Choosing the right internet provider can feel overwhelming. With numerous options, varying speeds, and different technologies, it’s crucial to compare internet providers to find the best fit for your needs and location. At compare.edu.vn, we specialize in simplifying complex comparisons, and this guide will help you navigate the world of internet service providers (ISPs) with confidence.
Why Trust Our Internet Provider Comparisons?
For over two decades, compare.edu.vn has been a trusted resource for consumers seeking unbiased and objective comparisons across various services. Our expertise extends to the broadband market, where we meticulously evaluate internet service providers. We analyze over 40 ISPs, focusing on key factors like affordability, performance, plan value, and customer satisfaction. Our goal is to empower you with the information and tools necessary to make informed decisions about your home internet service. We cut through the marketing jargon and present clear, data-driven comparisons to help you choose the ideal internet plan and provider for your household’s unique requirements.
Check Internet Provider Availability by Address
Finding the right internet provider starts with availability. Not all providers service every location, and even within a city, coverage can vary. Enter your address to instantly check which internet providers are available in your area and compare their plans side-by-side.
Top Internet Providers at a Glance
Here’s a quick comparison of some leading internet providers, highlighting their key strengths:
Verizon Fios
Best Overall
- Speeds: Starting at 300 Mbps
- Starting Price: $34.99/mo. (with mobile plan)
- Key Feature: Exceptional fiber optic performance and customer satisfaction.
Check Verizon Fios Plans or call us at (844) 451-2720
Spectrum
Low Equipment Fees
- Speeds: Up to 1,000 Mbps
- Starting Price: $30.00/mo.
- Key Feature: Competitive pricing and widely available cable internet with low equipment costs.
Check Spectrum Plans or call us at (844) 451-2720
T-Mobile Home Internet
99% Availability
- Speeds: Up to 245 Mbps
- Starting Price: $50.00/mo.
- Key Feature: Extensive 5G network coverage, making it available in many areas.
View T-Mobile Home Internet Plans
Check T-Mobile Home Internet Plans or call us at (844) 451-2720
Xfinity
Several Plan Options
- Speeds: Starting at 150 Mbps
- Starting Price: $19.99/mo.
- Key Feature: Wide range of cable internet plans to suit different needs and budgets.
Check Xfinity Plans or call us at (844) 451-2720
AT&T Fiber
Best Speeds
- Speeds: Starting at 300 Mbps
- Starting Price: $55.00/mo.
- Key Feature: Fastest fiber optic internet speeds available, ideal for heavy internet users.
Check AT&T Fiber Plans or call us at (844) 451-2720
Cox Communications
Best Bundles
- Speeds: Starting at 100 Mbps
- Starting Price: $50.00/mo.
- Key Feature: Strong bundle options with TV and phone services, offering convenience.
Check Cox Plans or call us at (844) 451-2720
Enter Your ZIP Code to See Local Internet Providers
Comparing Internet Providers Near You: Technology and Speed
When you compare internet providers, you’ll encounter different types of internet technology. Each type offers varying speeds and availability:
- Fiber Internet: The fastest technology, delivering symmetrical upload and download speeds, often exceeding 1 Gbps and reaching up to 10 Gbps in some areas. Fiber is ideal for online gaming, streaming, and households with multiple devices. However, fiber availability is still growing.
- Cable Internet: Widely available across the US, cable internet uses the same infrastructure as cable TV. Speeds can reach up to 1 Gbps download, but upload speeds are typically lower. Cable is a reliable option for most households.
- 5G Fixed Wireless Internet: A newer technology leveraging 5G cellular networks to deliver home internet. Speeds can reach up to 300 Mbps, and it’s often competitively priced. 5G availability depends on proximity to cell towers.
- Satellite Internet: Available virtually anywhere with a clear view of the sky, satellite internet is a solution for rural areas where wired options are limited. Speeds are typically lower, up to 150 Mbps download, and latency can be higher than other types.
