Choosing the right internet service provider (ISP) requires careful consideration of factors such as price, speed, infrastructure, and logistics. While price undoubtedly plays a crucial role, it is equally important to find a connection type that best suits your internet usage habits, determine the required speeds, and identify providers that service your area.
With thousands of internet service providers across the United States, ranging from large nationwide ISPs to smaller local providers, we’ve been able to review a list of the top internet providers in the US for 2024. So, let’s take a closer look at each of them below.
Top 8 Internet Providers in the US
1. AT&T
AT&T offers a variety of internet plans, all of which are excellent options. With affordable pricing and exceptional customer support that has consistently earned the J.D. Powers customer satisfaction award for four consecutive years, AT&T stands out.
Starting at $55 per month, their 1000 Mbps plan is capable of powering an entire household with WiFi capabilities, unlimited internet data, and faster upload speeds than competitors. Additionally, AT&T provides a convenient mobile app for managing smart homes.
2. Xfinity
Xfinity provides fast cable and fiber internet options to accommodate a wide range of needs. Whether you are a gamer, a streamer, part of a large household, or a family, Xfinity Internet offers a plethora of features to keep things interesting.
With seven different plan options, including a prepaid month-to-month payment option, Xfinity Internet is accessible and affordable, starting at $19.99 per month. Customers can choose between cable or fiber based on their need for speed, and it is available in 40 states.
3. Rise Broadband
Rise Broadband offers services to rural locations where access to wired internet like cable and fiber is limited. They offer internet plans over a fixed wireless system, providing a faster and cheaper alternative to satellite internet.
With a starting price of $25 per month, Rise Broadband is an ideal choice if you lack a wired option. Additionally, they have recently introduced a fiber option in select locations.
4. T-Mobile
T-Mobile, a highly reputable company, offers wireless internet plans that include a 5G home internet option and several Internet Lite plans with varying amounts of monthly high-speed data. The Internet Lite plans utilize T-Mobile’s 5G and 4G LTE networks to serve locations where an unlimited 5G home internet plan is not available.
While the high-speed data speeds may be reduced after reaching the monthly limit, plan upgrades are possible at any time. The 5G home internet plan starts at $55 per month with unlimited high-speed data, while the Internet Lite plans range from $55 to $155 per month, depending on the chosen data package. None of the plans require contracts, and download speeds range from 72 Mbps to 245 Mbps, with upload speeds from 15 Mbps to 31 Mbps.
5. EarthLink
EarthLink offers a range of internet plans, including fiber, wireless, and satellite options, with varying speeds to meet different needs. Whether you engage in light streaming and internet usage or require high-speed connections for gaming, multiple users, or even business purposes up to 5000 Mbps, EarthLink has a plan for you.
With a starting price of $59.95 per month, EarthLink’s plans also come with the benefit of no data caps, ensuring uninterrupted internet usage.
6. CenturyLink
CenturyLink provides internet services in 16 states, offering speeds ranging from 3-100 Mbps for DSL internet and 100-940 Mbps for fiber (available in select areas). Their DSL plans start at $55 per month, while fiber plans begin at $70 per month.
Furthermore CenturyLink’s advanced WiFi 6 technology enhances connectivity, data capacity, and battery life for in-home devices.
7. Verizon
For those in need of lightning-fast speeds, Verizon’s 5G Home is an excellent choice. Leveraging a network of fiber-optic cables, Verizon offers speeds of up to 940 Mbps, making it perfect for gamers, streamers, and bandwidth-intensive users.
With a starting price of $25 per month and no long-term contracts, Verizon boasts a 99.99% reliability rating, ensuring consistently fast and unlimited bandwidth.
8. Cox
Cox is an emerging ISP that offers a comprehensive range of features without holding back. Alongside fast and reliable connections optimized for your internet activity, Cox provides advanced security features such as a digital data shredder, vulnerability scanner, and spyware protection built into your devices.
With a starting price of $29.99 per month, Cox also boasts over 3 million hotspots nationwide and full-house WiFi coverage for all areas and devices within your home.
Final Words
These are the current top internet providers in the US. When selecting a new ISP, it’s crucial not to rush the decision-making process. Understanding contract terms, price structures, and the details of each plan can be challenging. Take the time to research the options available in your area, determine the type of connection you require, set a budget, and decide on the desired connection speed. Create a shortlist of service providers that meet your criteria, and further investigate them before making your final decision.
