Rise Broadband Internet Review
Rise Broadband is a fixed wireless internet service that covers 19 states, with Texas, Colorado, and Illinois having the most coverage. In remote areas of the US, internet access is more difficult to come by. Rise Broadband helps solve this problem by using fixed wireless connections which work by beaming internet signals from nearby cell towers to an antenna in your home. The signals are then converted into an internet connection by a modem. It’s similar to satellite internet, but without the same latency, strict data limits, or the need to install a satellite dish.
For those that can’t easily access DSL, cable or fiber internet service, fixed wireless can be a great option but is Rise Broadband fixed wireless the best choice for you?
- Who is Rise Broadband internet for?
- Key considerations
- What others say about Rise Broadband internet
- How does Rise Broadband internet compare to other providers?
Who is Rise Broadband internet for?
Rise Broadband’s internet service is especially great for those who live in rural areas as there tend to be a limited number of internet service providers (ISPs) willing to go that far to deliver their services. Rise Broadband has dedicated itself to providing internet speeds ranging from 25-50Mbps. This means that Rise Broadband internet can cater to a variety of household needs.
For instance, Rise Broadband meets the needs of most gamers. According to Gamingdesign.org, the average internet speed needed for enjoyable gaming is at least 25Mbps. So Rise Broadband is more than capable of providing an enjoyable and smooth experience for gamers who choose its services.
While Rise Broadband provides download speeds between 25 and 50Mbps upload speeds are limited to 4-5Mbps. This means that if you need to do a lot of uploading and data-intensive work, there are likely better plans out there for you. However, if you only need internet access for tasks such as online classes, zoom meetings, gaming, social media, and streaming, this ISP should be just fine.
Key considerations
Are there any additional fees?
Regardless of your location and service plan, there is a $10 monthly charge for your antenna and modem. You can also choose to rent a router for about $15/month but you can use your own if you already have one that is compatible with Rise Broadband internet.
Are there any data caps?
Some Rise Broadband internet plans have unlimited data while others have a data cap of 250GB. You’ll pay an additional $5 for every 10GB once you exceed your data cap. The unlimited plans have an additional charge of $10/month, so this option might be good if you feel you may be at risk of exceeding your data cap.
Does Rise Broadband have contracts?
Depending on your location, your plan might come with a contract but Rise Broadband is primarily a month-to-month service. This makes it easy for you to opt out without having to pay an early termination fee, which can often be quite expensive.
What others say about Rise Broadband internet
Rise Broadband has maintained an A-Plus rating with the Better Business Bureau since 2015, which is quite impressive. Also, according to CNET, “Rise Broadband is an excellent choice for rural internet service.”
How does Rise Broadband internet compare to other providers?
Rise Broadband is a good deal when compared to other ISPs that commonly serve rural areas, such as HughesNet, Viasat, and CenturyLink. For example, HughesNet charges a minimum of $2.40 per Mbps for their 25Mbps plan. Similarly, CenturyLink’s DSL service costs $2.45 per Mbps for a 20Mbps plan. Other fixed wireless providers may offer faster speeds but most have less coverage than Rise Broadband internet, making it a pretty good option all around.
*Pricing varies by location and availability. Speeds may vary. All prices subject to change; for current pricing and availability visit our internet service page. Prices as of 2/16/22.
Disclosure | Updater articles are based on our own data and research, independent from partner relationships. We are not compensated by partners for information and opinions presented here. Our Editorial Terms of Service can be found here.
Internet and TV tips
Switching providers and don’t know where to start? We can help.
