Best internet providers of January 2025: complete buyer’s guide
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Looking for the best internet provider to power your home this January? With countless options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. As a Cybernews expert, I’ve teamed up with our research team to thoroughly review and rank the top 10 internet providers in the US in 2025.
Whether you need a lightning-fast fiber connection, simple and affordable Wi-Fi, or rural availability, this guide has you covered. Read on for essential tips and unbeatable deals and to find the perfect internet plan tailored to your household.
Our best internet service providers: ranked
Get started with the most reliable fiber-optic technology
Upgrade to the broadest fiber availability in the US
Choose Frontier for affordable fiber internet
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Stay connected with reliable 5G home internet
Elevate your internet with the fastest speed
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Connect satellite internet in rural areas
Get flexible satellite internet anywhere
Customize your internet experience
What to consider when choosing the best internet provider in the US
Choosing the right internet provider for your home can make or break the online experience. Whether you're working from home, streaming movies, gaming, or simply browsing, here's what to remember.
- Speed. The speed you need depends on your online habits. You will need a plan with higher Mbps for data-intensive activities like 4K streaming or large file uploads. Families with multiple devices should also prioritize faster speeds.
- Cost. When it comes to cost, consider not only the advertised price but also hidden costs like equipment rentals, installation, or contract cancellation fees.
- Reliability. Uninterrupted internet is essential, especially for remote work or online classes. Research outage histories and provider reputations in your area before committing.
- Customer service. Good customer support can save hours of frustration. Look for providers with responsive 24/7 service and high customer ratings.
- Connection type and coverage. It depends on your location and what connection types are available for your household. Fiber is fast and reliable but might be absent in your area. Cable is widely accessible, while digital subscriber line (DSL) and satellite offer a solid connection to most rural customers. Fixed wireless or 5G home internet is also worth considering in underserved areas.
Best internet providers in the US 2025
Below, we’ve compiled a detailed breakdown of the top internet providers in the US for 2025. From blazing-fast fiber to reliable rural connectivity, this list covers everything you need to choose the best provider for you.
1. Verizon Fios – best internet provider in the US in 2025
| Connection type: | Fiber-optic |
| Internet speed range: | 300 Mbps to 2.3 Gbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV, gaming, streaming, and phone services |
| Starting price: | $35.00/month |
As the leading name in fiber-optic internet, Verizon Fios facilitates smooth streaming, lag-free gaming, and seamless video conferencing. The symmetrical speeds provide equally fast uploads and downloads – perfect for remote work and content creators.
Performance. The fiber network ensures low latency and consistent speeds up to 2.3 Gbps, even during peak usage. I had no experience with downtime and network outages.
Availability. Verizon Fios is available primarily in the Northeast regions of the US, including New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, which benefit from widespread coverage. Currently, more rural areas are not covered by Verizon Fios.
Customer service. Verizon Fios received high marks for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power and ACSI surveys. The 24/7 customer support is accessible via phone, chat, and the intuitive Verizon Fios app.
Pricing. Verizon Fios’ pricing starts at $35.00/month, with no contracts or data caps. Equipment is included in the price, and bundle options with TV and phone services like Netflix, Disney +, and more are available.
2. AT&T – widely available fiber internet provider in 2025
| Connection type: | Fiber-optic |
| Internet speed range: | 300 Mbps to 5 Gbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV and phone services |
| Starting price: | $55.00/month |
AT&T Fiber ranks as the most available fiber internet companyprovider in 2025 due to its widespread fiber network. The consistent symmetrical speeds make it an excellent choice for heavy streaming or file-sharing needs.
Performance. Multi-gigabit plans with up to 5 Gbps are perfect for power users, while the basic plan, with 300 Mbps, meets the needs of smaller households. The fiber infrastructure ensures low latency and virtually no downtime, even during peak hours.
Availability. AT&T Fiber offers a broad network covering 26 states. Its service availability leans heavily toward urban and suburban areas, leaving rural regions disconnected. You can use AT&T’s online tool to confirm coverage in your area.
Customer service. Customer service has improved significantly in recent years, with the new phone support option and the intuitive AT&T app.
Pricing. AT&T offers a wide range of plans starting at $55.00/month without hidden fees or surprise rate hikes. All plans include unlimited data and free equipment rental.
