Frontier vs Spectrum - Is Frontier Better than Spectrum?

Frontier

Starting at

$49.99/mo.

for 12 mos.*

  • Download Speed 500 Mbps
  • Upload Speed 500 Mbps
  • No Data Caps

Call to Order

(877) 592-5815
Spectrum

Starting at

$49.99/mo

for 12 mos.*

  • Download Speed 1000 Mbps
  • Upload Speed 35Mbps
  • No Data Caps

Call to Order

(877) 654-4997

America’s rich broadband landscape is the reason behind its success as one of the global technological leaders. Thousands of internet companies successfully connect approximately 92% of Americans, making the US one of the largest online markets in the world. Unfortunately, most addresses can only access two or, at most, three internet providers.

While it might be more satisfying to have unlimited options, having a choice between Frontier and Spectrum is not a bad bargain. Both providers have a transparent pricing structure and offer various speeds so that you can pick the most suitable one. You can read this Frontier vs Spectrum comparison to learn which provider has all the features that tick your list for the ideal internet connection.

Table of Contents

Frontier

You may know Frontier as one of the top fiber broadband names, but its origins tell a different story. The company began as a telephone service provider in 1935, offering a budget-friendly alternative to the then-large and remote providers. Over the years, Frontier invested in new technologies with a sharp focus on telecommunications. The company aimed to improve connectivity for people in the US and acquired various assets from top names like Verizon and AT&T.

Frontier did not have a smooth journey, but the provider has stayed afloat. After undergoing a restructuring in 2021, the provider emerged intending to expand its fiber footprint to transform from a legacy copper-based service name to a fiber-optic provider. As of now, Frontier offers fiber and DSL services in 29 states. While the majority of its service area is still within its DSL network, its fiber network covers 5.8 million locations. The provider believes that everyone should have access to a faster and more reliable internet connection, and therefore, it plans to expand its fiber footprint to over 10 million locations by the end of 2025.

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 Pros:

  • 99.9% reliable fiber-optic network
  • Fast internet speeds up to 5,000 Mbps
  • Multi-gigabit plans are available across the entire fiber footprint
  • Affordable internet plans with no hidden charges
  • Unlimited data with every plan
  • Contract-free internet service
  • Free expert installation
  • Equipment included in every plan


 Cons:

  • The majority of its service area falls within the DSL network
  • Slow and unreliable DSL speeds

Spectrum

As the second-largest cable internet provider, Spectrum is a well-known name in the country. Although the provider may not have a long history like Frontier, it has become a household brand through strategic acquisitions of Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks. Charter Communications coined the name ‘Spectrum’ in 2014, though the company has operated since the early 90s. Today, Spectrum offers a suite of telecommunication services like internet, TV, home phone, and mobile to both, residential and business customers.

The company has experienced dramatic growth, serving 32 million customers in 41 states through an 800,000-mile-long hybrid fiber-coaxial network. Spectrum’s excellent infrastructure allows it to deliver advanced services that tackle modern requirements, including fast broadband speeds, improved video quality, and crystal-clear voice calls. The company also maintains a small, fiber-rich network that is exclusively available to business customers. Like every other major business, Charter Communications is focusing on the future and has an ambitious plan to deploy DOCSIS 4.0 by 2025, so Spectrum Internet customers can access faster internet speeds.

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 Pros:

  • Available in 41 states
  • Offers free modem with every plan
  • Free antivirus software
  • No data caps
  • Contract-free internet plans
  • Transparent in terms of post-promotional prices


 Cons:

  • Ranks below average for customer service
  • Asymmetrical internet speeds
  • High price hike after 12 months

Key Differences – Frontier vs Spectrum Internet

Features Spectrum Frontier
Price Range $49.99/mo. – $89.99/mo. for 12 mos. $44.99/mo. – $154.99/mo.
Speed Range 300 Mbps – 1,000 Mbps 500 Mbps – 5,000 Mbps
Internet Type Cable Fiber, DSL
Data Caps None None
Bundle Deals Yes Yes
Contracts None None
Equipment Wi-Fi Service: $5.00/mo. Included
Wi-Fi Pods: $3.00/mo. per pod
Installation Fee Primary Installation: $65.00 None
Self-Installation: Requires $30 service activation fee
Coverage Area 41 states 29 states

Frontier and Spectrum are two widely famous internet providers for many reasons. They are also the only available options at most addresses, leading many people to choose between them. On a surface-level analysis, both providers have nothing in common. While Frontier serves its customers via DSL and fiber networks, Spectrum is mainly a cable internet provider. This major difference impacts their speeds, availability, and, most importantly, their pricing. The table above provides a glimpse of their key differences, but we will compare everything in more detail so you can learn what you need to know about these internet providers.

