Finding the best internet provider in 2025 means balancing speed, reliability, price and availability. The right plan depends on where you live and how your household goes online, from streaming and gaming to remote work and smart-home use.
Our editors analyzed verified data from major national and regional ISPs to identify the top performers across fiber, cable and 5G home internet. This guide highlights providers that deliver the best overall value, reliability and customer satisfaction, so you can choose the right service for your home and budget.
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Our national rankings highlight the top-performing ISPs in the United States for 2025, based on verified data for price, speed, reliability, customer satisfaction and availability. These providers represent the strongest options across major connection types — fiber, cable and 5G fixed wireless — offering a mix of performance and flexibility for households of every size and budget.
Google Fiber: Best for gamersConnection type(s): FiberSpeeds: Up to 8,000 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 15 statesMonthly price: $70 to $150
What we like: Google Fiber consistently delivers some of the fastest and most reliable internet speeds in the country, with equal upload and download performance (aka symmetrical) and quick response times (aka low latency) that’s ideal for gaming. Its straightforward pricing structure — no data caps, contracts or hidden fees — makes it one of the most transparent ISPs available. Customers also benefit from responsive customer support and easy self-installation options.
What we don’t like: Google Fiber’s biggest drawback is its limited availability, which is still confined to select metro areas. It also offers fewer plan options than some competitors, leaving little flexibility for users who want lower-cost, lower-speed tiers. Additionally, bundled services like TV or mobile aren’t available, which may deter customers seeking an all-in-one provider.
Who it’s for: Google Fiber is best for users who prioritize speed, reliability and transparency, such as gamers, remote professionals and households with heavy streaming or connected-device use. It’s also suitable for anyone who wants high-performance internet without contracts, data caps or surprise fees.
Read more: Google Fiber review
Frontier: Best for affordable fiberConnection type(s): Fiber, DSLSpeeds: Up to 5,000 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 29 states, fiber available in 17 statesMonthly price: $29.99 to 109.99 per month
What we like: Frontier Fiber combines affordable pricing with high-performance symmetrical speeds, making it one of the best-value fiber options on the market. Its no-contract plans, unlimited data and expanding footprint in both urban and suburban areas add to its appeal.
What we don’t like: Frontier Fiber’s availability is still limited, especially outside major metros. Customer service reviews remain mixed, with reports of inconsistent support and billing issues in some regions. Additionally, advertised promotional pricing can vary by location, making it harder for consumers to compare costs across markets.
Who it’s for: Frontier Fiber is best for households that want fast, reliable fiber internet at a fair price, especially remote workers, streamers and families who rely on multiple connected devices. It’s a great fit for customers seeking fiber performance without premium pricing or long-term commitments.
Read more: Frontier Fiber review
Verizon 5G: Best for mobile integrationConnection type(s): 5G fixed wirelessSpeeds: up to 1,000 Mbps download / up to 100 Mbps uploadAvailability: 41 states in select 5G coverage zonesMonthly price: $35–$70 per month
What we like: Verizon 5G Home Internet offers impressive wireless speeds and strong network reliability powered by Verizon’s nationwide 5G infrastructure. It’s easy to set up, requires no annual contracts and offers substantial discounts for existing Verizon mobile customers. The bundle savings and flexible plans make it an appealing all-in-one connectivity solution.
What we don’t like: Coverage is still expanding, so availability depends heavily on local 5G signal strength. Performance can fluctuate during peak hours or in areas with network congestion, and speeds may not match fiber consistency for heavy users.
Who it’s for: Verizon 5G is best for Verizon mobile subscribers who want to bundle home and mobile service for added savings, as well as renters and households seeking fast, contract-free internet without installation hassles.
Read more: Verizon 5G review
AT&T: Best for reliabilityConnection type(s): Fiber, fixed wireless (4G/5G), DSL (legacy)Speeds: Up to 5,000 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 22 states, concentrated in the South, Midwest and parts of CaliforniaMonthly price: $45 to $155 per month
What we like: AT&T Fiber stands out for its dependable network performance, consistently fast symmetrical speeds and excellent uptime. The service has no data caps, no contracts and includes straightforward pricing with equipment fees built in. AT&T also earns high customer satisfaction ratings for reliability, especially in areas with newer fiber infrastructure.
What we don’t like: AT&T Fiber’s coverage is still limited compared to its legacy DSL footprint, leaving some rural customers without access. Prices can vary slightly by market, and equipment availability may differ across service areas.
Who it’s for: AT&T Fiber is best for households and professionals who prioritize consistent, high-quality connectivity, ideal for streaming, video conferencing and multi-device homes that rely on stable performance day to day.
