CenturyLink vs. Windstream

CenturyLink offers DSL and fiber plans with download speeds ranging between 100-940 Mbps. It’s one of the leading DSL providers in the U.S. and ranks among the top five fiber internet providers.

Windstream’s selection of internet plans includes DSL, fixed wireless, cable, and fiber. Download speeds range between 50 Mbps to 1 Gbps, with the cheapest plan costing $39.99 per month for either fixed wireless or cable internet at download speeds of up to 400 Mbps.

Both providers have partnerships with DIRECTV, but CenturyLink advertises the TV service as a package rather than a “bundle.” When it comes to a diverse range of internet plans, Windstream takes the lead.

When it comes to cost, Windstream offers cheaper internet-only options. However, if speed is your primary concern, CenturyLink has been known to offer reliable and fast gigabit speeds.

CenturyLink might not have the most plans to choose from but they do offer competitive pricing and reliable fiber internet speeds. The price for fiber internet is also cheaper than Windstream’s fiber plan: $65 per month versus $89.99 per month, respectively.

Windstream stands out for offering multiple plans with different price and speed tiers. That said, pricing can get steep, especially for DSL internet. One of their DSL plans costs $59.99 per month for download speeds of up to 50 Mbps, while CenturyLink’s DSL plan costs $50 per month for download speeds of up to 100 Mbps.

Both providers don’t impose data caps or contracts on their plans. Keep in mind that speeds and plans vary by location. This means that what might appear available, based on what’s advertised, may likely be different once you search with your address.

CenturyLink vs. Windstream: Bundles Compared

CenturyLink bundles its internet service with home phone service. TV packages are available via DIRECTV, DIRECTV STREAM, and DISH.

Windstream bundles the internet, TV, and phone services, with its own digital TV service called Kinetic TV (available in certain locations). It also offers DISH, DIRECTV, and YouTube TV as part of Double or Triple Play packages.

If you’re looking for a wide range of bundles with TV service, Windstream is your best bet.

CenturyLink vs Windstream: Extra Fees and Contracts

CenturyLink and Windstream don’t require contracts, which means internet plans are on a month-to-month basis and you can cancel at any time. Be mindful of service agreements with Windstream, which outline ahead of time what you’re responsible for paying.

Installation

CenturyLink offers professional installation for a fee of $149 and standard installation for $15. Windstream’s professional installation is cheaper at $35 but does charge a one-time activation fee of $50. Depending on current promotions, you might be able to waive the installation fee from either provider.

Data Caps

Both CenturyLink and Windstream offer unlimited data on their DSL and fiber internet plans. This means you won’t have to worry about data overage fees.

CenturyLink vs. Windstream: Customer Satisfaction

Neither CenturyLink nor Windstream have a good reputation in the customer service department. Both have received numerous complaints about billing issues and spotty connections.