. You can get a 7-day free trial and then it’s only $19.99 per month after that.

TSN Direct:

The cheapest monthly plan on this list, which offers a wide range of global sporting events. You can watch on two devices at the same time with this subscription. It starts at only $4.99 per month, and you also get a 7-day free trial.

YouTube TV:

One of the more higher-priced streaming services, but has a wide range of sports and regular broadcasting. It also has a 7-day free trial. After that, it costs $64.99 per month.

You get access to over 85 channels with this subscription, as well as an unlimited DVR storage. It’s perfect for cord-cutters as there are no contracts required.

DirecTV Stream:

One of the only streaming services that offer NBA TV. You can also get ESPN and TNT with this subscription.

It starts at $40 per month, but you also get a 7-day free trial when you first sign up.

Got an Apple or Android device? Here’s how to use your mobile device for streaming the NBA

Here's how to watch the NBA playoffs live without cable from your mobile device:

The NBA’s official mobile app

The monthly or annual NBA League Pass holders can watch the live NBA playoffs and finals from the official app of NBA. You can enjoy live streaming or replays, at your choice and convenience. NBA basketball fans can also get breaking news and exciting game highlights. Not only this, but they get scores, standings, stats, and schedules through the app for the team they are supporting.

The option of NBA TV is also available for cable subscribers in the NBA app. Prices for NBA League and playoff Pass start from $17.99 per month for one team, and goes up to $249.99 per annum for all teams, while avoiding the annoyance of commercials.

The Next VR app

The immersive Next VR app can put you in the front row, backstage, and court side at the must-watch NBA playoffs and games this season. However, you can only use this app on an Apple device since the tech giant bought NextVR in 2020 and then removed it from the Google Play store. But why choose one when you have the option to watch up to 13 live games and playoffs on a theatre-size screen at once? Streaming live playoffs and leagues or replaying videos from your Apple or Android mobile device is easy with the app.

In addition, the Next VR app can be downloaded for Gear VR, HTC Vive headsets, and daydreams for an even more exciting experience. Just remember —you need an NBA League Pass to enjoy these immersive experiences.

Where to watch the 2023 NBA playoffs without cable

TNT and ESPN will offer live broadcasts of the NBA playoffs, so you can watch them without cable.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider signing up for a streaming service like Sling TV or YouTube TV. You can also use your mobile device to stream the NBA playoffs using the NBA app or the Next VR app.

Which is the preferred live stream choice to watch the NBA Finals?

The preferred live stream choice to watch the NBA Finals is TNT.

If you don’t have a cable subscription, or if you want to watch the game on your mobile device, there are several ways to do so.

You can watch the NBA Finals on TNT through any of the following live stream services:

- Sling TV

- DirecTV Now

- PlayStation Vue

- YouTube TV

Sling Orange vs Sling Blue: Which is the better option for a Sports Lover?

Sling TV is one of the most popular streaming services, and for good reason. It’s affordable, has a wide range of channels, and offers a 7-day free trial.

There are two main options for Sling TV: Sling Orange and Sling Blue. Both offer a variety of channels, but they have different strengths.

If you’re looking for a streaming service that offers a wide range of sports channels, then Sling Blue is the better option. It includes channels like NBCSN, NFL Network, and FS1.

On the other hand, if you want a streaming service that has a variety of entertainment channels, then Sling Orange is the better choice. It includes channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, and Freeform.

Can I watch out-of-market games without a cable connection?

Yes, you can.

If you want to watch out-of-market games, you can sign up for an MLB.TV subscription. With this subscription, you’ll be able to watch every out-of-market game during the regular season.

MLB.TV also offers a 7-day free trial, so you can try it before you commit to a subscription.

How to stream the NBA All-Star game?

The NBA All-Star game will be broadcast on TNT.

Compare TV options for you and your home

There’s no need to miss out on any NBA game when you have this many options to stream. Get connected with an internet and TV bundle from one of HomeLinkd’s top packages from Spectrum, DirecTV, Frontier FiOS and more!

Are you ready to cheer on the Phoenix Suns or the Milwaukee Bucks while embracing your cord-cutter lifestyle?