3. Frontier – cheapest fiber provider in 2025
| Connection type: | Fiber-optic |
| Internet speed range: | 200 Mbps to 7 Gbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV, streaming, and phone services, as well as Reward Cards |
| Starting price: | $49.99/month |
Frontier offers high-speed fiber plans at the most competitive prices with no hidden fees. It’s an affordable internet deal for video conferencing, cloud backups, and streaming in 4K.
Performance. Frontier’s entry-level plans with 200 Mbps are suitable for small households. Premium options with up to 7 Gbps cater to heavy internet users and gamers, with virtually no downtime and low latency.
Availability. Frontier Fiber is available in 17 states, primarily in urban and suburban areas. It’s constantly expanding its fiber network, so use the website to check availability in your region.
Customer service. Frontier’s customer support is available via phone, chat, and social media. User ratings of customer service are average.
Pricing. Frontier’s pricing is transparent and budget-friendly, with the 200 Mbps plan starting at just $49.99/month. All plans include unlimited data and no extra equipment fees.
4. Xfinity – impressive plan variety
| Connection type: | Cable and fiber (varies by location) |
| Internet speed range: | 150 Mbps to 10 Gbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV, phone, and home security services |
| Starting price: | $25.00/month |
Xfinity offers an impressive range of plans, offering both cable and fiber connections. The wide selection includes entry-level plans at budget-friendly prices and custom high-performance plans reaching up to 10 Gbps.
Performance. Xfinity’s hybrid fiber-coaxial network reaches up to 10 Gbps, though upload speeds are slower than fiber providers. We found minimal downtime and consistent speeds across various tiers. However, the multi-gigabit plans are available only in select areas for power users.
Availability. Xfinity has one of the largest coverage areas in the US, serving 41 states. Simply enter your address on the Xfinity website to verify service availability.
Customer service. Xfinity offers 24/7 support through chat, phone, and the Xfinity app. While satisfaction ratings are average, the extensive self-service tools on the website and app are helpful.
Pricing. Basic cable internet with 150 Mbps starts at $25.00/month. There are no-contract options and bundling discounts for customers combining internet with TV or phone services. Keep in mind that hidden fees for equipment rental and promotional rates may appear after a year.
5. T-Mobile Home Internet – best rural internet provider
| Connection type: | Fixed wireless (5G and 4G LTE) |
| Internet speed range: | 72 Mbps to 245 Mbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV, streaming, phone, ticketing, home security, and discounts |
| Starting price: | $50.00/month |
T-Mobile Home Internet is an excellent choice for rural areas. It provides reliable connectivity without the high costs or slow speeds associated with satellite internet.
Performance. T-Mobile’s fixed wireless connection leverages 5G and 4G LTE networks and delivers enough speed (72-245 Mbps) for streaming, video calls, and everyday browsing. Latency is low compared to satellite internet.
Availability. T-Mobile Home Internet is available in 48 states, with a strong presence in rural and underserved areas. Use their coverage map on the website to confirm availability.
Customer service. T-Mobile offers customer service via phone, app, and online chat. Users mention the simplicity of setup and the helpfulness of the support team.
Pricing. Plans start at $50.00/month with the option for eligible T-Mobile customers to receive discounts. Unlike many rural options, there are no data caps, contracts, or hidden fees.
6. Google Fiber – fastest internet provider
| Connection type: | Fiber-optic |
| Internet speed range: | 1 Gbps to 8 Gbps |
| Bundles: | Not available |
| Starting price: | $70.00/month |
If speed is your top priority, Google Fiber sets the benchmark as the fastest internet provider in 2025. It’s ideal for power users who need maximum bandwidth for demanding applications.
Performance. Google Fiber ensures low latency and symmetrical upload and download speeds. This guarantees flawless streaming, gaming, and heavy data usage.
Availability. Google Fiber is currently available in 19 states. It is limited to select metropolitan areas, which can be a drawback for many potential customers. Expansion plans are ongoing, so check the website to confirm coverage in your area.
Customer service. Google Fiber’s customer support is top-notch, offering phone, chat, and email assistance. The user-friendly app makes managing your account simple.
Pricing. All plans come with no contracts, data caps, or hidden fees. The base 1 Gbps plan starts at $70.00/month. Setup is quick, and equipment rental is included at no additional cost.