- DSL Internet: Uses existing phone lines to deliver internet. DSL speeds are generally slower than cable or fiber, ranging from a few Mbps to around 100 Mbps in some areas. DSL availability is declining as fiber and cable expand.
Understanding Your Speed Needs: Consider your online activities when comparing internet providers. For basic browsing and email, lower speeds might suffice. For streaming, gaming, and working from home, you’ll need higher speeds.
Internet Provider Comparison Table: Plans, Prices, and Speeds
To help you compare internet providers more effectively, here’s a detailed table outlining key information for various ISPs:
| Provider | Price range* | Download speed range | Upload speed range | Type of internet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Fios | $34.99 – $84.99/mo. | 300 – 2,300 Mbps | 300 – 2,300 Mbps | Fiber |
| T-Mobile | $40.00 – $60.00/mo. | Up to 245 Mbps | Up to 31 Mbps | 5G |
| Xfinity | $19.99 – $299.95/mo. | 150 – 6,000 Mbps | 10 – 6,000 Mbps | Cable |
| Spectrum | $30.00 – $70.00/mo.** | 100 – 1,000 Mbps | 10 – 35 Mbps | Cable |
| Frontier Fiber | $29.99 – $154.99/mo. | 200 – 5,000 Mbps | 200 – 5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| AT&T | $55.00 – $245.00/mo. | 300 – 4,700 Mbps | 300 – 4,700 Mbps | Fiber |
| Cox | $50.00 – $150.00/mo. | 100 – 2,000 Mbps | 5 – 35 Mbps | Hybrid cable/fiber |
| CenturyLink | $50.00 – $75.00/mo. | 100 – 940 Mbps | 1 – 940 Mbps | Fiber, DSL |
| Quantum Fiber | $45.00 – $150.00/mo. | 200 – 8,000 Mbps*** | 200 – 8,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Hughesnet | $49.99 – $119.99/mo. | 50 – 100 Mbps | 1 – 3 Mbps | Satellite |
| Google Fiber | $70.00 – $150.00/mo. | 1,000 – 8,000 Mbps | 1,000 – 8,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| WOW! | $30.00 – $185.00/mo. | 100 – 5,000 Mbps | 20 – 5,000 Mbps | Hybrid cable/fiber |
| Optimum | $40.00 – $180.00/mo. | 300 – 5,000 Mbps | 20 – 5,000 Mbps | Cable |
| Mediacom | $19.99 – $59.99/mo. | 250 – 1,000 Mbps | 20 – 50 Mbps | Cable |
| Astound | $25.00 – $60.00/mo. | 300 – 1,200 Mbps | 20 – 50 Mbps | Hybrid cable/fiber |
| Kinetic by Windstream | $24.99 – $299.99/mo. | 100 – 8,000 Mbps | 100 – 8,000 Mbps | Fiber, DSL |
| Starry Internet | $30.00 – $75.00/mo. | 100 – 1,000 Mbps | 50 – 100 Mbps | 5G |
| altafiber | $39.99 – $99.99/mo. | 400 – 2,000 Mbps | 400 – 2,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Metronet | $34.95 – $109.95/mo. | 150 – 5,000 Mbps | 150 – 5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Ziply Fiber | $10.00 – $300.00/mo. | 100 – 10,000 Mbps | 100 – 10,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Viasat | $99.99 – $199.99/mo. | 25 – 150 Mbps | 3 Mbps | Satellite |
*Pricing per month plus taxes for contract length. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change. Availability depends on service address. Speeds may vary. Data as of 02/07/25. **PABP & Paperless billing + taxes and equip fee. Price includes $5/mo. AutoPay & Paperless billing discount (within 2 bills). $10/mo. equip. fee applies. **Limited time offer; subject to change; new residential customers only (no Spectrum services within past 30 days) and in good standing with Spectrum. Taxes and fees extra in select states. SPECTRUM INTERNET: Standard rates apply after promo period. Additional charge for installation. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds (including wireless) vary and are not guaranteed. Capable modem required for all Gig speeds. For a list of capable modems, visit Spectrum.net/modem. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change. Not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. ©2025 Charter Communications, all rights reserved.**Limited time offer; subject to change; new residential customers only (no Spectrum services within past 30 days) and in good standing with Spectrum. Taxes and fees extra in select states. SPECTRUM INTERNET ADVANTAGE: Offer based on eligibility requirements. Standard rates apply after promo period. Additional charge for installation. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds (including wireless) vary and are not guaranteed. