AT&T Internet VS Suddenlink Communications

The biggest difference between AT&T and Suddenlink is network type: AT&T reaches most customers via a DSL phone network, while Suddenlink uses their coaxial cable TV network. While cable is often considered “faster,” real-world speeds and prices tend to vary, and are often interchangeable. When it comes to picking a plan, the devil is in the details.

AT&T Internet
Cheap Internet
SETUP SERVICE

(844) 319-1735
  • PRICE RANGE $40 to $80 / mo.
  • TECHNOLOGY DSL
  • SPEED RANGE (DOWNLOAD) 6.0 mbps to 1,000 mbps
  • SPEED RANGE (UPLOAD) 1.0 mbps to 1,000 mbps

AT&T Internet OVERVIEW

AT&T offers fiber optic and hybrid DSL internet connections to many residential consumers and businesses across the US. They also offer a variety of “triple play” plans with bundled TV and home phone service.

AT&T Internet TECHNOLOGY

AT&T offers fiber optic and hybrid DSL internet connections to many residential consumers and businesses across the US. They also offer a variety of “triple play” plans with bundled TV and home phone service.

Their DSL offering, historically known as AT&T U-verse, leverages a fiber-to-the-node (FTTN) layout where fiber optic cable terminates at a point near consumers, with the final stretch to the subscriber residence reached via telephone, ethernet, and in some rare cases coaxial cable. This hybrid fiber network has allowed AT&T to offer higher bandwidth plans than traditionally expected from DSL.

In addition to their DSL offering, AT&T also offers fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) in some areas. FTTH is considered the “gold standard” for strong, fast, and reliable home internet connection.

AT&T Internet RATINGS AND REVIEWS

Cheap Internet
Cheap Internet
41.0% recommendation rating according to 92,970 verified users.
Suddenlink Communications
Cheap Internet
SETUP SERVICE

(888) 317-7540
  • PRICE RANGE $39.99 to $89.99 / mo.
  • TECHNOLOGY Cable
  • SPEED RANGE (DOWNLOAD) 50 mbps to 1,000 mbps
  • SPEED RANGE (UPLOAD) 8.0 mbps to 50 mbps

Suddenlink Communications OVERVIEW

Broadband Internet offerings from Suddenlink come via their hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) network, alongside TV and phone plans. While less future-proof than a true “fiber” network, Suddenlink’s HFC network is optimized to deliver speeds that rival fiber, up to 1,000Mbps.

Suddenlink Communications TECHNOLOGY

Broadband Internet offerings from Suddenlink come via their hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) network, alongside TV and phone plans. While less future-proof than a true “fiber” network, Suddenlink’s HFC network is optimized to deliver speeds that rival fiber, up to 1,000Mbps.

Hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) networks work by bringing optical fiber cables as far as individual neighborhoods or subscriber areas, only switching over to existing coaxial copper TV infrastructure for the “last mile” between the node and subscriber residences.

The upcoming DOCSIS 3.1 protocol for delivering broadband Internet data via coaxial cable promises to make high-speed Internet available to even more consumers in the near future without expensive upgrades to existing coaxial networks in use.

Suddenlink Communications RATINGS AND REVIEWS

Cheap Internet
Business Internet
49.0% recommendation rating according to 8,633 verified Suddenlink users.
Business Internet
RENTING VS OWNING YOUR HARDWARE

Buy your own modem and router to unlock additional savings

Most broadband plans from AT&T and Suddenlink will come with a modem/router combo unit. Installation is easy, but that ease comes at a cost — specifically, a monthly rental fee for the hardware. Even if the fee isn’t specifically written out on the bill, using your own modem/router will generally save five to ten dollars a month, which quickly adds up to hundreds of dollars with a multi-year service term.

Just be mindful that modems and routers aren’t compatible with every provider. Suddenlink and AT&T both provide lists of compatible hardware. Keep in mind that it might be worth renting after all if you move frequently, since there’s no guarantee the modem you buy will work with another provider.

CHECK OUT THE MISCELLANEOUS FEES

Add-ons can add up quickly

Aside from modem and router rental fees, broadband bills have a tendency to creep up thanks to a variety of small fees and charges. Don’t hesitate to call your company and ask for an explanation if you don’t understand a fee on your bill. There’s always a chance it was added in error, and an accidental $5/month fee adds up quick if you don’t spot it early.

Also consider ETFs (early termination fees) when you sign a multi-year contract, particularly if you plan to move in the near future. Even when the company offers a great sign-up discount, ETFs can eat up the savings if you unexpectedly need to relocate.

Business Internet
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