Whether you work from home, consider yourself an avid gamer or simply use the internet often, you may be on the lookout for a fast internet provider. Fortunately, there are several good options available to you.
Our picks
Google Fiber: Best for speed
AT&T Internet: Best internet service provider
Optimum: Best for unlimited data
Cox Communications: Best for flexibility
Kinetic Windstream: Best for bundling services
EarthLink: Best for satellite internet
Frontier Communications: Best for affordability
Google Fiber: Best for speed
Star rating: 3.8 out of 5
Speed: 1000 Mbps - 8000 Mbps
Monthly price: $70 - $150
Availability: 18 states
Why we picked Google Fiber
Google Fiber’s fiber internet offers lightning-fast speeds of up to 8 gigabits (Gb) at affordable rates ranging from? $70 to $150 per month. As long as it’s available where you live, you may also enjoy symmetrical download and upload speeds, meaning your download and upload speeds will match. With symmetrical speeds, you can expect fast uploads without worrying about the speed inconsistencies typical in connections with slower upload speeds.
Who should use Google Fiber
If you’re a content creator, live streamer or gamer who uploads a lot of content, Google Fiber’s super-fast symmetrical speeds will reduce the time it takes to share your work with your followers.
Pros
- Reasonable rates between $70 and $150
- Fast, symmetrical download and upload speeds
- Free equipment rentals for routers and mesh extenders, and network boxes, depending on the plan
Cons
- Only available in 18 states
- Speeds vary based on location and range from 1 Gb to 8 gigabytes (GB)
- Limited to two plans
AT&T Internet: Best internet service provider
Star rating: 5 out of 5
Speed: 10 Mbps - 5000 Mbps?
Monthly price: $55 - $250
Availability: 22 states?
Why we picked AT&T Internet
AT&T Internet’s widespread availability and variety of internet technologies can accommodate those who live in rural areas. Depending on where you live, you may choose from fiber internet, 5G internet or fixed wireless internet. Fiber internet is the fastest option, followed by 5G and fixed wireless internet.
Who should use AT&T Internet
If you live in a rural area, are an avid RVer or van-lifer or you’re struggling to lock in reliable coverage, AT&T’s vast cable and 5G network may meet your needs.
Pros
- No annual contracts
- Unlimited data plans
- Variety of plans available
Cons
- Not as fast as others on the list
- Professional installation fees ranging from $99 to $149
- No satellite internet
Optimum: Best for unlimited data
Star rating: 4.8 out of 5
Speed: 300 Mbps - 8000 Mbps?
Monthly price: $70 - $350
Availability: 21 states?
Why we picked Optimum
If you opt for an Optimum cable or fiber plan, you won’t have to worry about data caps or data overage charges. The provider offers unlimited data plans that can support several devices via Wi-Fi.
Who should use Optimum
Optimum is great for users who use a lot of data but don’t want to have to worry about tracking their usage, combing through the fine print on data caps or disputing overage charges.
Pros
- Unlimited data
- Affordable rates for new customers
- No contracts
Cons
- Only available in select parts of the northeastern United States
- Low upload speeds
- Low customer satisfaction score
Kinetic by Windstream: Best for bundling services
Star rating: 4.6 out of 5
Speed: 500 Mbps - 8000 Mbps?
Monthly price: $40 to $350
Availability: 18 states
Why we picked Kinetic by Windstream
Kinetic by Windstream allows you to bundle your internet service with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), a phone service that uses your internet connection. It includes caller ID, premium call forwarding, spam call alerts and more.
Who should use Kinetic by Windstream
If you’re in the market for fast internet and would like the convenience of a home phone service, Kinetic by Windstream’s bundling option is worth exploring.
Pros
- No data caps or overage charges
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- No contracts
Cons
- Prices may increase after a year
- $35 fee for professional installation
- Monthly equipment rental fees
Cox Communications: Best for flexibility
Star rating: 4.4 out of 5
Speed: 100 Mbps - 2000 Mbps?
Monthly price: $50 to $150
Availability: 19 states
Why we picked Cox Communications
In addition to fast internet, Cox Communications offers customizable bundles to meet various budgets and needs. You can choose from one of its premade bundles or create your own, including internet, TV, phone or Homelife security.
Who should use Cox Communications
If you would like high-speed internet in addition to TV and phone service, you can’t go wrong with Cox. You also don’t have to feel locked into their offerings. In addition to premade bundle packages, they also have customizable options.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Free professional installation
- Customizable bundling options
Cons
- Data caps
- No-contract fees
- Only available in 19 states
EarthLink: Best for satellite internet
Star rating: 4.3 out of 5
Speed: 12 Mbps - 5000 Mbps?
Monthly price: $50 - $90
Availability: 48 states?
Why we picked EarthLink
EarthLink is one of the few providers offering satellite internet, which uses a dish to send signals to satellites orbiting Earth. While satellite internet is typically slower than other internet technologies, EarthLink also offers fiber internet plans with up to 5 Gb speeds. Plus, their prices don’t change once your 12-month plan ends.
Who should use EarthLink
EarthLink may be your best choice for a fiber internet provider that allows you to lock in your rates after 12 months.
Pros
- Unlimited data
- Available in 48 states
- Ability to lock in pricing after 12 months
Cons
- Pricing varies by location
- No bundle plans
- Third-party providers handle outages
Frontier Communications: Best for affordability
Star rating: 4.2 out of 5
Speed: Up to 2000 Mbps?
