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Everyone seems to have a preference when it comes to choosing one of the best internet service providers, yet few have large data to back up their claims. In a world of endless options, cutting through the noise and understanding cable internet providers’ true place in the market is imperative.
We are looking at an internet type that is fast, soaring over 1,000 Mbps, and widely accessible. But it’s not just about speed and accessibility. Cable internet is a more reasonable alternative to fiber internet. Yes, the upload speeds might not be on par with fiber internet, but for most, the download speeds more than suffice, catering to their browsing, streaming, and gaming needs. Cable service reaches approximately 89% of US households and a remarkable 97% in urban American areas. Over 200 Cable internet providers serve the nation by providing connectivity to people’s homes.
To bring you the most accurate insights, we delved deep into the best Cable internet providers, analyzing the offerings of over a dozen providers across the US. Our focus was to understand the intricate details that separate the best from the rest, evaluating aspects such as pricing, data caps, contracts, and, of course, the speeds that you, as a consumer, would get.
So let’s find out!
As you stand on the threshold of picking the best cable internet choice, you need to bear in mind that not all are created equal. The market is peppered with cable internet providers, each bringing to the table a unique blend of services, prices, and speeds. Our experts have rolled up their sleeves, delved deep into the offerings of various providers, and curated a list of the top 10 cable internet providers, keeping in mind critical considerations such as
With these factors as our guiding light, we present a crafted list that promises to bring clarity to your search, helping you find a cable internet provider that ticks all the right boxes.
Let’s take a closer look at that list:
| Top 10 Cable Internet Providers | |||
| Providers | Starting Price | Max Speed | Contact |
| Spectrum | $49.99/mo. | Up to 1,000 Mbps | Call Now |
| Optimum | $40.00/mo. | UP to 1,000 Mbps | Call Now |
| Xfinity | $19.99/mo. | Up to 2,000 Mbps | Call Now |
| Cox | $49.99/mo. | Up to 2,000 Mbps | Call Now |
| WOW | $19.99/mo. | Up to 1,200 Mbps | Call Now |
| Mediacom | $24.99/mo. | Up to 2,000 Mbps | Call Now |
| Astound | $25.00/mo. | Up to 1,500 Mbps | Call Now |
| Sparklight | $50.00/mo. | Up to 1.000 Mbps | Call Now |
| Breezeline | $19.99/mo. | Up to 1,000 Mbps | Call Now |
| Buckeye Broadband | $39.99/mo. | Up to 600 Mbps | Call Now |
| Spectrum Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Internet | 300 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $49.99/mo. |
| Internet Ultra | 500 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $69.99/mo. |
| Internet Gig | 1,000 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $79.99/mo. |
Spectrum holds the position of the nation’s second-largest cable internet provider. They operate primarily through hybrid fiber-coaxial cable connections. It boasts a vast customer base, serving about 30 million individuals across 41 states. This extensive reach implies a high likelihood of Spectrum being available in your area.
Spectrum adopts a straightforward approach to its plans, a refreshing strategy in an industry. The three distinct Spectrum Internet plans cater to various user needs. The entry-level tier, priced at $49.99 monthly, provides a maximum download speed of 300 Mbps. This speed is substantial for most users, offering a robust solution for a provider’s initial offering. However, it is essential to note that the monthly bill experiences a surge of $30 after the first year.
While the base plan offers considerable speed, it might be more than what a solo gamer or a casual web surfer requires. A 100 Mbps plan could be a more fitting choice for such users, but Spectrum reserves this for families eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program.
Simplicity and transparency are the main aims of Spectrum. This cable internet provider offers a no-contract service, eliminating termination fees and presenting new customers with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Adding to its user-friendly approach is the absence of data caps or hidden fees. Moreover, every Spectrum plan includes a free modem, ensuring you have the necessary equipment to get started without any additional costs.
| Optimum Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| 300 Internet | 300 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $40.00/mo. |
| 500 Internet | 500 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $50.00/mo. |
| 1 Gig Internet | 1000 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $70.00/mo. |
Optimum emerges as a strong Cable Internet competitor, ticking almost all the boxes that define a quality service. They utilize a cable or hybrid cable network to deliver their cable services, ensuring gigabit download speed. Recently, this cable internet provider has ventured into offering fiber internet plans, promising faster upload speeds and a more stable connection. This is a step towards embracing the immediate future of home internet, with a vision to expand its fiber network continually.