Read more: AT&T review
Quantum Fiber: Best for consistent fiberConnection type(s): FiberSpeeds: Up to 8,000 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 16 states, concentrated in western, midwestern and southern marketsMonthly price: $45 to $150 per month
What we like: Quantum Fiber offers reliably fast, symmetrical speeds with simple, transparent pricing and no annual contracts. Its network delivers steady performance with minimal slowdowns, making it a strong choice for households that value consistency over flashy promotions. Customers also benefit from unlimited data and included equipment, which adds value and convenience.
What we don’t like: Availability remains limited, since Quantum Fiber primarily serves areas where Lumen (formerly CenturyLink) has upgraded infrastructure. Customer support and installation experiences can vary by region, and some customers report inconsistent communication during setup.
Who it’s for: Quantum Fiber is best for users who want dependable, no-nonsense fiber internet with predictable billing. It’s great for remote workers, streamers and multi-device households that need stable performance every day.
Read more: Quantum Fiber review
Xfinity: Best for cable internetConnection type(s): Cable (with limited fiber availability in select areas)Speeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps download / up to 200 Mbps uploadAvailability: 36 states, with strong coverage in the Midwest, South and along the East and West CoastsMonthly price: $40 to to $115
What we like: Xfinity offers the widest cable internet availability in the United States, making it accessible to millions of households nationwide. Its plans deliver fast download speeds, competitive bundle options and a robust network that supports streaming, gaming and remote work. Customers can also take advantage of nationwide Wi-Fi hotspots and multi-gig upgrades in select areas.
What we don’t like: Xfinity’s promotional pricing can increase after the first 12 months, and some plans include data caps unless you upgrade to unlimited data. Contract requirements may vary by region, and equipment fees can add to monthly costs.
Who it’s for: Xfinity is best for households that prioritize wide availability and fast cable speeds, especially families who want bundled internet, TV or mobile service from a single provider.
Read more: Xfinity review
Spectrum: Best for contract-free cable internetConnection type(s): CableSpeeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps download / up to 1,000 Mbps uploadAvailability: 41 states, with especially strong coverage across the Midwest, South and East CoastMonthly price: $30 to $90 per month
What we like: Spectrum offers straightforward pricing, no data caps and no annual contracts. Its network delivers consistently fast cable speeds, even during peak hours, and customers can often bundle internet with TV or mobile for additional savings. The lack of long-term commitments adds flexibility for renters or frequent movers.
What we don’t like: Though its 2 Gig plan offers faster upload speeds, upload speeds on lower-tier plans top out at 35 Mbps, lagging behind fiber and 5G competitors, which may affect large file uploads or video conferencing. Pricing can vary by region, and modem or router rental fees can raise the total monthly cost.
Who it’s for: Spectrum is best for households that want reliable, high-speed cable internet without the burden of contracts or data limits. It’s good for everyday streaming, gaming and multi-user homes.
Read more: Spectrum review
T-Mobile: Best for 5G internetConnection type(s): 5G fixed wirelessSpeeds: Up to 415 Mbps download / up to 55 Mbps uploadAvailability: 50 statesMonthly price: $35 to $70 per month
What we like: T-Mobile Home Internet offers unlimited data with no annual contracts, a straightforward plug-in gateway setup and strong value for households wanting wireless flexibility. Its pricing shows real savings when bundled with a mobile plan, and in many homes the service delivers consistent speeds well above typical DSL or satellite internet alternatives.
What we don’t like: Because it’s a fixed-wireless service using radio waves instead of physical wires, performance can vary more than wired options like cable or fiber. Signal strength, local tower capacity and home placement can all affect speeds and reliability. In large homes or ones with many simultaneous users, the upper limits may not match high-end fiber plans.
Who it’s for: This option is ideal for renters, households without access to better wired broadband, mobile users looking to bundle home and phone services or anyone who wants a simple, contract-free internet setup without the need for professional installation.
Read more: T-Mobile home internet review
Brightspeed: Best for emerging fiberConnection type(s): Fiber (some legacy DSL)Speeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 20 statesMonthly price: $29 to $109 per month
What we like: Brightspeed delivers true symmetrical fiber speeds without annual contracts or data caps, offering strong value in underserved markets. Its pricing simplicity and inclusion of modern equipment make it an attractive upgrade for households moving from slower networks.
What we don’t like: Fiber availability remains limited, especially in rural or older service areas, and some customers in non-fiber zones may still be on slower DSL plans. Customer support and rollout speed vary by region.
Who it’s for: Brightspeed is ideal for households in smaller cities or suburban metros who want the benefits of fiber (symmetrical speeds, minimal limbo) but don’t necessarily have access to the largest national providers yet.
