Best Plans with 500 Mbps Internet Speed – Is 500 Mbps Fast?

Best Plans with 500 Mbps
Internet Speed - Is 500 Mbps Fast?

Spectrum Internet Ultra
4.5/5

Starting From

$69.99/mo.

for 12 mos with Auto Pay

  • Download Speed: 500 Mbps
  • Upload Speed: 20 Mbps

Call to Order

(877) 654-4997
AT&T Fiber 500
4/5

Starting From

$65.00/mo.

with AutoPay & paperless billing

  • Download Speed: 500 Mbps
  • Upload Speed: 500 Mbps

Call to Order

(877) 675-5469
Frontier Fiber 500
4/5

Starting From

$39.99/mo.

with AutoPay & paperless billing

  • Download Speed: 500 Mbps
  • Upload Speed: 500 Mbps

Call to Order

(877) 592-5815

Technology is evolving at a lightning pace, and consequently, companies are constantly developing and improving the underlying infrastructure that powers the Internet. These improvements, coupled with the growing demand for speed, are prompting internet service providers to offer faster plans. So, in today’s context, is a 500 Mbps Internet connection enough to support bandwidth-intensive applications?

Contrary to common belief, a 500 Mbps Internet connection is more than sufficient to support all modern online activities for medium to large households. Hence, it is a standard internet plan in the US, with many cable and fiber internet providers offering it to their customers. If you are confused about all the options, we have compiled a list of some of the best 500 Mbps Internet plans in the market to simplify things. 

Table of Contents

Best 500 Mbps Internet Plans

Since 500 Mbps is a typical plan in the market, it is common to become confused by the plethora of options. In the world of high-speed internet, 500 Mbps is still a blazing-fast internet speed for numerous users and is well-suited for many modern online activities. While faster speeds like 1 gigabit and multi-gigabit options are also available, they are often unsuitable for residential usage. That’s why a 500 Mbps Internet plan is usually the ideal option for home internet users, as it delivers more than enough bandwidth to handle the demands of multiple devices.

This speed tier perfectly balances performance and cost, making it an ideal choice for medium to large households with a wide range of digital activities. Fortunately, many internet service providers (ISPs) offer affordable 500 Mbps plans, giving you a flawless online experience without spending a fortune. The following table presents a list of top options in the market to help you find the best 500 Mbps Internet plan that suits your needs.

Provider Download Speed Upload Speed Price
Spectrum 500 Mbps 20 Mbps $69.99/mo.
AT&T Fiber 500 Mbps 500 Mbps $65.00/mo.
Frontier 500 Mbps 500 Mbps $39.99/mo.
EarthLink 500 Mbps 500 Mbps $79.95/mo.
Verizon Fios 500 Mbps 500 Mbps $69.99/mo.
Optimum 500 Mbps 20 to 500 Mbps $60.00/mo.
Kinetic Fiber 500 Mbps 500 Mbps $39.99/mo.
Cox 500 Mbps 10 Mbps $89.99/mo.
Metronet 500 Mbps 500 Mbps $49.95/mo.

Spectrum Internet Ultra

Spectrum’s 500 Mbps Internet plan, Internet Ultra, is one of the best options in the market. This mid-tier plan has promising features and is especially made for heavy internet users who share bandwidth with several family members. You might already know that Spectrum Internet Ultra offers a 500 Mbps download speed for $69.99 for the first year, but how about the upload speed? Unfortunately, the upload speed is limited to 20 Mbps since Spectrum is a cable internet provider.

However, this significantly slower upload rate shouldn’t concern many users since most home internet activities use the download speeds. This 500 Mbps download speed enables power internet users to enjoy uninterrupted 4K streaming and quick downloading. The plan also includes an efficient modem, endless data, professional assistance, and free online security software to safeguard your personal information. Additionally, its contract-free nature frees you from unfair conditions and simplifies the switching process.

Spectrum Internet Ultra At a Glance
Starting Price $69.99/mo. for 12 mos. with AutoPay
Internet Type Cable
Internet Speed Asymmetric
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment $5.00/mo. for WiFi
Self Installation $24.99
Professional Installation $59.99

AT&T Internet 500

AT&T Internet 500 is another incredible high-speed internet plan. This half-gigabit plan with a standard price of $65 is one of the most valuable options amidst a sea of alternatives. The most notable feature of this 500 Mbps internet plan is that its pricing includes all taxes and stays the same even after a year, which is unusual in the US telecom industry.

AT&T Internet 500 provides symmetric upload and download rates, making it perfect for large families whose world revolves around the internet. Its reliable network provides the essential bandwidth to connect multiple devices and supports simultaneous 4K streaming and uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Besides high speed and reliability, AT&T’s 500 Mbps internet plan is famous for its appealing features, such as unlimited data, excellent online security, flexible terms that allow you to switch your provider whenever you want, and a $150 reward card on online orders. One major drawback? This 500 Mbps Internet plan is only available within AT&T’s fiber footprint.