The pricing strategy of Optimum is competitive, offering cable internet plans with different speeds at prices that are easy on the wallet. Customers have a range of Optimum plans to choose from, including a gigabit plan. While the exact speeds and pricing might vary based on your location. All plans come with the assurance of unlimited data, no equipment fees, and no binding contracts.
However, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Optimum. Despite the competitive pricing and other perks, this cable internet provider grapples with low scores in customer satisfaction surveys. The company has taken steps to address this, introducing a two-year price guarantee for new customers to foster trust and satisfaction.
Optimum service operates in 21 states. As of now, more than 20.6 million people, which is about a tenth of the households in Optimum’s service areas. However, there are large pockets within these states that remain unserviceable, indicating a scope for further expansion.
| Xfinity Cable Internet Plans in Northeast Region | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Connect More | 200 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $25.00/mo. |
| Fast | 400 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $35.00/mo. |
| Superfast | 800 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $50.00/mo. |
| Gigabit | 1000 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $60.00/mo. |
| Gigabit Extra | 1200 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $70.00/mo. |
| Xfinity Cable Internet Plans in Central Region | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Connect | 75 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $20.00/mo. |
| Connect More | 200 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $35.00/mo. |
| Fast | 400 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $55.00/mo. |
| Superfast | 800 Mbps | 15 Mbps | $70.00/mo. |
| Gigabit | 1000 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $80.00/mo. |
| Gigabit Extra | 1200 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $85.00/mo. |
| Xfinity Cable Internet Plans in West Region | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Connect | 75 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $20.00/mo. |
| Connect More | 200 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $35.00/mo. |
| Fast | 400 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $50.00/mo. |
| Superfast | 800 Mbps | 15 Mbps | $60.00/mo. |
| Ultrafast | 1000 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $60.00/mo. |
| Gigabit Extra | 1200 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $70.00/mo. |
| Gigabit X2 | 2000 Mbps | 200 Mbps | $120.00/mo. |
Xfinity, operated by Comcast, is the largest cable internet provider in the US. Late in 2022, the company initiated the rollout of multigigabit tiers to around 36 cities, with plans to reach many more by 2025. This was possible through integrating DOCSIS 4.0 technology, enhancing the speed in more than 40 markets. Moreover, Xfinity boosted the speeds of its fastest internet tier, Gigabit Pro, from 6 gigabits per second to a staggering 10Gbps.
This cable internet provider offers up to seven different plans, accessible in 40 states, with the specifics varying based on your location. Some of these plans have a 1.2TB data cap and come with different contract lengths, including options for one-year, two-year, and no-contract agreements.
Users can expect a price increase over time, sometimes exceeding 50% of the initial charge. For instance, the gigabit plan starts at an average price of $67 per month, which can increase to a range of $90 to $99 after the promo period ends.
| Cox Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Go Fast | 100 Mbps | 5 Mbps | $49.99/mo. |
| Go Faster | 250 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $69.99/mo. |
| Go Even Faster | 500 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $89.99/mo. |
| Go Super Fast | 1000 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $109.99/mo. |
| Go Beyond Fast | 2000 Mbps | 100 Mbps | $149.99/mo. |
Cox Communications operates as a prominent cable internet provider in the US, holding the third-largest market position. The company primarily serves urban areas, including cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix, reaching about 7% of the US population.
Cox offers various cable internet plans, beginning with the “GO FAST” package at 100 Mbps download speed for $49.99 monthly. The plans escalate to a peak of 2000 Mbps download speed under the “GO BEYOND FAST” package. Because of their 2 Gig speed, Cox is one of the fastest cable internet providers. Notably, the promotional rates apply only for the first year, with a significant hike in the subsequent years; for example, the “GO FASTER” plan increases from $69.99 to $84.99.
