Spectrum vs. Windstream: Side-by-Side Comparison

Spectrum plans have one connection type – cable – with three different speeds (wireless speeds may vary). Cable Internet has more coverage. Pricing for its Internet-only plans starts at $49.99 a month for 12 months. If you want to save money while taking advantage of multiple services, bundle your Internet plan with Spectrum TV^® Select and phone services.

Windstream offers various plans that use DSL, fixed wireless, cable, and fiber connections. Plans and pricing vary by location, but its cheapest DSL plan is $39.99 per month, and its cheapest fiber plan is $39.99 per month. Similar to Spectrum, Windstream offers bundles if you want more than one type of service.

Spectrum typically offers a free Peacock Premium subscription with eligible Internet plans. Like other streaming services, Peacock has original shows you can’t find anywhere else.

Windstream deals, on the other hand, include some type of online credit that’s applied to the first month’s bill. If you live in an area that has fiber availability, you might qualify for their three-month gig speed upgrade promotion.

Spectrum Internet^® is available in most states with quick download speeds (wireless speeds may vary) regardless of which plan you get. Plans include a free modem for new customers, meaning no hidden fees. While there are plenty of reason to switch to Spectrum, they don’t have many incentives for existing customers.

Windstream offers a wide variety of affordable plans with unlimited data. Available plans vary based on location, but Windstream makes a point of extending its services in rural areas. Although their customer service isn’t always top-notch, you can bypass the need for a technician and opt for the free self-installation kit.

Spectrum vs. Windstream: Packages Compared

You can package your Spectrum Internet plan with a new mobile plan and get unlimited data for a fixed price a month per phone line. Internet and TV packages are also available, but you might have to sign a contract for the TV service.

Windstream partners with several different TV providers, such as DISH, DIRECTV, and YouTube TV. It also has its own Kinetic TV service. Depending on how robust you want your bundle to be, whether you want more channels or networks, pricing will be higher.

Spectrum vs. Windstream: Extra Fees and Contracts

Neither Spectrum nor Windstream requires a contract. However, the promotions they offer during initial signup will disappear after a year. Windstream does have an $11 per month equipment fee and Spectrum charges $5 per month for a modem lease when enabled with WiFi.

Installation

Spectrum offers professional installation for a one-time fee of $49.99. However, if you have your own equipment and want to self-install, you only need to pay a $24.99 WiFi activation fee.

Windstream’s professional installation fee is $35, and the activation fee is $50. You can avoid these fees if you order online or speak to a service representative over the phone.

Data Cap

Spectrum Internet plans have unlimited data. Windstream also doesn’t have a data cap on its Internet plans.

Spectrum vs. Windstream: Customer Satisfaction

Both Spectrum and Windstream are in the middle of the pack when it comes to customer service, according to our customer reviews and the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) ratings. Both companies seem to struggle with responding to customer complaints quickly and long wait times on the phone. However, they have great reputations for reestablishing connections in a timely manner.