Sparklight internet: Fast cable plans reviewed
Editorial note: This post may contain links to offers and services from which Allconnect receives a commission. The partners and associated compensation do not affect our editorial integrity. Read more about our advertising policy.
Best Sparklight plans
100 Mbps
- Prices: $25 per month
- Speeds up to: 100 Mbps
600 Mbps
- Prices: $49.95-$59.95 per month
- Speeds up to: 600 Mbps
940 Mbps
- Prices: $59.95-$69.95 per month
- Speeds up to: 940 Mbps
Why trust our broadband experts
Allconnect’s team of broadband experts regularly reviews the top internet service providers in the U.S., scrutinizing each company under a rigorous scoring system to help our readers make informed internet purchases. We keep our data points accurate and up to date based on thorough research and partnership communications. Our content is not directed by partners. Visit our full methodology page and advertising disclosure to learn more.
What is Sparklight?
Sparklight (formerly called Cable One) is a cable internet provider that offers internet speeds from 100 to 940 Mbps in 21 states. Competitively priced plans start as low as $25/mo., with promotional rates lasting from six months to one year. All Sparklight internet plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee without contracts or early termination fees (ETFs).
Here, we’ll help you determine if Sparklight is the right internet provider for you with pricing, plan breakdowns, reviews and more.
Our take on Sparklight
Sparklight’s prices are lower than many other top internet providers like AT&T and Verizon Fios. Prices can vary by area, even for the same internet speeds, so it’s important to check your exact address to determine Sparklight’s rate structure in your area.
However, unlike other providers, Sparklight has a relatively short promotional period, with some plans going up by $15–$25/mo. after just six months. This increase is inconvenient if you are searching for an internet deal with a more consistent monthly bill. Some Sparklight cable internet plans have fees for activation, equipment and deposits, adding up to $67.50 in startup costs. Overall, Sparklight earned a 3.7 out of 5 based on these factors and more.
Best Sparklight internet plans
Sparklight has four internet plans that start between $25–$69.95/mo. with speeds from 100 to 940 Mbps. Picking the best plan for you depends on how many devices you need to connect to home Wi-Fi and what you typically do online. Sparklight cable also has business internet available.
The four residential Sparklight plans are outlined in the following table:
Download speeds | Upload speeds | Starting price* | Standard price |
---|---|---|---|
100 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $25/mo. | $50/mo. |
300 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $34.95–$49.95/mo. | $55–$70/mo. |
600 Mbps | 30 Mbps | $49.95–$59.95/mo. | $65–$80/mo. |
940 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $59.95–$69.95/mo. | $80–$90/mo. |
Methodology
We rated the largest internet providers in the U.S. for 2024. Each provider was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 based on over a dozen factors, including speed, cost, availability, fees, customer satisfaction, connection type and more. We also used data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compare the average speed offered by internet companies in the U.S. to set a baseline for what is considered a good internet speed. Additionally, we analyzed data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) to understand how each internet service provider (ISP) fares in customer service and perceived value.
Sparklight additional fees
The following fees may apply for each Sparklight internet plan and may be due at the time of purchase.
- $30 activation fee (one-time fee).
- $25 deposit (a credit check can lower this one-time fee).
- $12.50/mo. to rent a modem and router (gateway device) or $8/mo. to rent just the router. It is $8/mo. to rent a Wi-Fi booster if you need your wireless signal to cover a larger area. You have the option to buy your own router and modem to avoid the monthly equipment fee. Equipment is included in the monthly price of the 1 GB plan.
How we reviewed Sparklight
Our Sparklight assessment earned the provider a 3.75 out of 5 based on our scoring algorithm. Prices that start at $25/mo., availability in over 20 states, and flexible no-contract plans were all positive attributes.
Fees were the biggest detractor from Sparklight’s overall score since the provider has an activation fee, equipment fee and a deposit in some cases. Often, these fees are due upfront, along with the first month of service, which can cost you around $100 or more to start new service.
Sparklight’s technology is good but not better than some of the other top internet providers that we’ve reviewed. For example, the fastest speed from Sparklight is 1 GB, while many other ISPs now offer speeds of 5 GB or more. Plus, since Sparklight is a cable provider, its upload speeds are a fraction of its download speeds. This feature doesn’t affect light to average internet users as much but can impact some online activities that require uploading large files.
Pros
Fast cable internet speeds.
No contracts.
Affordable rates.
Cons
1 GB is maximum speed.
Equipment fees with some plans.
Price increases after six or 12 months.
Which Sparklight plan is right for you?
Sparklight has four internet tiers that can work well for light, average or ultra-connected homes. Determine your level of necessary speed and a comfortable budget with the help of our analysis here.
Sparklight 100 Mbps
Sparklight’s most basic plan is for a light internet household.
Who fits this plan?
Light internet use on less than five devices. You can use Wi-Fi for gaming, streaming or web browsing, but connecting too many devices at once may impact speeds. This $25/mo. plan is great for seniors or students who want to save money on internet.
Who doesn’t fit this plan?
