How does Suddenlink compare to Spectrum internet?
If you are shopping for internet, you should know that Suddenlink and Spectrum are two popular cable internet service providers (ISPs) offering reliable internet service. Where the two ISPs differ is in their services and related charges. For example, Suddenlink’s plans tend to be more affordable, while Spectrum has no data overage charges or early termination fees.
You may want to weigh these and other pros and cons before making a choice on the best internet service for your needs. Exploring the details of each provider and their plans will help make the choice easier so that your household can stay connected.
- Who Suddenlink and Spectrum internet are for
- Comparison of internet services
- What others say about Suddenlink and Spectrum internet
- How do Suddenlink and Spectrum internet packages compare?
Who Suddenlink and Spectrum internet are for
While these two ISPs are similar on the surface, their products, pricing, and terms differ, so each may appeal to customers with different needs and budgets.
Suddenlink
Suddenlink’s plans start at a much lower price compared to plans from Spectrum, so they may appeal to those on a budget, provided you can stay under the data caps on their Internet 20 and Internet 100 plans. Suddenlink’s coverage is limited chiefly to the southern states. However, if you live in Arizona, California, Oklahoma, or Texas, you can benefit from Suddenlink’s extensive coverage in those states.
Spectrum
Spectrum is currently available in 41 states, making it a widely available option for many customers. Its plans, even the basic ones, have unlimited data, making it a good choice for gamers and families using streaming services on multiple devices. What’s more, Spectrum’s terms are relatively uncomplicated, appealing to those willing to pay a little extra to avoid additional fees.
Comparison of internet services
Suddenlink and Spectrum offer plans of equal or comparable speeds, but the difference is in the details such as pricing, terms, and coverage.
Suddenlink
Suddenlink offers cable internet connections in about 20 states, mainly in the south and southeast.
- Pricing. Suddenlink’s approach is to provide affordable plans with competitive speeds for families on a tighter budget. Plans start as low as $44.99/month and range up to $84.99/month. However, these rates will likely go up significantly after the first year. Suddenlink also charges for equipment rental, but you can avoid these charges if you have your own devices. You can also avoid installation fees by requesting a self-install kit if they are available where you live.
- Terms and fees. This is another area where Suddenlink differs from Spectrum. Suddenlink charges overage fees on its plans with data limits. They also charge early termination fees.
- Plans. Suddenlink internet plans vary with speeds from 100Mbps to 1000Mbps and internet service can be bundled with cable TV plans.
Spectrum
Spectrum offers cable internet in 41 states, making it a competitive option to other major ISPs, such as Cox and Xfinity.
- Pricing. Spectrum’s plans start a bit higher than Suddenlink, ranging from $49.99/month to $89.99/month, but the price increase after the first year is minimal. Spectrum also charges for equipment rental and installation, but you can save if you have your own equipment and request a self-install kit if it’s available where you live.
- Terms and fees. Spectrum has no data caps or overage charges, and they don’t charge a fee for early termination. In fact, they pride themselves on having simple terms and no hidden fees.
- Plans. Spectrum’s internet plans vary with speeds from 200Mbps to 1000Mbps and internet service can be bundled with cable TV plans.
In many ways, the two providers are neck-and-neck, but Suddenlink offers slightly more affordable starting fees, and Spectrum offers no-hassle terms.
What others say about Suddenlink and Spectrum internet
In addition to comparing products and services, it’s helpful to compare reviews regarding reliability and customer service.
Suddenlink
U.S. News ranked Suddenlink in first place for affordable ISPs. The publication noted that it’s a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers looking to customize their internet service plan.
The American Customer Satisfaction Index gave Suddenlink a customer satisfaction score of 55 out of 100, which is comparable to scores received by Optimum, Frontier, and Mediacom.
Spectrum
U.S. News & World Report praised Spectrum as a good ISP for customers who don’t want data caps and additional fees. The publication also stated that Spectrum’s 41-state coverage makes it one of the most available providers.
The American Customer Satisfaction Index gave Spectrum a customer satisfaction score of 63 out of 100. And ZDNet highlighted the free services available to customers, as well as Spectrum’s consistent and reliable download speeds.
How do Suddenlink and Spectrum internet packages compare?
To sum up, both providers offer similar speeds, and after the first year, the prices are almost the same. Sign-up is cheaper with Suddenlink, but terms and fees are more attractive with Spectrum.
*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 6/6/22.
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.
