Fastest High-Speed Internet Providers of December 2024
Updated October 28, 2024 at 4:01 am
The sound of dial-up internet is one Generation X will never forget, and one that Generation Z has likely never heard outside of watching a YouTube video.
Internet speeds have improved tremendously since the 1990s maximum dial-up speed of 14.4 kilobits per second, or 51 megabits per hour. Today’s 5th-generation mobile broadband networks can achieve speeds up to 20 gigabits per second. By way of comparison, a kilobit of data transfer equates to 1,000 bits per second, while a gigabit is 1 billion bits per second.
If it’s time to take your home or business internet speed to the next level, Newsweek Vault has compiled a roundup of the best (and worst) high-speed internet service providers. Our roundup of the best high-speed internet options includes the pros and cons of each service provider. Use this list to level up your internet speed and transform your web surfing or online gaming experience.
Our Methodology Our research is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance services and products that best suit your needs. To help you in the decision-making process, our expert contributors compare common preferences and potential pain points, such as affordability, accessibility, and credibility.
Our Picks for the Fastest High-Speed Internet Providers
Best Overall
AT&T Fiber
Best for Gaming or High-Demand Use
Google Fiber
Best Contract-Free Solution
Frontier
Best High-Speed Connection in Rural Areas
Ziply Fiber
Best Perk Packages
Verizon FiOS
Best Affordable High-Speed Internet
Verizon 5G Home Internet
7 Best High-Speed Internet Providers of 2024
Best Overall
AT&T Fiber
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
AT&T Fiber wins the Best Overall designation because t’s simple to set up, offers a range of plans to meet all surfing needs and is one of few providers offering multiple gigabit (gig) speeds. There are also a range of discounts available to further slash customer costs. Read our AT&T home internet review.
Pros and Cons
- AT&T ActiveArmor SM Security for 24/7 safety support
- Symmetrical upload and download speeds
- No equipment fees
- Limited rural availability
- Can be expensive for some
- Mixed customer service experiences
Additional Information
- No contract required
- No data caps and 99% proven reliability across AT&T’s network
*Please note that all pricing secured and listed in this review is sample pricing that is dependent on where our experts are located. Pricing is subject to change at any time, and may as a result of your service area. We always recommend using site-specific pricing tools and speaking to a sales representative to ensure you get the most accurate quote information possible.
Best for Speed
Cox
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Cox is one of the biggest internet providers in the country. The service offers up to 2 gigs of speed in their current package selection, as well as wall-to-wall coverage via their Panoramic WiFi option. They’re also the proud recipients of Ookla’s “America’s Fastest Download Speed” title, boasting a median speed of 261.27 megabits per second (Mbps).
Pros and Cons
- Accessible, low-cost internet options
- America’s fastest download speeds, per Ookla
- No contract requirement
- Can be expensive for some
- Users report random outages
- Mixed customer service experiences
Additional Information
- Multi-gig speed options
- Package bundles for additional cost savings and free periodic equipment upgrades
*Please note that all pricing secured and listed in this review is sample pricing that is dependent on where our experts are located. Pricing is subject to change at any time, and may as a result of your service area. We always recommend using site-specific pricing tools and speaking to a sales representative to ensure you get the most accurate quote information possible.
**For existing Cox internet subscribers only
Best for Gaming or High-Demand Use
Google Fiber
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Google Fiber is in a class of its own, offering 6E WiFi technology, tri-band connectivity and constantly evolving internet tech. They currently offer plans ranging from one to eight gigs of speed and are recognized as the Fastest Internet Provider of 2023 by HighSpeedInternet.com.
Pros and Cons
- 24/7 customer support available in 10 seconds or less
- Symmetrical upload and download speeds
- Up to eight gigs of speed available***
- Limited availability
- Prices may deter some users
- Mac users report inconsistent connection experiences
Additional Information
- $0 high-speed internet for those in affordable housing***
- One of the fastest providers on the market and central app management for ease of use
***Available in select locations only
Best Contract-Free Solution
Frontier
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Frontier is one of the most competitive contract-free options, promoting user flexibility at every opportunity. It offers competitive high-speed internet solutions (boasting up to 5 gigs of speed) and includes customer-forward perks—such as consistent guaranteed pricing for a year, the opportunity to claim a $200 Visa Reward Card**** and discounts on top services and providers (such as YouTube TV).****
Pros and Cons
- Fiber 5 Gig plan users enjoy free premium tech support
- Autopay discounts available
- Free TP-Link Archer AXE300 6E router included in Fiber 5 Gig plan
- Mixed customer service experiences
- Prices may deter some users
- Users report random outages across all plans
Additional Information
- Affordable packages for most budgets
- No credit check and Amazon eero 6+ router included in base plan
****Offers are valid at the time of this publication and may be subject to change.
Best High-Speed Connection in Rural Areas
Ziply Fiber
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Ziply is the provider of choice for the Pacific Northwest and other local rural areas. It offers extensive coverage areas, budget-friendly plans and plenty of free perks to keep customers cared for. It’s also incredibly easy to shop and set up—coming equipped with free professional installation and a user-friendly process you’ll love.
