EarthLink vs. Frontier
EarthLink and Frontier Communications are household names in the U.S. internet provider industry. Both providers offer high-speed fiber internet with varying speeds. They also have DSL options that are more affordable but might not be the best option for those who stream and download content more frequently. Frontier acquired the FiOS network from Verizon (Frontier now markets this fiber network as FiberOptic), making it a widely used provider for internet as well as cable. There are fundamental differences between the two providers that are outlined below, including fees, installation, and contracts.
EarthLink Info
Frontier Info
| EarthLink vs. Frontier Comparison |
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| Provider | EarthLink | Frontier |
| Speed | 3-1,000 Mbps | 9-940 Mbps |
| Pricing | $14.95-99.95/mo. | $37.99-79.99/mo. |
| Service Type | DSL or Fiber | DSL, Fiber or Copper |
| EarthLink vs. Frontier FEATURE COMPARISON |
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| Provider | EarthLink | Frontier |
| High-Speed Plans | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data | Yes | Yes |
| Contract-Free Plans | No | No |
| 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.
Frontier Internet Deals †
Last updated on 4/10/2021†All plans not available in all areas or to all customers. Verify details with Frontier.
EarthLink vs. Frontier Performance Overview
As the largest DSL provider in the U.S., EarthLink recently upgraded their internet service to HyperLink, offering fiber internet and high speeds. At this time, their high-speed fiber internet is available in 21 states, with the fastest connection up to 1000 Mbps. Ten songs can be downloaded in 9 seconds or a 1-hour TV show in less than a minute.
Frontier Communications’ internet plans start at $27.99/month, with speeds ranging between 6-1000 Mbps. Prices and speeds vary depending on location and availability. Currently, Frontier covers 29 states in the U.S. Between Frontier DSL, Frontier FiberOptic, and copper internet, customers have the option to choose one that suits their needs.
EarthLink Installation
Self-installation is available for EarthLink’s DSL plans for $19.95, which provides a self-install kit.
Self-installation is not an option for their fiber internet. Professional installation costs a one-time fee of $69.95. For the DSL internet plans, EarthLink recommends that customers use their specific modem rather than one they already own.
Frontier Installation
Frontier Communications’ installation fee can be waived if a customer decides to self-install.
A $9.99 fee still applies for equipment delivery; customers can rent equipment for an additional $10/month during the contract term. Professional installation costs $75.
EarthLink Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
EarthLink contracts are all 12-month agreements with early termination fees up to $200.
Customers can rent a modem from EarthLink for $6.95/month. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Failure to pay may cost the customer a penalty fee per occurrence per circuit as it is considered a breach of contract.
Frontier Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
Frontier has the option of 2-year contracts, but no contract is required.
The benefit of a contract is the fixed price for the contract duration, but if the contract is breached, be prepared to face early termination fees up to $400. There is also a monthly $10 rental fee for the modem and router.
EarthLink Data Caps
EarthLink does not have data caps. Customers can enjoy high speeds of up to 1000 Mbps and stream, download content, browse the internet, shop online, or game without any data limitations.
Frontier Data Caps
Frontier also does not have any data caps or data overage fees. With a wide variety of unlimited data plans, customers can download, stream, and play games without any data restrictions.
FiberOptic is top notch
Installer was very knowledgeable about how networks work and quickly patched in my line where I needed it. 6 months in and I saw an ad for 500/500 for the same price I had been paying for 200/200. A quick chat with sales and I upgraded for free. Highly recommend Frontier FiberOptic service.
Going the extra mile
During the winter storm in Texas that caused the entire state to lose power, I also found that the constant cycling of power caused the ONT (fiber optics converter) for my house to break. At least this is what the technician said. Anyway, I did the troubleshooting over the phone and they identified the problem. But then a ticket had to be opened and I was in the queue with lots of others. Unfortunately, my original ticket was closed by their system because it was associated with the widespread outage. I called when my ticket was closed and they opened a new one a week later. Although somewhat frustrated because I work from home I have to say the Frontier tried to get a technician out to fix my problem almost every day but I was then away from the house. I just want to say that they didn't forget me and really tried to solve my problem. They called me daily but I was away for a wedding. Great job Frontier. Your internet service is great too and it's why I've been a customer for a very long time.
EarthLink vs. Frontier Coverage Availability
EarthLink Coverage & Availability
Frontier Coverage & Availability
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