Spectrum vs Verizon comparison in 2021
Verizon FiOS vs Spectrum (formerly Time Warner Spectrum) is a continuous, grueling battle.
They're both just two of several major internet service providers available in the United States, but they are two of the best.
Both ISPs bear their own advantages and disadvantages, but I'm sure you've been wondering: which trounces over the other?
Hopefully, the following comparison between the Verizon FiOS and Spectrum will help you find the cable provider that fits your needs best. Read on for more information.
Quick Comparison
Verizon FiOS | Spectrum | |
Monthly Price | $79.99-124.99 | $44-139.97 |
Contract Terms | 2-year no contract | varies |
Setup | $99 | $49.99 |
Channels | 425+ | 125-200+ |
Max HD Channels | 160+ | 100+ |
DVR Storage | Up to 200 hours | 75 HD hours |
Download Speeds | 100-940 Mbps | 100 Mbps |
Upload Speeds | 100-880 Mbps | 5 Mbps |
Availability | 10 states | 50 states |
Plan Comparison
When it comes to plan variety Verizon FiOS surpasses Spectrum.
Verizon FiOS Internet Plans & Prices
Provider/Package | Download Speed | Monthly Price |
Verizon FiOS 100 Mbps Internet | 100 Mbps | $39.99 |
Verizon FiOS 300 Mbps Internet | 300 Mbps | $59.99 |
Verizon FiOS Gigabit Internet | 940 Mbps | $79.99 |
Verizon FiOS internet packages are faster at similar prices, though there is an extra $10 per month rental fee for the router (though you can purchase a router from the cable company for $149.99), set-up charges ($80), taxes, and more. Yet, despite the high prices, you're squeezing more speed out of each dollar in comparison to Spectrum's offerings. So it's clear that Verizon FiOS offers more for your dollar.
Related: You can also compare Spectrum vs Verizon Fios.
Spectrum Internet Plans & Prices
Provider/Package | Download Speed | Monthly Price |
Spectrum Internet | 200 Mbps | $45.00 |
As you'd expect, you can save by bundling up with a double or triple-play package.
Bundles Comparison
There are several different packages that both Verizon FiOS and Spectrum service providers offer, including bundled services.Spectrum's internet prices are quite steep for what you're receiving - this excludes upfront fees from modem rentals, taxes, and more.
Verizon FiOS Internet Bundle Deals
Provider/Package | Download Speed | TV Channels | Phone Plan | Monthly Price |
Verizon FiOS Gigabit Connection + Custom TV + Phone | 940 Mbps | 155 | Unlimited | $79.99 |
Verizon FiOS Gigabit Connection + Preferred TV + Phone | 940 Mbps | 280 | Unlimited | $94.99 |
Verizon FiOS GIgabit Connection with Extreme TV + Phone | 940 Mbps | 355 | Unlimited | 109.99 |
Of course, the prices above are the standard prices of Spectrum's internet tiers. Fortunately, the prices are discounted based on promotions such as online sales or first-time customer bonuses.
Furthermore, you also save by bundling up with a double or triple-play package. That being said, if you're a heavy internet user and are famished for faster downloads, then you should consider adopting Verizon FiOS.
Spectrum Internet Bundle Deals
Package | Download Speed | TV Channels | Phone Plan | Monthly Price |
Spectrum Triple Play Select | 200 Mbps | 125 | Unlimited | $99.97 |
Spectrum Triple Play Silver | 200 Mbps | 175 | Unlimited | $119.97 |
Spectrum Triple Play Gold | 200 Mbps | 200 | Unlimited | 139.97 |
Keep in mind that you will likely have to pay an early termination fee if you switch from either Verizon FiOS or Spectrum.
Verizon FiOS internet packages are faster at similar prices, though there is an extra $10 per month rental fee for the router (though you can purchase a router from the cable company for $149.99), set-up charges ($80), taxes, and more.
Yet, despite the high prices, you're squeezing more speed out of each dollar in comparison to Spectrum's offerings. So it's clear that Verizon FiOS offers more for your dollar.
Speed Comparison
Spectrum offers download speeds of 200 Mbps, which is more than any home needs no matter how many devices you have.
It's worth noting that Spectrum mainly offers coaxial cable internet, which is less reliable and speedy in comparison to the Verizon FiOS fiber-optic network.
While Verizon offers more choice, with packages from 100 Mbps to 940 Mbps. So Verizon wins here.
Availability Comparison
Verizon FiOS' Internet and TV service are rather limited, covering only nine states, with the most coverage in New York City and throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Spectrum covers a much wider area, with most of the coverage being on the east coast.
Support Comparison
Referring to customer service, Verizon FiOS internet boasts the best customer service within the ISP industry, scoring 73 points according to the 2016 American Customer Satisfaction Index.
It's not the best score possible - far from it, in fact - but it's the highest customer satisfaction score ever achieved in the industry.
Recap
It's clear, thanks to its prices, value, and best-in-the-industry customer service, that Verizon FiOS takes the crown over Spectrum.
Unfortunately, Verizon FiOS Internet and TV service aren't offered everywhere, but if it is available in your area - and you'll want to check - you'll need to take advantage of the service, especially if you're a gamer, video streamer, or a professional working from home.
After all, the service offers a fiber optic network, complete with high speeds, lower-than-average latency, and top-in-the-industry customer service, all for reasonable prices that remain competitive with Spectrum.