Internet Plans – Frontier vs Spectrum

Both Frontier and Spectrum give you a variety of internet plans, but Frontier’s offerings have better speeds and prices. Let’s take a closer look at what they have to offer.

Spectrum

Spectrum likes to keep things simple. The provider only offers three internet plans, with the maximum speed reaching up to 1,000 Mbps. Spectrum provides a promotional discount on its plans for the first 12 months, allowing you to choose a speed at a price that ranges from $49.99 to $89.99 a month. However, the provider dramatically increases these prices by $35 from the thirteenth month.

Comparatively, the price of Spectrum’s entry-level plan is higher than Frontier’s, and the speed is also slower. However, many people choose Spectrum over Frontier because the latter mainly offers DSL internet in most areas. Spectrum is also attractive due to its flexible terms and conditions. It doesn’t force you to sign a contract and offers unlimited data, a free modem, and antivirus software with every plan.

Spectrum Internet® Plans
Plan Starting Price Speed Data Caps Contact Spectrum
Internet $49.99/mo. 300 Mbps None Call Now
Internet Ultra $69.99/mo. 500 Mbps None Call Now
Internet Gig $89.99/mo. 1,000 Mbps None Call Now
* Prices are valid for 12 months.
**The mentioned prices are with a $5 Auto Pay discount.
***Actual speeds, including wireless, may vary and are not guaranteed.

Frontier

Frontier also offers various internet plans, but you will need to enter your address on their website to see which options are available in your area. The provider uses both DSL and fiber networks to serve its customers, but its fiber footprint is limited to neighborhoods with well-developed infrastructure. As a result, most of its customers can only access a slower DSL internet plan.

Frontier Fiber, on the other hand, offers four incredibly affordable internet plans with a maximum speed of up to 5 Gbps. These plans are cheaper, faster, and more reliable than Spectrum Internet. The most distinctive quality of Frontier is that it is the first fiber internet provider to offer multi-gigabit speeds throughout its entire fiber footprint. It means that every person living within its fiber network has access to 2 Gig and 5 Gig internet plans.

Other positive aspects of Frontier Internet service include no contract, unlimited data, free expert installation, and equipment.

Frontier Internet Plans
Plan Monthly Price Speed Internet Type Contact Frontier
Internet $64.99/mo.  Varies DSL Call Now
Fiber 500 $44.99/mo. 500 Mbps Fiber Call Now
Fiber 1 Gig $59.99/mo. 1,000 Mbps Fiber Call Now
Fiber 2 Gig $99.99/mo. 2,000 Mbps Fiber Call Now
Fiber 5 Gig $154.99/mo. 5,000 Mbps Fiber Call Now
*Prices are with a $10 Auto Pay discount.
**Fees & terms are subject to change.
***Wireless speeds may vary.

Bundle Deals – Frontier vs Spectrum

Both Spectrum and Frontier allow you to bundle their internet with other telecom services. While Spectrum has its own TV service, Frontier offers streaming and TV bundles by teaming up with YouTube TV and DISH Network.

Spectrum Internet + TV

Spectrum offers a handful of telecommunications services, including TV, and provides the convenience of bundling. Its internet and TV bundles are the most popular among Spectrum customers. They bundle these services so they can contact one customer support for any issue and receive high-quality internet and TV services under a single bill. Plus, these bundles come with a promotional deal. You can enjoy a year of free Xumo Stream by adding Spectrum TV to your package.

Bundles Starting Price Internet Speed TV Channels Contact Spectrum
Spectrum Internet + TV Select Signature $109.98/mo.for 12 mos. 300 Mbps 150+ Call Now
Spectrum Internet + Mi Plan Latino $89.98/mo.for 12 mos.  300 Mbps 145+ Call Now

Spectrum Internet + TV + Voice

You can also bundle three Spectrum services for more convenience. Spectrum’s Internet, TV, and Voice bundles are perfect for households that require the best of everything under one umbrella.

Bundles Starting Price Internet Speed TV Channels Home Phone Contact Spectrum
Spectrum Internet + TV Select Signature + Voice $129.97/mo. 300 Mbps 150+ Unlimited calling with multiple features Call Now
Spectrum Internet + Mi Plan Latino + Voice $109.97/mo. 300 Mbps 145+ Unlimited calling with multiple features Call Now
*Prices shown in the table above are with Auto Pay and are subject to change after 12 months of service.

