AT&T Internet vs. CenturyLink Internet

Both AT&T and CenturyLink offer fiber broadband coverage along with phone services in their bundles. AT&T also offers 5G home internet, DSL, and fixed wireless plans, while CenturyLink has copper and fixed wireless as well. For those who fall out of range for both providers’ fiber internet services, there are alternative options with more widespread availability.

AT&T and CenturyLink offer some of the lowest-priced fiber plans available in the U.S. AT&T Fiber is mainly available in Southeastern states, the Midwest, and California, while CenturyLink fiber plans are available in select cities across 20 states. Plans vary by location, as do pricing and speeds.

Both AT&T and CenturyLink are on par with competitive market pricing. AT&T Fiber plans start at $35 per month for speeds up to 5 Gbps. CenturyLink fiber plans are as low as $50 per month for symmetrical speeds up to 940 Mbps. AT&T gives you certain promotional rates and discounts when you sign up for AutoPay. For CenturyLink, paperless billing or prepay is required.

AT&T offers a wide variety of plans at different prices and speeds, as well as promotions every month for both new and current subscribers. If you choose any of its fiber plans, you’re sure to experience fast gigabit speeds — faster than other providers offering fiber internet. CenturyLink offers fewer plans, but its price range offers a smaller gap compared to AT&T.

AT&T Offers Slightly More Value for Bundles

AT&T offers bundles that are pretty similar to those offered by CenturyLink. While both providers offer home phone services, AT&T provides customers with the ability to bundle wireless services with their internet plans, making it more of a deal compared to CenturyLink, which has no true bundle options beyond phone.

CenturyLink Has Fewer Fees Than AT&T

Both Providers Offer Self-Install Options

AT&T gives you the option to self-install your internet for free. Once you receive your equipment in the mail from AT&T, simply follow the simple instructions and don’t worry about additional fees. If you prefer professional installation, be prepared to pay up to $99.

CenturyLink customers can choose between professional installation and self-installation. Professional installation usually comes with an $85 fee, but it can be waived depending on the plan you select. There are no additional fees for the activation. On the other hand, customers who opt to self-install don’t have to pay any fees as long as they have all the necessary equipment. Self-installation usually applies to homes with an existing fiber or DSL wiring.

Both CenturyLink and AT&T Have No-Contract Policies

While CenturyLink used to require contracts, today, CenturyLink offers contract-free DSL and fiber internet plans. That said, CenturyLink does charge $15 per month to use its modem, though you can also purchase your modem for $200 outright. AT&T doesn’t have contracts or price hikes after a certain number of months.

AT&T May Charge for Data Caps Depending on Your Connection

CenturyLink doesn’t have data caps for any of its internet plans. On the other hand, AT&T does have data caps for its fixed wireless and DSL plans, which could lead to additional fees.