Get in on the NBA and other live sports with an internet or TV package from HomeLinkd!

There are many pros to having cable TV — and one of them is certainly being able to tune into every live NBA basketball game and being able to record it if you’re busy. Nothing’s better than pre-game excitement as your friends get the snacks, and you grab your favourite team’s jersey for that post-victory selfie. However, not everybody that loves watching the NBA has cable, or can afford it.

That’s why HomeLinkd has compiled a list of all the websites and streaming services that stream live TV and broadcast each game. Pass the ball — let’s go! Find out how you can watch your favorite games online through services like NBA League Pass, and so much more!

Eleven of the best streaming service options to watch NBA games in 2023

NBA League Pass:

If you’re a fan of a specific team, then this might be the best choice for you. For $200 per season, you get to watch every out-of-market game for the team of your choice. You also get to choose from multiple camera angles, and there are no commercials. The only downside is that if your team makes it to the playoffs, you won’t have a way to watch games live —you’ll have to wait until they’re over.

The NBA League Pass is the best place to watch the NBA Playoffs. The “International League Pass” is free from blackout restriction and covers a wide array of countries. It also gives you flexibility to find a country that accepts your chosen payment method. Plus, there’s a 7-day free trial available if you’d like to try the service before committing.

NBA TV Live:

This is a great option for the basketball fan that wants to watch the NBA playoffs without cable or satellite TV, all season long. For $6.99 per month, you get access to live games, highlights, analysis, and classic games. You also get a 7-day free trial when you first sign up.

AT&T TV Now:

The premium plan that offers 45+ channels with its starter package with ABC, ESPN, and NBC included for play off streaming. AT&T TV Now starts at $54.99 per month for the “plus” package while the “max” costs $79.99 per month.

DAZN:

This is a great option for international fans as it is the only place you can watch every single game of the NBA season. It costs $19.99 per month, and you also get a 1-month free trial when you first sign up.

It is also one of the cheapest ways to stream the NBA and other international sports. No hidden fees, and you get access to every broadcast game on the TV schedule.

fuboTV:

A great option for NBA fans. Fubo gives you a 7-day free trial and then costs $54.99 per month. You get access to live games, as well as on-demand content. Plus, there are no ads during the live games.

You can also watch behind-the-scenes content with access to NBA TV!

Hulu + Live TV:

A huge amount of national and regional sports channels and TV networks can be accessed with a premium subscription. You can try it risk-free with a 7-day free trial. After that, it’s $54.99 per month.

It’s one of the most comprehensive streaming services as it offers 60+ channels, which is perfect for cord-cutters. You also get access to Hulu’s huge on-demand library with your subscription.

Sling TV:

If you’re only following one team, you can get a more affordable “Team Pass”. You also have the option for an NBA League Pass cable package to have access to pre-season games through the playoffs, letting you watch every single NBA game.

Sling TV starts at $30 per month, and you can add sports extras like the NBA League Pass for an additional $29 per month.

Sportsnet:

One of the most affordable options on the list covers a range of international sports, including the NHL, NFL, UFC, and MLB. You can get a 7-day free trial and then it’s only $19.99 per month after that.

TSN Direct:

The cheapest monthly plan on this list, which offers a wide range of global sporting events. You can watch on two devices at the same time with this subscription. It starts at only $4.99 per month, and you also get a 7-day free trial.

YouTube TV:

One of the more higher-priced streaming services, but has a wide range of sports and regular broadcasting. It also has a 7-day free trial. After that, it costs $64.99 per month.

You get access to over 85 channels with this subscription, as well as an unlimited DVR storage. It’s perfect for cord-cutters as there are no contracts required.

DirecTV Stream:

One of the only streaming services that offer NBA TV. You can also get ESPN and TNT with this subscription.

It starts at $40 per month, but you also get a 7-day free trial when you first sign up.

Got an Apple or Android device? Here’s how to use your mobile device for streaming the NBA

Here's how to watch the NBA playoffs live without cable from your mobile device:

The NBA’s official mobile app

The monthly or annual NBA League Pass holders can watch the live NBA playoffs and finals from the official app of NBA. You can enjoy live streaming or replays, at your choice and convenience. NBA basketball fans can also get breaking news and exciting game highlights. Not only this, but they get scores, standings, stats, and schedules through the app for the team they are supporting.