7. Spectrum – most widely available internet provider
| Connection type: | Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable |
| Internet speed range: | 300 Mbps to 1 Gbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV and phone services |
| Starting price: | $49.99/month |
Spectrum delivers reliable speeds for typical households and is the most widely available internet provider in the US. However, upload speeds are slower compared to fiber.
Performance. Spectrum’s hybrid fiber-coaxial network generates speeds up to 1Gbps with minimal downtime. While upload speeds can’t match fiber providers, the extensive bandwidth makes it suitable for streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.
Availability. Spectrum’s vast coverage across 42 states makes it accessible to millions of households, including urban, suburban, and some rural regions. Use the website to check availability at your location.
Customer service. Spectrum offers 24/7 support through phone and chat, but user ratings of the service are average.
Pricing. The most basic plan starts at $49.99/month with no contracts required. Unlimited data makes it especially appealing for families with heavy internet usage. Be aware of promotions that expire after 12 months, with higher monthly costs later.
8. Hughesnet – best satellite internet provider
| Connection type: | Satellite |
| Internet speed range: | 25 Mbps to 100 Mbps |
| Bundles: | Available with phone services |
| Starting price: | $64.99/month |
Hughesnet is the top satellite internet provider for 2025, offering reliable connectivity to rural and remote areas. It’s a great option for light web browsing, email, and streaming.
Performance. Hughesnet delivers stable connections despite its satellite nature, with decent speeds of up to 100 Mbps for everyday use. Satellite internet has higher latency than cable or fiber, making it less ideal for gaming, high-quality streaming, or video calls.
Availability. Hughesnet is available in all states, including the most remote locations. Simply enter your ZIP code on the website and check availability.
Customer service. Help is available via phone and chat. Installation requires a one-time fee or a 24-month contract for free professional setup.
Pricing. Hughesnet’s plans start at $64.99/month for a year and include unlimited data and 100 GB of priority data for important events and tasks. The most expansive plan comes with a wireless connection.
9. Viasat – most flexible satellite provider
| Connection type: | Satellite |
| Internet speed range: | 25 Mbps to 150 Mbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV and phone services |
| Starting price: | $50.00/month |
Viasat is a flexible satellite internet provider in 2025, offering a wide range of plans tailored to various needs and budgets.
Performance. Viasat provides reliable satellite connections with competitive download speeds up to 150 Mbps. It’s a great choice for households requiring better bandwidth than other satellite providers typically offer, but higher latency can still impact gaming and real-time communication.
Availability. Viasat is available nationwide in all states, including the most remote areas. As with most satellite providers, a clear view of the southern sky is required for the setup.
Customer service. You can contact Viasat via phone and chat when you have any issues or questions. While generally responsive, some users report issues with billing.
Pricing. The simplest plan with 12 Mbps and 65 GB data is available for $50.00/month. This plan is suitable for light internet use, such as browsing or checking emails. All other plans offer unlimited data.
10. Cox Internet – most customizable internet provider
| Connection type: | Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable |
| Internet speed range: | 100 Mbps to 2 Gbps |
| Bundles: | Available with TV, phone, and home security services |
| Starting price: | $49.99/month |
Cox Internet is a highly customizable internet experience, catering to everyone from light network users to households requiring gigabit speeds for streaming, gaming, or remote work.
Performance. Cox’s hybrid fiber-coaxial network comes with low latency and lightning-fast speeds up to 2 Gbps. While downloads showed to be consistent, uploads may be slower compared to fiber connections.
Availability. Cox Internet can be installed in 19 states, primarily in urban and suburban areas. Enter your address on the Cox website to check availability in your region.
Customer service. Cox offers support 24/7 via phone, chat, and the Cox app.
Pricing. The essential plan with 100 Mbps is priced at $49.99/month with the possibility for discounts if you are a Cox mobile customer. You can also add TV, phone, or home security services to fit your household’s specific needs and budget.
Comparison of top internet providers
With so many options available, choosing the right internet provider can feel overwhelming. The best provider depends on your location, budget, speed needs, and whether you want additional services like TV or phone bundles.
