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 range of plans. We can help you select the best internet package for your home by breaking down the differences between these Wi-Fi providers. Compare Spectrum vs. AT&T by internet speed, pricing, packages, fees and other features here. 

AT&T vs. Spectrum

Our provider scores, based on factors including speeds, connection type, price and customer satisfaction, show that AT&T and Spectrum are evenly matched overall. Both high-speed internet companies earned a cumulative 4 out of 5 within our comprehensive ranking of the best internet providers. 

However, comparing and contrasting AT&T Fiber vs. Spectrum plans reveals variations in internet speed, pricing, and TV and internet packages. Additionally, differences in availability and technology types are a major consideration — Spectrum cable internet is available in 41 states, while AT&T Fiber is in 22. 

AT&T also offers alternate technology types in many of its coverage regions, such as its fixed wireless service called AT&T Internet Air, sometimes referred to as AT&T Air. Due to distinct technology and availability differences, we scored AT&T Air separately from the brand’s hard-wired services. It scored an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5. 

How is Spectrum better than AT&T?

Spectrum outpaces AT&T in the following categories:

• More availability: Spectrum WiFi is accessible in 41 states and covers 29% of the U.S., according to the FCC, compared to AT&T Fiber’s 22-state coverage and 11% nationwide accessibility. 
• Package deals: As a cable internet provider, Spectrum offers TV and internet bundles as low as $75/mo. Meanwhile, AT&T offers TV service through partner DIRECTV STREAM^SM. A base package with AT&T and DIRECTV STREAM starts at $124.99/mo., but the services are billed separately. 
• Introductory pricing: Spectrum’s most affordable plan is much cheaper than AT&T, at $30/mo. compared to AT&T’s $55/mo., for 100 and 300 Mbps download speeds, respectively.* However, AT&T includes the modem and router in the monthly price, while Spectrum charges an additional $10/mo. for a wireless router, although you can opt out of the fee and provide your own Wi-Fi router.
• Additional considerations: Despite these positive attributes, Spectrum Internet service has some cons when contending with AT&T Fiber service. Spectrum’s price hikes occur more often, and its maximum download and upload speeds are slower than AT&T’s. Other drawbacks include the previously mentioned equipment fee and a lower customer satisfaction score (according to the ACSI) than AT&T. 

_{*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. See offer details. 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. As of 03/20/25.}

How is AT&T better than Spectrum?

In an AT&T vs. Spectrum showdown, AT&T benefits include:

• Faster speeds: AT&T Fiber has symmetrical, or equal, internet speeds available up to 5 GB,* while Spectrum maximum download and upload speeds are 1 GB/35 Mbps. 
• Fiber connection: AT&T’s fiber internet technology is a direct connection that is not shared with other homes, making it great internet for high-speed gaming. Spectrum cable internet is a shared line, leading to more speed fluctuations, which results in buffering or lag. 
• Steady pricing: AT&T doesn’t have automatic price increases after one year like Spectrum does, so you will enjoy the same rate for a longer period. AT&T may still occasionally raise prices, but less frequently than with Spectrum.
• Additional considerations: When evaluating Spectrum Internet vs. AT&T, it’s important to remember that most of the “wins” for AT&T relate to its fiber service. AT&T service in your area is not guaranteed to be fiber — if you are searching for rural internet, AT&T’s legacy network is more likely to be run through copper phone lines. If you’re in an area where this is the only option and have Spectrum as an alternative, the cable internet provider is generally the better option. 

AT&T vs. Spectrum speeds

Internet speed is a primary factor when deciding between AT&T and Spectrum. Each provider offers medium speed tiers between 100 Mbps and 1 GB, but the similarities end there. AT&T offers plans with speeds up to 2 and 5 GB,* whereas Spectrum maxes out at 1 GB. 

Still, 1 GB internet from either provider is more than enough speed for most households. AT&T’s multi-gig internet speeds can be beneficial if you have an ultra-connected home or do high-bandwidth tasks on multiple Wi-Fi devices.

_{*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. As of 03/20/25.}

AT&T vs. Spectrum pricing

Spectrum and AT&T have nearly identical starting rates when you factor in Spectrum’s $10 monthly router rental fee. Overall, the main pricing difference of AT&T vs. Spectrum Internet is that AT&T does not raise prices after the first year, whereas Spectrum increases its rates by $30 after 12 months. 

