EarthLink vs. CenturyLink Internet

EarthLink and CenturyLink are two major fiber and DSL internet providers in the U.S. EarthLink provides service to 26 states, delivering symmetrical speeds up to 5 Gbps on a fiber network. Trailing closely behind, CenturyLink supplies service to 20 states, with top fiber speeds up to 940 Mbps.

CenturyLink Features Lower Fees Than EarthLink

CenturyLink Offers Free Self-Installation

CenturyLink offers free installation for most of its internet plans. For subscriptions requiring professional installation, customers can expect to pay a one-time fee of $85. While EarthLink also offers self-installation, it typically still requires an activation fee of $19.95, which includes shipping the modem and a self-install kit. Select plans might require professional installation at an additional cost.

EarthLink’s Contracts Are a Major Downside

EarthLink requires a 12-month contract for the majority of its plans. If you decide to end your contract early, be prepared to face early-termination fees (ETFs) of up to $200 with EarthLink. If you’re looking for internet service without annual commitments, CenturyLink offers internet plans without any contractual obligations.

Data Caps Are Unlimited With Both Providers

No matter if you go with EarthLink or CenturyLink, you won’t have to worry about data caps with either provider. That said, EarthLink does have a soft data cap on its wireless plans.