Verizon Fios vs At&t Fiber: Which Fiber Internet Is Best?
Tired of buffering? Ready to ditch the slow internet speeds of yesterday? You’re in the right place. We’re diving headfirst into a showdown between two of the leading fiber internet providers: Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber.
Both offer blazing-fast speeds, but the devil is in the details. This comparison will break down everything you need to know to make the best decision for your home. We’ll examine pricing, speeds, availability, and customer satisfaction.
Choosing between Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber can seem daunting. But don’t worry, we’ll make it simple. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which provider aligns best with your needs and budget. Let’s get started!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Verizon Fios | AT&T Fiber |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) | Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) |
| Download Speeds (Typical) | Up to 1 Gig | Up to 5 Gig |
| Upload Speeds (Typical) | Up to 1 Gig | Up to 5 Gig |
| Data Caps | None | None |
| Installation | Professional | Professional |
| TV Service | Yes | Yes |
| Bundling Options | Internet, TV, Phone | Internet, TV, Phone |
| Equipment | Verizon Router/ONT | AT&T Router/ONT |
| Customer Service | Varies | Varies |
| Availability | Limited | Limited |
| Network Type | Fiber Optic | Fiber Optic |
| Voice over IP (VoIP) | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Speed Tiers
- Verizon Fios: Offers a variety of speed tiers, often starting with lower speeds and scaling up to multi-gigabit options. They provide consistent speeds, but availability of the highest tiers can vary by location. A pro is the generally reliable performance, but a con can be the potentially higher cost for top-tier plans.
- Att Fiber: Similar to Verizon, AT&T provides multiple speed tiers, including multi-gigabit options in some areas. They often emphasize symmetrical upload and download speeds. A pro is the fast speeds; a con can be the limited availability in certain regions.
- Winner: Tie
Pricing & Plans
- Verizon Fios: Pricing varies based on the chosen speed tier and any promotional offers. Bundling options with TV and phone services can sometimes provide discounts. A pro is the often competitive pricing; a con can be the complexity of understanding all the options.
- Att Fiber: Offers a range of plans with varying prices. Bundling with other AT&T services is also available. A pro is the potential for introductory offers; a con can be the price increases after the promotional period.
- Winner: Tie
Availability
- Verizon Fios: Availability is primarily concentrated in the Northeastern United States, although expansion efforts continue. A pro is the strong presence in established markets; a con is the limited coverage outside of these areas.
- Att Fiber: AT&T Fiber has a broader geographic footprint, with availability in many major metropolitan areas across the U.S. A pro is the wider coverage; a con is that availability is still not nationwide.
- Winner: att fiber
Upload Speeds
- Verizon Fios: Typically offers symmetrical upload and download speeds, particularly on their higher-tier plans. A pro is the excellent performance for activities like video conferencing and cloud backups; a con can be the slightly higher cost for symmetric plans.
- Att Fiber: Also provides symmetrical upload and download speeds across most of its plans. A pro is the fast upload speeds; a con is that the availability of symmetrical speeds might be limited in certain areas.
- Winner: Tie
Installation Process
- Verizon Fios: Installation usually involves a technician visit to set up the fiber optic connection and the necessary equipment. A pro is the professional installation; a con can be the scheduling inconvenience.
- Att Fiber: Similar to Verizon, installation typically requires a technician. A pro is the professional setup; a con is the need to schedule an appointment.
- Winner: Tie
Equipment Included
- Verizon Fios: Includes a router and often a set-top box for TV service. A pro is the included equipment; a con can be the limited choice of equipment.
- Att Fiber: Provides a router, and often a set-top box for TV. A pro is the included equipment; a con can be the potential for equipment rental fees.
- Winner: Tie
Customer Service
- Verizon Fios: Customer service experiences can vary. Some users report positive experiences while others report issues with support. A pro is the potential for helpful support; a con is the inconsistency in service quality.
- Att Fiber: Customer service experiences also vary. Reviews are mixed, with some customers reporting satisfactory experiences and others encountering difficulties. A pro is the available customer support channels; a con is the potential for long wait times or unresolved issues.
- Winner: Tie
Bundling Options
- Verizon Fios: Offers bundling options with TV and phone services, which can result in cost savings. A pro is the potential for discounted prices through bundling; a con is the need to commit to multiple services.
- Att Fiber: Provides bundling with TV (DIRECTV) and phone services. A pro is the potential for cost savings; a con is the commitment to multiple services.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Download Speed | AT&T Fiber (in higher speed tiers) |
| Upload Speed | AT&T Fiber (in higher speed tiers) |
| Availability | Tie (Availability varies by location) |
| Value | Tie (Varies based on promotions and location) |
| Customer Service | Tie (Experiences vary) |
What They Have in Common
- Fiber Optic Technology: Both Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber utilize fiber optic cables for internet transmission, offering superior speed and reliability compared to older technologies. This ensures a fast and consistent internet experience.
- No Data Caps: Both providers offer plans with no data caps, meaning users can enjoy unlimited data usage without worrying about overage charges or throttling. This is ideal for heavy internet users.
- Bundling Options: Both Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber allow customers to bundle internet service with TV and phone services, often resulting in cost savings and convenience. This simplifies billing and account management.
- Professional Installation: Both services typically require professional installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance. This guarantees a smooth and efficient setup process.