To help simplify your decision, we’ve created a comparison table summarizing the key attributes of the top internet providers in 2025:
| Provider | Connection type | Price range | Speed | Bundles |
| Verizon Fios | Fiber | $34.99-84.99/month | 300 Mbps to 2.3 Gbps | TV, Phone |
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | $55-245/month | 300 Mbps to 5 Gbps | TV, Phone |
| Frontier | Fiber | $29.99-299.99/month | 200 Mbps to 7 Gbps | TV, Phone |
| Xfinity | Cable, Fiber | $35-299.95/month | 150 Mbps to 10 Gbps | TV, Phone, Home Security |
| T-Mobile Home | Fixed wireless (5G/4G LTE) | $50-70/month | 72-245 Mbps | Discounts for T-Mobile Mobile Customers |
| Google Fiber | Fiber | $70-150/month | 1-8 Gbps | None |
| Spectrum | Hybrid fiber-coaxial | $49.99-89.99/month | 300 Mbps to 1 Gbps | TV, Phone |
| HughesNet | Satellite | $49.99-$94.99/month | 25-100 Mbps | Phone |
| Viasat | Satellite | $69.99-$149.99/month | 25-150 Mbps | TV, Phone |
| Cox Internet | Hybrid fiber-coaxial | $50-150/month | 100 Mbps to 2 Gbps | TV, Phone, Home Security |
Types of internet connection
Understanding the different types of internet connections can help you make an informed decision based on your needs, location, and budget. Here’s an overview of the most common connection types:
- Fiber. Fiber internet is the gold standard for speed and reliability. It uses fiber-optic cables that transmit data as light signals, offering speeds up to 8 Gbps or more. With symmetrical download and upload speeds, fiber is perfect for remote work, 4K streaming, and gaming. It’s also less prone to outages compared to other technologies. However, fiber availability is still limited to specific areas, primarily urban and suburban.
- Cable. Cable internet uses the same coaxial cables as cable TV, making it widely available. It delivers speeds up to 1-2 Gbps, which is sufficient for most households. While it doesn’t match fiber’s symmetrical speeds, cable offers a cost-effective option for areas without fiber access. The only downside is slower upload speeds, which may impact video conferencing or file uploads.
- 5G home internet/Fixed wireless. 5G home internet and fixed wireless offer a cable-free alternative by using mobile networks. This option provides speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps and is relatively easy to set up. However, performance can vary depending on signal strength, network congestion, and weather conditions, making it more suitable for suburban and rural areas with limited wired options.
- DSL. DSL is one of the oldest broadband technologies, using existing telephone lines to deliver internet. It offers speeds of up to 100 Mbps, making it an affordable choice for light internet users. Performance decreases with distance from the provider’s hub, and DSL generally lags behind cable and fiber in terms of speed and reliability.
- Satellite. Satellite internet is often the last resort for users in remote areas. It uses a satellite dish to connect to orbiting satellites, ensuring internet access even in the most isolated locations. Speeds range from 25 Mbps to 150 Mbps, but high latency and weather-related disruptions can impact performance. Satellite plans often come with data caps, making them less ideal for heavy streaming or gaming.
How we tested and ranked the best internet providers
At Cybernews, our goal is to provide accurate, unbiased recommendations. To achieve this, we use a comprehensive methodology that evaluates providers on multiple critical factors. Here’s a detailed look at how we selected the best internet providers for 2025:
- Speed and performance. We tested internet speeds using industry-standard tools to measure both download and upload rates across multiple plans. Special attention was given to peak-time performance and latency to determine the reliability of each network.
- Coverage and availability. All providers were assessed based on their geographical reach and accessibility, including options for urban, suburban, and rural areas. Wider availability and adaptable technologies, like satellite and fixed wireless, scored higher in this category.
- Pricing and transparency. We compared monthly costs, promotional pricing, equipment fees, and contract requirements. Providers with transparent pricing and no hidden fees received better ratings.
- Customer service. Using user reviews and customer satisfaction surveys, we evaluated the responsiveness and effectiveness of each provider’s support channels, including phone, chat, and online tools.
- Additional features. Bundling options, data caps, and extra perks like free installation, equipment rentals, or discounts for existing customers were considered as value-added benefits.
- User feedback. We thoroughly researched real-world user experiences to validate our findings. This ensures that the rankings reflect not just advertised features but actual customer satisfaction.
What internet speed do I need?
The internet speed you need depends on how you use the internet and how many people or devices share the connection. A single user browsing the web will require far less speed than a family streaming in 4K on multiple devices or a gamer participating in competitive online matches. Here 3 factors to consider when choosing your internet speed:
- Number of users. More users mean higher bandwidth requirements.
