T-Mobile Home Internet is a good option for those seeking wide availability, simple pricing, and easy setup, while Astound Broadband Powered by RCN may be preferable for users in its coverage area who require faster download speeds and are willing to manage potential equipment fees and customer service challenges. The best choice depends on individual needs, location, and priorities regarding speed, price, and customer support.
| Attribute | T-Mobile Home Internet | Astound Broadband Powered by RCN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $50 to $70 per month (can drop to $35 with AutoPay and T-Mobile voice line) | Varies by location and plan, starting as low as $14.99/month in some areas. Generally, prices start around $20 to $30 per month. |
| Contract Length | No annual contracts required | Contract-free plans |
| Download Speed | Typically ranges from 87 Mbps to 415 Mbps | Ranges from 100 Mbps to 1.5 Gbps, with some areas offering up to 2 Gbps. Fiber options can reach up to 5 Gbps in select areas. |
| Upload Speed | Typically between 12 Mbps and 56 Mbps | Typically max out at 20 Mbps due to the limitations of cable connections. Fiber optic connections can offer symmetrical speeds. |
| Data Caps | Unlimited data (speeds may be reduced after 1.2TB usage) | No data caps |
| Equipment Fees | No monthly equipment fees. A 5G Gateway device is included. | Leasing a gateway device costs $14.49 per month. Optional enhanced Whole-Home Wi-Fi via the Eero Max 7 mesh Wi-Fi system is available for $5/month, but is free for the first 24 months for customers on 1,000Mbps and higher plans. A gaming router (Netgear Nighthawk XR1000) can be rented for $13 per month. |
| Installation Fees | No professional technician required for installation | Standard technician installation fee is $79.95. Self-installation is an option. A one-time activation fee of $9.99 is charged on new accounts. |
| Bundling Options | Bundling a T-Mobile phone line with home internet can result in a monthly discount | Offers Double Play and Triple Play bundles, including internet, TV, and phone services. |
| Customer Service Quality | Mixed reviews, with some customers reporting positive experiences and others noting issues. 24/7 support. | Not highly rated. It can be difficult to reach a real person, and there's a $54.95 service call fee. U.S.-based customer support, available 24/7. |
| Network Reliability | 91% of users found the service reliable. Reliability can be influenced by location. | Uses a cable network, delivering high bandwidth. They are also expanding their network with a fiber backbone. |
| Coverage Area | Available in all 50 states, but coverage varies by city. Available to about 60% of households in the US. | Available in 9 states, with the greatest coverage in District of Columbia, Massachusetts, and Illinois. |
| Availability of Static IP Address | Not available (private IP subnet) | Not available |
| Data Caps | Unlimited data (though speeds may be reduced after 1.2TB usage) | No data caps |