- High Speeds: Both providers deliver high-speed internet, suitable for streaming, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities. This provides a fast and reliable internet experience.
Verizon Fios Vs Att Fiber Buying Guide
Service Availability
Determining service availability is the first and arguably most crucial step. Verizon Fios has a more limited footprint, primarily concentrated in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. AT&T Fiber, on the other hand, is expanding its reach, but availability still varies significantly. Check both providers’ websites using your specific address to confirm if their services are offered in your area. Consider factors like apartment buildings, rural areas, and recent infrastructure upgrades.
Pricing and Plans
Price comparison is essential. Both Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber offer various plans with different speeds and price points. AT&T often has introductory offers and bundles, while Verizon is known for its straightforward pricing structure. Carefully examine the advertised monthly rates, any equipment fees, installation costs, and potential price increases after the promotional period. Evaluate the value proposition based on the speeds offered and your internet usage needs.
Internet Speeds and Performance
Consider the speeds that each provider offers. AT&T Fiber generally provides symmetrical speeds, meaning upload and download speeds are the same, which is beneficial for activities like video conferencing and uploading large files. Verizon Fios also offers high speeds, but the specific plans and availability may vary. Assess your household’s needs: streaming, gaming, multiple devices connected simultaneously, and choose a plan that accommodates your usage. Check for latency and jitter.
Equipment and Installation
Understand the equipment required for each service. Both providers supply a modem and router, often combined into one unit. Verizon Fios typically uses its own equipment. AT&T might offer different equipment options. Installation processes also vary. Verizon often offers professional installation, while AT&T provides both professional and self-installation options. Evaluate the cost and convenience of each option. Consider the ease of setup and the quality of the equipment.
Bundling Options
Explore bundling opportunities. Both Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber offer bundles that combine internet with TV and sometimes phone services. Bundling can lead to cost savings compared to purchasing each service separately. Compare the channel lineups, features, and pricing of the bundles. Ensure that the bundled services meet your needs and that the overall cost is competitive. Evaluate the flexibility of customizing your bundle.
Customer Service and Reputation
Research customer service experiences. Customer reviews and ratings provide valuable insights into each provider’s customer service quality. Look for comments on reliability, technical support responsiveness, and billing accuracy. Consider factors like the availability of customer support channels (phone, chat, in-person), the hours of operation, and the resolution time for issues. Reading recent reviews can give you a clear picture.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Verizon Fios If…
- You prioritize a well-established and generally reliable network.
- You prefer a provider with a strong reputation for customer service (though experiences vary).
- You are looking for competitive pricing in your area.
- You want to bundle with TV and phone services.
Buy AT&T Fiber If…
- You want the fastest possible download and upload speeds available in your area.
- You are looking for options that may include higher speed tiers.
- You are already an AT&T customer and want to bundle services.
- You value the potential for future speed upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Fios and AT&T Fiber?
The primary difference lies in the provider and the areas they serve. Verizon Fios focuses on fiber optic service, while AT&T Fiber also offers fiber. Both offer high-speed internet, but availability and pricing vary. Fios is concentrated in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, while AT&T’s footprint is expanding. Speeds and plans differ based on location and the specific services offered.
How fast is Verizon Fios?
Verizon Fios offers a range of speeds, from entry-level plans to gigabit internet. Actual speeds depend on the plan you choose. Typically, you can expect download and upload speeds to be very fast, ideal for streaming, gaming, and multiple devices. The specific speeds will be listed when you select a plan, and they are usually symmetrical.
How fast is AT&T Fiber?
AT&T Fiber offers speeds comparable to Verizon Fios, including gigabit options. These plans offer symmetrical upload and download speeds, ensuring fast performance. The speeds available vary by location and the specific plans offered. Check the available plans at your address to see what speeds are available, as they continually upgrade their network.
Is fiber internet better than cable?
Yes, fiber internet generally surpasses cable internet. Fiber optic technology offers significantly faster upload and download speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability compared to cable. Fiber is less susceptible to interference and can handle higher bandwidth demands, making it a better choice for heavy internet users and multiple connected devices.
What equipment do I need for Verizon Fios?
For Verizon Fios, you’ll typically need Verizon’s ONT (Optical Network Terminal) and a router. The ONT converts the fiber optic signal to a format your devices can understand. Verizon usually provides these devices. You may also have the option to use your own router, but Verizon’s equipment is often recommended for optimal performance and support.
What equipment do I need for AT&T Fiber?
For AT&T Fiber, you’ll receive an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) and a gateway (router/modem combo) from AT&T. These are essential for connecting to the fiber network. They provide the necessary signal conversion and wireless capabilities. You can usually choose between AT&T’s equipment or use your own router. AT&T provides these devices.
How do I choose between Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber?
To choose between Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber, assess availability in your area, comparing pricing, speeds, and contract terms. Consider your internet usage needs, from streaming to online gaming. Read customer reviews to assess customer service. Evaluate the value of bundled options and compare equipment and installation processes before making your final decision.
Final Verdict
Both Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber offer excellent fiber-optic internet services, with high speeds and reliable connections. The best choice ultimately depends on availability, pricing, and your specific needs. AT&T’s broader availability and competitive pricing might give it an edge for some.
Winner: AT&T Fiber