The option of NBA TV is also available for cable subscribers in the NBA app. Prices for NBA League and playoff Pass start from $17.99 per month for one team, and goes up to $249.99 per annum for all teams, while avoiding the annoyance of commercials.

The Next VR app

The immersive Next VR app can put you in the front row, backstage, and court side at the must-watch NBA playoffs and games this season. However, you can only use this app on an Apple device since the tech giant bought NextVR in 2020 and then removed it from the Google Play store.

But why choose one when you have the option to watch up to 13 live games and playoffs on a theatre-size screen at once? Streaming live playoffs and leagues or replaying videos from your Apple or Android mobile device is easy with the app.

In addition, the Next VR app can be downloaded for Gear VR, HTC Vive headsets, and daydreams for an even more exciting experience. Just remember —you need an NBA League Pass to enjoy these immersive experiences.

Where to watch the 2023 NBA playoffs without cable

TNT and ESPN will offer live broadcasts of the NBA playoffs, so you can watch them without cable.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider signing up for a streaming service like Sling TV or YouTube TV. You can also use your mobile device to stream the NBA playoffs using the NBA app or the Next VR app.

Which is the preferred live stream choice to watch the NBA Finals?

The preferred live stream choice to watch the NBA Finals is TNT.

If you don’t have a cable subscription, or if you want to watch the game on your mobile device, there are several ways to do so.

You can watch the NBA Finals on TNT through any of the following live stream services:

- Sling TV

- DirecTV Now

- PlayStation Vue

- YouTube TV

Sling Orange vs Sling Blue: Which is the better option for a Sports Lover?

Sling TV is one of the most popular streaming services, and for good reason. It’s affordable, has a wide range of channels, and offers a 7-day free trial.

There are two main options for Sling TV: Sling Orange and Sling Blue. Both offer a variety of channels, but they have different strengths.

If you’re looking for a streaming service that offers a wide range of sports channels, then Sling Blue is the better option. It includes channels like NBCSN, NFL Network, and FS1.

On the other hand, if you want a streaming service that has a variety of entertainment channels, then Sling Orange is the better choice. It includes channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, and Freeform.

Can I watch out-of-market games without a cable connection?

Yes, you can.

If you want to watch out-of-market games, you can sign up for an MLB.TV subscription. With this subscription, you’ll be able to watch every out-of-market game during the regular season.

MLB.TV also offers a 7-day free trial, so you can try it before you commit to a subscription.

How to stream the NBA All-Star game?

The NBA All-Star game will be broadcast on TNT.

Compare TV options for you and your home

There’s no need to miss out on any NBA game when you have this many options to stream. Get connected with an internet and TV bundle from one of HomeLinkd’s top packages from Spectrum, DirecTV, Frontier FiOS and more!

Are you ready to cheer on the Phoenix Suns or the Milwaukee Bucks while embracing your cord-cutter lifestyle?

Get in on the NBA and other live sports with an internet or TV package from HomeLinkd!

Wondering what’s become of satellite internet, and whether it’s still worth getting in 2023? Since satellite internet changed the world when it first came to fruition in the 1960s, many referred to this broadband internet connection as the "father of the internet".

For the very first time, satellite internet gave people the opportunity to access knowledge and information that was either previously unknown to them, or only available in heavy, dusty encyclopedia books.

Considering satellite internet service as one of your options? Or, are you maybe wondering what satellite internet can offer you that cable or fiber internet can't?

HomeLinkd takes a look at satellite as an internet provider in 2023 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.

How does satellite internet work?

Satellite internet uses a satellite dish to connect your home to a satellite in space, which then bounces satellite signals back down to an ISP. The satellite is essentially acting as a middleman between you and the internet—and because of this, satellite internet can be slower and more expensive than other types of internet, like cable or fiber.

That said, there are some advantages to satellite internet. Because it doesn’t rely on ground infrastructure (like cables or phone lines), it can be available in rural areas where other types of internet aren’t. And because it doesn’t require any wiring, setting up satellite internet is generally easier than setting up other kinds of connections.

