How does CenturyLink compare to Cox internet?
Is checking your email, web browsing, streaming, or online gaming part of your daily routine? If so, CenturyLink and Cox are two reliable home internet service providers (ISPs) that may meet your needs.
What’s the difference between CenturyLink vs. Cox internet? CenturyLink offers two packages: one high-speed fiber and the other digital subscriber line (DSL) internet. Cox is a hybrid fiber-cable internet provider offering five packages and is the fourth-largest ISP in the US. Cox typically serves large urban areas, while CenturyLink reaches more suburban and rural customers.
- Who CenturyLink and Cox internet are for
- Key considerations
- What others say about CenturyLink and Cox internet
- How do CenturyLink and Cox internet packages compare?
Who CenturyLink and Cox internet are for
One essential thing to consider when evaluating CenturyLink and Cox internet plans is availability. While Cox currently has coverage in 19 states, CenturyLink has a bigger footprint and offers internet service in 36 states.
If you’re in CenturyLink’s coverage area you can get its DSL service, the Simply Unlimited Internet plan. With speeds up to 100Mbps, this plan is good for individuals and smaller families that only have to stream content on a few devices at a time.
If you have more intensive data needs, you may want to look at CenturyLink’s Fiber Gigabit plan (if available). Ideal for work-at-home professionals, streaming enthusiasts, and passionate gamers, this plan offers lightning-fast download speeds of up to 940Mbps. At just $65/month, its price is very competitive. However, the plan is only available in select metropolitan areas.
With five packages and price tiers, Cox offers something for every household budget. If you have minimal internet needs, such as browsing and checking social media, the budget-friendly 25Mbps Internet Starter 25 plan at $29.99/month may be adequate. Remote workers, streamers, gamers, and other heavy internet users may need a higher-tier Cox package, such as the Internet Preferred 250 plan with 250Mbps download speed at $59.99/month, the Internet Ultimate 500 plan at 500Mbps for $79.99/month, or the Gigablast fiber plan with speeds up to 1000Mbps.*
Key considerations
Besides the plan basics, there are some other things to consider when weighing a decision between Cox and CenturyLink.
Installation fees: CenturyLink fiber professional installation is free, CenturyLink Simply Unlimited Internet installation is $99, and the company has a self-install option but it varies by speed and address. Cox professional installation starts at around $50, but If you want professional installation of up to three computers in your home, it may cost an additional $40. With Cox, you can opt for the self-installation option for a one-time charge of $20.
Modem rental or purchase: CenturyLink lets you rent a modem for $15/month, or you can purchase the modem for a one-time $200 charge. If you opt for the CenturyLink Fiber Gigabit plan, your modem is include for free. Cox has two modem options for all of their plans, use your own equipment free of charge or opt for their Panoramic WiFi for $13.99/month.
Data caps and overage fees: CenturyLink offers unlimited data for every package, which can be a great option if you use a lot of data each month. While Cox does have a data cap, it’s a generous 1.25TB/month. If you exceed this cap, Cox charges $10 for each 50GB overage, with a maximum fee of $100.
What others say about CenturyLink and Cox internet
Cox reviews
According to the most recent reviews from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ASCI), Cox scored 71 out of 100 for WiFi quality. That score puts it in the top echelon of ISPs, alongside Verizon Fios, AT&T, and Comcast Xfinity.
For customer satisfaction, Cox finished fourth in the ASCI rankings behind the same three providers with a score of 63 out of 100.
CenturyLink reviews
ASCI reported that CenturyLink had a customer satisfaction score of 62, slightly below the industry average of 65. However, that score puts it on par with Cox and other smaller ISPs, such as Windstream and Optimum.
However, the company’s WiFi quality scores were the best of among smaller ISPs and not far behind Cox, at 69 out of 100.
How do CenturyLink and Cox internet packages compare?
This comparison table provides details on how CenturyLink compares to Cox in terms of plans, pricing, speeds, and more.
*Pricing varies by location and availability. Speeds may vary. All prices subject to change; for current pricing and availability visit our internet service page. Prices as of 1/21/22.
Disclosure | Updater articles are based on our own data and research, independent from partner relationships. We are not compensated by partners for information and opinions presented here. Our Editorial Terms of Service can be found here.
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