How does CenturyLink compare to Mediacom internet?
Whether you’re relaxing and streaming the latest hit show, browsing Instagram, or working from home, an internet package from either CenturyLink or Mediacom will likely do the trick. Both CenturyLink and Mediacom are available in dozens of states, offer a variety of speed packages, and have good customer satisfaction scores.
We’ve compiled an in-depth comparison of CenturyLink vs Mediacom to show how the two internet service providers (ISPs) measure up against each other.
- Who CenturyLink and Mediacom internet are for
- Key considerations
- What others say about CenturyLink and Mediacom internet
- How do CenturyLink and Mediacom internet packages compare?
Who CenturyLink and Mediacom internet are for
CenturyLink has two internet packages available, basic DSL and fiber internet. The basic DSL plan starts at $50/month and delivers up to 100Mbps, which can be enough bandwidth for basic streaming and web browsing.
If you have more substantial speed needs due to gaming or transferring large files for telecommuting, the CenturyLink fiber internet plan may be a better option. The CenturyLink Fiber Gigabit Plan is $65/month with speeds up to 940Mbps.
Mediacom offers multiple internet plans, making it easy to pick a plan that works with your specific budget and needs. For example, the basic Access Internet 60 package is only $19.99/month, offers speeds up to 60Mbps, and can be used to connect up to four devices simultaneously.
For customers that need more from their home internet for streaming on multiple devices or gaming, the Internet 1 Gig package may be preferable. This package offers up to 1000Mbps download speed, which can support up to 20 devices connected at the same time.
Key considerations
Installation fees
CenturyLink charges a one-time professional installation fee of $99 with a technician, or you can opt for self-install for just $15. Mediacom currently offers free standard installation if you order services online, but you must pay a one-time activation fee of $10.
Data overage fees
CenturyLink has no data caps and no data overage fees. By comparison, Mediacom charges $10 for every extra 50GB of data used within a 30-day billing cycle.
Contracts
CenturyLink does not require a contract with new services, but Mediacom does. Mediacom’s service contracts are for 12 months, and pricing may increase once the introductory contract is over.
Equipment fees
Mediacom charges a $12 monthly rental fee for a standard modem. Mediacom also offers their Xtream WiFi360pro modem free for three months and rental costs are $10/month after that. While CenturyLink charges $15/month for modem rental, you can purchase a modem directly from CenturyLink for $200 or use your own compatible modem free of charge.
Early termination fees
CenturyLink bills on a month-to-month basis without a contract, so there are no termination fees involved with their internet service. Mediacom may charge an early termination fee of up to $120 if you cancel a one-year contract early.
What others say about CenturyLink and Mediacom internet
CenturyLink
CenturyLink has the top spot on the Best DSL Internet Providers list published by U.S. News & World Report, and the ISP ranked #2 on the publication’s list of Best Internet Providers for Rural Areas of 2022.
Mediacom
According to U.S. News & World Report, Mediacom earned the #2 spot on its Fastest Internet Service Providers of 2022 and Most Affordable Internet Providers of 2022 lists. The publication noted that Mediacom often over-performs its stated speeds, making the company a good choice for avid gamers and streamers.
How do CenturyLink and Mediacom internet packages compare?
*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 3/3/22.
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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