Verizon Fios and Optimum are two of the largest players when it comes to home internet service providers. But which is the better option for your home? Verizon Fios and Optimum are among the leading internet service providers, and the following factors should be considered while choosing between the two.
Speed
Speed may well be the single most crucial criterion when it comes to judging internet service providers. Fios provides a very fast fiber optic internet connection with an availability of 500 Mbps, Gigabit, or even higher. Their entry-level speeds begin at a minimum of 100 Mbps, which is much faster than Optimum’s current broadband services.
The top speed of Optimum is only 400 Mbps. While this is adequate for the majority of homes, it just cannot compete with the sheer speed of Fios. Those who need to download and upload large files, gamers, or families with several connected devices will also appreciate Verizon’s bandwidth.
Reliability
However, there is one area where Fios performs exceptionally well and that is in delivering the best reliability. Fiber cables are extremely tough and are less likely to be susceptible to disturbances or interferences than coaxial cables. Verizon Fios is on the list of the best providers that offer their internet services with minimal fluctuations from the declared speeds all the time.
The performance of Optimum, while still being slightly more reliable, does not have the network and infrastructure of an all-fiber network. From the Fios customers, there are few complaints from customers about disruption or problems that deny them steady and fast connectivity throughout the day and night.
Availability
Verizon Fios has grown very fast in the last ten years but is currently only present in sections of the eastern United States. While Optimum has its presence in New York and New Jersey, serving more than 5 million customers in the states of Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, California, and others. Although Fios is a leader in technology and speeds of its connection, Optimum just has a much broader coverage area.
If you desire fiber-optic service that offers extreme speeds and extreme reliability Fios comes out on top of the drawing board – that is if the service is even available in your neighborhood. Others living outside Fios coverage areas will only have access to other service providers such as Optimum among others.
Television
Television is always a good thing when bundled with your internet package and is usually cheaper. Of the two, it can safely be said that Verizon Fios has more competitive TV plans and deals than Optimum. Their schedule offers over 425 channels which range from local broadcast stations to premium movie stations. You get to enjoy several new features like voice control over remote control and 4K streaming, among others, with Fios TV One.
While Optimum’s TV packages are good, they are not as comprehensive in terms of next-gen features. The picture quality and the number of channels are worse compared to what you would be getting with a Verizon package. However, existing Optimum customers, at times, can add TV for cheaper prices.
Affordability
Verizon Fios has relatively cheap rates which is even cheaper than most cable companies. To subscribe to Fios Internet along with TV and home phone you can get some good offers and rebates. Even their bare-bones standalone internet packages provide good bang for your buck, particularly at the higher speeds. However, it is noteworthy that Fios does have discounts as well and promotions vary often.
In general, Optimum Internet packages seem to cost a little less in the initial stages. But they frequently do not have the more rapid speed plans you consistently assume with Fios. Optimum promotions also constantly change with potentially higher rates than stated even when booked. Because of this, it is wise to read contracts and any other terms and conditions any ISP may put across.
Customer Service
It is often inevitable to deal with internet-related issues or account-related questions at times. This makes customer service one of the criteria for evaluating organizations and businesses. Verizon Fios is rated exceptionally well in the customer satisfaction rating indices as compared to other cable service providers such as Optimum.
Some of the differences that were noted include response times, where Fios rates higher, especially when it comes to the resolution of technical issues. Their customer service reps are also based in the US which can help with communication issues.
While Optimum does not perform particularly badly in terms of customer satisfaction ratings, response times are comparatively slower and there is less visibility into the interactions. Outsourced or overseas support reps are also a major reason that customers also like to complain about.
Final Verdict
Verizon Fios is just plainly a better choice compared to Optimum in terms of speed, reliability, bundled offers, available channels, domestic support, and fiber optics. Current Optimum users do not necessarily need to jump ship, particularly taking into consideration the Fios regional constraints. If the new customer is selecting a provider, then Fios is undoubtedly the best bet if the service is available in the area.
The fiber-driven performance of Verizon Fios keeps it one step ahead of other popular cable services like Optimum. There are only several rather limited circumstances when Optimum would be considered a better choice for home Internet service than Fios. Even as availability grows and 5G home internet nears, Verizon Fios retains a technological advantage to offer consumers the best total value and greater satisfaction.
Call (844) 967-4555 to get a new Verizon Fios connection now!
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