Customers can enjoy discounts on their monthly bills when they bundle Cox internet plans with Cox Mobile. However, this pricing strategy, coupled with the already high starting prices, may not appeal to everyone.
Despite the steep prices, Cox assures fair data usage policies without throttling, albeit with a 1.25TB data cap that, if exceeded, attracts extra charges. Installation necessitates a $100 technician setup fee, avoidable through a self-install kit. Additionally, they offer a Panoramic Wi-Fi modem for a negotiable $13 monthly rental.
A notable feature of Cox’s service is the automatic creation of a public hotspot through the Panoramic Wi-Fi system. While this doesn’t affect your data usage or speed, it might raise privacy concerns. Thankfully, users can opt out of this feature.
| WOW! Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Internet 100 | 100 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $19.99/mo. |
| Internet 200 | 200 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $29.99/mo. |
| Internet 500 | 500 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $54.99/mo. |
| Internet 1 Gig | 1000 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $50.00/mo. |
| Internet 1.2 Gig | 1200 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $94.99/mo. |
WOW, also known as WideOpenWest, operates mainly in the Midwest and Southeast US, reaching nearly 2 million homes in six states. They offer hybrid coaxial cable internet with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1.2 Gbps.
What distinguishes this cable internet provider is its affordable pricing, starting at $19.99, which remains competitive even after the promotional period ends. This makes it a prime choice for budget-aware consumers.
WOW does not bind customers with long-term contracts, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee instead. This approach showcases their commitment to customer satisfaction. They have structured their data plans into different tiers, including options for 1.5TB, 2.5TB, and 3TB per month. Notably, the Internet 1.2 Gig plan comes with unlimited data.
The company has implemented usage-based billing, where pricing varies according to data usage. While not labeled as a data cap, it operates similarly, with extra charges applied for exceeding the set data limit. The first overage is forgiven, but the following ones incur a $10 fee for every additional 50GB, up to a $50 monthly maximum.
Adding value, WOW offers an optional Eero mesh Wi-Fi router rental for an extra $10 monthly, enhancing home connectivity. New customers receive a free self-install kit and a Visa Prepaid Reward Card, the amount of which depends on the chosen plan.
If WOW is available in your state, it stands as a potentially optimal choice, offering cable internet plans that exceed average broadband speeds at competitive prices.
| Mediacom Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Internet 100 | 100 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $24.99/mo. |
| Internet 300 | 300 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $44.99/mo. |
| Internet 1 Gig | 1000 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $54.99/mo. |
| Internet 2 Gig* | 2000 Mbps | 1000 Mbps | Call for price |
Mediacom stands as the fifth-largest cable internet provider in the nation, servicing 7.7 million Americans. Its network spans the Midwest, Gulf Coast, and Eastern Seaboard, as well as California and Arizona, reaching even rural areas like Apache Junction and Murray.
The company offers a variety of cable internet plans to suit different needs, boasting remarkable download speeds of up to 2,000 Mbps. This ensures a buffer-free experience. A highlight is the Internet 2 Gig plan, which offers the fastest upload speed as compared to other cable internet providers. The plan prices increase after the first and second years, diminishing its value over time.
The Xtream plans come with data caps. The base plan permits 300GB of data usage, followed by higher tiers offering 1,500GB, 3,000GB, and a substantial 8,500 GB. Additional usage incurs a $10 charge for every extra 50 GB.
Mediacom attracts customers through its affordable cable internet plans. However, after the first year, expect a gradual increase of around $20 in your monthly bill until it reaches the standard rate.
For Xtream home internet plans, a DOCSIS 3.0 modem is mandatory. Customers have the choice to rent it for $13 per month or use their own. A two-piece Eero Pro 6 mesh router setup is also available for rent at $10 per month, known for its robust performance and Wi-Fi 6 support.
