How does CenturyLink compare to Spectrum internet?
What do you need to know when comparing CenturyLink and Spectrum for home internet service? CenturyLink provides no-contract DSL service in 37 states, with a fiber internet option in 25 states. Spectrum is also a no-contract internet provider but offers access to cable internet service across a 44 state footprint.
There’s a lot more to learn about these internet service providers (ISPs), and we’ve gathered all the facts and figures you’ll need.
- Who CenturyLink and Spectrum internet are for
- What others say about CenturyLink and Spectrum internet
- How do CenturyLink and Spectrum internet packages compare?
Who CenturyLink and Spectrum internet are for
If you have relatively simple internet needs — like browsing, checking email, and streaming videos — a lower-cost plan may work well. Both CenturyLink and Spectrum offer entry-level plans for around $50/month, but you’ll see a second-year price increase from Spectrum.
People who work from home, avid gamers, and families that stream on multiple devices simultaneously have more intensive needs when it comes to internet speed. If this sounds like your household, it’s smart to look at the higher-end CenturyLink fiber and Spectrum cable plans. CenturyLink offers a fiber plan with up to 940Mbps in select markets for the first-year price of $65/month, and Spectrum’s Gig plan will cost you more at $89.99/month for the first year of service.*
What others say about CenturyLink and Spectrum internet
What are the experts saying about CenturyLink and Spectrum? We’ve combed through popular reviews to bring you some highlights.
CenturyLink
CenturyLink earned an B+ customer service rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
CenturyLink’s fiber plan is affordable and high quality, according to CNET, with symmetrical download and upload speeds that prevent disruptions during video calls, gaming, and streaming high-definition content.
Spectrum
Spectrum earns praise from CNET for not having a data cap — unlike its chief cable internet competitors, Xfinity and Cox.
Spectrum achieved the #1 ranking on the US News & World Report listing of Best Rural Internet Providers and ranked #2 on the Best Cable Internet Providers list in a three-way tie with RCN and Cox.
How do CenturyLink and Spectrum internet packages compare?
We’ve summarized CenturyLink vs. Spectrum packages, prices, and speeds to help you choose your next ISP.
*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 1/24/22.
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.
Internet and TV tips
Switching providers and don’t know where to start? We can help.
