Spectrum vs WOW!: Side by Side Comparison

Spectrum is the second-largest cable internet provider in the United States with service stretching across 44 states. Its internet plan options feature unlimited data, an included modem, and high speeds of up to 940 Mbps. Spectrum customers can also bundle their high-speed internet with TV and phone services through the company’s triple play bundles.

WOW! has internet coverage in 10 states, making it the sixth-largest cable internet provider in the United States. Although its cable internet is the most widespread, WOW! offers DSL to about 6,000 people. Customers can receive free installation with their WOW! internet service when they order online, and each plan features no data caps. WOW! also has bundled plans for internet, TV, and phone.

Spectrum vs WOW!: Extra Fees and Contracts

Installation

Spectrum customers can choose between a professional installation and self-installation for their internet service.

With a self-installation fee of $9.99, internet-only customers might choose the self-installation process to save money on a professional install. The self-install kit comes with everything you need, including the modem and wiring, to set up your service yourself. Spectrum’s professional installation option costs a one-time fee of $49.99 and is best for customers who need the assistance of a technician.

Like Spectrum, WOW! also provides both professional installation and self-installation to most customers.

WOW! customers can expect to pay a $50 installation fee for either option, but WOW! removes the fee when you order a qualifying service online. WOW! currently has a no-contact professional installation process in place with a technician assisting you over the phone during the setup process.

Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print

Spectrum offers contract-free internet plans with download speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of 10 Mbps to 35 Mbps.

With no contract requirements, customers can cancel their service at any time and are not subject to early cancellation fees. There are also no equipment fees as Spectrum provides a complimentary modem for customers to use. For an additional $5/month, you can rent a pre-configured router for home WiFi, or you can avoid the fee by using your own compatible router.

With speeds ranging from 10-1000 Mbps, WOW! requires a contract ranging between 12-24 months with most of their internet plans.

However, customers have the option to go contract-free with an additional fee. If you decide to end your contract early, you may be responsible for early termination fees of up to $345 — this fee varies by contract and remaining months. You have the option to rent a modem with WiFi for $10/month, or you can use your own compatible equipment to avoid the fee.

Data Caps

All of Spectrum’s internet plans come with unlimited data, so you won’t face monthly restrictions on data usage.

Like Spectrum, WOW! does not employ data cap restrictions with any of their internet plans.