Plans starting at: $50
Popular Package: CenturyLink internet - Up to 940Mbps.
Download speeds up to: 940 Mbps
Connection Types: Fiber & DSL
Plans starting at: $29.99
Popular Package: 2 Gig
Download speeds up to: 8 Gbps
Connection Types: Fiber
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.
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CenturyLink Internet Plans
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Brightspeed Internet Plans
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CenturyLink FAQ's
Brightspeed FAQ's