Mediacom focuses on improving its existing cable connections rather than establishing new fiber connections.
| Astound Broadband Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| 300 Mbps Internet | 300 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $25.00/mo. |
| 600 Mbps Internet | 600 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $40.00/mo. |
| 940 Mbps Internet | 940 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $50.00/mo. |
| 1500 Mbps Internet | 1500 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $60.00/mo. |
Astound Broadband, operating under the RCN brand since 1993, is now a significant presence in the US cable internet market. It serves several top metro areas, including Boston, Chicago, and New York City, under different regional brands like Grande Communications and Wave Broadband.
Astound has introduced a high-speed tier offering download speeds of up to 1,500 Mbps, surpassing competitors like Xfinity. Pricing varies, starting at $25 per month for 300 Mbps and going up to $60 per month for 1500 Mbps. These initial prices are promotional and subject to an increase after two years. Despite the steep price increase after the promotional period. But, Astound Broadband maintains transparency, notifying customers in advance about the impending price hike through their billing before the promotion ends.
These plans offer are available without the constraints of contracts and data caps. Presenting a potentially appealing package for new customers. However, the freedom from contracts allows customers to renegotiate or change providers seamlessly.
| Sparklight Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Internet 200 | 200 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $40/mo. |
| Internet 300 | 300 Mbps | 30 Mbps | $80/mo. |
| Internet 500 | 500 Mbps | 40 Mbps | $90/mo. |
| Internet Gig | 940 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $110/mo. |
Sparklight, formerly Cable One, serves 21 states, primarily in rural and suburban areas. The firm stands out with straightforward pricing, avoiding binding contracts and large cancellation fees, a move welcomed by many customers.
This cable internet provider offers four plans, with speeds reaching up to 940 Mbps through a hybrid fiber-coaxial network. Notably, it provides higher upload speeds than many competitors, peaking at 50 Mbps with the gigabit plan. While the pricing is clear and competitive, most plans have data caps. To avail of unlimited data, users would need to allocate an additional budget. However, the lack of long-term contracts adds a level of flexibility, attracting many users.
Despite potential concerns over data caps, Sparklight maintains a strong market position, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee that includes taxes and fees, reflecting confidence in its service quality.
Adding to its portfolio is the “Wi-Fi One” service, ensuring whole-home coverage at an additional $12.50 per month, a fee that is slightly below the industry average for modem rentals. Users preferring their equipment can sidestep this charge, adhering to the company’s equipment guidelines.
While customer reviews portray a mixed bag of experiences, Sparklight has demonstrated remarkable service in certain regions, garnering accolades for its speed, notably in places like Boise.
| Breezeline Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Base Internet | 100 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $19.99/mo. |
| Unlimited Fast Internet | 200 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $29.99/mo. |
| Unlimited UltraFast Internet | 500 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $39.99/mo. |
| Unlimited GigaFast Internet | 1000 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $59.99/mo. |
Breezeline is a cable internet provider that is part of the larger Canadian company, Cogeco Communications. You can find Breezeline in 12 states in the US, including places like New York and Florida.
In April 2022, something big happened: Breezeline took over WOW!’s business in Ohio. This means if you were a WOW! Customer in Ohio, now you’re a Breezeline customer, and they will handle your bills from now on.
Breezeline offers affordable rates compared to many big cable internet providers. Their basic plan is a steal at less than $19.99 a month. This rate is quite uncommon. The plan includes a 100 Mbps download speed. With this plan, you can easily browse various websites and use platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Breezeline also stands out with its fast upload speeds, which start at 20 Mbps and can go up to 50 Mbps. It’s even better than what Spectrum offers, as their upload speeds only go up to 35 Mbps.
Choosing Breezeline comes with other perks. There are no contracts or data caps. Customers avoid early termination and overage fees. Yet, opting for their combo modem or router costs $14.99 monthly. Buying your own equipment is a wise way to dodge this charge. It is a popular suggestion to save money.
Even though some of their plans can be pricey, Breezeline has a strong reputation in the areas it serves, offering a variety of internet plans to suit different needs.
| Buckeye Broadband Cable Internet Plans | |||
| Plans | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Price |
| Essential Internet | 200 Mbps | 5 Mbps | $39.99/mo. |
| Supreme Internet | 600 Mbps | 10 Mbps | $59.99/mo. |
Buckeye Broadband is a prominent internet provider in Toledo, Ohio, and parts of southern Michigan. They are known for their affordable promotional rates and budget-friendly plans, ideal for users not requiring extremely high speeds.
