Best Internet Providers of 2024 | Find Plans Near You (2024)

Best internet providers of 2024

Choosing the best internet provider can require a lot of research. Your location will determine how many choices you have, but you might not have time to compare all the internet providers in your area. To simplify your decision, we reviewed over 30 internet service providers (ISPs) across the U.S. based on various factors to determine their overall quality. Then we broke down the top-ranked internet companies and plans in the U.S. to make it easy to choose the best internet provider near you.

• Xfinity: Best for fast speeds
• Spectrum: Best for no contracts or data caps
• Verizon Fios: Best for consistent speeds
• T-Mobile: Best wireless availability
• Astound Broadband: Cheap gigabit plans
• Optimum: Good internet and TV bundles

Of the best internet providers, AT&T and T-Mobile led the group with scores of 4.1 out of 5, based on our ranking methodology. Still, many quality internet service providers (ISPs) are available in the United States, such as Xfinity, Spectrum and Verizon. Keep reading to discover the best broadband service providers, the steps to choosing a provider, and the pros and cons of top internet companies.

How to choose an internet provider

Choosing an internet service provider in your area can seem complicated — the following factors can help make your decision more straightforward.

• Internet activities: Gaming and streaming use the most bandwidth compared to other online activities and rely on faster upload speeds to prevent lag. A dedicated fiber connection is ideal for these activities. Streaming apps like Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram will also use a fair amount of bandwidth. Other common internet uses such as web browsing, reading, email, online banking, schoolwork and listening to music need less internet speed and data.
• Number of connected devices in use: U.S. households have 22 connected devices on average, according to Deloitte. The devices in use at any time will be the biggest draw on your network, but devices in standby mode, such as smart TVs, gaming consoles or security cameras, will still use a small amount of bandwidth for updates and maintenance. The more devices online, the more strain on your bandwidth and network.
• Monthly internet budget: The average monthly starting price among all the top internet providers varies. The price may not include equipment fees, taxes or surcharges. Premium speeds have higher prices. If you have a strict budget, several providers offer low-income internet plans as low as $10/mo. for qualifying households.
• Time at residence: If you will be living at your home for less than 12 months, consider a no-contract plan to avoid ETFs.

Our picks for the best internet providers

Xfinity

Overall score: 3.9 out of 5.

Xfinity summary: Xfinity offers eight or more cable or fiber internet plans, depending on your location. Available in 40 states and 35% of the country, Xfinity is the most widely accessible ISP in the U.S. However, its customer service and satisfaction ratings are average compared to other top ISPs.

Xfinity speeds: Xfinity has one of the highest internet speeds available at up to 6,000 Mbps (6 GB). Xfinity’s premium speeds are only available in certain areas of the country.

Xfinity technology: Xfinity mainly offers cable internet with some fiber options, providing reliable download and upload speeds for gaming, streaming and other high-speed activities. However, speeds may slow during peak times due to shared bandwidth.

Top Xfinity plans:

• Xfinity Connect — 150 Mbps; $20/mo.
• Xfinity Fast— 400 Mbps; $55/mo.
• Xfinity Gigabit — 1,000 Mbps; $80/mo.

Read the full Xfinity review.

Spectrum

Overall score: 3.9 out of 5.

Spectrum summary: Spectrum is available to 30% of the U.S. throughout 41 states. Spectrum offers three cable internet plans starting at $49.99/mo., making it an excellent choice for heavy internet users due to the absence of data caps.

Spectrum speeds: Speeds vary from 300 Mbps to 1 GB — all plans are fast and suitable for gaming and streaming. While there is no limit to the number of devices you can connect to Spectrum Wi-Fi, remember that more connected devices can overcrowd your network and slow down wireless service for everyone in your household.

Spectrum prices: Spectrum internet starts at $49.99/mo., but expect an increase of $30/mo. after 12 months, adding $360 to your annual internet cost. The modem is free; however, there is an additional $5/mo. fee for the Spectrum router. Installation can cost $30 or $65. Spectrum customers save money by avoiding contracts with steep equipment-related fees, data overages and early termination charges. Spectrum internet deals may change throughout the year but can include promotions like free Peaco*ck Premium streaming for a limited time and free Spectrum mobile service for one line.

