Spectrum vs. CenturyLink Internet

Spectrum primarily offers cable plans, and it has affordable rates for fast download speeds on a cable connection. The basic plan starts at $49.99 per month for 12 months, while the highest-tiered plan is $124.97 per month for 12 months.

On the other hand, CenturyLink offers DSL and fiber plans. Although its rates are reasonable, download speeds are slower compared to Spectrum. The cheapest DSL plan costs $50 per month, and the cheapest fiber plan is $50 per month.

Depending on availability, you might be stuck with one type of connection. DSL and cable have more coverage than fiber, so that’s something to keep in mind as you’re shopping for Internet plans.

Both Spectrum and CenturyLink offer different deals to get customers to sign up for their plans. Spectrum typically offers freebies as signup rewards like a free subscription to a streaming service. CenturyLink has consistently low rates even after the promotional period ends. Depending on what you’re looking for in a deal, you might find one provider’s signup incentives more enticing than the other.

Spectrum is widely available across the U.S. with no contract required for unlimited data plans. You also get high-speed Internet on all plans. Although the one-time activation fee for the gigabit plan is pricey, the monthly rate is reasonable.

CenturyLink is also a nationwide provider that doesn’t require a contract and has unlimited data. However, its download speeds are a little slower, with the fastest plan trailing behind Spectrum’s. It also doesn’t offer TV services, so you won’t find TV packages.

Spectrum vs. CenturyLink: Packages Compared

Spectrum offers bundles with TV and phone services along with your Internet service. Each TV package comes with hundreds of channels with the option to add on premium channels such as HBO, EPIX, and SHOWTIME.

CenturyLink doesn’t offer TV services, but it does have phone services. You can bundle Internet and phone services for a discounted price.

Spectrum vs CenturyLink: Extra Fees and Contracts

Spectrum and CenturyLink are contract-free, which means no early termination fees. Both providers also have a WiFi activation fee.

Installation

Spectrum has a one-time fee of $49.99 for professional installation. If you opt for self-installation, the fee comes down to $24.99. CenturyLink’s professional installation fee goes up to $149 (depending on the technology), and if you opt for self-installation, you don’t need to pay a fee.

Data cap

Spectrum and CenturyLink don’t impose data caps on their Internet plans.

Spectrum vs. CenturyLink: Customer Satisfaction

Both Spectrum and CentruyLink have decent customer service departments, though many complaints arise from long wait and reconnection times. Each company received good reviews based on our customer survey of Internet providers.