The company offers two cable internet plans. The entry-level plan, called Essential Internet, provides a speed of 200 Mbps at $39.99 per month. This plan can support up to six devices, making it suitable for individuals or couples with minimal tech needs. However, larger households may find it insufficient.
For those needing more speed, Buckeye offers the Supreme plan with 600 Mbps at an introductory rate of $59.99 per month. This cable internet plan includes 10 Mbps upload speed and unlimited data for the first six months. Be aware that the price increases to $99.99 per month after a year, and a data fee of $15 applies from the seventh month.
Buckeye operates mainly on a month-to-month contract, offering flexibility to its users. However, the exact terms can change, and there might be installation fees depending on your location and the promotions at the time of signing up.
While Buckeye strives to offer competitive pricing, it has received criticism regarding its customer service. Users have reported service interruptions, high prices, and difficulty reaching customer support. Prospective customers should consider these aspects when choosing Buckeye Broadband as their internet service provider.
Cable internet is a broadband internet service. It uses the same lines as cable TV. This makes it widely available. It connects through a hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) network. This network uses both fiber optic and coaxial cables. To use it, you need a special box called a cable modem or router in your house, and the cable company has a cable modem termination system (CMTS) on their end to make it all work.
Here are some pros and cons of cable internet:
Cable internet works through a detailed system. At the user’s home, you will have a cable modem, a small device that connects to the cable internet network through a coaxial cable. This cable links to a neighborhood optical node. This node is a central point that connects many homes to the larger network.
The optical node converts the radiofrequency signals from the coaxial cable into light pulses. These light pulses move swiftly through fiber optic cables. They reach the provider’s central facility. Here, a device called the Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS) is present. The CMTS directs the internet traffic efficiently to and from various homes.
At the CMTS, the light pulses revert to electrical signals. They then join the broader network of the internet service provider (ISP). This network is a gateway to the global internet.
In 2023, the cable internet market remains highly competitive, with several cable internet providers contending for leadership. Despite the limited reach of fiber internet and the inferiority of DSL, cable internet stands as a reliable and favored option, offering fast and quality connections.
As we look for the fastest cable internet providers, Mediacom, Xfinity, and Cox are at the forefront, introducing 2 Gig internet plans to foster heightened competition. These initiatives are setting a new benchmark in the industry, pushing the boundaries of speed.
Our analysis narrows down the best Cable internet providers to a notable list featuring:
These cable internet providers distinguish themselves through exceptional speeds and customer-friendly service terms. But, choosing a provider depends largely on individual preferences and requirements.
As we conclude, If we were to pinpoint one, Spectrum would arguably take the crown. It has a substantial footprint in 41 states and setting a high bar with its transparent and user-friendly offerings. Its commitment to customer satisfaction makes it the top choice for many in 2023.
Choosing one of the best cable internet providers can be a bit tricky because it really depends on what you’re looking for in a service. We have identified Spectrum as the best cable internet provider due to widespread coverage and affordable cable internet plans.
In the race of reaching out to the most states, Spectrum takes the lead by being available in 41 states, just one more than Xfinity. So, if availability is your main concern, Spectrum is the most widely available cable internet provider.
Xfinity, Cox, and Mediacom are the top 3 cable internet providers offering speeds up to 2,000 Mbps.
If saving money is your goal, WOW is one of the most budget-friendly cable internet providers, offering plans that start at just $19.99 per month.
Absolutely, yes! You can get cable internet service without having to pay for cable TV. Many cable internet providers offer internet-only plans, so you’re not forced to buy a bundle with TV if you don’t want to.
You don’t need a phone line to get cable internet. Cable internet uses special cables (called coaxial cables) to bring the internet to your home, and it works separately from your phone line. So, you can subscribe to an internet plan offered by a cable internet provider without having a landline phone.
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