AT&T vs. Spectrum Internet plans

You can find a complete list of the speeds and prices for both AT&T and Spectrum Internet plans here. Besides the similar pricing structure, both companies include these benefits with their internet service:

• No-contract internet plans.
• No early termination fees (ETFs).
• Unlimited internet (except for the 150 GB cap with AT&T’s service through copper lines).*

_{*Data Allowance: $10 charge applies for each additional 50GB (up to $100/mo). Unlimited data allowance included with 100Mbps or higher or may also be purchased separately for an add’l $30/mo. For more info, go to www.att.com/internet-usage. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101.}

AT&T internet plans

The following table compares AT&T Fiber, AT&T Internet Air and AT&T Internet, including pricing, download and upload speeds. It’s important to point out that AT&T Air is a 5G internet / fixed wireless connection, and AT&T Internet is the brand name for AT&T’s copper lines. 

Spectrum Internet plans

Find Spectrum’s three internet plans and speeds in the following table. Keep in mind there’s a $10 monthly charge for a router with Advantage and Premier unless you provide your own.

AT&T vs. Spectrum deals

Both AT&T and Spectrum offer internet deals that vary seasonally. AT&T is more likely to offer reward cards, while Spectrum typically includes free streaming or mobile services for a limited time. Both providers have discounts for customers who bundle internet and mobile services. 

Where are Spectrum and AT&T available?

Spectrum’s 41-state, 29% nationwide coverage area offers more availability than AT&T Fiber. However, while AT&T Fiber is accessible to just 11% of the country, AT&T home internet covers an area about four times that size when you factor in AT&T’s copper line and Internet Air regions. 

• Spectrum’s primary markets span the East Coast, particularly New York and New England, including the western half of Connecticut. 
• AT&T Fiber is primarily available in the Southeast, including Mobile, AL, New Orleans, LA and Atlanta, GA, as well as the West Coast around San Francisco and San Diego, California.
• Cities where you will find both Spectrum and AT&T include Charlotte and Raleigh, NC; Tampa, FL; Cleveland, OH; Milwaukee, WI; Los Angeles, CA; and Dallas and Fort Worth, TX. 

Does AT&T or Spectrum have extra fees?

Spectrum has more add-on fees than AT&T. Neither Spectrum nor AT&T requires contracts or ETFs, and both providers offer unlimited data, meaning there are no charges for overages. Here’s a rundown of other fees from Spectrum vs. AT&T:

Spectrum fees: Spectrum charges a $30 activation fee even if you opt for self-installation and set up the internet and Wi-Fi on your own, while choosing Spectrum’s professional installation costs $65. Renting a modem and router with Spectrum is an additional $10/mo., and if you don’t return the equipment after your service ends, you could be charged up to $76. 

AT&T fees: AT&T offers free installation with no activation charge, and the wireless gateway (modem and router combo) is included in the monthly price. However, AT&T can charge up to $150 for unreturned equipment if you discontinue service. 

Can you bundle with AT&T or Spectrum?

Both AT&T and Spectrum Internet offer various combinations that can include internet and mobile bundles or TV services. 

AT&T

AT&T internet and mobile: Bundling AT&T internet and cell phone service saves you 20% on your home internet bill. 

AT&T Internet and TV: AT&T does not offer a bundled TV option. Instead, it steers customers to its partnership with DIRECTV, where they can choose between streaming or satellite TV options starting at $69.99/mo. Combo prices start at $124.99/mo.

Spectrum

Spectrum Internet and TV: Spectrum has three cable TV plans starting at $45/mo. and Spanish-language packages starting at $25/mo. You can add on sports, movies or other premium packages for an additional cost. Spectrum also offers a Xumo Stream Box at no extra charge for 12 months when you bundle with other services. You can bundle any of these options with Spectrum home internet and get $20 to $30 off internet pricing.

AT&T vs. Spectrum FAQs

Lisa IscrupeAllconnect.com

Lisa Iscrupe is a senior writer helping readers understand the complexities of broadband, internet and other home services, including energy and renewable products. Her work appears on SaveOnEnergy.com and CNET.com, with national sources such as CNN, The Daily MBA and The Media Bulletin referencing her articles.

Hannah WhatleyAllconnect.com

Hannah Whatley is an editor who enjoys collaborating with writers to offer readers the most relevant, accurate, and up-to-date information for their home purchases. She has previously edited for The Motley Fool, The Modest Wallet, Grammarly, JoinCake.com and SaveOnEnergy.com, gaining expertise in several industries. Hannah has a B.A. in English from Thomas Edison State University. When she isn’t editing, she enjoys studying linguistics and languages.