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change. Not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. ©2025 Charter Communications, all rights reserved.†*Taxes & terms may apply. Verizon mobile plan, Auto Pay & paper-free billing required. Add’l. cost without mobile plan. Subj. to credit approval & may require a deposit. Fios avail. in select areas. Wired speeds advertised. Wireless speeds may vary due to device limits, multiple users, network & other factors. See Verizon.com/yourspeed for more info. **w/ Auto Pay and paper-free billing discount + taxes & equip. charges. © 2025 Verizon***Lowest tier not available in Cape Coral, Florida; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Phoenix, Arizona; and Salt Lake City, Utah. Kinetic by Windstream: Limited-time, non-transferable offer for residential customers, cannot be combined with other offers. Credit restrictions may apply. Subject to availability and Windstream Terms & Conditions (windstream.com/terms). *12-month price guarantee with AutoPay for entry speeds.
Note: Verizon, Xfinity, AT&T, and Spectrum are generally reliable providers if available in your area. Mediacom and WOW are often considered budget-friendly options. For fiber internet, Frontier and AT&T offer multi-gigabit plans. If you don’t find your ISP in the table, explore our complete list of internet service providers.
Why Location Matters When Comparing Internet Providers
Internet service availability is heavily dependent on location because the necessary infrastructure isn’t universally available. Internet providers establish coverage areas, meaning your preferred provider might not serve your specific address.
Address-Specific Service: Internet service isn’t just about your city or even ZIP code; it’s about your individual address. Availability can change block by block.
Urban vs. Rural: Metropolitan areas like major cities often have more robust infrastructure, offering faster options like fiber optic and 5G internet. Rural areas may have fewer choices, potentially limited to DSL or satellite internet, which typically offer slower speeds.
Infrastructure Investment: Providers like Xfinity and Spectrum have extensive cable networks, while fiber providers like Verizon Fios and AT&T have a more focused fiber footprint. Fiber optic installation is costly, requiring buried cabling, so ISPs prioritize areas with a higher customer density to justify the investment.
Whether you’re searching for cheap internet service, faster speeds, or simply the best internet provider overall, starting your comparison by checking availability at your address is essential.
Find Internet Providers Near You
Check Availability Now or Browse Providers by State
Finding the Best Internet Deals and Promotions
Comparing internet providers isn’t just about speed and technology; it’s also about price. Many ISPs offer promotional deals to attract new customers.
Promotional Offers: Look for deals like discounted introductory pricing for a limited period, free equipment, bundled streaming service subscriptions, or savings when you combine internet with other services.
Read the Fine Print: Always carefully review the terms of any promotion, especially the duration of the promotional period and any potential price increases after it ends.
Explore Current Internet Deals from Top Providers
Detailed Comparisons of Top Internet Providers
To further assist your comparison, let’s delve into more detailed profiles of some of the top-rated internet providers:
Verizon Fios – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 4.54 / 5
Strengths: Verizon Fios consistently ranks as a top internet provider due to its exceptional fiber optic service. Key advantages include:
- Fast Fiber Speeds: Symmetrical download and upload speeds ideal for demanding online activities.
- Competitive Pricing: Reasonable starting prices, especially when bundled with a Verizon mobile plan.
- Customer Satisfaction: High ratings for customer service and reliability.
- No Data Caps or Contracts: Provides flexibility and predictable monthly costs.