Pros and Cons
- No annual contracts
- Lifeline support for further discounts on internet
- Extensive package perks (such as discounted router leases and 2+ free WiFi extenders)
- Mixed customer support experiences
- Some users report instances of overcharging
- Users report cancellation difficulties
Additional Information
- 30-day money back guarantee
- Affordable plans to suit most budgets and no data caps.
*Please note that all pricing secured and listed in this review is sample pricing that is dependent on where our experts are located. Pricing is subject to change at any time, and may as a result of your service area. We always recommend using site-specific pricing tools and speaking to a sales representative to ensure you get the most accurate quote information possible.
Best Perk Packages
Verizon FiOS
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Verizon FiOS leads the charge of high-speed internet providers with excellent perk packages. Users can enjoy free gifts upon sign-up, such as a $300 gift card, a Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go and a $500 credit to help cover early termination fees if you’re coming from another provider.**** There’s no other service like it if you’re looking for freemiums from the base package onward.
Pros and Cons
- No data caps
- Free router rental from base plan onwards
- Additional savings for nurses, military members, vets, first responders and teachers
- Limited availability
- Users report regional speed and access differences
- Mixed customer service experiences
Additional Information
- Five-year price guarantee
- No equipment charges and no annual contracts
*Please note that all pricing secured and listed in this review is sample pricing that is dependent on where our experts are located. Pricing is subject to change at any time, and may as a result of your service area. We always recommend using site-specific pricing tools and speaking to a sales representative to ensure you get the most accurate quote information possible.
****Offers are valid at the time of this publication, and may be subject to change.
Best Affordable High-Speed Internet
Verizon 5G Home Internet
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
While it’s not quite as cheap as Ziply, Verizon 5G Home Internet made our list as the best affordable high-speed internet connection. You’ll get exceptional value for cost (often coming in the form of freemiums, like Verizon FiOS), and you’ll only pay $15 more than Ziply for a basic high-speed internet plan. It’s an ideal choice for casual surfing or high-powered work-from-home (WFH) setups alike. Read our Verizon 5G home internet review.
Pros and Cons
- Complimentary support for 30 days
- No equipment charges
- $500 early termination credit
- Mixed customer service experiences
- Users report mixed speeds and service quality
- Users report router has limited range
Additional Information
- 30-day money back guarantee
- No contracts and unlimited data options
*Please note that all pricing secured and listed in this review is sample pricing that is dependent on where our experts are located. Pricing is subject to change at any time, and may as a result of your service area. We always recommend using site-specific pricing tools and speaking to a sales representative to ensure you get the most accurate quote information possible.
What Is Considered High-Speed Internet?
Speeds of 100 Mbps are typically considered high-speed internet; however, the definition of fast internet speed continues to evolve with the widespread adoption of 5G networks and multi-gig speed plans.
High-speed internet is also entirely subjective and based on your needs. People who primarily use their internet connection to watch streaming movies and surf the web don’t have the same internet speed requirements as people who work from home offices and regularly attend online video meetings, or live-stream gamers who require ultra-fast and extremely reliable internet connectivity.
If you’re not sure which high-speed internet option is right for you, we recommend reading this expert review and speaking with a sales rep from the services you’re interested in. They can evaluate your proposed use levels and demands and tailor a proposal to suit your specific needs.
Why Would You Need a High-Speed Internet Provider?
If you’re considering upgrading your current setup to any of the best high-speed internet providers on this list, you’re in good company. A report by Pew Research found that eight-in-10 adults subscribe to monthly high-speed broadband internet services in 2024. That number may grow, especially with increased dependence on smart technology and the increased popularity of hybrid and WFH environments.
Here are a few instances where our experts recommend a high-speed internet connection.
- You want to stream videos, web calls, meetings and other content without lag. If you’re tired of that stomach-dropping feeling you get when your important work meeting goes “robotty,” it’s time to consider a high-speed internet connection you can trust.
- You want to game, either competitively or casually. Whether you want to secure that golden crown in Fortnite or perfect your town in Animal Crossing, the last thing you want to see is long loading times and choppy graphics. High-speed internet connections are essential for today’s top gamers.
