Spectrum vs CenturyLink: Side by Side Comparison

The battle for better service

Customer service matters, and not all online reviews can p trusted

When you find yourself in an area where both broadband providers offer interchangeable speeds and pricing, customer service might be the most important factor to consider. Broadband internet and phone service in particular are vital for emergencies and communication, and having a company that will respond quickly to service issues makes a huge difference.

That said, figuring out which online reviews of a provider’s customer service can be tricky. Look for two key phrases: “IP verified” and “ACSI.” IP-verified reviews use sophisticated network-detection protocols to ensure that each person leaving a review is a unique user on a computer actually on a given provider’s network. Additionally, safeguards are put in place to stop anyone from leaving a review twice, cutting out review manipulation. Ratings throughout BroadbandNow are IP-verified.

ACSI stands for the American Customer Satisfaction Index, a nationwide benchmark for customer satisfaction in the US. Experts at ASCI survey customers manually to ensure the most accurate results.

Reading the fine print

ETFs, hidden fees, and other “gotchas” to watch out for

Centurylink and Charter Communications, like most broadband providers, will often make special “sign-up promotions” to encourage new customers to sign up, and preferably bundle multiple services from their company. These promotional prices can save consumers money, but shoppers have to be careful about a few things.

First, ETFs, or “early termination fees,” could cancel out your savings if there’s a chance you’ll need to switch locations or providers in the near future. Second, surprise fees often show up on broadband bills, and it’s always worth calling your provider and complaining (or at least asking for an explanation) if you see fees that weren’t mentioned when you signed up. Third, be careful to factor in the final monthly price when comparing plans, not just the reduced sign-up promotion or bundle deal. Promotions usually time out within the year, leaving you with a bill that might be higher than you bargained for.