New York, also known as the Empire State, is home to some of the most exciting cities in the United States. Apart from a diverse culture, grand skyscrapers, and many tourist attractions, this state is also blessed with more than a handful of decent internet service providers. Therefore, if you’re moving here or only recently settled here, you’ll get plenty of good internet options.
The best internet provider for you depends upon your exact location, day-to-day internet requirements, and your distinctive preferences. We’ve picked out some of the leading providers around the state in terms of coverage, speed, customer satisfaction, and overall value.
So, let’s dive in, shall we?
1. Spectrum
Speed Range: 300 Mbps – 1000 Mbps
Starting Price: $49.99/mo (For 12 mos* with Auto Pay)
Cable internet is excellent for residential purposes, given its widespread availability and affordability. Spectrum is the best cable internet provider in New York State and beyond, so you can sign up without hesitation. The starter internet plan, providing up to 300Mbps download speed and 10Mbps upload speed is optimal for the average household.
If your daily internet usage consists of heavier activities like multiplayer gaming and live streaming, you may opt for the highest tier plan that offers up to 1000Mbps download speed. Considering Spectrum Internet cost, it’s worth noting that the higher-tier plans offer better value for your money.
Aside from competitive pricing, Spectrum offers unlimited data with all its internet plans. You don’t have to sign up for a year-long contract, which means you can upgrade your plan at any time. You get a free modem when you purchase any internet plan, but a small fee for the router applies. As a customer of Spectrum, you gain free access to millions of WiFi hotspots nationwide.
2. Verizon Fios
Connection Type: Fiber
Speed Range: 300 Mbps – 2000 Mbps
Starting Price: $34.99/mo.
While cable internet is a good option for your home, a fiber optic connection is the supreme choice. Fiber internet is recommended for individuals and families who are looking for the highest speeds and maximum uptime. Verizon Fios is one of the top fiber internet providers in New York; thus, it’s a no-brainer to choose it as long as it’s available in your area.
The best thing about signing up with Verizon Fios is that you get symmetrical upload and download speeds with all internet plans. This makes it ideal for content creators and streamers who have to upload big data files on a regular basis.
The 100% fiber connection for your home grants durability and ensures that you never have to compromise on speed during peak hours. The absence of data limits further sweetens the deal. New customers are eligible for amazing discounts or giveaways, which is the cherry on top.
3. Optimum
Connection Type: Cable and Fiber
Speed Range: 300 Mbps – 8000 Mbps
Starting Price: $40/mo.
If you have a big family or home business and wish to sign up for a multi-gig internet plan, Optimum should be able to accommodate you. While cable internet services from the company are easily accessible in most parts of the state, fiber optic connections are limited to select areas.
You can easily get a cable internet connection, giving up to 1000 Mbps speed, which is sometimes considered overkill for residential purposes. The starter package is sufficient to support common online activities in the average household. Optimum rules the market with competitive pricing.
None of the residential internet plans are subject to a data cap, so you can stream and download as much content as you want.
4. Astound Broadband
Connection Type: Cable
Speed Range: 300 Mbps – 1500 Mbps
Starting Price: $20/mo.
If you’re concerned about your budget above everything else, Astound Broadband could be the most feasible option for you. When your usual online activities are limited to browsing, checking social media feeds, occasional streaming, etc., an internet plan offering up to 300Mbps download speed is plenty.
While Astound’s internet plans do appear quite cheap at first glance, it’s important to note that the prices are promotional, and you’ll notice a considerable hike after the two years. Despite all, it can still be considered one of the most economical internet services out there and its overall rating is good.
5. T-Mobile Home Internet
Connection Type: Fixed Wireless
Speed Range: 72 Mbps – 245 Mbps
Starting Price: $60/mo.
All the aforementioned internet providers have one thing in common, i.e., they provide wired internet connections. If you prefer a wireless internet connection for your home for one or more reasons, T-Mobile is the best option in terms of cost and availability.
Wireless internet cannot provide high and consistent speeds like wired networks, so it is not recommended if fiber or cable internet is easily available in your neighborhood. On the contrary, it’s a wonderful facility for households located in remote and rural areas. When a wired internet connection is unattainable, fixed wireless is a fine alternative.
The Verdict
Spectrum is our top choice for households in New York State because its coverage is wide, cost is reasonable, and performance is satisfactory. If you’re looking for ultra-fast symmetrical speeds, you cannot go wrong with Verizon Fios, which provides true fiber connections. In case a wired connection is out of reach, T-Mobile home internet will do alright.
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