EarthLink vs. AT&T Internet
EarthLink and AT&T Internet rank as premium internet providers in the U.S., both of which offer fiber-optic internet and have the greatest coverage in California and Texas. They also offer DSL internet as an alternative. High speeds, prices, and availability are dependent on location. Below are key similarities and differences that we’ve outlined to better understand what each internet provider offers.
EarthLink Info
AT&T Internet Info
| EarthLink vs. AT&T Internet Comparison |
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| Provider | EarthLink | AT&T Internet |
| Speed | 3-1,000 Mbps | 25-1,000 Mbps |
| Pricing | $14.95-99.95/mo. | $35-60/mo. |
| Service Type | DSL or Fiber | IPBB, Fiber or Fixed Wireless |
| EarthLink vs. AT&T Internet FEATURE COMPARISON |
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| Provider | EarthLink | AT&T Internet |
| High-Speed Plans | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data | Yes | Select Plans |
| Contract-Free Plans | No | Select Plans |
| TV Service | No | Yes |
| Phone Service | No | Yes |
EarthLink Internet Deals †
Last updated on 10/17/2019†All plans not available in all areas or to all customers. Verify details with EarthLink.
AT&T Internet Internet Deals †
Last updated on 4/6/2021†All plans not available in all areas or to all customers. Verify details with AT&T Internet.
EarthLink vs. AT&T Internet Performance Overview
As the largest DSL provider in the U.S., EarthLink’s DSL internet is available to approximately 169.5 million people while their fiber internet is available to approximately 22 million people. EarthLink has introduced HyperLink, which is their high-speed fiber internet. Available in 21 states, HyperLink offers speeds of up to 1000 Mbps. EarthLink does not offer phone or TV services with their internet plans.
AT&T Internet is the second largest provider of residential DSL and fiber broadband in the U.S., with the former covering an estimated 122.8 million people and the latter covering an estimated 25.1 million people. Bundles with phone and TV services are also available. Though there is less coverage for their fiber internet, customers can always opt for their DSL internet.
EarthLink Installation
With EarthLink’s HyperLink plans, they require professional installation at a one-time fee of $69.95.
Self-installation is offered to their DSL-only customers who pay $19.95 for a self-installation kit and modem shipping. In addition to the fee is an EarthLink-specific modem, which costs $6.95/month. There may be extra handling and shipping fees as well.
AT&T Internet Installation
With AT&T Internet, there are two options: self-installation and professional installation.
If customers choose to self-install, the activation fee is $35. The fee for professional installation is typically $99. Included in their internet plans is a Wi-Fi Gateway, so purchasing or renting a modem and router is not necessary. The fee may be waived depending on the bundle offered.
EarthLink Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
EarthLink’s standard internet plans require a 12-month contract.
Depending on the plan, early termination fees can cost up to $200. Beyond the contract are additional fees that include equipment, handling and shipping, and a one-time installation fee. EarthLink requires a specific modem that they lease for $6.95/month. Keep in mind that EarthLink’s internet plans vary by location and are not available in all geographic areas.
AT&T Internet Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
AT&T Internet requires a 12-month contract for new customers; their agreements range from 1-2 years.
If the contract is breached, early termination fees can cost up to $180. Late fees can result up to $10 per bill. As for equipment fees, AT&T supplies a Wi-Fi gateway so customers do not need to buy or rent a modem and router. Depending on the bundles offered, equipment and installation fees may be waived.
EarthLink Data Caps
EarthLink’s HyperLink plans have no data caps, which is great for power internet users. Customers can enjoy unlimited data and high speeds of up to 1000 Mbps.
AT&T Internet Data Caps
AT&T Internet’s various plans offer unlimited data for an extra fee, but the standard data cap is 1 TB/month. An additional $10 is charged for every 50 GB used.
Fantastic team and great coverage
Absolutely fantastic! Tech came out to help install and, due to the wiring in our apt, it took a while to find the correct outlets. But he was so patient and helpful and kind, really going above and beyond to make sure things got set up so I could have the level of coverage needed to qualify for work from home. Truly amazing guy, I honestly can't speak highly enough of him. He kept trying long after I suspect most would have given up. Huge THANK YOU to AT&T for the coverage at the right price (literally half the price of the competitor in this area), and more importantly for having such an amazing guy on your team. Thank you.
Cannot Get A Better Deal Than AT&T Access
Great customer service, Eager to get me approved quickly -- my order has been placed and is now on the way! Not much room to complain when it's only $10 monthly.
EarthLink vs. AT&T Internet Coverage Availability
EarthLink Coverage & Availability
AT&T Internet Coverage & Availability
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