AT&T Internet 500 At a Glance
Starting Price $65.00/mo. + taxes with AutoPay & paperless billing discount
Internet Type Fiber
Internet Speed Symmetric
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment Included
Self-installation Free
Professional installation $99.00

Frontier Fiber 500

Frontier also offers a 500 Mbps Internet plan through its fiber network. In fact, its entry-level fiber internet plan offers 500 Mbps internet speed for just $39.99/mo. This initial price is more affordable than what you will find with other providers. Frontier Fiber is famous for its promotional offers, and its 500 Mbps Internet speed comes with several incredible features, including an Amazon eero Wi-Fi 6+ router and free professional installation. Frontier also often offers time-limited deals, and currently, it is providing a $10 discount on YouTube TV for one year with a specific plan. However, this offer is exclusively for Frontier Internet subscribers who are new YouTube TV customers.

Frontier’s 500 Mbps internet plan provides symmetrical speeds without data restrictions or long-term contracts. In addition to this, it has very few extra costs, ensuring that your monthly internet bill will not significantly exceed the advertised rate. While this plan has numerous appealing qualities, the only drawback is that its availability is limited to a select few metros in its 25-state footprint. You are most likely to find the Frontier Fiber 500 plan in California, Connecticut, and  Florida. 

Frontier Fiber 500 At a Glance
Starting Price $39.99/mo. with AutoPay & paperless billing discount
Internet Type Fiber
Internet Speed Symmetric
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment Included
Installation Included

EarthLink 500 Mbps Plan

EarthLink’s 500 Mbps Internet plan may have a higher starting price point compared to other alternatives, but it stands out with its distinctive features. EarthLink is an experienced name in the telecom industry. It leverages the networks of other fiber internet providers to bring this 500 Mbps plan to millions of people across the country. This 500 Mbps Internet plan offers symmetrical upload and download speeds and unlimited data, providing a smooth internet experience for power users, even with multiple data-hungry users at home.

Like AT&T, EarthLink Fiber 500’s pricing is also non-promotional. The provider offers stability by locking in its rate for 12 months. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about unexpected price changes in the middle of the year. Additionally, EarthLink Fiber has a time-limited offer of a $100 MasterCard gift card with this plan. Despite its appealing qualities, EarthLink includes several extra charges on your monthly internet bill, such as a monthly equipment rental fee ranging from $7 to $13, and requires you to sign a 1-year contract. Moreover, there is also a one-time fee for professional installation.

EarthLink 500 At a Glance
Starting Price $79.95/mo.
Internet Type Fiber
Internet Speed Symmetric
Data Caps None
Contract 1-year
Equipment $7.00/mo. – $13.00/mo.
Installation $79.95

Verizon Fios 500

The 500 Mbps Internet plan from Verizon Fios is perfect for large families with active internet usage. This plan offers symmetrical upload and download speeds. Standalone, the Verizon Fios 500 package starts at $69.99 per month. However, you can reduce the monthly cost to just $44.99 by bundling it with select 5G mobile plans.

One of the most significant benefits of choosing the Verizon Fios 500 is its 3-year price lock guarantee, which ensures that your bill remains fixed for a long time. This guarantee also sets it apart from other 500 Mbps Internet options. Additionally, Verizon Fios 500 does not require a contract and offers unlimited data and free equipment, making it a cost-effective choice for internet users. This fiber internet plan provides ample bandwidth to connect up to 11 devices, enabling you to engage in various data-consuming applications simultaneously.

Verizon Fios 500 At a Glance
Starting Price $69.99/mo. with Auto Pay & without select 5G mobile plans
Price Guarantee 3 years
Internet Type Fiber
Internet Speed Symmetric
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment Included
Installation $99.00 (Free on online orders)

Optimum 500 Mbps Plan

Optimum offers a range of speed tiers, but its 500 Mbps Internet plan is the most valuable option. Optimum, a brand under Altice USA, provides this speed tier through both fiber and cable networks. But, the availability of each service depends on your exact location within Optimum’s coverage area. The provider maintains identical pricing for its cable and fiber speed tiers. Hence, the standalone starting price of Optimum 500 is $60, regardless of the available network in your area.

However, internet speeds vary depending on the internet type. Customers residing within Optimum’s fiber footprint enjoy equal upload and download speeds, while those with the same 500 Mbps plan via cable technology will experience asymmetric rates. It is also important to note that the availability of Optimum Fiber 500 is more limited compared to the cable alternative.

Apart from this, Optimum 500 offers the same features across both networks. It doesn’t require a contract and provides unlimited data and standard equipment. Overall, Optimum 500 Mbps Internet is an attractive option, but the most notable drawback is the substantial price increase after the promotional period.

