In a country where digital connectivity is becoming as essential as electricity and running water, the choice of internet provider matters more than ever. Lesotho’s three main internet options; Vodacom Lesotho, Econet Telecom Lesotho and the newcomer Starlink, offer sharply different experiences when it comes to coverage, speed and cost. Here’s how they compare.
Coverage: Who Reaches More People?
When it comes to physical reach, Vodacom and Econet dominate. Both offer mobile network coverage across Lesotho’s urban and rural areas using 4G and, in some spots, 3G technology. Their networks are strongest in Maseru and other urban centres, but performance drops off in the mountains and deep rural zones.
That’s where Starlink flips the script. Unlike cell towers, Starlink uses satellites, which means it provides internet access anywhere in Lesotho…even in areas where there’s no cell service at all. It’s an attractive option for rural schools [in theory], mines and remote clinics that have been “left behind” by traditional infrastructure.
Coverage Winner:
• Starlink for remote access
• Vodacom/Econet for mobile users in urban areas
Speed: Who’s Fastest Online?
In terms of raw internet speed, Starlink easily leads the pack. Its satellite system delivers download speeds ranging from 50 to 200* Mbps, with upload speeds up to 40 Mbps. That’s more than enough for HD streaming, video conferencing, or running an online business, even in a village.
Vodacom and Econet are no slouches either. On 4G connections, users can expect 10–35** Mbps download speeds, fine for browsing, social media and even YouTube. But their performance can vary depending on congestion, signal strength and network infrastructure.
One issue with Starlink, though, is latency. While Starlink’s 20–50ms latency is impressive for satellite internet, it’s still slightly higher than Vodacom and Econet’s typical 30–60ms on 4G networks, something gamers and real-time streamers may notice.
Speed Winner:
• Starlink overall
• Vodacom/Econet for mobile speed on the go
Cost: Who’s Easiest on the Wallet?
This is where things get interesting and where Starlink’s biggest downside lies [see our flash poll on X and Facebook]. Unlike Vodacom and Econet, which let users buy small data bundles starting from LSL 20*** for 1GB, Starlink charges a flat monthly fee of LSL 1,200. On top of that, users need to pay around LSL 7,000 for the Starlink kit, which includes the satellite dish and router.
In contrast, Vodacom and Econet offer flexible plans, including 10GB for about LSL 300 and unlimited for LSL 850–900. That’s much more affordable for casual users, students and anyone using internet on their phone.
So while Starlink offers unlimited high-speed access, it’s best suited to users who really need it, like small businesses, institutions, or households that rely on the internet heavily.
Cost Winner:
• Vodacom & Econet for budget users
• Starlink for high-data users willing to pay
So, Which Provider Should You Choose?
Need Best Option
Reliable urban internet Vodacom or Econet
Remote location access Starlink
High-speed and unlimited use Starlink
Budget-friendly mobile data Vodacom/Econet
In short, Vodacom and Econet are still the go-to options for most Basotho, especially those living in towns or using mobile data casually. They offer affordable packages, reliable performance and easy top-up options.
But if you’re in the mountains, run a business from a rural area, or need constant, unlimited access to fast internet, Starlink is worth the upfront cost.
The Bigger Picture
As Lesotho looks to bridge its digital divide, the competition between these providers could be a turning point. Vodacom and Econet need to invest more in rural infrastructure and expand fiber networks. Starlink, meanwhile, must find ways to make its service more affordable if it wants to move beyond niche adoption.
For now, it’s a question of priorities, cost, speed, or coverage. Each provider brings something different to the table. The real winner? That depends on what you need the internet for.
We will test out Starlink internet in July at our own cost and will provide a fair comparison.
*based on data from Botswana users
**author established
***average price for weekly bundles on both Vodacom and Econet
————————————-
Published by Lesotho Tribune | 29 June 2025
Send tips or corrections to editor@lesothotribune.co.ls
