When it comes to selecting an Internet service provider (ISP), two major players to consider are Verizon Fios and Spectrum, which was previously known as Time Warner Cable. But which of the choices is the better option for high speed and reliable Internet connection? Below is a detailed comparison between Verizon Fios and Spectrum.
Internet Speeds
One of the main criteria when choosing an ISP is connectivity, which can also be referred to as bandwidth. Fios has some of the highest speeds for its plans with some of the plans coming with up to 940/880 Mbps download/upload speeds. Even the basic package that they offer is reasonably fast, offering the user a connection speed of 200 Mbps. Spectrum’s speeds are also high with the top download speed of 400 Mbps, while most of the customers get 10-20 Mbps for downloads. File uploads are capped at only 20 Mbps. In raw internet speeds, however, Verizon is ahead.
Connection Reliability
High speed internet is essential, but if it cannot be relied upon, then it offers little benefit. Verizon Fios is often considered one of the most dependable internet service providers in terms of the actual speeds compared to the promised ones, minimal congestion, and connection interruptions. Spectrum has below average scores for reliability at 3. 66 while its other scores are above average. Customers feel that the connection speed is low during periods of high traffic and they also suffer from frequent disruptions. Significantly, Verizon’s fiber optic network is considerably better equipped to manage congestion.
Availability
Spectrum is one of the biggest cable internet services and is available throughout most of the United States while Verizon’s Fios service is available in select areas of some states in the east coast such as New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts among others due to their fiber optic network expansion which requires more infrastructure on their part. Thus, Spectrum may be available more often in general.
Bundled Services
Spectrum also provides choices for television and home phone services, together with internet connection with other added savings. However, it’s also important to note that Spectrum has a larger library of TV shows and movies as compared to Verizon Fios TV packages. Nonetheless, Verizon tends to outcompete Spectrum regarding customer satisfaction with bundled services. And for home phone service, Verizon is considered more reliable than the VoIP-based Spectrum Voice option.
Cost
Spectrum is also cheaper than most of its competitors especially when it comes to price packages. The introductory offer for the Spectrum broadband plan of up to 200 Mbps costs about $44. 99 per month. Competitive Fios packages begin at $40 per month, but the rates rise after the first year special offer. However, Spectrum always includes other hidden charges that make the total price higher than what was advertised while Verizon Fios does not have this problem. Comparing both the best speed tiers, it is evident that the most they cost is $80-$90 per month.
Installation and Equipment Fees
These costs vary depending on the package chosen but Spectrum may require initial installation fees, which can include rewiring of homes. They also make customers rent modem and router equipment such as the Spectrum WiFi modem for $5-10 per month. Most of the time Verizon does not charge Fios connection fees and for new customers, they do not charge equipment fees because the Fios Router and other equipment are not mandatory. Long term, Verizon is much more cost effective because there is no cheaper way to rent the equipment.
Customer Service
Speak to almost any cable company customer and they can easily share an instance or two about the dreadful service they received. For example, Spectrum appears to have numerous negative reviews when it comes to matters concerning responding to support tickets, addressing technical concerns, and questions relating to bills. When compared to the other brands, the Verizon Fios customer service rating is comparatively higher and more active as seen in the various consumer reports.
The Bottom Line
If one takes a closer look at all the parameters such as speed, reliability, availability, as well as customer support, it becomes clear that Verizon Fios is a much better option than Spectrum for the majority of users. The only exceptions can be made if Fios is not offered in your area or if, despite its higher initial price, Spectrum turns out to be more economical in the long run. However, Verizon Fios is considered as the better internet service between these two choices. Given how central fast, reliable connectivity is much of the way we live our lives from video calls to streaming now, the little extra each month to get Fios service is usually worth it.
Call (844) 967-4555 to get a new Verizon Fios connection now!
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