- Types of activities. Streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and downloading large files require faster speeds.
- Connected devices. Smart TVs, phones, and IoT devices can add to the demand.
Analyze your internet habits and household size to choose a plan that provides smooth connectivity without overspending. Here’s a breakdown of speed recommendations based on usage:
| User type | Activities | Recommended speed |
| Single User | Browsing, social media, email | 10-25 Mbps |
| Small Family | Streaming in HD, video calls | 50-100 Mbps |
| Large Family | Streaming in 4K, gaming, multiple users | 200-500 Mbps |
| Gamers | Online gaming, game downloads | 50-100 Mbps (low latency) |
| Remote Workers | Video conferencing, file uploads | 50-100 Mbps |
| Power Users/Streamers | Streaming, uploading, heavy downloads | 500 Mbps - 1 Gbps |
How to research ISP internet providers near you
Finding the best internet provider starts with understanding that availability is highly location-dependent. While fiber internet offers unmatched speed and reliability, it's mostly only accessible in urban or suburban areas. Similarly, rural regions often rely on satellite or fixed wireless options due to limited infrastructure. Knowing the connection types available in your area is the first step toward making an informed decision.
Fiber-optic internet is ideal for its fast, symmetrical speeds and low latency, making it perfect for gaming, streaming, and remote work. Cable internet, while slightly slower, is widely available and offers a reliable option for most households. Fixed wireless and 5G home internet provides an innovative, cable-free solution with competitive speeds in areas where traditional wired connections are limited. For those in the most remote locations, satellite internet ensures connectivity, albeit with higher latency and data caps.
To research ISPs near you, start by using provider websites to check availability by address. Almost all internet providers offer a free tool that shows whether their services are available in your area. You can also explore third-party resources like the FCC’s National Broadband Map, which compares ISPs and connection types across regions. Start researching today to find the best options in your area!
Conclusion
Choosing the best internet service provider for your home is a challenge, especially in rural areas where options are limited. For most households, the best provider is simply the one that is available locally. Assess your internet usage, device count, and budget to make an informed decision.
After our rigorous testing, Verizon Fios emerged as the overall best internet provider in 2025, combining speed, a stable connection, and excellent customer service. Explore your options today to enjoy seamless connectivity at home.
FAQ
What company has the best internet?
Verizon Fios is widely regarded as the best internet provider overall thanks to its fast, reliable fiber-optic speeds and outstanding customer satisfaction ratings. With symmetrical upload and download speeds, it’s ideal for gaming, streaming, and remote work.
What carrier has the best WiFi?
Verizon Fios offers the best WiFi experience due to its cutting-edge fiber-optic technology and advanced routers. In areas where Verizon isn’t available, AT&T Fiber and Xfinity also deliver top-notch WiFi performance.
Which internet connection is the most reliable?
Fiber-optic internet is the most reliable option, offering consistent speeds, low latency, and resistance to network congestion. Cable is also dependable in most areas. Satellite and fixed wireless connections are less consistent, often affected by weather or network interference but widely available even in rural areas.
What is a good speed for Wi-Fi?
For basic browsing or streaming, 25-50 Mbps is adequate. Homes with multiple devices or 4K streaming benefit from 100–200 Mbps. Gamers, remote workers, and heavy users should consider speeds of 300 Mbps or more for smooth, lag-free experiences. We recommend Verizon Fios.
Which internet service providers offer bundles?
Most top internet providers like Verizon Fios or AT&T offer bundles combining internet with TV, phone, or home security services. Bundling often provides discounts and added convenience. Carefully compare bundled plans to ensure the included services deliver value without unnecessary extras or hidden fees.
What's the cheapest way to get internet?
Choosing a basic broadband plan from providers like Verizon Fios, Xfinity, or Frontier is the cheapest way to access internet, with prices starting at $29.99/month. Fixed wireless options like T-Mobile Home Internet can also be highly affordable. Look for promotional offers or discounts for new customers to save more.
Should I self-install my internet or have a professional do it?
Self-installation is a budget-friendly option if your provider offers easy setup instructions and you’re comfortable handling the equipment. However, professional installation is recommended and sometimes even required for complex setups, such as fiber or satellite.
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