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CenturyLink vs. Brightspeed Internet Providers Compared

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CenturyLink Vs Brightspeed

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Rosslyn Elliott

Written by Rosslyn Elliott - Pub. Jul. 27, 2023 / Updated Sep. 29, 2026

You are currently comparing:

CenturyLink Vs Brightspeed

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3.3

Plans starting at: $50

Popular Package: CenturyLink internet - Up to 940Mbps.

Download speeds up to: 940 Mbps

Connection Types: Fiber & DSL

Call today & find the best CenturyLink internet deals
1-833-943-6858
4.0

Plans starting at: $29.99

Popular Package: 2 Gig

Download speeds up to: 8 Gbps

Connection Types: Fiber

Call today & find the best Brightspeed internet deals
1-833-970-4123

CenturyLink Provider Information

CenturyLink is a major telecommunications provider now owned by Lumen Technologies. While the company is transitioning much of its focus toward its Quantum Fiber brand, it remains a significant player in the legacy DSL market. Customers can choose between older copper-based DSL connections, which are generally slower and less reliable, or modern fiber-optic service in select areas. Fiber is the clear winner here, offering symmetrical upload and download speeds that make it excellent for video conferencing and large file uploads. DSL, by contrast, often struggles with high bandwidth demands and can be prone to performance drops during peak usage hours.

Pricing is straightforward, with plans starting at $50 for 100 Mbps. At the top end of their offerings, you can expect to pay $75 for 940 Mbps. Availability is widespread across the United States, though the quality of your connection depends heavily on whether your specific address has been upgraded to fiber infrastructure. CenturyLink is a strong choice for budget-conscious households that prioritize simple, contract-free billing and transparent pricing. However, if you live in an area where only DSL is available, you may find the performance lacking compared to modern hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) or fiber alternatives. It is best suited for users who want a no-frills internet connection and live in a neighborhood where fiber service is active. If you are stuck with their legacy copper network, you might find yourself wanting more speed for modern household demands.

Brightspeed Provider Information

Brightspeed is a relatively new name in the telecommunications industry, formed after Lumen Technologies sold its incumbent local exchange carrier assets in twenty states to Apollo Global Management. While the company is currently working to expand its fiber-to-the-premises footprint, much of its existing network still relies on legacy digital subscriber line (DSL) technology. This means your experience will vary significantly depending on your address. Where fiber is available, you get symmetrical upload and download speeds that are excellent for heavy data use. In areas where only DSL is offered, you will find much slower speeds that may struggle with modern household demands.

Plans start at $29.99 for 200 Mbps, while their top-tier offerings reach $119.99 for 8000 Mbps. The provider is most common in rural and suburban areas across the Midwest, Southeast, and parts of the West. Brightspeed is a solid choice if you can access their fiber network, as it provides a reliable, high-speed connection without the data caps often found with other providers. However, if you are stuck with their older copper-based infrastructure, you might find the performance lacking compared to hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) or newer fiber competitors. They are best for customers who prioritize straightforward pricing and no long-term contracts, provided they verify the specific connection type available at their home before signing up. If you live in a rural area where options are limited, Brightspeed is often a dependable utility, but it is worth checking if their fiber service is actually available at your doorstep.

PROS

Consistent prices with no built-in price hikes No data caps for DSL plans DSL is sometimes faster than satellite or fixed wireless, depending on the location

Cons

DSL offers little speed for the money compared to fiber or cable DSL speeds vary widely and are sometimes below broadband speed Customer service gets poor reviews from many customers

PROS

Attractive, transparent pricing for fast fiber speeds No data caps or contracts, free premium modem with fiber plans Rapid fiber buildout in progress

Cons

Some customers on DSL will wait for fiber buildout Slower speeds for DSL service New company still building operations