Spectrum technology: Spectrum covers 41 states, including areas that used to be covered under the Time Warner Cable and Bright House networks. Most Spectrum plans are cable internet, except for Spectrum Internet® Gig, which uses a hybrid fiber and cable system.

Top Spectrum plans:

• Spectrum Internet® — 300 Mbps; $49.99/mo.
• Spectrum Internet® Ultra — 500 Mbps; $69.99/mo.
• Spectrum Internet® Gig — 1,000 Mbps; $79.99/mo.

Read the full Spectrum review.

Verizon Fios

Overall score: 4.0 out of 5.

Verizon Fios summary: Verizon Fios, available in eight states and Washington, D.C., uses end-to-end fiber technology covering about 9% of the U.S. Verizon’s three plans offer fast and consistent download speeds, bringing fiber lines directly to your doorstep for superior performance compared to cable or DSL internet. Customers consistently rate Verizon Fios highly for speed, reliability and customer service.

Verizon Fios speeds: Verizon Fios plans are available in three speed tiers: up to 300, 500 and 940 Mbps. Verizon Fios sets itself apart from other ISPs with its symmetrical upload and download speeds, making it great for gaming and uploading photos or files.

Verizon Fios prices: Verizon Fios offers competitive pricing starting around $50, with rates guaranteed for two to five years depending on the plan. There are no data caps, contracts or ETFs, and equipment charges are included in the monthly rate. Installation costs $99, but promotions may include free installation or reward cards for new customers.

Verizon Fios technology: Verizon Fios is primarily available along the Northeast coast from Virginia to Massachusetts, with additional coverage in parts of western New York and Pennsylvania. As a true fiber service, Verizon Fios runs fiber lines all the way to your home, ensuring a consistent internet connection unaffected by network congestion.

Top Verizon plans:

• Verizon 300 Mbps — $49.99/mo.
• Verizon 500 Mbps — $69.99/mo.
• Verizon 1 Gig — $89.99/mo.

Read the full Verizon Fios review.

AT&T

Overall score: 4.1 out of 5.

AT&T summary: AT&T is the most widely available fiber internet provider. Similar to Verizon Fios, AT&T Fiber plans are available at three speed tiers, have no additional equipment fees, data caps or contracts.With the addition of AT&T’s DSL and 5G home internet, this provider covers 21 states, with over 44% of the country in an AT&T service area.

AT&T speeds: AT&T Fiber offers speeds from 300 to 4,700 Mbps (advertised as 5 GB). The symmetrical download and upload speeds are perfect for gaming or uploading documents and images. AT&T’s non-fiber service, AT&T Internet, provides slower speeds on a copper line. Its download speeds of 10–100 Mbps and upload speeds of 1–20 Mbps are suitable for streaming and web browsing, although real-time gaming may experience occasional lag.

AT&T prices: AT&T Fiber plans range from 300 Mbps to 5 GB and cost between $55 and $245/mo., with no data caps, equipment fees, contracts or ETFs. AT&T’s non-fiber plans are $55/mo. but include a $10 monthly equipment fee. AT&T services typically have a one-time $99 installation fee, although AT&T occasionally runs promotions to waive the fee or pay your cancellation fee if you switch from another internet provider.

AT&T technology: AT&T Fiber offers unlimited data with equal upload and download speeds, supporting multiple devices for streaming and gaming. In contrast, AT&T Internet has slower speeds and a 1 TB data limit, with potential fees up to $50 for exceeding it.

Top AT&T plans:

• AT&T Internet 300 — 300 Mbps; $55/mo.
• AT&T Internet 500 — 500 Mbps; $65/mo.
• AT&T Internet 1 Gig — 1,000 Mbps; $80/mo.

Read the full .

T-Mobile 5G

Overall score: 4.1 out of 5.

T-Mobile summary:T-Mobile 5G has been around since 2019 and has quickly become the top 5G wireless internet service provider because of its vast availability to over 60% of the nation. T-Mobile operates in all 50 states in urban, suburban and rural communities. T-Mobile doesn’t have the fastest speeds or the cheapest cost but offers a great value due to its no-contract plan with stable pricing.