Read more: Brightspeed review
Mediacom Xtream: Best for budget cable internetConnection type(s): CableSpeeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps download / up to 1,000 Mbps uploadAvailability: 22 states, primarily in smaller-to-mid-sized markets in the Midwest and SoutheastMonthly price: $30 to $55 per month
What we like: Mediacom Xtream offers strong value with unlimited data, no contract requirements and a budget-friendly entry-point in markets that often have fewer options. Their “fiber-rich” cable network and promotional pricing make it a viable cable alternative for cost-conscious households.
What we don’t like: While speeds go high in some markets, upload speeds are notably lower than symmetrical fiber offerings, and promotional pricing may increase after the intro period. Availability is also more limited compared to national cable giants.
Who it’s for: This service is ideal for households in smaller or regional markets looking for high-speed cable internet at an affordable cost—especially families streaming, gaming or working from home without the need for ultra-high symmetrical upload speeds.
Read more: Mediacom Xtream review
While national providers dominate much of the broadband market, some of the best internet options come from smaller regional ISPs that deliver exceptional service within their local footprints. These companies often lead their regions in speed, transparency and customer satisfaction, offering high-performance fiber or cable connections where larger providers have limited reach.
Here are the top regional internet service providers of 2025, each recognized for outstanding reliability and value in their part of the country.
Verizon Fios: Best in the NortheastKinetic: Best in the SouthMetronet: Best in the MidwestZiply Fiber: Best in the NorthwestSonic: Best in the WestVerizon Fios: Best in the NortheastConnection type(s): FiberSpeeds: Up to 2,300 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 9 states across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, including DE, MA, NY, NJ, PA, RI and VAMonthly price: $49.99 to $109.99
What we like: Verizon Fios consistently ranks among the top ISPs for reliability, customer satisfaction and fiber performance. Its symmetrical speeds, transparent pricing and lack of data caps make it one of the most dependable choices for households that value stable, high-speed connectivity. Verizon’s mix-and-match plans also make it easy to bundle home internet with mobile or streaming services.
What we don’t like: Fios is available only in select East Coast markets, leaving many potential customers ineligible. Promotional prices may vary by region, and professional installation can add to up-front costs.
Who it’s for: Verizon Fios is ideal for households in the Northeast seeking fast, consistent fiber internet with strong customer support and the option to bundle with Verizon mobile or streaming services.
Read more: Verizon Fios review
Kinetic: Best in the SouthConnection type(s): Fiber and hybrid fiber/DSLSpeeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps download symmetricalAvailability: 18 states, with significant coverage in the South and Mid-South regions such as Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and TexasMonthly price: $39.99 to $79.99 per month
What we like: Kinetic delivers strong value in the South with fiber-optic performance, unlimited data, no annual contracts and a focus on underserved suburban and small-city markets. TThe company’s“100% fiber” messaging and multi-gig availability in select areas make it a compelling alternative to national giants.
What we don’t like: In many areas Kinetic’s infrastructure remains mixed (fiber + DSL), and speeds vary dramatically by location; promotional pricing may also change after the initial period.
Who it’s for: Kinetic by Windstream is ideal for households in the South that want dependable high-speed internet with strong value and local service, especially families in suburban or smaller markets wanting fiber performance without the premium of biggest national brands.
Read more: Kinetic review
Metronet: Best in the MidwestConnection type(s): Fiber Speeds: Up to 5,000 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 17 states primarily in the Midwest and North-Central U.S.Monthly price: $29.95 to $109.95 per month
What we like: Metronet delivers true symmetrical fiber in regional markets where national providers often lag, offering no data caps, contract-free plans and strong performance metrics.
What we don’t like: Availability remains limited to specific communities and regions, meaning many homes still don’t have access; promotional pricing may vary widely, and standard rates may increase after the initial term.
Who it’s for: Metronet is ideal for households in the Midwest who want high-performance fiber internet in smaller or mid-sized markets, especially families and remote workers seeking a strong local alternative to national providers.
Read more: Metronet review
Ziply Fiber: Best in the NorthwestConnection type(s): Fiber Speeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: 4 states – Washington, Oregon, Idaho, MontanaMonthly price: $29.95 to $109.95 per month
What we like: Ziply Fiber offers truly symmetrical fiber speeds in its footprint with no data caps and no long-term contracts, making it an excellent choice for multi-device homes, gamers and streamers in the Northwest.
What we don’t like: Its service area remains geographically limited compared to national carriers, and even within its region, the rollout to some neighborhoods is still “coming soon,” so not every household will yet have access.