This plan might frustrate internet users who rely on Wi-Fi for work or school and have over five devices running simultaneously.
Sparklight 300 or 600 Mbps
Sparklight’s middle-tier plans are good for online activities that need average to medium-high speed or households with around 10 devices connected at one time.
Who fits this plan?
If you have multiple people in your home who like to stream and game, possibly at the same time, pick one of these Sparklight plans. The price is more than the basic plan but still affordable at around $60/mo. or less, depending on your area.
Who doesn’t fit this plan?
Individuals who want the fastest internet available might not be satisfied with these speeds. Conversely, very light internet users would find themselves overpaying for these plans.
Sparklight 940 Mbps
The 1 GB price ($59.95–$69.95/mo.) already includes equipment and gives you the fastest available speed from Sparklight.
Who fits this plan?
Sparklight 1 GB (940 Mbps) is perfect for homes that have 20 devices or more and need a consistently high-speed internet connection. Larger homes can use this plan and add a Wi-Fi booster for $8/mo. to expand their wireless signal.
Who doesn’t fit this plan?
If you don’t have multiple devices streaming simultaneously, this plan may be excessive for your needs.
Sparklight vs. other internet providers
Other ISPs commonly found in the same area as Sparklight include fiber providers, 5G internet and satellite service. Sparklight’s internet speeds are comparable to most of these, except fiber, which has faster upload and download speeds available. Sparklight pricing is lower than most of its providers and often has some of the cheapest internet plans in its market regions.
Provider | Speed range | Starting price range* | Connection type |
---|---|---|---|
Sparklight | 101–940 Mbps | $25–$69.95/mo. | Cable |
AT&T Fiber | 300–5,000 Mbps | $65–$255/mo. | Fiber |
CenturyLink | Up to 940 Mbps | $55–$75/mo. | Fiber, DSL |
Verizon 5G Home | 85–1,000 Mbps | $60–$80/mo. | 5G |
Hughesnet | 50–100 Mbps | $49.99–$94.99/mo. | Satellite |
Sparklight internet availability
Find Sparklight in the Southwest, East South Central and Northwest regions of the country. Sparklight is available in 21 states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Washington.
Some of Sparklight’s largest markets include:
- Boise, ID
- Fargo, ND
- Idaho Falls, ID
- Joplin, MO
- Longview, TX
- Pocatello, ID
- Prescott, AZ
- Rio Rancho, NM
- Sioux City, IA
Sparklight customer service
- Call 1-877-692-2253 for Sparklight billing support or technical support.
- Chat online with a Sparklight customer service representative.
Sparklight bill pay
- Online: Log in to your online Sparklight account to pay your bill.
- In person: Find a Sparklight location to pay in person.
- Phone: Call 1-877-692-2253 to pay by phone.
Sparklight outages
Check for a Sparklight outage in your area.
Sparklight internet FAQs
How much does Sparklight internet cost per month?
Sparklight’s intro prices start at $25 for 100 Mbps up to $69.95 for 1 GB plans. Prices are lower than many ISP competitors, but some plans are only guaranteed for six months before a $20 price increase.
How do I cancel Sparklight internet?
Cancel Sparklight by calling 1-877-692-2253.
Who owns Sparklight?
Sparklight’s parent company is The Graham Holdings Company, which also owns a diverse group of businesses, including news outlets like Slate Magazine, education brands such as Kaplan and healthcare and automotive businesses.
Does Sparklight offer TV packages?
Yes, Sparklight TV has two packages: up to 20 channels for $54/mo. or up to 100 channels for $131.75/mo. Pricing may vary slightly depending on area. You can bundle internet and TV one one bill.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line with USA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Read more about our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
More Stories
Secure your vote: Internet tips for National Voter Registration Day
National Voter Registration Day is on September 17 this year. If you’ve been meaning to register for the first time or update your voter regi
T-Mobile vs. Verizon: Which home internet is best for you?
Not sure if T-Mobile 5G or Verizon 5G Home Internet is the best internet provider for you? Compare all the pros and cons of each home internet serv
T-Mobile vs. AT&T: Which internet provider is better for you?
When considering service between AT&T and T-Mobile 5G Home Internet, our research and comparisons of speed, pricing, plans and more can help yo
Best RV internet options to support your traveling needs
There are many reasons you need the best internet for your RV, including navigating with your GPS, finding restaurants and attractions near your lo
AT&T vs. Spectrum: Which internet provider should you choose?
Deciding between AT&T vs. Spectrum internet can be a difficult choice since they are both top internet providers with competitive rates and a r
Find and compare internet providers in North Carolina
North Carolina is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing easy access to the ocean and the mountains, plus plenty of lush green woods to explore
Find and compare internet providers in Oklahoma
Made famous by the musical that shares its name and its history of domination in the oil industry, Oklahoma is home to more than 4 million resident
Find and compare internet providers in Illinois
The political home of Abraham Lincoln. The birthplace of deep-dish pizza. The origin of the Italian beef sandwich and the Chicago hot dog. Illinois