Spectrum One

Other Spectrum bundles may not give you exclusive discounts, but Spectrum One is different. This incredible bundle allows you to enjoy an optimized and secure internet connection with Advanced WiFi and a free Unlimited Mobile line for a year without any additional charges. It means you can save over $400 in 12 months with Spectrum One, as you only have to pay for your internet plan. The bundle is ideal for larger families with multiple devices, as the Advanced WiFi is designed to cover dead zones.

Features Spectrum One Bundle
Spectrum Internet Any plan of your choice
Starting Price Range $49.99 – $89.99/mo. for 12 mos.
Advanced WiFi Included for a year
1 Unlimited Mobile Line Included for a year

Frontier Internet + TV

In contrast, Frontier gives you various bundling options. Since it no longer offers a TV service, you can combine Frontier’s Internet service with either YouTube TV or DISH Network. The choice depends on your family’s entertainment requirements. You can bundle your Frontier Internet plan with DISH if you want variety and free access to premium networks. 

Otherwise, YouTube TV is a more practical choice as its bundle with Frontier Internet unlocks incredible savings. You can save up to $10 each month on YouTube TV for a year, enjoy over 100 networks, and keep up with every NFL Sunday afternoon game at an incredible price. 

Bundles Starting Price Internet Speed TV Channels Contact Frontier
Frontier Fiber 500 + YouTube TV $107.98/mo. for 12 mos. 500 Mbps 100+ Call Now
Frontier Fiber 1 Gig + YouTube TV $122.98/mo. for 12 mos. 1,000 Mbps 100+ Call Now
Frontier Fiber 500 + DISH America’s Top 120 $129.98/mo. 500 Mbps 190 Call Now
Frontier Fiber 500 + DISH America’s Top 200 $149.98/mo. 500 Mbps 240+ Call Now
*Price with Auto Pay & Paperless Bill discounts
**2-year price guarantee on DISH Network’s plans
***YouTube TV’s $10/mo. discount is only valid for a year

Frontier Internet + Home Phone

You can also stay connected with Frontier’s Internet and Home Phone bundles. Enjoy better connection and conversations under one bill through the following Frontier packages. 

Bundles Internet Speed Contact Frontier
Frontier Fiber 500 + Home Phone 500 Mbps Call Now
Frontier Fiber 1 Gig + Home Phone 1,000 Mbps Call Now

Additional Fee – Frontier vs Spectrum

Both companies impose additional charges for extra services. However, Frontier fares much better than Spectrum in this department, providing reasonable internet service with fewer additional charges.

Equipment Fee

Frontier does not charge a separate equipment rental fee because it is included in the base price. The provider offers a range of routers, from Amazon eero Wi-Fi 6+ to TP-Link Archer AXE300 6E, that can optimally support the speed of your chosen plan. Spectrum also provides this convenience in the form of a free modem, but its customers have to pay $5 every month for its WiFi router.

Provider Equipment Fee
Spectrum Modem – Free
WiFi router – $5.00/mo.
WiFi Pod – $3.00/mo. per pod
Frontier None

Installation Fee

When selecting a provider or a plan, it is also essential to consider the cost of initiating the service. Both Frontier and Spectrum offer two installation methods: professional and self-installation. While Spectrum charges $65 for primary installation, its self-installation is much cheaper, only requiring a service activation fee of $30. However, this process does not work for everyone.

On the other hand, you don’t have to worry about installation charges with Frontier. Alongside self-installation, the provider also offers free professional installation. So, you can conveniently choose the method that works best in your favor.

Provider Installation Fee
Spectrum Primary Installation: $65.00
Self-installation: $30.00 required for service activation
Frontier None

 Other Additional Charges

You might also want to consider other additional charges before choosing Spectrum or Frontier. You will have to pay $5 to reactivate Spectrum’s service. The provider also imposes an unreturned equipment fee if you fail to return its equipment. It charges $59 for each modem, $76 per wireless router, $65 for every WiFi pod, and $280 per EPON ONU.

On the other hand, Frontier has its own set of extra costs. It charges $50 to restock equipment when the internet is disconnected and a $150 unreturned equipment fee per device. Frontier also charges a monthly fee of $3 for printed bills.

Spectrum Frontier
Reconnection Fee: $4.99 Equipment Restocking Fee: $50/household (when the internet is disconnected)
Unreturned Equipment Fee: $59 per modem, $76 per wireless router, $65 per WiFi pod, and $280 per EPON ONU Unreturned Equipment Fee: $150/device
Printed Bill Fee: $2.99/mo.