CenturyLink Internet Plans

PlanService TypeDownload SpeedMonthly Price
Free Installation! WiFi equipment provided.
CenturyLink Internet - Up To 940Mbps.Fiber InternetUp to 940 Mbps Only $75
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
CenturyLink Internet - Up To 500Mbps.Fiber InternetUp to 500 Mbps Only $50
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
CenturyLink Internet - Up To 100Mbps.DSL InternetUp to 100 Mbps Only $55
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Call today & find the best CenturyLink internet deals
1-833-943-6858

Brightspeed Internet Plans

PlanService TypeDownload SpeedMonthly Price
Up to $300 Reward Cards!
8 GigFiber InternetUp to 8,000 Mbps Only $119.99
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Up to $300 Reward Cards!
2 GigFiber InternetUp to 2,000 Mbps Only $59.99
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Up to $300 Reward Cards!
1 GigFiber InternetUp to 1,000 Mbps Only $49.99
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Up to $100 Reward Cards!
500 MbpsFiber InternetUp to 500 Mbps Only $39.99
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
200 MbpsFiber InternetUp to 200 Mbps Only $29.99
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read more
Call today & find the best Brightspeed internet deals
1-833-970-4123

CenturyLink FAQ's

To order or learn more, call the number on this page or visit BuyCenturyLink.com.
CenturyLink internet is an affordable DSL home internet service that offers unlimited data. It allows you to work from home, shop online, connect multiple users and devices, and stream movies. There is no annual contract, and the service is available in various speed options.
Internet availability may vary depending on your location. To check if CenturyLink internet is available in your area, enter your zip code here at CompareInternet.com. We’ll give you a complete list of providers available in your area.
CenturyLink offers either professional installation or self-installation for your internet service. Professional installation will carry a higher one-time fee but will be guaranteed to fix any issues as soon as possible. Self-installation will be less expensive and not too complicated with their self-install kit.
Yes, CenturyLink allows you to connect multiple users and devices simultaneously. Whether it's for work, school, or entertainment purposes, you can connect and use multiple devices on the same internet connection. Fiber will give you higher speeds than DSL that may work better for multiple devices.
Yes, CenturyLink provides Wi-Fi service. With Wi-Fi, you can enjoy wireless connectivity in your home, allowing you to connect your devices without the need for wired connections. The maximum internet speed available for Wi-Fi may vary depending on your location and your internet plan.
Call today & find the best CenturyLink internet deals
1-833-943-6858

Brightspeed FAQ's

To order or learn more, call the number on this page or visit BrightspeedSavings.com.
Brightspeed does not impose data caps on its internet service. You can enjoy unlimited data usage without worrying about any restrictions or additional charges.
Brightspeed offers several no-cost modem options for fiber installations, including premium Wi-Fi 6-capable modems. These modems are optimized to deliver the fiber connection into your home and come with remote network support from the Brightspeed customer success team. Newer fiber installations may include the Calix Wi-Fi router and mesh Wi-Fi extenders at no additional charge.
Yes, you can choose to provide your own Wi-Fi router if it meets certain specifications, such as maximum bandwidth capability equal to your purchased internet speed, a 1 Gbps Ethernet WAN port, DHCP to obtain a WAN IP Address, the same or newer Wi-Fi technology as your connected devices, accurate auto-channel selection, and firewall support. However, by using your own router, you won't get the benefits of using a Brightspeed modem, such as built-in security features and technical support from the Fiber Customer Success Team.
Restarting your modem/router (gateway) is often the first step in troubleshooting connection problems. You can simply unplug it for 30 seconds and then plug it back in.
Brightspeed provides special programs to support low-income customers. They offer affordable internet options and participate in initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program to ensure that everyone has access to reliable and affordable internet service. Your customer support rep can help you set up your ACP benefit if you qualify.
Yes, Brightspeed is actively expanding its fiber infrastructure to provide high-speed internet access to more areas. They are committed to improving connectivity and delivering reliable fiber-optic internet service to customers. For specific information about the availability of fiber in your location, please contact the Brightspeed customer support team.
Call today & find the best Brightspeed internet deals
1-833-970-4123