How does Frontier compare to Spectrum internet?
If you’re in the market for fast internet without data limits, you may be considering Frontier and Spectrum. For some customers, the decision between Frontier vs Spectrum may come down to key factors such as which provider is available in your area, whether you need fiber-optic service, and the pricing.
Both Frontier and Spectrum provide speeds that suit even heavy internet users, and some of their prices and packages are similar. However, your choice may depend on your location because Frontier and Spectrum cater to some areas more than others.
- Who Frontier and Spectrum internet are for
- Comparison of internet services
- What others say about Frontier and Spectrum internet
- How do Frontier and Spectrum internet packages compare?
Who Frontier and Spectrum internet are for
While both Frontier and Spectrum offer fast internet, some users may prefer one over the other for a couple of different reasons. For example, if you need fast upload speeds, you may lean more towards Frontier because they offer fiber-optic service. A fiber connection can provide you with download and upload speeds that are either symmetrical or close to it, while the cable service Spectrum offers will have limited upload speeds, between 10 and 35 Mbps.
This means that online gamers may prefer a Frontier fiber plan over anything Spectrum offers, primarily because of the data upload requirements of some gaming environments.
Comparison of internet services
One of the most significant differences when considering Spectrum internet vs Frontier is the availability of fiber-optic service. To put it plainly, Frontier has fiber internet plans, but Spectrum does not. But to know for a fact what your options are, you have to specifically check what’s offered in your area.
Another factor in the Frontier internet vs Spectrum decision is price. With Spectrum, you get 300 Mbps for $49.99/month. Paying the same amount with Frontier gets you 500 Mbps, which means you get far more speed for the same amount of money.*
Another difference is that Frontier offers three fiber optic options, while Spectrum only provides cable service. On the other hand, many users may opt for Spectrum because it’s available where they are or plan on moving to. Spectrum is available in 41 states, which is significantly more than Frontier’s 25.
What others say about Frontier and Spectrum internet
Looking at reviews for Frontier and Spectrum internet reveals some service issues that may be worth considering. For instance, Spectrum has a rating of 1.06/5 by the Better Business Bureau, which notes that the Attorney General of New York has announced a lawsuit against the company for allegedly misleading New Yorkers regarding its speed and performance.
However, Spectrum earns high scores for its rural internet services, getting the #1 spot in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings. Spectrum also has a good reputation as a cable service provider, earning the #2 spot in that category.
Frontier also has experienced customer dissatisfaction with its service. For example, the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), in its telecommunications press release, gives Frontier a low rating of 57 out of 100, which is only two points higher than their lowest-ranking internet service provider.
Frontier excels, however, when it comes to the quality of their DSL service, getting a #1 ranking from U.S. News. They also earned the top spot for providers good for gamers, thanks to their symmetrical speeds.
So in the Spectrum vs Frontier conversation, while availability may not always be a prime concern, customer satisfaction could be an issue.
How do Frontier and Spectrum internet packages compare?
Compare the top internet providers in your area
*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 2/15/22.
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.
