A Comparison of Fixed Wireless and Starlink For Rural Homes in Texas

Starlink vs Fixed Wireless Internet Speeds

For many rural Texans, traditional internet options like cable or fiber are either unavailable or too expensive to install. That leaves two increasingly popular choices for reliable connectivity: fixed wireless internet and Starlink, the satellite-based service launched by SpaceX. Both promise to bridge the rural broadband gap, but how do they actually compare?

When it comes to rural internet in Texas, many residents are comparing Starlink vs fixed wireless in Texas to figure out which option is better. Both have pros and cons, but choosing the right fit depends on speed, cost, and how you actually use the internet.

Internet Speeds: What You Can Expect

Fixed Wireless Speed in Rural Texas

Fixed wireless uses radio signals to deliver internet from a tower to a small antenna mounted on your home. When positioned correctly, this setup provides consistent download speeds ranging from 25 Mbps to over 100 Mbps. Upload speeds are typically lower but still suitable for Zoom calls, smart home usage, and cloud backups.

Many rural homes around Marble Falls and San Angelo see stable speeds through fixed wireless connections, especially in open areas with good line of sight. If you’re streaming, working remotely, or managing smart home devices, this is usually fast enough. In fact, many residents looking for high-performance internet service in Marble Falls choose fixed wireless for just that reason.

Starlink Download and Upload Speeds

Starlink’s performance varies more widely. According to user data collected by Ookla in 2023, Starlink users in Texas saw median download speeds of 50 to 100 Mbps and upload speeds around 10 Mbps. Those numbers are promising, especially for areas with zero other options, but real-world speeds can fluctuate due to satellite congestion and signal interference.

Equipment and Setup

Fixed Wireless Installation

A fixed wireless system involves mounting a small antenna or dish on your home, which connects wirelessly to a nearby tower. The install is handled by a technician who also checks signal strength, adjusts positioning, and confirms that your devices connect properly.

VGI Technology, for example, provides local support for every installation, including options to optimize coverage for home security in rural Texas. If you’re covering a large home, they also help with router placement, extenders, and mesh systems.

Starlink Kit and Self-Installation

Starlink ships a dish, router, and mounting gear directly to your door. The service is self-installed, and the dish must have an unobstructed view of the sky. Trees, buildings, and hills can block the signal. While some customers complete setup in an hour, others struggle with placement or signal drops. Customer service is entirely remote and handled through the app.

Because it’s satellite-based, Starlink dishes are more vulnerable to wind, ice buildup, and power interruptions. In rural Texas, those factors matter—especially if you’re trying to maintain home security in San Angelo during a storm or an extended outage.

Latency and Reliability

Fixed Wireless Delivers Lower Latency

Latency is the delay in data transmission, and it matters for video calls, gaming, and real-time applications. Fixed wireless latency is typically between 20 to 40 milliseconds, which feels responsive for most users. It’s low enough for live video chats, VPN use, and smart camera monitoring.

Starlink Latency Can Be Inconsistent

Starlink advertises latency as low as 25 milliseconds, but in practice, users often see 40 to 100 milliseconds, depending on network congestion and satellite position. That’s fine for browsing and streaming, but it can affect voice-over-IP or video calls. For families relying on remote work or virtual schooling, fixed wireless tends to deliver a smoother experience.

Service Availability and Support

Local Support With Fixed Wireless

One of the biggest advantages of fixed wireless is the local presence. Providers like VGI Technology offer support teams based in the same region they serve. That means faster troubleshooting, hands-on installation, and real people answering your questions. In a rural area, this matters more than most people expect.

Service calls, upgrades, and real-time monitoring can be handled quickly, and your provider understands regional weather patterns, power issues, and even local terrain. That kind of hands-on experience is not something national satellite companies are built to offer.

Starlink Support Is Remote-Only

Starlink does not operate retail locations or regional offices. All support happens through a ticketing system in the app. While responses are typically received within a few hours or days, there is no option for on-site help. If the dish malfunctions or loses alignment, you’ll need to resolve it yourself or hire a third party.

Pricing and Equipment Costs

Fixed Wireless Costs Are Stable

Fixed wireless plans in Texas typically range from $60 to $100 per month. There are no long-term contracts, and installation fees are modest. Equipment is often rented or included with service. Most importantly, there are no hidden fees, and usage is unlimited—something rural customers are increasingly demanding.

Starlink Requires a Larger Upfront Investment

Starlink’s monthly service currently costs $120 for residential users in most areas. In addition, you must purchase the hardware upfront for around $599. If you need roof mounting or specialized cable routing, that adds to the cost. While there’s no data cap, speeds may slow during peak hours or in congested areas.

Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?

The Starlink vs Fixed wireless internet in Texas decision depends on location, budget, and how much control you want over your service. If you live in an area where both Starlink and fixed wireless are available, fixed wireless is often the better choice—especially in West Texas and the Hill Country. It offers lower latency, more consistent speeds, and local support that understands the terrain and lifestyle of rural households. Fixed wireless also supports smart homes, video calls, and streaming without the complexity or weather sensitivity that can come with satellite dishes.

Starlink can be a solid option for those living completely off the grid or in rugged terrain without line-of-sight access to a fixed wireless tower. But for most rural Texans, especially those managing home businesses, smart security systems, or daily Zoom calls, fixed wireless delivers better performance and a simpler experience.