- You’re a student wanting to excel in college. With many exams and assignments online these days, high-speed internet is crucial to your academic career. The best part? Many universities have low-cost programs if you’re looking to save more on your high-speed internet connection.
- You have a large household. Multiple people in your home means multiple connected devices, high demands and a need for high-quality service. Thankfully, the fast internet options presented in this article don’t charge you multiple zeroes in your bill every month.
- You want lightning-fast internet at a rate you’ll love. Simply wanting a high-speed connection is reason enough to invest in a fast internet provider like the ones on this list. Our experts have done the heavy lifting for you, leaving you with the information you need to make a decision with confidence.
How to Choose the Best High-Speed Internet Providers for Your Business
Looking for the best high-speed internet provider for your needs doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Our experts have put together everything you need to finalize your decision and walk away with the most value possible.
Here’s a short list of features to look for as you sift through your fast internet providers of choice:
Affordability
There are plenty of affordable high-speed internet packages available. However, price is still an important factor to consider. It’s best to choose an option that’s well within your price range, even if you change employment or your financial situation. Proactively planning for affordable connectivity now can save you expensive change and cancellation fees later on.
Speed
If you’re looking at fast internet providers, it’s only natural that you’re considering speed as a qualifying factor. While your actual speed needs may vary, you’ll ultimately want a choice that maximizes your value. Explore speed-to-cost ratios across providers and create a spreadsheet or table to compare them. You can also speak with sales representatives from each provider option, asking for a tailored recommendation based on your proposed internet usage.
Value
This feature is entirely subjective. However, defining what value looks like to you early on can save you hundreds per year on your internet bill. What are you willing to pay for? How much speed are you looking for? Would you rather maintain flexibility, or do you not mind a contract? These questions can help you determine what you consider valuable in an internet service provider and what you should be seeking as you shop for fast internet.
Perk Packages
Many of the best high-speed internet providers offer perk packages with bonuses that appeal to shoppers of all interests. Verizon FiOS is a great example of this, including extras like $300 Target gift cards, laptops, $500 statement credits and more on a revolving basis. Other providers include free premium tech support, free installation or free router rental. As you shop, be sure to read the fine print—or ask your salesperson about any available freemiums that you can enjoy if you were to make the switch.
Data Caps
No one likes limits—and data caps are some of the most prevalent (and annoying) limits you can experience as you sign on to your provider of choice. If you exceed your provider’s data cap, you can encounter hundreds of dollars of overage fees per month, so it’s definitely worth finding plans without data caps or with data caps you’re sure you won’t hit. You also might want to ask about price guarantees, which offer additional protection against overcharging.
High-Speed Internet Service Providers to Avoid
Generally speaking, internet service providers that deliver high-speed internet over fiber optic networks tend to be viewed more favorably than DSL or cable internet service providers. Internet satisfaction also can be highly subjective—one customer’s pain may not affect the majority of countless satisfied customers. Lastly, customers who are dissatisfied with their current internet service often lack the ability to change service providers, especially if they live in remote rural areas.
With that in mind, here are five of the least-reliable internet service providers (some service providers are regional and not available in all 50 states).
Comcast/Xfinity
Comcast is the parent company of Xfinity, which was created in 2010 to market consumer services such as internet, cable television and wireless cell phone services from the parent company. Xfinity is one of the largest cable internet service providers in the country.
Why it made this list
Online reviews of Comcast internet are scathing across multiple customer-review sites. The most common complaint about Xfinity internet is difficulty with customer service, particularly, reaching a live customer service agent.
CenturyLink
CenturyLink operates in 16 states, mostly in the West, Midwest and Southwest, as well as Florida. CenturyLink primarily operates DSL internet over copper phone lines, which can lead to slower-than-advertised internet speeds for customers.
Why it made this list
Slow internet speeds are one of the most common consumer complaints against CenturyLink. However, the grumblings are many and include issues with installation and setup, reliability, customer service, price, installation and setup and coverage.
Charter Spectrum Internet
Charter Communications is another of the country’s largest ISPs, serving 30.4 million broadband internet customers in 41 states. Spectrum consistently scores well in Ooklas’s ISP speed tests and even earned the title of having the fastest download speeds of any nationwide internet provider in May of 2024.
Why it made this list
Satisfied customers often tout Spectrum’s fast internet speeds, but dissatisfied customers complain about monthly equipment fees, poor customer service and support, high installation and activation fees and price hikes after 12- or 24-month sweetheart promotions expire.
