Verizon Fios vs RCN: Side by Side Comparison
Verizon Fios and RCN are two internet providers that offer fiber-optic internet to limited regions in the United States. Verizon Fios and RCN each offer lightning-fast fiber-optic internet, while RCN additionally provides copper and cable internet in some areas. Both providers include bundles with the internet, phone, and TV to help customers get the services they need for one price.
Verizon Fios and RCN feature a range of plans with different speeds and pricing, but there are a few differences we highlight below.
Verizon Fios Info
RCN Info
| Verizon Fios vs. RCN Comparison |
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| Provider | Verizon Fios | RCN |
| Speed | 200-940 Mbps | 25-940 Mbps |
| Pricing | $39.99-79.99/mo. | $22-52/mo. |
| Service Type | Fiber | Cable, Copper or Fiber |
| Verizon Fios vs. RCN FEATURE COMPARISON |
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| Provider | Verizon Fios | RCN |
| High-Speed Plans | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data | Yes | Yes |
| Contract-Free Plans | Yes | Yes |
| TV Service | Yes | Yes |
| Phone Service | No | Yes |
Verizon Fios Internet Deals †
Last updated on 4/10/2021†All plans not available in all areas or to all customers. Verify details with Verizon Fios.
RCN Internet Deals †
Last updated on 4/17/2021†All plans not available in all areas or to all customers. Verify details with RCN.
Verizon Fios vs. RCN Performance Overview
Verizon Fios offers fiber internet to customers in 9 states, with its most widespread coverage in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The service currently extends to 34.8 million people, making Verizon Fios the second-largest fiber internet provider in the country. Customers can choose from internet-only plans or bundles that include TV, phone, and internet service, with all plans including unlimited data and no contracts.
RCN provides fiber, copper, and cable internet in 7 states. The type of internet available to you depends on your location. Its cable internet is available to 4.2 million people, making it the eighth-largest cable internet provider in the United States. Like Verizon Fios, customers can bundle their internet service with TV and phone through RCN and take advantage of no contracts or data caps with any plan.
Verizon Fios Installation
Verizon Fios offers internet set up in one of two ways: professional installation or self-installation.
A professional installation is best for customers whose homes are not already wired for service. This install comes with a one-time fee of $99, although Verizon Fios waives the fee when you order select plans online. Self-installation may be your best option if you already have proper wiring in place and you’re familiar with setting up a modem and router. There is no fee for self-installation.
RCN Installation
Like Verizon Fios, RCN gives customers the option of self-installation and professional setup.
You can opt for professional installation for $49.99, giving you access to a technician to set up all wiring and equipment in your home. If you order your internet service online, RCN will waive your setup fee. A self-install includes a complete kit with everything you need to set up your internet service and costs no money.
Verizon Fios Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
Verizon Fios provides no-contract plans with download speeds of up to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 880 Mbps.
These no-contract plans prevent you from having to pay early termination fees if you decide to cancel your service. Verizon Fios charges $15/month to rent a modem with WiFi to use with your service or you can pay a one-time fee of $299.99 to purchase the equipment. Bringing your own compatible equipment can help you avoid this fee.
RCN Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
RCN’s internet plans are no-contract plans, meaning that you won’t be locked into your service or subject to early termination fees when you decide to cancel.
You can rent a modem and router from RCN for $20/month if you have any RCN plan up to 500 Mbps download speeds. However, the 940 Mbps plan requires a modem router combination, which costs $10/month. You can avoid the fee by using your own compatible modem, router, or modem router combination.
Verizon Fios Data Caps
Verizon Fios internet plans do not employ data caps, which allows you to use the internet as much as you need without being subject to overage charges.
RCN Data Caps
Like Verizon Fios, RCN also offers unlimited data for each of its internet plans, meaning that customers have access to unlimited data each month.
Verizon FiOS
FiOS from Verizon is great! Whether it’s the reliable, symmetrical speeds or the redundancy when we lose power. Verizon’s fiber always still works when the power is out!
Bad billing practices
Noticed autopay of $39 was changed to $99 for this month. Was told by customer service rep that I should have read Pg 2 of my bill (sure - as if!) to see that a 2 year discount had run out 2 weeks ago. I could renew at $55 per month with a new 2 year contract but the 2 week period during this month would still be billed at $99 per month. How about an email to my account letting me know that my 2 year discount would run out the following month and what my options were? How about several of such emails? That's how an honest company would operate. I've treated them accordingly by giving them 1 star in all areas above. Consumers deserve better!
EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS
Called RCN and immediately was told that since I had been RCN customer, they wanted to do what they could to get my business back. Customer service rep was funny, efficient and knowledgeable. He was able to deliver a great package that was $40 a month less than others. In addition to that, the technology used by RCN is cutting edge, unlike the others who use old technology. I’m now able to record 6 shows at once, store 1TB of entertainment and streaming shows while being on my iPad or smartphones are all consistently fast and reliable. I’m able to watch, pause and record shows from the slave boxes in the bedrooms. I couldn’t be happier with the reliability, speed and overall value of RCN. Highly Recommend RCN.
Phenomenal job
My internet had been down since yesterday morning. We called today and were fortunate to get a technician. He arrived with an unwavering determination to resolve my issue. His manipulation with the tools of the trade gave me assurance that I would have Netflix and be chilling real soon! He moved from one room to next, from the basement to outside, from atop a strong ladder to the back of the reliable van, one step after another until finally done! My family and I thank you, may your jobs never be too many or your reward too few!
Verizon Fios vs. RCN Coverage Availability
Verizon Fios Coverage & Availability
RCN Coverage & Availability
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