Top 5 Internet Service Providers

Internet service providers offer online access with a variety of technologies, speeds, and prices. For consumers, that means plenty of choices.

1. Comcast Xfinity

Comcast Xfinity offers cable Internet service across 40 states to approximately 110 million people. It is the largest provider of cable broadband in the U.S. by coverage area. It has a variety of plans at different speeds, from 10 megabits per second to 2 gigabits per second. Its plans start at a one-year promo rate of $29.99 per month for 10 Mbps, with the regular rate at $64.95 per month. Bundled plans start at $39.99 per month.

2. T&T Internet

AT&T Internet — formerly AT&T U-verse — offers high speed Internet service to 22 states. In addition to DSL broadband, AT&T Internet also offers fiber and fixed wireless Internet service. Internet plans start at $40 per month (or $30 per month through bundling) for speeds up to 50 Mbps. Unlimited data allowance may be purchased separately for an additional $30 per month, or receive unlimited data at no additional charge through bundling. AT&T Fiber, delivering speeds starting with a 1 Gbps, starts at $80 per month.

3. Verizon Fios

Fios is an acronym for “Fiber Optic Service.” Verizon Fios is the largest fiber-optic provider in the U.S. by coverage area, offering service in 10 states. Verizon was one of the first U.S. carriers to offer fiber in the home. Fios began in 2005 and expanded in 2010. Plans start at $64.99 per month for 100 Mbps downloads and uploads. The promotional rate is for one year, with the regular rate at $74.99.

4. Charter Spectrum

Charter Communications is a telecommunications company that offers its services under the brand of Spectrum. It is the second largest cable operator in the U.S. by subscribers, having acquired Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks in 2016. It offers cable broadband and fiber Internet service. Internet plans start at $29.99 per month for 12 months, when bundled, for speeds starting at 60 Mbps.

5. HughesNet

HughesNet provides satellite Internet access to the United States and Europe. Located in the southern skies for the United States, the satellite system is available to all 50 states and is a good solution for rural consumers. HughesNet requires a two-year contract. Plans start at $49.99 per month, with a $59.99 per month promo rate for 25 Mbps with a 20-gigabit data cap. After the two-year promo period, regular rate is $69.99.