Brightspeed
Brightspeed internet operates in 20 states in the Midwest and Southeastern U.S. The company, which provides DSL, 4G and fiber internet, was created in 2021 when it acquired the DSL customers of CenturyLink. Brightspeed remains a DSL-first company but has grown its subscriber network of fiber customers by offering fiber internet in 13 states.
Why it made this list
Brightspeed scores points for no data limits and contracts, but customers bemoan the fact that they must rent the company’s modem and gateway router. New fiber customers can get their installation fees waived, but DSL customers who don’t purchase top-tier plans must pay a $100 fee. Other common complaints include issues with billing, frequent service outages and slower-than-advertised internet speeds.
Kinetic by Windstream
Kinetic by Windstream covers 18 states primarily in the Southeast and Midwest. While the company offers fiber internet in select locations, DSL comprises the bulk of its internet business. Kinetic by Windstream does not lock customers into long-term contracts, nor does it impose any limits on data usage.
Why it made this list
Internet speeds from Kinetic vary by location and cost, which has led to frustration with its customers. The most common complaints about Kinetic by Windstream deal with billing disputes, frequent and lengthy service outages and difficulties getting resolution with customer service.
It’s important to note that complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Affairs may not accurately reflect the majority of a company’s customer base. The squeaky wheel is usually the one that’s heard the loudest.
High-Speed Internet Providers vs. Fiber Optic Internet
There are two primary types of high-speed internet: cable and fiber optic (or fiber). Fiber is the more reliable and quicker choice of the two, although both are better than digital subscriber line (DSL) options.
Fiber stands out for a simple reason: Data transmissions travel much faster via nano-thin glass fibers than traditional cable methods, offering surfers a better user experience. Cable isn’t necessarily cheaper, either, so many opt to pay a few dollars extra for better speed and reliability if it’s within their budget.
High-Speed Internet Providers vs. Satellite Internet
Since the launch of Elon Musk’s Starlink, satellite internet has taken the web by storm. While both can offer a high-speed experience, satellite providers often have higher latency, which can lead to slowdowns regardless of the downloading speed results of the best internet speed tests.
Our experts recommend satellite internet for rural residents, as they’ll still be able to surf quickly and more easily than they otherwise would. However, if you live in a more populated area, you might consider fiber or another option, as there may not be enough unblocked space to secure a steady satellite signal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What High-Speed Internet Provider Is the Best?
If you’re looking for excessively high speeds for larger households or high-demand use, we recommend Google Fiber. The service offers eight gigs of speed for just $150 per month; however, Google Fiber’s 5 and 8-gig plans aren’t available in all locations. If you’re looking for perk packages or for help leaving your current provider, however, we recommend Verizon FiOS or Verizon 5G Home Internet.
What Is the Fastest Internet Speed?
Ziply Fiber and Google Fiber offer some of the fastest speeds on this list and across the web. Ziply has a purported speed range of up to 50 gigabits per second (50 Gbps), and Google Fiber offers eight, respectively.
What Is a Good Internet Speed for Home?
Many experts recommend a speed of 100 Mbps to help you avoid lag and slowdowns. You should also generally average an upload speed of 10 Mbps.
Do I Really Need Gigabit Speeds?
The answer here lies in multiple factors. For the majority of homes, internet speeds of 100 to 500 mbps are more than adequate. Highly connected homes with a variety of smart devices, handheld tablets, cell phones and streaming services should see no lag or latency issues with these internet speeds, but internet speeds could suffer if there are five or more people in the same home using internet services and connected devices at the same time.
Gigabit internet speeds, meanwhile, are likely a must-have for people running internet-heavy home-based businesses, as well as for competitive PC gamers and live-streamers.
How Can I Increase My Internet Speeds at Home?
Outside of upgrading to a faster internet connection through your ISP, here are four hacks you can implement that may increase your internet speeds.
- Router location. Placing a router in enclosed shelving such as a bookcase or in the far corner of the home can weaken its signal strength. The router should be centrally located and kept away from other electronic devices.
- Rebooting your internet equipment. Rebooting your router can reduce latency and boost performance and reliability. It’s recommended to reboot your router once a month.
- Upgrade outdated equipment. When it comes to devices such as routers and cable boxes, it’s easy to “set it and forget it.” These devices can still be functional a decade after installation and setup, but newer equipment may support more optimized internet speeds.
- Install a wifi extender. A wifi extender expands wireless range and can eliminate areas of the home that have poor signal strength.
Editorial Disclosure: We may receive a commission from affiliate partner links included on our site. However, this does not impact our staffs’ opinions or assessments.
