EarthLink and Optimum are among the leading internet providers in the U.S. Where Optimum offers cable and fiber internet connections, EarthLink uses DSL, 5G home internet, and fiber-optic technology to reach a greater coverage area across 26 states. Beyond coverage, Optimum offers many bundling options that include TV and phone services, while EarthLink customers can only take advantage of a phone add-on.
EarthLink vs. Optimum Internet
Compare EarthLink and Optimum internet service in 2025
7 Plans Available
price range
$39.95 - $189.95/month
*Prices may vary depending on the plan.
PROVIDER DETAILS
- Download speeds up to: 5 Gbps
- DSL, Fixed Wireless, Fiber
- $15 a month equipment fees
- Unlimited Data
31 Plans Available
price range
$25 - $140/month
*Prices may vary depending on the plan.
PROVIDER DETAILS
- Download speeds up to: 8 Gbps
- Cable, Fiber
- $10 a month equipment fees
- Unlimited Data
Learn more about EarthLink and Optimum:
EarthLink has 7 plans:
Optimum has 31 plans:
Learn more about EarthLink and Optimum
EarthLink vs Optimum: Best Deals
Internet Deals
Optimum Pulls Ahead of EarthLink in the Fees Department
Both Providers Offer Self-Installation Options
EarthLink offers a self-installation option that can save you money, but you may require professional installation depending on your preexisting wiring, which can cost up to $79.95. Optimum also has a self-install option that will let you skip a technician appointment and fees. As with EarthLink, some of their service plans require professional installation at a cost.
Optimum’s No-Contract Plans Outshine EarthLink
EarthLink requires a yearlong contract for all of its internet plans. Depending on the plan chosen, EarthLink customers can expect to pay early termination fees (ETFs) up to $200 if they decide to end their contract early. Optimum doesn’t require a contract for its internet plans but offers a promotional rate with one-year agreements. At the end of the year, there will be a price hike for your plan.
Data Caps Are Nonexistent With Both Providers
Neither EarthLink nor Optimum have data cap restrictions on their internet plans.
EarthLink vs. Optimum Internet Review
BroadbandNow readers submitted 64 for EarthLink. EarthLink earned an average score of 4.16 out of 5.
As of December 2025, BroadBandNow’s editorial team has not been able to survey
enough EarthLink customers to provide a comprehensive understanding of how this
service is meeting customers’ needs or expectations.
BroadbandNow readers submitted 131 for Optimum. Optimum earned an average score of 3.24 out of 5.
As of December 2025, BroadBandNow’s editorial team has not been able to survey
enough Optimum customers to provide a comprehensive understanding of how this
service is meeting customers’ needs or expectations.