Internet service providers: AT&T Fiber vs. Spectrum Internet Gig

Quick Verdict

AT&T Fiber is the better choice for users who prioritize symmetrical upload and download speeds and are located within its coverage area. Its fiber optic network provides faster and more consistent performance. Spectrum Internet Gig is a viable option for users who need broader availability and are looking for bundling options with TV, phone, and mobile services, but the slower upload speeds and potential price increases should be considered.

AT&T Fiber offers significantly faster upload speeds due to its fiber optic network, while Spectrum Internet Gig uses a hybrid fiber-coaxial cable, resulting in slower upload speeds.
AT&T Fiber's starting price is lower, but Spectrum Internet Gig's price may increase after the first 12 months.
Spectrum Internet Gig has wider availability, serving 41 states compared to AT&T Fiber's availability in parts of 21 states.
Both providers offer bundling options, but AT&T Fiber focuses on bundling with AT&T Wireless, while Spectrum offers bundles for TV, phone, and Spectrum Mobile.
AT&T Fiber includes equipment fees in the monthly price, while Spectrum Internet Gig offers a free modem but may charge extra for a WiFi router depending on the plan.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	AT&T Fiber	Spectrum Internet Gig
Download Speed (Maximum)	Up to 5 Gbps (5000 Mbps), limited to 4.7 Gbps for single devices via ethernet due to overhead	Up to 1 Gbps (wireless speeds may vary)
Upload Speed (Maximum)	Up to 5 Gbps (5000 Mbps), symmetrical upload and download speeds	35 Mbps in most areas
Starting Price	As low as $55/month for Internet 300 plan with AutoPay and paperless billing	$70.00/mo for the first 12 months (price can increase after 12 months)
Contract Length	No annual contract required	No contracts required
Data Caps	No data caps	No data caps
Availability (Coverage Area)	Available in parts of 21 states, mainly in the Midwest and South, typically in urban and suburban areas	Spectrum serves 41 states
Technology (Fiber vs. Cable)	100% fiber optic network	Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
Bundling Options (TV, Phone)	Bundling with AT&T Wireless can result in savings	Bundling options are available for TV, phone, and Spectrum Mobile
Equipment Fees (Modem, Router)	Wi-Fi gateway included, equipment fees included in the monthly price	Free modem included; WiFi router included with Gig plan, otherwise available for an extra monthly fee
Customer Service Rating	Ranked as one of the fastest internet providers in 2023	Spectrum ranked seventh out of 15 internet providers in a recent customer satisfaction survey
Installation Fees	Up to $99, self-installation is an option	$30 for self-installation or $65 for professional installation (can be higher in some areas, e.g. $199.99)
Promotional Offers	Reward cards, discounts, and bundles are frequently offered, including discounts for bundling with eligible wireless plans and Visa reward cards for signing up for certain Fiber plans	Spectrum may cover up to $500 in early termination fees from your previous provider. One line of Unlimited Mobile may be included for 12 months when paired with an internet plan.

Overall Comparison

AT&T Fiber: Up to 5 Gbps symmetrical speeds, starting at $55/month. Spectrum Internet Gig: Up to 1 Gbps download, 35 Mbps upload, starting at $70/month (price increase after 12 months).

Pros and Cons

AT&T Fiber

Pros:

Fast and consistent speeds, even at peak times
Over 99% proven reliability
Symmetrical upload and download speeds
No data caps
Bundling options with AT&T Wireless for savings

Cons:

Installation fees may apply if not self-installed
State Cost Recovery Charges may apply in certain states
Wi-Fi extenders may need to be purchased separately to strengthen the signal

Spectrum Internet Gig

Pros:

High download speeds up to 1 Gbps
No data caps
Bundling options available for TV, phone, and mobile
Free modem included
Self-installation option available

Cons:

Upload speed limited to 35 Mbps in most areas
Price increases after the first 12 months
Customer service rating could be better
Installation fees can be high in some areas
Wireless speeds may vary

User Experiences and Feedback

AT&T Fiber

What Users Love

Hassle-free installation
Helpful technicians
Easy setup
Faster upload speeds than cable

Common Complaints

Hidden costs can include installation fees if you don't self-install
Charges for Wi-Fi extenders

Value Perception

Bundling with AT&T Wireless can save you money
Advertised price generally includes equipment fees, but doesn't include taxes

Spectrum Internet Gig

What Users Love

Fast, reliable internet even at peak times.
Bundling options can offer savings.

Common Complaints

Price increases after the initial promotional period.
Upload speeds may be slower compared to fiber optic services.

Value Perception

Bundling options can include discounts and free access to streaming services.
Spectrum may cover up to $500 in early termination fees from your previous provider.
One line of Unlimited Mobile may be included for 12 months when paired with an internet plan.

User Recommendations

Speeds up to 1 Gig are possible, but wireless speeds may vary.
The first month's bill may be higher due to installation fees.
Watch out for price increases after the initial promotional period.
Spectrum provides 24/7 dedicated technical support.
You can use your own compatible router to avoid the monthly fee for Spectrum's router.