- 5G Home Internet Option: Verizon also offers 5G home internet in many cities, expanding its reach.
Limitations:
- Limited Availability: Fios fiber service is primarily concentrated in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the US, available in parts of only eight states.
Who is Verizon Fios Best For? Households in Verizon Fios service areas who prioritize speed, reliability, and excellent customer service and are willing to bundle services for potential savings.
Read Verizon Fios Customer Reviews
Check Verizon Fios Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
T-Mobile Home Internet – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 4.33 / 5
Strengths: T-Mobile Home Internet stands out for its widespread availability:
- Extensive 5G Coverage: Leverages T-Mobile’s vast 5G network, reaching a large percentage of the US population.
- Simple Pricing: Straightforward monthly pricing with no contracts.
- Bundling Savings: Discounts available for T-Mobile wireless customers.
- Easy Setup: Typically offers self-installation, simplifying the process.
Limitations:
- Inconsistent Speeds: 5G speeds can be less consistent than cable or fiber and depend on cell tower proximity.
- Speed Caps: While sufficient for many, speeds may not be as high as fiber or top-tier cable plans.
Who is T-Mobile Home Internet Best For? Customers seeking widely available internet, particularly in areas where fiber or cable options are limited, and who value ease of setup and potential bundling discounts with T-Mobile wireless.
Read T-Mobile Home Internet Customer Reviews
Check T-Mobile Home Internet Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
Xfinity – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 3.93 / 5
Strengths: Xfinity, from Comcast, is a leading cable internet provider with notable advantages:
- Wide Availability: Extensive cable network covering a large portion of the US.
- Plan Variety: Offers a wide range of plans with varying speeds and price points.
- No-Contract Options: Provides flexibility with contract-free plans.
- Bundling Options: Discounts available when bundled with Xfinity mobile or TV services.
- Fastest Cable Speeds: Offers some of the fastest cable internet speeds available.
Limitations:
- Hidden Fees and Rate Hikes: Be aware of potential equipment rental fees and price increases after promotional periods.
- Regional Pricing: Prices can vary depending on your location.
- Customer Service Concerns: Customer satisfaction ratings are generally lower compared to fiber providers.
Who is Xfinity Best For? Customers in Xfinity service areas who need a wide range of plan choices, desire fast cable internet speeds, and are comfortable managing potential fees and promotional pricing structures.
Read Xfinity Customer Reviews
Check Xfinity Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
Spectrum – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 3.75 / 5
Strengths: Spectrum, from Charter Communications, is another major cable internet provider with benefits including:
- Wide Availability: Broad service area across numerous states.
- Competitive Pricing: Generally affordable plans, especially for introductory periods.
- Low Equipment Fees: Known for lower equipment rental costs compared to some competitors.
- No Data Caps or Contracts: Offers unlimited data and contract-free service.
- Bundling Options: Bundles available with Spectrum TV and phone services.
- Free Installation: Often provides free professional installation.
Limitations:
- Slower Upload Speeds: Upload speeds are typically slower compared to download speeds and fiber options.
- Price Increases After First Year: Prices often increase after the initial promotional year.
Who is Spectrum Best For? Customers seeking widely available and affordable cable internet with low equipment fees, unlimited data, and no contracts, who are mindful of potential price increases after the first year.
Read Spectrum Customer Reviews
Check Spectrum Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
AT&T Fiber – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 4.40 / 5
Strengths: AT&T Fiber is a top choice for speed enthusiasts:
- Fastest Fiber Speeds: Offers some of the fastest internet speeds available in the US, reaching multi-gigabit levels.
- Symmetrical Speeds: Fiber service provides equal upload and download speeds.
- No Data Caps, Contracts, or Equipment Fees: Simplified pricing with no hidden costs.
- Bundling Options: Bundles available with DIRECTV.
Limitations:
- Limited Fiber Availability: AT&T Fiber service area is still expanding and not as widespread as cable.
