Charter Spectrum Internet Speeds and Speedtest FAQs
The Spectrum Internet speeds shown in graphs above are based on hundreds of thousands of user speed tests. These speed tests are powered by M-Labs, which is the speed test database integrated into BroadbandNow and Google search results.
Averages shown tend to be lower than real-world experience, since users often run speed tests to diagnose WiFi issues. When a subscriber’s WiFi router is not functioning properly, it can result in very low speed test output — however, this is caused by a faulty WiFi unit, not the actual Internet connection.
If you are testing a Spectrum connection and getting results below 10 Mbps, try resetting your router and running the test again. In many cases, low Spectrum speeds are actually caused by modem or router issues, rather than the Internet connection itself.
Charter Spectrum Internet Speed Tiers
Spectrum Internet speeds come in three flavors: Standard, Ultra, and Gig.
| Spectrum Speed Tier | Download Speed | Upload speed |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Internet | 60-200 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| Ultra Internet | 300-400 Mbps | 20 Mbps |
| Gig Internet | 940 Mbps | 35 Mbps |
Most customers use the “Standard” Internet plan, since it has more than enough download speed to handle streaming Netflix, Youtube, and other common uses.
Speeds are much faster on Spectrum’s Gig and Ultra plans. That said, only large families, techies, and “pro” users should pay the extra money for these plans. Most users will be happy with Spectrum’s Internet speeds on the “Standard” plan.
Charter Spectrum Download Speeds
The speed advertised for Spectrum’s plans is the download speed. Charter’s download speeds are generally much faster than their download speeds. This is because cable Internet has limited bandwidth for upload speed, and most users need to download much more content than they upload. For users who want to stream video, having a strong download speed is most important. Spectrum’s download speeds are in the 60–1,000 Mbps range.
Charter Spectrum Upload Speeds
Charter’s upload speeds tend to be much lower than their download speeds. They will be higher on Ultra and Gig plan, but don’t go much beyond 35 Mbps. Most customers do not rely on upload speed for much, and even 10 Mbps is enough to handle upload needs like Skype video and photo sharing.
Spectrum speeds vs Fiber Speeds
The main difference between Spectrum’s cable Internet and “fiber” providers like Verizon Fios is the upload speeds. Spectrum is an “asymmetrical” provider, meaning that the download speed is much faster than the upload speed. Fiber providers offer “symmetrical” service, which has just as much upload speed as download speed.
Charter Spectrum Speeds in Context
Spectrum’s speeds are faster than most other cable providers. They have been investing heavily in upgrading and expanding their hybrid fiber-coaxial cable network. By using the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, Spectrum is able to deliver gigabit download speeds over copper cable wires.