Compare AT&T & Spectrum
We’ve done the research to make comparing AT&T and Spectrum straightforward and hassle free. Quickly compare providers to see which one is best for you.
Meet our contenders: AT&T & Spectrum
AT&T and Spectrum are two of the leading home services providers nationwide. Check out a brief comparison of their offerings below.
- Internet type: Fiber
- Download speeds: up to 1 Mbps
- TV: 65 to 130 channels
- Contract: No
- Pricing: Plans start at $55/mo*
- Internet type: Coax (Cable)
- Download speeds: up to 1 Mbps
- TV: 125 to 200 channels
- Contract: No
- Pricing: Plans start at $49.99/mo*
AT&T & Spectrum: Detailed comparisons
Get side by side comparisons of AT&T and Spectrum service offerings below. Quickly compare to find the best match for your home’s needs.
Internet
TV
Bundles
| Connection type: | Fiber |
| Speed: | 1000 Mbps |
| Starting price: | $55/mo. |
| Connection type: | Coax (Cable) |
| Speed: | 940 Mbps |
| Starting price: | $49.99/mo. |
| Connection type: | Streaming |
| Channels: | 130 |
| Starting price: | $74.99/mo. |
| Contracts: | — |
| Connection type: | Coax (Cable) |
| Channels: | 200 |
| Starting price: | $49.99/mo. |
| Contracts: | — |
| Connection type: | Fiber |
| Speed: | 1000 Mbps |
| Channels: | 130 |
| Starting price: | $55/mo. |
| Data caps: | 100 |
| Contracts: | No Contract |
| Connection type: | Coax (Cable) |
| Speed: | 940 Mbps |
| Channels: | 200 |
| Starting price: | $49.99/mo. |
| Data caps: | — |
| Contracts: | No contract. |
Best internet provider
Best internet provider
AT&T offers both DSL and fiber internet connections. While AT&T Fiber is only available in select areas, households with access to fiber connection can enjoy faster speeds at more affordable prices compared to Spectrum.
Spectrum offers internet service through a cable connection with speeds ranging from 100 to 940 Mbps. Compared to AT&T DSL, Spectrum offers faster speeds at similar price points.
In short, Spectrum internet is typically the better choice than AT&T DSL. However, households with access to AT&T Fiber will find AT&T Fiber plans often outperform Spectrum’s cable connection.
Best TV provider
AT&T and Spectrum are both popular providers for TV service. AT&T TV, along with their recent acquisition of DIRECTV, offers many plans and channels. However, these high channel counts do come at a cost, making AT&T one of the most expensive TV providers available.
Spectrum TV has fewer TV packages than AT&T, but with channel counts ranging from 125+ to 200+ they still offer a lot of content. Spectrum also offers the flexibility of no contracts for their packages.
Spectrum is the winner if your household is looking for a more affordable plan, while AT&T is best for those looking for more options and don’t mind the higher cost.
Best TV provider
Best bundle provider
Best bundle provider
Both AT&T 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. Spectrum also offers a contract buyout deal which covers early termination fees up to $500 when you purchase either their Triple Play or Double Play bundles. AT&T in comparison, offers more bundle options than Spectrum, with multiple internet speed tiers and TV options from both AT&T TV and DIRECTV.
With similar starting price points and comparable internet speed ranges, both providers are good contenders for bundle packages.
Providers' coverage area maps
Bottom line
Bottom line
AT&T offers a wide variety of plans at various price points, giving you the flexibility to find the right plan to fit your needs. If AT&T Fiber is available in your area, AT&T has the upper hand vs. Spectrum’s cable service for both speed and prices.
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 AT&T DSL, making them a great choice to those who do not have access to fiber.
Overall, both AT&T and Spectrum offer competitive plans and price points to fit your needs.
AT&T & 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 five 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. [link to “Which internet connection type” is best question below]
- 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. [link to FAQ question below]
- 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. [link “bundles” to smartconnection.us/bundles]
- 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!
View local options for AT&T and Spectrum internet, TV, and home security plans in your zip code.