Better Option for Gaming – Frontier Fiber or Spectrum?

Are you an online gamer torn between Spectrum and Frontier? The world of online gaming is vast, offering numerous types of games. The FCC proposes a minimum of 3 Mbps for a game console connected to the internet and 4 Mbps for multiplayer games. This is the minimum download speed for gaming, but we are not only playing games on the internet. We use our connections for other things as well. Moreover, we have to share our bandwidth with the family members. Therefore, the speed requirements are different for every person.

While Frontier and Spectrum offer incredibly fast speed tiers, the deciding factor for most gamers is their latency. Your connection should be responsive, especially when you are engaged in an online battle. The ideal latency for gamers is less than 40 ms, but competitive games require a rate below 20 ms. Since the latency highly depends on the internet type, avid gamers prefer fiber internet as its latency ranges between 11 to 14 ms. Hence, Frontier Fiber is the best option for gaming. Its multi-gigabit plans with an 8 ms latency rate are specifically built for professional gaming as they have lower lag than cable internet. On the other hand, Spectrum’s average latency rate is 29.13 ms. However, Spectrum is a suitable choice for playing casual games if you live in an area covered by Frontier’s DSL network.

Better Customer Service – Frontier or Spectrum?

The most practical way to analyze the service of any provider is to explore how satisfied their customers are. Customer satisfaction is often a sore spot for many internet providers, as they don’t usually pay attention to the concerns raised by their users. Based on the latest reports from ACSI and J.D. Power, we can gauge the quality of Frontier and Spectrum’s customer service.

The American Customer Satisfaction Index has recently released separate rankings for fiber and non-fiber internet providers. Unfortunately, Frontier’s score falls short of the industry average in both areas. It scored 74 in the fiber internet providers category, just below the satisfaction benchmark of 75. On the other hand, it scored 61 on the list of non-fiber internet providers, four points below the industry average. These results are not impressive, with Frontier ranking second to last in both categories, showing a need to address the most pressing concerns. However, one standout discovery is that Frontier Fiber’s score is six points higher than the overall industry average, indicating that customers are more satisfied with its fiber connection than its DSL service.

Spectrum also did not show positive results in the ACSI’s report, scoring two points less than the average non-fiber internet providers and four points less than the overall industry average.

The J.D. Power US Residential Internet Service Provider Satisfaction Study for 2023 shows different results. While Spectrum’s scores are below average in all four regions, Frontier ranks higher in the South and West, with scores of 738 and 716, respectively. However, its poor rankings in the East and North Central regions show room for improvement.

ACSI Rankings Spectrum Frontier Industry Average
2023 64 Frontier Fiber: 74 68
Frontier Communications: 61
2022 63 66 64

Wider Coverage Area – Frontier or Spectrum?

Frontier is continually expanding its services to more areas. The provider currently offers telecommunication services in 29 states, but availability varies by location. While its fiber internet is available in large cities, its DSL service is a leading option in some rural areas.

Frontier Coverage Area by States
Alabama Arizona California
Connecticut Florida Georgia
Illinois Indiana Iowa
Kansas Michigan Minnesota
Mississippi Nebraska Nevada
New Mexico New York North Carolina
North Dakota Ohio Pennsylvania
South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee
Texas Utah Virginia
West Virginia Wisconsin

In contrast, Spectrum is one of the largest internet providers in the country, covering densely populated neighborhoods in 41 states. The provider is highly accessible, serving over 32 million people across the country.

Spectrum Coverage Area by States
Alabama Arizona California
Colorado Connecticut Florida
Georgia Hawaii Idaho
Illinois Indiana Kansas
Kentucky Louisiana Maine
Maryland Massachusetts Michigan
Minnesota Mississippi Missouri
Montana Nebraska Nevada
New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico
New York North Carolina Ohio
Oregon Pennsylvania South Carolina
Tennessee Texas Vermont
Virginia Washington West Virginia
Wisconsin Wyoming

Is Frontier Better than Spectrum?

Both Frontier and Spectrum have significant reputations in the market, but Frontier fares better than Spectrum in many areas due to its fiber internet service. After comparing the most crucial elements of a top internet provider in this Frontier vs Spectrum standoff, we can see that Spectrum primarily competes with Frontier’s fiber service.

Frontier Fiber is faster, more reliable, and affordable than Spectrum Internet. Additionally, it offers multi-gigabit plans for those with higher bandwidth requirements and is a much better choice for professional gaming. However, Spectrum is more accessible due to its wide coverage area. The final verdict, though, depends on what is available at your address and your specific speed and budgetary requirements.

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