Compare Frontier & Spectrum
Deciding which service provider is right for your home? We've done the research to make comparing Frontier and Spectrum straightforward and hassle free.
Meet our contenders: Frontier vs. Spectrum
Curious how Frontier and Spectrum compare? Below is a brief overview of their plans and offerings.
- Internet type: Coax (Cable)
- Download speeds: up to 2,000 Mbps
- TV: 125 to 200 channels
- Contract: No
- Pricing: Call for today's rate
- Internet type: Fiber
- Download speeds: up to 7,000 Mbps
- TV: —
- Contract: No
- Pricing: Call for today's rate
Frontier vs. Spectrum detailed comparison
Get detailed, side by side comparisons of Frontier and Spectrum services to find the best match for your home.
| Connection type: | Coax (Cable) |
| Speed: | 2,000 Mbps |
| Starting price: | Call for today's rate |
| Connection type: | Fiber |
| Speed: | 7,000 Mbps |
| Starting price: | Call for today's rate |
| Connection type: | Coax (Cable) |
| Channels: | 200 |
| Starting price: | Call for today's rate |
| Contracts: | — |
| Connection type: | — |
| Channels: | — |
| Starting price: | — |
| Contracts: | — |
| Connection type: | Coax (Cable) |
| Speed: | 2,000 Mbps |
| Channels: | 200 |
| Starting price: | Call for today's rate |
| Data caps: | — |
| Contracts: | No contract. |
| Connection type: | Fiber |
| Speed: | 7,000 Mbps |
| Channels: | — |
| Starting price: | Call for today's rate |
| Data caps: | — |
| Contracts: | No contract on most plans. |
Best internet
Best internet
Frontier offers both DSL and fiber internet connections. While Frontier Fiber is only available in select areas, households with access to Frontier Fiber internet can enjoy a more reliable connection at comparable prices to Spectrum. Frontier DSL is still offered in select locations, but it is much slower than Frontier fiber.
Spectrum offers their internet service through a cable connection with speeds ranging from 100 to 2,000 Mbps, depending on the area. Compared to Frontier DSL, Spectrum offers faster speeds for a similar price point.
In short, Spectrum internet is typically the better choice compared to Frontier DSL. However, households with access to Frontier Fiber internet will find Frontier's fiber plans outperform Spectrum's cable connection.
Best TV
Frontier no longer sells its own TV packages. Instead, Frontier internet customers can add streaming TV, such as YouTube TV or Verizon Fios TV, now that Frontier has joined Verizon. Fiber customers can also add Netflix to their internet plan.
Spectrum TV uses a cable connection which is widely available across the US. They offer plans with multiple channel tiers that are reasonably priced.
In conclusion, Frontier is a great option for households that are happy to stream TV over their internet connection. Otherwise, Spectrum TV is a reliable choice for home entertainment.
Best TV
Best bundles
Best bundles
Both Frontier and Spectrum offer the ability to bundle services into a single plan, saving you time and money.
Spectrum offers bundle plans that typically provide three internet and three TV options to mix and match. If you purchase either a Spectrum Double Play or Triple Play bundle, you could qualify for Spectrum's Contract Buyout deal which covers up to $500 of early termination fees when you switch from another provider.
Frontier's bundle plans vary depending on which connection you use. Frontier now pairs its internet plans with streaming TV, such as YouTube TV or Verizon Fios TV, rather than DISH. With similar starting price points and comparable internet speed ranges, both providers are good contenders for bundle packages.
Bottom line
Bottom line
Frontier: Frontier Fiber is a fast and reliable service that offers competitive prices and speeds. Frontier no longer sells its own TV packages, but customers can add streaming TV such as YouTube TV or Verizon Fios TV. The main downside is that Frontier Fiber is only available in select areas.
Spectrum: Spectrum's wide availability due to their extensive cable infrastructure make them a reliable choice for many households. Spectrum offers faster speeds and cheaper prices compared to Frontier DSL, making them a great choice for those who do not have access to Frontier Fiber.
Frontier & Spectrum Frequently Asked Questions
- Availability: Not every internet provider offers service in every area. Use our simple zip code search to see what providers and plans are available in your area.
- Connection type: There are six basic types of connections to choose from when selecting an internet plan: DSL, cable, fiber, fixed wireless, satellite, and wireless. View our "Which internet connection type is best?" resource here.
- Speed: Figuring out how much internet speed you need is an important step to ensure you have enough speed without overpaying for extra service. View our "How much speed do I need?" resource here.
- Reliability: Receiving a steady connection is an important factor to consider when comparing internet providers. Make sure the provider you choose has a strong network infrastructure and accessible customer support in case an issue arises.
- Cost: It is important to compare different plans and providers to find the best service at the best price. Beyond the cost advertised make sure to factor in associated costs for equipment and installation if applicable. Additionally, many providers offer service [bundles] which are a great way to find a comprehensive plan at a great price.
- Equipment fees usually include specific modems or routers that the provider requires. These can either be rented directly from the provider or purchased on your own. If renting from the provider, you can expect an additional monthly fee. In some cases, it may be more cost effective to purchase your own equipment than to rent directly from the provider. This is ideal if you are happy with the provider's services and plan to stay with them for a long period of time.
- Installation fees are not always required but may be needed depending on the service you choose and how your home is wired. Many providers offer a DIY installation free of charge.
- Other fees to consider are attached to a contract plan. A common example is an early termination fee, which occurs if you were to cancel your service before it expires.
Don't see your question? Visit our FAQ page to see answers to all frequently asked questions.
Find the best plan for you!
Find the best plan for you!
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