- DSL Price Hikes: Customers with older AT&T DSL plans may experience price increases.
- Bundle Discounts Limited: Bundling may not always result in significant cost savings.
Who is AT&T Fiber Best For? Households that demand the fastest internet speeds for gaming, streaming, and multiple users, and are located within AT&T Fiber’s expanding service area.
Read AT&T Fiber Customer Reviews
Check AT&T Fiber Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
Cox Communications – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 3.41 / 5
Strengths: Cox Communications offers a mix of cable and fiber services with some notable perks:
- Bundle Options: Strong bundle offerings with TV and phone services.
- Money-Back Guarantee: Provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, including installation and service fees.
- Free Installation on Bundles: Free installation may be available with certain bundles.
Limitations:
- Limited Availability: Cox’s service area is less extensive compared to larger providers.
- Price Increases: Prices are likely to increase after promotional periods.
- Customer Service Ratings: Customer satisfaction scores are generally lower compared to top-rated providers.
Who is Cox Communications Best For? Customers in Cox service areas who are interested in bundling internet with TV and phone, and appreciate a money-back guarantee, but should be aware of potential price increases.
Read Cox Communications Customer Reviews
Check Cox Communications Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
CenturyLink – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 3.72 / 5
Strengths: CenturyLink (now Lumen Technologies) offers affordable internet plans:
- Affordable Plans: Competitive starting prices for both fiber and DSL plans.
- No Contracts: Provides contract-free service.
- Wide DSL Availability: DSL service is available in many areas.
- Fiber Expansion: Expanding fiber optic network in select locations under the Quantum Fiber brand.
Limitations:
- Limited Plan Options: Plan choices may be limited in some areas, often with only one or two options available.
- Equipment Fees: Equipment rental fees apply.
- Customer Service: Customer satisfaction ratings are moderate.
Who is CenturyLink Best For? Price-conscious customers seeking affordable internet plans with no contracts, particularly in areas where CenturyLink DSL or Quantum Fiber is available.
Read CenturyLink Customer Reviews
Check CenturyLink Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
Hughesnet Logo Detailed Comparison
Hughesnet – In-Depth Comparison
Allconnect Rating: 2.22 / 5
Strengths: Hughesnet is a leading satellite internet provider, offering:
- Nationwide Availability: Satellite internet is available virtually anywhere in the US, making it ideal for rural areas.
- Hughesnet Fusion Plans: Newer Fusion plans combine satellite and wireless technology to improve speed and latency in select areas.
Limitations:
- Slower Speeds: Satellite internet speeds are generally slower than cable or fiber.
- Contracts Required: Hughesnet plans typically require contracts.
- Data Caps: Satellite internet plans often have data caps.
- Higher Latency: Latency can be higher compared to wired connections, affecting real-time applications like online gaming.
Who is Hughesnet Best For? Customers in rural areas with limited or no access to cable, fiber, or 5G internet options, where satellite internet is the only viable choice.
Read Hughesnet Customer Reviews
Check Hughesnet Availability or Call (844) 451-2720
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction: Comparing ISPs
Customer reviews offer valuable insights when you compare internet providers.
- Allconnect Customer Survey: We surveyed over 20,000 internet customers to gather feedback on their providers, focusing on price, speed, customer service, and reliability.
- Customer Satisfaction Leaders: Verizon and Xfinity consistently receive higher customer satisfaction scores across various categories in our surveys.
- Price Satisfaction: T-Mobile Home Internet often scores well for price satisfaction.
Our 2024 Broadband Customer Satisfaction Report provides a comprehensive analysis of customer feedback. While overall customer satisfaction in the internet industry can be low, these real customer reviews can help you weigh the pros and cons of different ISPs and make a more informed decision when choosing your internet provider.
By carefully comparing internet providers based on availability, technology, speed, price, customer reviews, and your specific needs, you can find the best internet service to keep you connected. Start your search today by checking provider availability at your address!
