Spectrum internet and AT&T internet are both excellent internet options. Each has distinct advantages that fit the needs of many lifestyles, so it’s important to do your research when deciding between the two. While there are a few key differences between them, Spectrum and AT&T remain popular for good reasons. Keep reading to learn more about each provider and understand which one is best for you.
- Contract buyouts up to $500
- Free access to WiFi hotspots
- Nationwide availability
- Variety of plans
- Wide availability
- Fiber internet speeds
Internet Plans
Our Picks | | |
|---|---|---|
Max Download Speed | 35 Mbps | 300 Mbps – 940 Mbps |
Starting Price | $49.99/mo. – $89.99/mo. | $55/mo. – $80/mo. |
Equipment Fee | $5/mo. | $10/mo. |
Contracts | No | Options Available |
| 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 6/09/22.
Spectrum Internet Plans
While both offer fast speeds, Spectrum internet plans offer unlimited data and nationwide hotspots. You also won’t have to worry about contracts or steep equipment fees. Although Spectrum only offers cable internet, it does have extensive coverage across the United States.
AT&T Internet Plans
Like Spectrum, AT&T internet plans have wide availability and the option to bundle services. AT&T offers fiber internet with up-front pricing and free equipment. Keep in mind that DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T’s TV service, is still available nationwide, but fiber is only available in select areas.
Internet Features
Although both Spectrum and AT&T have wide availability nationwide, each has notable strengths and differences. Knowing which type of internet plan best fits your needs before choosing a provider is best.
Vast Network Coverage
Spectrum internet gives you the option to boost your entire home with WiFi 6 technology for faster speeds and more reliability.
Wide Availability
AT&T offers fiber internet in 21 states with the option to bundle DIRECTV STREAM nationwide.
Fast Speeds
Experience speeds up to 1 Gbps with no data caps. New customers are also eligible to get a free modem and free self-installation.
Fast Speeds with Fiber
Get internet speeds up to 940 Mbps and 99% network reliability for browsing, streaming, gaming, and more.
Online Security
Spectrum includes a Security Suite for up to 10 Windows or Mac computers. This will protect you from malicious attacks, spyware, Trojans, etc.
Up-Front Pricing
AT&T has straightforward pricing with no contracts or data caps. Have peace of mind knowing you won’t have price increases or equipment rental fees either.
No Contracts
Spectrum doesn’t require contracts for any of its plans. They even offer a $500 buyout from a competitor’s contract, but you’ll have to opt for an internet and TV bundle to qualify.
Rewards
Get $250 in rewards when you order AT&T internet online with speeds starting at 300 Mbps.
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Vast Network Coverage
Spectrum internet gives you the option to boost your entire home with WiFi 6 technology for faster speeds and more reliability.
Fast Speeds
Experience speeds up to 1 Gbps with no data caps. New customers are also eligible to get a free modem and free self-installation.
Online Security
Spectrum includes a Security Suite for up to 10 Windows or Mac computers. This will protect you from malicious attacks, spyware, Trojans, etc.
No Contracts
Spectrum doesn’t require contracts for any of its plans. They even offer a $500 buyout from a competitor’s contract, but you’ll have to opt for an internet and TV bundle to qualify.
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Wide Availability
AT&T offers fiber internet in 21 states with the option to bundle DIRECTV STREAM nationwide.
Fast Speeds with Fiber
Get internet speeds up to 940 Mbps and 99% network reliability for browsing, streaming, gaming, and more.
Up-Front Pricing
AT&T has straightforward pricing with no contracts or data caps. Have peace of mind knowing you won’t have price increases or equipment rental fees either.
Rewards
Get $250 in rewards when you order AT&T internet online with speeds starting at 300 Mbps.
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Internet Fees
It’s important to consider additional costs outside of your plan’s introductory rate. Pay attention to installation and rental fees, contractual expenses, and overage data charges.
Installation Fees
You’ll have the option to install your own equipment or have a professional come out and do it for you. Professional installations have a one-time fee of $49.99, while self-installation is $19.99.
Installation Fees
You may pay up to $99 in installation fees with AT&T, plus tax where applicable.
Equipment Rentals
Spectrum does not charge for a modem and only requires a $5/mo. fee for the WiFi router, and a $3/mo. fee per Spectrum WiFi pod.
Equipment Rentals
AT&T has free equipment rentals, meaning each fiber internet plan includes the new WiFi 6 router for maximum home coverage and speeds.
Price Increases
When choosing a Spectrum internet plan, be sure to read the fine print. Your monthly bill may increase as much as $25 after your first service year ends.
Price Increases
You won’t have to worry about price increases after your first year of service with AT&T.
Data Overages
With no data limits on Spectrum plans, you don’t have to worry about overage fees increasing your monthly bill.
Data Overages
Depending on your plan, data caps may apply. Specifically, plans under 100 Mbps are subject to overage fees of up to $10 for every 50 GB used above the monthly data allowance.
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Installation Fees
You’ll have the option to install your own equipment or have a professional come out and do it for you. Professional installations have a one-time fee of $49.99, while self-installation is $19.99.
Equipment Rentals
Spectrum does not charge for a modem and only requires a $5/mo. fee for the WiFi router, and a $3/mo. fee per Spectrum WiFi pod.
Price Increases
When choosing a Spectrum internet plan, be sure to read the fine print. Your monthly bill may increase as much as $25 after your first service year ends.
Data Overages
With no data limits on Spectrum plans, you don’t have to worry about overage fees increasing your monthly bill.
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Installation Fees
You may pay up to $99 in installation fees with AT&T, plus tax where applicable.
Equipment Rentals
AT&T has free equipment rentals, meaning each fiber internet plan includes the new WiFi 6 router for maximum home coverage and speeds.
Price Increases
You won’t have to worry about price increases after your first year of service with AT&T.
Data Overages
Depending on your plan, data caps may apply. Specifically, plans under 100 Mbps are subject to overage fees of up to $10 for every 50 GB used above the monthly data allowance.
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Picking a Provider
As you can see, Spectrum and AT&T both have notable strengths as internet options. Spectrum is an excellent option if you’re seeking convenience and need a provider with wider availability, while AT&T is great for a reliable connection and flexible plan options.
Spectrum: Best for Convenience
When it comes to convenience, Spectrum packages are the best choice. With fast download speeds and free WiFi hotspots nationwide, it’s easy to stay connected wherever you go. Spectrum is an excellent choice for people who telecommute, stream, game, and more. Its high speeds allot plenty of bandwidth for all your internet-related needs.
AT&T: Best for Reliability
As one of the nation’s top providers, AT&T plans offer dependable internet with the option to bundle packages and save. You won’t have to worry about any connectivity issues when it comes to working, streaming, or gaming with AT&T’s 99% reliability. As long as you live where AT&T offers internet, you can enjoy fast, reliable speeds with the option to add budget-friendly services to create the entertainment suite you’ve always wanted.
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