T-Mobile speeds: T-Mobile advertises download speeds up to 245 Mbps, but actual speeds depend on your proximity to a tower. Upload speeds average 20 Mbps. Overall, internet speeds should be sufficient for everyday use, but you may need to prioritize devices with multiple users. T-Mobile offers only one internet speed, with no upgrade or downgrade options.

T-Mobile prices: T-Mobile keeps it simple by offering a single internet plan at $60/mo. with autopay. You don’t need to be a T-Mobile cell phone subscriber, but eligible phone and internet bundles can get internet for as low as $40/mo. T-Mobile 5G has no contract, ETF or equipment charges, and the price remains consistent year over year.

T-Mobile technology: T-Mobile has the largest 5G network due to acquisitions like Mint Mobile, MetroPCS and Sprint. 5G internet relies on cell towers for signal communication, resulting in fast speeds but varying stability. Speeds may be slower in populated areas or during high usage. Depending on your location, you might get low-band (up to 75 Mbps), mid-band or high-band 5G. Slower low-band covers broader areas, while high-band offers top speeds in dense cities, with mid-band in between.

Top T-Mobile 5G plans:

• T-Mobile 5G Home; 72–245 Mbps; $60/mo.
• T-Mobile 5G Home with voice service; 72–245 Mbps; $40/mo. (qualifying voice service extra).

Read the full T-Mobile review.

Astound

Overall score: 4 out of 5.

Astound Broadband summary: Astound Broadband has some of the cheapest internet deals available in its region that encompasses 11 states and Washington, D.C. With four plansavailable, even the basic 300 Mbps plancan handle streaming, gaming, video conferencing and more. Astound internet uses cable or fiber optic lines, depending on your location.

Astound Broadband speeds: Astound has fast speeds regardless of the plan you choose. The cheapest plan has speeds up to 300 Mbps, and the fastest plan is 1.5 GB. Upload speeds are 20 Mbps on most plans but can reach 50 Mbps with 1.2 or 1.5 GB download speeds depending on the area.

Astound Broadband prices: Plans start at $20/mo. for 300 Mbps, with even gigabit speeds under $60/mo. Astound offers cheap rates with most prices guaranteed for 24 months. Installation is $79.95, sometimes waived for new customers. Equipment is also free for 12–24 months, then costs about $15/mo. Some Astound regions, like Illinois and New York, have additional local charges.

Astound Broadband technology: Astound Broadband primarily uses cable internet, offering download speeds up to 1.5 GB and upload speeds of 20–50 Mbps. Cable speeds may slow during peak times due to network congestion. Astound provides Whole Home Wi-Fi with eero boosters for better home wireless coverage. Astound also offers fiber-to-the-home in limited areas (0.67% of the U.S.).

Top Astound Broadband plans:

• Internet 300 — 300 Mbps; $25/mo.
• Internet 600 — 600 Mbps; $40/mo.
• Internet 1,200 — 1,200 Mbps; $60/mo.

Read the full Astound Broadband review.

Optimum

Overall score: 3.8 out of 5.

Optimum summary: Optimum provides cable and fiber internet in New York, Texas, Oklahoma, California, and parts of 17 other states. Plans range from $40–$280 for speeds between 300 Mbps and 8 GB, suitable for all online activities. TV and internet packages start at $120/mo. for over 220 channels, with mobile bundles also available.

Optimum speeds: Optimum offers up to 8 GB speeds, ideal for those needing ultra-fast internet, such as home businesses. Still, most households will find the 300, 500 or 940 Mbps plans sufficient for streaming, gaming and connecting multiple devices.

Optimum prices: Optimum’s 300 Mbps plan is $40/mo., slightly cheaper than similar fiber plans from other ISPs. The 2 GB plan is also a great value for multi-gig internet at $100/mo. Optimum’s fastest options are pricier: $180 for 5 GB and $280 for 8 GB. Equipment and self-installation are free, but professional installation costs $100.