Who it’s for: Ziply Fiber is ideal for households in Washington, Oregon, Idaho or Montana that want top-tier fiber performance, especially families or workers who need consistent high upload and download speeds and prefer a regional provider over a national conglomerate.
Read more: Ziply review
Sonic: Best in the WestConnection type(s): FiberSpeeds: Up to 8,700 Mbps symmetricalAvailability: Primarily in California metropolitan areas (Northern CA) with limited expansion outside the stateMonthly price: $49.99 to $69.99
What we like: Sonic offers ultra-fast symmetrical fiber speeds and transparent pricing with no data caps or required long‐term contracts, making it a standout choice in its service area. Its customer satisfaction reviews and high-performance ratings show it punching above its size, especially in competitive California markets.
What we don’t like: The major drawback is availability. Sonic’s footprint remains very limited compared to national providers, meaning many households outside key California metro zones cannot access its fiber service. Additionally, some plan renewals and fees (equipment or promo rate resets) have been flagged by customers.
Who it’s for: Sonic is ideal for consumers in its served region who demand high-performance fiber internet and want no data caps or hidden fees.
Read more: Sonic review
Use this table to compare the top national and regional internet providers side by side, including their connection types, speeds, prices, and availability. It’s a quick way to see which ISP offers the best mix of value, reliability, and performance for your location.
Choosing the right internet service isn’t just about finding the fastest speeds; it’s about matching performance, price and reliability to how your household actually uses the web.
Here are the key factors to consider before you sign up:
Speed and connection type:Look for download and upload speeds that match your needs. Gamers, streamers and remote workers often require higher speeds and symmetrical performance. Fiber delivers the fastest and most consistent speeds, while cable offers strong performance in more geographic areas. 5G and fixed wireless are improving rapidly, especially in places where wired connections are limited.
Reliability and latency:Consistency matters as much as speed. Low latency is crucial for gaming, video calls and other real-time tasks, while a reliable network prevents frequent outages during streaming or work meetings.
Price and value:Compare the monthly cost, installation fees and equipment charges to understand the true cost of service. Be aware that promotional rates often increase after the first year, so check standard pricing and whether unlimited data or equipment is included. Avoid providers with hidden fees, surprise charges or confusing promotional rates. The best ISPs offer clear, up-front pricing.
Contracts and flexibility:No-contract plans give you freedom to switch providers if service quality drops or pricing changes. Some ISPs also offer price-lock guarantees or discounts for bundling internet with TV or mobile service.
Availability and customer support:
Even the best plan doesn’t help if it’s not available where you live. Check local coverage maps and reviews to gauge real-world performance and customer satisfaction in your area.
Choosing an internet provider can be overwhelming. Our data-driven, expert-reviewed ranking system makes it easier by delivering unbiased, transparent and actionable insights. This methodology explains how we evaluate and score the best internet service providers in the United States.
The best internet provider is the one that fits your address, habits and budget. If you have access to fiber, it usually delivers the most reliable experience with symmetrical speeds and no data caps; strong cable plans are a close second for broad availability; and 5G/fixed-wireless can be a great value where wired options are limited.
Use our tool to check availability at your address, then compare total monthly cost, equipment/installation fees, data policies and contract terms.
What is the fastest home internet provider in 2025?
The hands-down fastest home internet provider is Sonic, whose advertised speeds reach 10,000 Mbps (closer to 8,700 Mbps in practice), However, it’s available only in California. Fiber-optic ISPs like Google, Quantum, Frontier and AT&T lead with download/upload speeds up to 8 Gbps, putting them among the fastest available
Which internet provider has the best customer satisfaction?
In our evaluation of the American Customer Satisfaction Index, JD Power, Consumer Report and third-party ratings sites, Google Fiber has the best customer satisfaction score, followed closely by Verizon 5G, Starlink, Kinetic, Verizon Fios and AT&T, which all earned an aggregate score in the 90th percentile.
Is 5G home internet reliable enough for gaming?
5G home internet services can deliver competitive latency and solid download speeds, making them viable for casual gaming, though wired fiber still offers the most consistent performance.
What’s the cheapest way to get high-speed internet?
The cheapest way to get high-speed internet is to compare entry-level fiber, cable and 5G plans in your area. Many start around $30 to $50 per month with speeds of 100 Mbps or more. Providers like Frontier Fiber, Mediacom Xtream, and T-Mobile Home Internet often run introductory or bundle discounts that keep costs low. For a detailed comparison of low-cost options, see our guide to the best cheap internet providers of 2025.
Can I switch ISPs without paying cancellation fees?
Many ISPs now offer contract-free plans that allow you to switch without paying early-termination fees, though you should still check for equipment return requirements or local promotion terms.