Optimum 500 At a Glance
Starting Price $60.00/mo. with Auto Pay & Paperless Billing Discount & without Mobile plans
Internet Type Fiber/Cable
Internet Speed Depends on the internet type
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment Included
Installation Free on online orders

Kinetic 500

Windstream Communications uses the brand name Kinetic to provide telecommunications services. While the provider promotes several plans with different speed ranges, the actual speeds depend on your ZIP code. Windstream primarily offers DSL internet to rural markets, but many customers in suburbs and urban areas within its coverage can access the more reliable fiber network.

Kinetic Fiber 500 is one of the available speed tiers in these areas, offering symmetrical upload and download speeds with unlimited data starting at $40. Although the starting price for 500 Mbps Internet is quite affordable, Windstream adds a monthly equipment rental fee of $10 to $12 to your internet bill. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $35 for professional installation. Nevertheless, Kinetic Fiber 500 is a reasonably priced mid-tier internet plan.

Kinetic Fiber 500 At a Glance
Starting Price $39.99/mo. for 12 mos. with AutoPay
Internet Type Fiber
Internet Speed Symmetric
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment $9.99/mo. – $11.99/mo.
Installation $35.00

Cox Go Even Faster

Cox, the third-largest cable internet provider, also offers a 500 Mbps Internet plan known as Go Even Faster. This internet service provider serves a substantial customer base of around 7 million across 19 states. You can find this plan at a starting price of $89.99 in most urban areas within these states. This pricing makes Cox one of the most expensive options in the 500 Mbps market, and it maintains this title even when the provider reduces the price to $75 when bundled with its mobile service.

Another noteworthy thing about this 500 Mbps Internet plan is that it provides asymmetric speeds, resulting in a significantly lower upload rate compared to the download rate. Moreover, while Go Even Faster does not require an annual contract, it does come with a 1.25 TB data cap. However, Cox offers the Panoramic WiFi equipment at no additional cost for 2 years with this 500 Mbps plan to enhance the customer experience, ensuring comprehensive coverage in your home.

Cox Go Even Faster At a Glance
Starting Price $89.99/mo. without Cox Mobile and with Auto Pay
Internet Type Cable
Internet Speed Asymmetric
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment Included for 24 months
Installation $100.00

Metronet 500 Mb

Metronet is a high-speed regional internet service provider that has recently expanded its coverage to 250 communities in 16 states through a merger with Vexus Fiber. It offers one of the best 500 Mbps Internet plans with outstanding features via cutting-edge technology. This plan provides equal download and upload speeds of 500 Mbps, so you don’t have to worry about a laggy connection while scrolling through your favorite social media, watching your favorite series, and playing multiple games.

Metronet offers this 500 Mbps plan for a starting price of $50 per month for 12 months. After that, the price increases to $60 per month in the second year and reaches the regular price of $70 per month during the third year. This pricing structure makes it an affordable internet plan for larger households.

In addition to striking the right balance between speed and cost, Metronet 500 Mb provides free equipment and unlimited data, allowing you to browse, stream, and download without any restrictions. The best part is that it does not require a contract, giving you the flexibility to cancel your service whenever you want.

Metronet 500 Mb At a Glance
Starting Price $49.95/mo. for 12 mos.
Internet Type Fiber
Internet Speed Symmetric
Data Caps None
Contract None
Equipment Included
Installation $25.00

How Much is 500 Mbps Internet Speed?

A 500 Mbps Internet plan is a lightning-fast speed tier that enables users to effortlessly engage in numerous online activities. This speed is more than enough for simultaneously streaming 4K content on multiple devices, lag-free online gaming, video conferencing, and downloading large files in mere seconds. It also allows for smooth browsing, fast software updates, and efficient cloud-based tasks. In short, a 500 Mbps internet connection is ideal for households with multiple users and high-bandwidth-intensive activities, making it a versatile choice for both work and entertainment needs.

As for the price, the cost of a 500 Mbps Internet plan can vary depending on your Internet service provider and location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $90 per month for a 500 Mbps plan, although promotional offers, extra costs, and bundling with other services can affect the final price.

Which is the Best 500 Mbps Internet Plan?

A 500 Mbps Internet plan remains an extremely fast and versatile speed tier in today’s context, capable of handling even the most data-intensive activities. We have examined various factors in our quest for the best 500 Mbps plans, including internet technology, reliability, pricing, and additional features, and have highlighted the nine best options.

However, Verizon Fios takes the crown for providing the best 500 Mbps Internet plan. Verizon Fios 500 is an exceptional internet plan with its symmetrical upload and download speeds, consistently reliable fiber-optic connection, competitive pricing with a 3-year price lock guarantee, and ample benefits like no data caps and various time-limited deals. It is the perfect option for medium to large families who want to upgrade their digital experience.

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