Monthly price: $40 - $155
Availability: 29 states?
Why we picked Frontier Communications
Frontier Communications offers some of the highest speeds for the lowest prices. Plans start at just $44.99 for 500 Mbps. Frontier also offers its customers a variety of internet technology options. Depending on where you live, you may opt for cable, fiber or 5G internet.
Who should use Frontier Communications
If you live in a household with several casual internet users who perform basic online activities, like surfing the web or streaming videos and don’t need ultra-fast speeds, Frontier Communications can give you the most bang for your buck.
Pros
- Low rates available
- No data caps
- No contract plans available
Cons
- Only available in 29 states
- Potential installation and equipment fees
Our picks at a glance
|
Our rating (out of 5)
|
Fastest advertised download speed
|
Price per month
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Fiber | 3.8 |
8000 Mbps |
$70.00 to $150.00 |
| AT&T Internet | 5.0 |
5000 Mbps |
$55.00 to $250.00 |
| Optimum | 4.8 |
8000 Mbps |
$69.99 to $350.00 |
| Kinetic by Windstream | 4.6 |
8000 Mbps |
$39.99 to $349.99 |
| Cox Communications | 4.4 |
2000 Mbps |
$49.99 to $149.99 |
| EarthLink | 4.3 |
5000 Mbps |
$49.95 to $89.95 |
| Frontier Communications | 4.2 |
2000 Mbps |
$39.99 to $154.99 |
What didn’t make the cut
While Starlink and HughesNet are two reputable internet providers, they didn’t score a spot on our list of the fastest internet providers. Here’s why: Starlink and HughesNet specialize in satellite internet with max speeds much lower than what you’ll find on our list. Starlink’s speeds cap out at 220 Mbps, while HughesNet’s speeds only go up to 100 Mbps.
What are the fastest internet providers in my area?
The fastest internet provider will depend on where you live since not all ISPs are available nationwide. Here’s how to find the fastest ISPs in your area:
- Research local ISPs: Look for a list of ISPs that operate in your area. You can find this information online through search engines or by checking local business directories.
- Use comparison tools: Online comparison tools and review articles can help you weigh offerings from different ISPs. Search for ones that are specific to your area.
- Read reviews and ratings: Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews or specialized review sites can provide insights into the quality and speed of service different ISPs provide.
- Consider fiber internet: Fiber optic internet offers the fastest speeds compared to other technologies like cable or DSL, but it’s unavailable everywhere. Ask your local ISPs if they have fiber options or plans to expand fiber service to your neighborhood.
- Ask your neighbors: Reach out to your neighbors to see if they have any recommendations and insights based on their experiences with different ISPs in the area.
How to choose the fastest high-speed internet provider
As you shop around for the fastest internet provider, remember these factors.
Availability
Where you live will play a vital role in the high-speed internet providers you have available. If you’re in an urban area, for example, you’ll likely have more options than someone in a rural town who may only have access to satellite internet due to a lack of the required infrastructure, such as broadband internet access.
Company reputation
Not all internet providers are created equal. You should do your research and learn about the reputation of each company you consider. Look at customer satisfaction scores and reviews from current and former customers.
Incentives and deals
Sometimes, internet providers will have special deals and incentives for new customers. These may include price-lock guarantees, free unlimited data, equipment rentals at no additional cost or gift cards to major retailers. While the amount you can save from special deals varies, it’s possible to lock in up to $100 or more in savings.
Internet type
You can choose from several internet types, especially if you live in an urban area. The most common internet connections include fiber, cable, 5G home, DSL and satellite internet. Fiber tends to offer the fastest speeds, while DSL internet is on the slower side.
Price
Determine how much you want to spend on an internet plan each month. Generally, the fastest internet providers offer plans ranging from $39.99 to $349.99. You can save cash by bundling your internet with TV or phone services. Since the amount you save can vary greatly, check individual plans’ prices before committing to a bundle.
Speed
The ideal speed will depend on your particular needs and preferences. If you work from home, game frequently or have a large family, for example, you may need a faster internet connection between 1Gb and 5Gb than someone who lives alone and occasionally surfs the web and may be satisfied with 100 Mbps.
What are the pros and cons of high-speed internet?
Before you invest in high-speed internet, it’s a good idea to consider its benefits and drawbacks, including:
Pros
- High-speed plans available from many providers
- Can enjoy speeds of up to 8000 Mbps
- Can support multiple users
- May bundle it with other services, like TV and phone
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Not available everywhere
- Potential data caps
- Potential equipment fees
What factors impact internet speed?
There are a number of factors that will affect your internet speed, including:
- Internet type: The technology that connects you to the internet significantly impacts speed. Fiber will get you the fastest connection, while satellite has the slowest speeds.
- Plan you choose: If you opt for an 8 Gb plan, you can expect faster speeds than someone with a 500 Mbps or 2 Gb plan, for example.
- Number of devices: When multiple devices use the internet at once and compete for the same available bandwidth, slower internet is likely to arise.
Is faster internet always better?
Faster internet is better if you work from home or frequently game or stream large files. However, if you only use the internet on occasion to check your email or shop online, it may not be necessary or worth the extra cost. It all depends on your unique situation and preferences.
Methodology
To determine the rankings for internet providers, the CNN Underscored Home editorial team analyzed 22 companies, with each company’s star rating determined by a variety of metrics and subcategories, including:
