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Cheap vs. fast internet: Can you only choose one? Not necessarily.
Does cheap internet translate to slow internet? For the most part, yes, but there are exceptions.
As a general rule, the cheapest plans offered by internet service providers (ISPs) have the lowest speeds. Even so, affordable high-speed internet is readily available because this industry is highly competitive.
Today is the day we bust budget internet myths and show you how to get fast + reliable internet without burning a hole in your pocket.
Internet Speed vs. Cost
Higher-tier plans give you more speed, and naturally cost more. However, the price of an internet service also depends on the type of connection.
Fiber internet is known to offer the highest speeds, yet it is almost as affordable as traditional cable internet in most areas across the United States. On the other hand, satellite internet is quite expensive, although it offers the slowest speeds.
Speed and Cost Comparison of Different ISPs
| ISP | Connection Type | Speed Range | Cost | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Cable | Up to 300 Mbps – 1000 Mbps | $55 - $85/mo.1 | VIEW PLANS |
 | Cable | Up to 100 Mbps – 2 Gbps | $30 - $90/mo.2 for 1 year | VIEW PLANS |
 | Fiber | Up to 300 Mbps – 5 Gbps^ | $55 - $155/mo.3 plus taxes | VIEW PLANS |
 | Fiber | Up to 300 Mbps – 2 Gbps | $39.99 - $99.99/mo.4 | VIEW PLANS |
 | Satellite | Up to 100 Mbps5 | Plans start at $39.99/mo.6 For 12 months | VIEW DETAILS |
 | Satellite | Up to 150 Mbps | Call for Pricing | VIEW DETAILS |
 | 5G Home Internet | Up to 300 Mbps | $35 - $60/mo.7 | VIEW PLANS |
2 See Offer Details for terms and conditions.
^ speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For 5GIG, single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101.
3 Eligible Autopay & Paperless Bill req’d. *
*Price after $10/mo discount with eligible Autopay & Paperless bill (w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge in TX, OH, NV applies. One time install chrg may apply. Ltd. avail/areas. See Details
See Broadband Facts: att.com/dapbbfacts
4 AutoPay required to achieve advertised price
5 Each Hughesnet service plan is designed to deliver the download/upload speeds assigned to that specific plan, however, speeds and uninterrupted use are not guaranteed and may vary based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to the number of concurrent network users. Your Hughesnet experience will vary based on your proximity to the Wi-Fi source.
6 $39.99 per month represents a $10 per month savings for 12 months on the Lite plan and reflects the applied $5 savings for ACH enrollment. $5 savings apply as long as ACH enrollment is maintained. Monthly Lease Fee may be additional. Certain geographic areas are not eligible to receive offer. New residential subscribers only. Limited-time offer. Other terms may apply.
7 w/ Auto Pay & any Verizon mobile phone plan See Details
When choosing an internet plan, you have to consider availability and speed requirements before cost. While fiber internet delivers the highest speeds, it’s not widely available; moreover, not everyone needs ultra-fast internet or symmetrical speeds.
Cable internet is more easily accessible nationwide, and it can offer download speeds up to 1 Gbps (or more). The starting price of both fiber and cable internet plans is similar; hence, if you have a choice, you should go for fiber to enjoy high download and upload speeds.
Satellite ISPs like Hughesnet and Viasat are popular in rural/remote regions where wired broadband (cable and fiber internet) is inaccessible. Even though satellite services are relatively expensive and speeds are meh, they’re vital to stay connected in secluded areas.
5G Home Internet might not be the fastest, but it does provide affordable high-speed internet through a wireless infrastructure. It is a convenient option for cord-cutters, renters, and apartment dwellers.
3 Factors that Impact Internet Cost
1. Deployment
Building internet infrastructures in developed/urban areas is relatively easier and guarantees a high return on investment (ROI), thanks to the booming population.
Rural/remote areas have fewer inhabitants and challenging topography, which makes deployment more expensive.
2. Competition
Neighborhoods with plenty of internet options benefit from competitive pricing. On the other hand, areas that are served by one or a few internet providers are likely to incur higher internet costs.
3. Government Policies
Federal taxes and regulatory fees vary by location. Moreover, the government often sponsors underserved communities and underprivileged regions to reduce internet expenses.
Cheap vs. Fast Internet: Busting Myths
We all want fast, cheap, and reliable internet; yet, we think it’s an impossible feat. Believe it or not, the cost of an internet service isn’t solely accountable for poor performance.
Here’s to busting myths and exposing reality:
Long-term Commitment Guarantees Good Internet
The only one who benefits from contracts/long-term agreements is the internet provider. Paying for a year or more in advance doesn’t guarantee a flawless experience. In fact, most leading fiber internet providers offer contract-free plans, so you can simply pay as you go.
Fiber Internet is Too Expensive
When you compare fiber internet plans with other broadband services, you’ll notice that the price difference is marginal at best. Despite the initial cost of installation and equipment, fiber internet grants you better value in the long run.
The Higher the Price, the Faster the Interest
This might be true when comparing low-tier and high-tier plans from the same ISP, but not always the case otherwise. For example, satellite internet is pricier than traditional broadband services, but typical speeds are up to 100 Mbps only.
Small Companies are Unreliable
Signing up with an industry giant sure has its perks, though many regional ISPs like Hawaiian Telcom and Ziply Fiber are known for offering top-notch services. Truth be told, most small-scale ISPs tend to provide better customer service and low-cost fiber plans.
Cheap Internet has Speed Caps
Some ISPs impose data caps, so if a customer uses more than the allowed limit, they may experience throttling (reduced speeds) or incur overage fees. Many affordable high-speed internet plans come with unlimited data or a generous data cap; hence, it is safe to say that cost is not directly related to speed caps.
The Verdict
Cheap internet can be fast and reliable. While low-tier plans cost less and come with a lower speed limit, their effectiveness depends on your internet usage and speed needs. In summary:
- Fiber internet is a fast and affordable option in big cities/urban areas
- Cable internet services are widespread, budget-friendly, and capable of gigabit-speed internet
- Satellite internet is neither fast nor cheap, but great for rural connectivity
- 5G Home Internet delivers a good balance between cost and performance
FAQs
What speed is considered slow internet?
By modern standards, any broadband connection offering less than 100 Mbps download speed is considered slow.
Which is the fastest internet?
Fiber internet can deliver the fastest upload and download speeds compared to all other broadband services.
How much does affordable high-speed internet cost?
A residential internet plan that costs anything between $20 to $60 per month is considered affordable in the US.