Optimum technology: Optimum’s network is 24% fiber and 76% cable, with fiber areas mainly in and around New York City. A dedicated fiber line has more consistent, secure connections and faster upload speeds. The cost of Optimum’s fiber plans matches its same-speed cable counterparts, thereby making it a better value plan if Optimum Fiber is available in your area.

Top Optimum plans:

• Optimum 300 — 300 Mbps; $40/mo.
• Optimum 1 Gig — 940 Mbps; $80/mo.
• Optimum Fiber 2 Gig — 2,000 GB; $100/mo.

Read the full Optimum review.

Compare the top internet providers

Popular home Wi-Fi options in cities and suburban areas include AT&T with its consistent fiber speeds and affordable prices or Verizon Fios’s multi-year price guarantees without contracts. T-Mobile is known for its extensive availability (60% of the U.S.) and easy installation, while Xfinity is a good choice if you are searching for super-cheap internet (starting at $9.95/mo. in certain areas) or TV bundles. Rural internet often relies on fixed wireless or satellite providers like Hughesnet.

The following table lists the most popular internet providers of 2024 by connection type, speed and cost. Availability depends on where you live, so check which internet providers operate near you.

Provider	Starting price*	Speed range	Connection type
Call to order: (877) 818-8727	$20.00/mo.	300–1,500 Mbps	Cable	Call to order: (877) 818-8727
Check availability	$55.00/mo.	10–4,700 Mbps	DSL, fiber	Check availability
Check availability	$50.00/mo.	100–940 Mbps	Fiber	Check availability
Check availability	$49.99/mo.	100–2,000 Mbps	Cable, fiber	Check availability
Check availability	$39.99/mo.	200–5,000 Mbps	DSL, fiber	Check availability
Check availability	$70.00/mo.	1,000–8,000 Mbps	Fiber	Check availability
Check availability	$49.99/mo.	15–100 Mbps	Satellite	Check availability
Call to order: (877) 818-8727	$19.99/mo.	100–1,500 Mbps	Cable	Call to order: (877) 818-8727
Call to order: (877) 818-8727	$40.00/mo.	300–8,000 Mbps	Cable, fiber	Call to order: (877) 818-8727
Check availability	$49.99/mo.	300–1,000	Cable	Check availability
Check availability	$60.00/mo.	72–245 Mbps	5G	Check availability
Call to order: (877) 818-8727	$64.99/mo.	12–150 Mbps	Satellite	Call to order: (877) 818-8727
Call to order: (877) 818-8727	$49.99/mo.	300–940 Mbps	Fiber	Call to order: (877) 818-8727
Call to order: (877) 818-8727	$39.99/mo.	100–8,000 Mbps	Cable, DSL, fiber	Call to order: (877) 818-8727
Call to order: (877) 818-8727	$19.99/mo.	100–5,000 Mbps	Cable, fiber	Call to order: (877) 818-8727
Check availability	$25.00/mo.	50–6,000 Mbps	Cable, fiber	Check availability

_{*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Price may include autopay and paperless billing discounts. Speeds may vary. As of 1/18/24.}

Finding an internet provider near you

Internet serviceability is location-based because it depends on what connection lines run to your address. Sometimes, even your next-door neighbor may not have the same options as you. Additionally, you will not typically find several major cable internet providers such as Xfinity, Spectrum or Optimum available at the same address.

Similarly, internet providers originating from a telephone service, such as AT&T or Verizon, are not usually available at the same address. There are usually two major ISPs available at most locations due to noncompete clauses, infrastructure and geographic features.

Finding which ISPs are available where you live is the first step in choosing a provider.

What type of internet technology should you get?

The following table lists the six main internet technologies available in the U.S. More than one type may be available at your home. Fiber, cable, DSL and 5G are predominantly available in urban and suburban areas. Fixed wireless and satellite internet are more common options in rural areas.

Fiber, cable and DSL tend to be most reliable when it comes to maintaining an internet connection, while satellite, fixed wireless and 5G can experience interruptions or lag when the network is crowded. When it comes to cost, satellite ISPs are the most expensive. All other internet technology types tend to stay within the $50–$70 price range.

Internet provider FAQs

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