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You can’t go wrong with either EarthLink or Cox internet. Both offer reliable internet solutions with unique advantages for different households. However, there are a few key differences between them, like internet speeds and data allowances, that may sway your decision towards one or the other. Follow along to see what each provider offers.
Provider Takeaways: EarthLink vs. Cox
EarthLink:
- Offers diverse connection types, including fiber, 5G/4G LTE, and satellite
- Speeds up to 5 Gbps with broad nationwide coverage
- No credit checks required with transparent pricing
Cox:
- Reliable cable internet with a growing fiber network
- Bundling options for TV, phone, and smart home services
- Access to public Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide
- Best internet protection
- Unlimited data included
- No credit checks
- Low introductory prices
- Excellent customer support
- Blazing fast speeds
Our Picks | | |
|---|---|---|
Starting Price | $39.95/mo. | $49.99/mo. |
Max Download | 5 Gbps | 1000 Mbps |
Data Caps | No | Yes |
Equipment Fee | Up to $14.95/mo. | Up to $15/mo. |
| Check Availability | Check Availability |
Pricing, speeds, offers, and availability vary by service address and are subject to change at any time. Additional fees, taxes, and terms may apply. As of 4/15/26.
EarthLink Internet Plans
EarthLink is a versatile internet provider serving 48 states with multiple connection types, including fiber, 5G/4G LTE, and satellite. This diverse approach makes it accessible to both urban and rural areas. Customers will find flexible pricing options, robust security features, and high-speed connectivity with fiber plans offering speeds up to 5 Gbps.
Cox Internet Plans
Cox provides internet service primarily through its reliable cable network, with an expanding fiber network in select areas. Available in 18 states, Cox serves cities and suburbs with cable speeds up to 1 Gbps and fiber speeds up to 2 Gbps. Most plans include a 1.25 TB data cap, with an unlimited data option available for an additional monthly fee.
What Are the Differences Between EarthLink and Cox?
Data Caps
EarthLink: Offers unlimited data with no overage fees for fiber plans, ensuring predictable monthly costs.
Data Caps
Cox: Enforces a 1.25 TB monthly data cap with additional charges for exceeding limits. Unlimited data available for $30/month extra.
Contract Length
EarthLink: Month-to-month or no contract plans available for 5G/4G LTE service, but fiber plans may include early termination fees.
Contract Length
Cox: Flexible options with or without contracts, though promotional pricing typically requires a one or two-year agreement.
Internet Security
EarthLink: Includes robust security features with antivirus protection, spam blockers, and secure browsing tools.
Internet Security
Cox: Provides a Security Suite with all plans, offering protection against malware, viruses, and online threats at no extra cost.
Installation Options
EarthLink: Professional installation for fiber plans, self-installation available for 5G/4G LTE plans.
Cox: Professional installation for $50 one-time fee, self-installation kits available for $20 virtual activation fee.
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Data Caps
EarthLink: Offers unlimited data with no overage fees for fiber plans, ensuring predictable monthly costs.
Contract Length
EarthLink: Month-to-month or no contract plans available for 5G/4G LTE service, but fiber plans may include early termination fees.
Internet Security
EarthLink: Includes robust security features with antivirus protection, spam blockers, and secure browsing tools.
Installation Options
EarthLink: Professional installation for fiber plans, self-installation available for 5G/4G LTE plans.
SHOW MORE
Data Caps
Cox: Enforces a 1.25 TB monthly data cap with additional charges for exceeding limits. Unlimited data available for $30/month extra.
Contract Length
Cox: Flexible options with or without contracts, though promotional pricing typically requires a one or two-year agreement.
Internet Security
Cox: Provides a Security Suite with all plans, offering protection against malware, viruses, and online threats at no extra cost.
Cox: Professional installation for $50 one-time fee, self-installation kits available for $20 virtual activation fee.
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EarthLink vs Cox Contracts and Fees
The advertised monthly price for internet plans often doesn’t reflect the final cost. Additional fees, such as taxes and equipment charges, may apply. To avoid unexpected charges on your bill, review the full breakdown of potential costs from your provider.
Overage Fees
EarthLink: No overage fees, offering unlimited data for fiber connections with consistent pricing. Wireless Home Internet and satellite internet plans may be throttled and subject to overage fees if plan data caps are reached.
Overage Fees
Cox: Overage fees may apply if you exceed your data cap, with charges based on additional data used.
Installation
EarthLink: Professional installation is available for fiber and satellite plans. Self-installation is available for wireless home internet plans.
Installation
Cox: Self-install $20, professional install $50.
Equipment
EarthLink: Requires leased Wi-Fi router for $12.95/month.
Equipment
Cox: Equipment rental options from $8.50-$12/month for modems, routers, and gateways.
Early Termination
EarthLink: Early termination fees for fiber plans vary depending on remaining contract period.
Early Termination
Cox: Early termination fees up to $360 for customers on contract-based plans.
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Overage Fees
EarthLink: No overage fees, offering unlimited data for fiber connections with consistent pricing. Wireless Home Internet and satellite internet plans may be throttled and subject to overage fees if plan data caps are reached.
Installation
EarthLink: Professional installation is available for fiber and satellite plans. Self-installation is available for wireless home internet plans.
Equipment
EarthLink: Requires leased Wi-Fi router for $12.95/month.
Early Termination
EarthLink: Early termination fees for fiber plans vary depending on remaining contract period.
SHOW MORE
Overage Fees
Cox: Overage fees may apply if you exceed your data cap, with charges based on additional data used.
Installation
Cox: Self-install $20, professional install $50.
Equipment
Cox: Equipment rental options from $8.50-$12/month for modems, routers, and gateways.
Early Termination
Cox: Early termination fees up to $360 for customers on contract-based plans.
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EarthLink vs Cox Deals and Promotions
EarthLink
- No credit checks required for service approval
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Unlimited data on fiber plans
Cox
- Low introductory pricing for new customers
- Price-lock guarantees available
- Customizable bundle options for TV, phone, and internet
Pros and Cons: EarthLink
Pros
Higher maximum speeds (up to 5 Gbps)
Diverse connection types for wider availability
No credit checks required
Cons
Limited unlimited data to fiber plans only
Equipment rental required
Early termination fees on some plans
Pros and Cons: Cox
Pros
Reliable cable network infrastructure
Bundle options for additional services
Public Wi–Fi hotspots available
Cons
Data caps on most plans
Higher equipment fees
Limited to 18 states
Is EarthLink or Cox Better for You?
EarthLink: Best for Unlimited Data
EarthLink is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality internet without worrying about data limits on fiber plans. Their diverse connection options make them accessible in both urban and rural areas, while their customer-first approach ensures transparent pricing and reliable service. With speeds up to 5 Gbps and no credit checks required, EarthLink appeals to heavy internet users and those seeking hassle-free signup.
Cox: Best for Flexible Pricing
Cox provides reliable cable internet with flexible pricing options to suit different budgets. Their affordable introductory rates and customizable bundle options make it possible to manage expenses effectively while accessing stable internet service. Cox’s established network infrastructure ensures consistent performance for everyday browsing, video conferencing, and media streaming needs.
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