The pros and cons of satellite internet

Sometimes the best way to decide on something is to take a look at the pros and cons.

THE PROS:

Availability

Because satellite internet comes from a gigantic orbiting satellite in the Earth’s atmosphere, it can virtually reach any area in the US, no matter how rural. If you live in farm lands, desert-like or mountainous areas, you can still receive quality internet through satellite.

Affordability

Satellite internet connection is known to be more affordable than other broadband connections. If you are looking for a budget-friendly internet package, satellite may be a good choice for you.

TV packages on offer

TV packages are also available with satellite internet providers. Offering thousands of channels, price-lock options, DVR space for recording, On-Demand channels and more.

Speeds are improving

Although most satellite internet providers don’t offer extremely high speeds like other broadband options—some satellite companies are starting to offer higher speeds, while still maintaining an affordable price. Viasat offers download speeds of up to 100Mbps and HughesNet offers download speeds of up to 25Mbps.

Installation is sorted

Regarding equipment, installation is done by a skilled technician so you don’t have to worry about installing the dish and the other pieces of equipment yourself.

THE CONS:

Average bandwidth

‍For internet users looking for high bandwidth and high speeds—satellite may not be the best choice. If youneed enough bandwidth to cover multiple devices for multiple people withspeeds and bandwidth capable of HD video conferencing, coding, or online graphics or film editing, satellite may not be able to withstand this level of internet use.

High latency in gaming

Although satellite provides speeds high enough for gaming on a simple level, it may be difficult to play online games due to satellite’s high latency. Latency is the word used to describe the process for data to be sent from your device to the satellite and back again—and because the satellite is far away—it takes longer than with a 4G or fiber internet connection. Online gaming may be jumpy and slower with satellite internet.

Vulnerable to weather

Unfortunately, we cannot control the weather and satellite internet’s reaction to it. If there is a storm, heavy rain or a natural disaster taking place —chances are your satellite connection will be negatively affected as it relies on signals that travel through the air.

Fixed contracts

These days, many people prefer a flexible subscription that can be cancelled at any time as this gives them more freedom with their budget as well as the freedom to choose another broadband connection. Satellite providers often require lengthy contracts of 1 or 2 years at the minimum, which locks a person into a long-term commitment before they even know if they are happy with the service.

Satellite vs Cable internet

Cable internet is a popular broadband connection as it offers high speeds for multiple users and devices. With cable, you can expect speeds of up to 1,000Mbps —but these kinds of speeds come with a price tag.

Cable connections are also more likely to be impacted by your area’s terrain as the cables need to physically reach your home. This means that in rural areas or mountainous terrain, you may not be able to get a cable connection. But you will be able to receive satellite connection from one of the many internet providers available.

Satellite, on the other hand, does not rely on ground infrastructure making it available in more locations.

Who are the best Satellite Internet Providers of 2023?

If you have decided that satellite is the right type of broadband connection for you, then you will need to choose a provider. HomeLinkd has put together a list of the best satellite providers in the United States so that you can make an informed decision.

Viasat: Best Overall

HughesNet: Best for latent speeds

Dish Network: Best for data plans

Exede: Best for affordability

WildBlue: Best for customer service



Compare the best satellite internet providers

From HughesNet and ViaSat plans, to Excede and Wildblue packages - HomeLinkd provides a full run-down of the best satellite internet options on the market.

HughesNet Plans:

Cost per month: From $65 -$16

Bandwidth speeds: Up to 25Mbps (downloads)

Extras: Free installation, video data saver

HughesNet offers four different plans to choose from with their prices ranging from $59.99–$149.99/mo. The lower-priced plans have lower data allowances while the more expensive plans offer more data. All of HughesNet’s plans offer speeds of up to 25Mbps.

Viasat Satellite Internet Plans:

Cost per month; From $50 -$200

Bandwidth speeds: 10 –100Mbps

Extras: Unlimited data, HD video, and month-to-month option available

Viasat has six different internet plans that you can choose from with their prices ranging from $50–$150/mo. Viasat’s higher-speed plans are a bit more expensive but they offer download speeds of up to 100Mbps. Viasat also offers unlimited data on all of their plans, which is great for those who need a lot of data.

Dish Network Plans:

Cost per month: From $50-$200

Bandwidth speeds: 10-100Mbps

Extras: Data options from 10GB – 350GB, no data overage charges

Dish Network offers four different internet plans with their prices ranging from $50–$200/mo. All of Dish Network’s plans offer download speeds of up to 25Mbps. The main difference between the plans is the data allowance, with the higher-priced plans offering more data. Dish Network also does not charge for data overages, which is great for those who need a lot of data.

Exede Plans:

Cost per month: From $50 – $150

Bandwidth speeds: 12 – 100Mbps

Extras: Data options from 10GB – 350GB, no data overage charges

Exede offers four different plans with their prices ranging from $50–$150/mo. All of Exede’s plans offer download speeds of up to 12Mbps. The main difference between the plans is the data allowance, with the higher-priced plans offering more data. Exede also does not charge for data overages, which is great for those who need a lot of data.

WildBlue Plans:

Cost per month: From $60-$200

Bandwidth speeds: 5-15Mbps

Extras: Data options from 10GB – 100GB

WildBlue offers three different internet access plans with their prices ranging from $60–$200/mo. All of WildBlue’s plans offer download speeds of up to 5Mbps. The main difference between the plans is the data allowance, with the higher-priced plans offering more data.

StarLink Satellite Plans:

Cost per month: From $99-$499

Bandwidth speeds: Up to 150Mbps

Extras: Data options from 50GB – unlimited, free installation

StarLink internet offers two different plans with their prices ranging from $99–$499/mo. The main difference between the two plans is the data allowance, with the higher-priced plan offering unlimited data. StarLink also offers a free installation for those who sign up for their service.

Satellite Internet FAQ

Who offers the fastest satellite internet speeds?

Viasat currently offers unmatched high-speed internet speeds with their plans offering download speeds of up to 100Mbps.

How much data do I need for satellite internet?

The amount of data you need will depend on how you use the internet. If you are a heavy user who streams videos and downloads large files, then you will need more data than someone who only uses the internet for email and light web browsing.

The best way to determine how much data you need is to look at your past usage and base your decision on that.

Who offers the best satellite internet service?

The best satellite internet service is the one that meets your needs and budget. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a satellite internet provider, so you will need to do your research to find the one that is right for you.

How much does a satellite internet plan cost?

The cost of satellite internet plans range between $50 and $200 per month. The exact price will depend on the satellite ISPs and the plan you choose.

What is the difference between satellite internet and DSL?

The main difference between satellite internet and DSL is that satellite internet requires a dish to be installed in order to receive the signal from the satellite, while DSL does not require a dish. Satellite internet also typically has higher prices and slower speeds than DSL.

What other internet types are available in rural areas?

In addition to satellite internet, there are a few other rural internet options available. These include wireless internet, which uses towers to send and receive signals, and dial-up internet, which uses a phone line to connect to the internet.

Satellite internet data: how does it work?

Satellite internet data works by beaming a signal from a satellite to a dish that is installed on your home. The signal then travels from the dish to your modem, which connects you to the internet. Satellite internet typically has higher prices and slower speeds than DSL or cable.

How can I find a satellite internet service provider near me?

HomeLinkd has a directory of satellite internet service providers that you can search by your zip code.

How can I get satellite internet?

The best way to get satellite internet is to contact a satellite internet service provider in your area and ask about their plans and pricing. You can also search for providers on HomeLinkd.

Learn more about satellite internet with HomeLinkd

Although satellite internet and its service plans are being overlooked thanks to the introduction of options such as fiber and 5G, satellite broadband has remained a staple in providing TV and access to the internet for decades because of its availability, affordability, and improved speeds.

Do you think satellite is the right choice for you and your home? Every internet type will have its pros and cons and, at the end of the day, satellite internet is still a solid choice for internet users across the US.

Browse and shop satellite deals without hassle and fuss with HomeLinkd!

Written by:
Yolisa Motha
Senior Copywriter

Yolisa is a word artist who's on a quest to help businesses make an impact so powerful - it causes a ripple effect. If Yolisa isn't painting pictures with her words, you'll find her hiking up a mountain or soaking up the beach sun.

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