Spectrum Internet Review

Spectrum boasts affordable and fast internet. But just how reliable is it? Read on to know the prices, speeds, and if it's worth it.

	Overall Score	3.2
	Price	2.5
	Customer Service	3.5
	Reliability	3.6
	Speed	3.3

5-point scale (the higher, the better)

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Pros and Cons

• No term contract
• No data caps
• Good starting prices

• Limited plans
• Pricey standard rates
• Slow upload speeds

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Bottom Line

Internet provider with better customer reviews than others, but pricier.

Unreliable connection is always a hassle. You're constantly being disturbed because of internet outages or lags.

Additionally, most big names in the internet service get complaints on reliability. But Spectrum? It might be the exception.

Its customers actually praise the company for the steady connection. That said, Spectrum does offer steeper pricing.

Keep scrolling to find out if it's worth it.

What is Spectrum?

Spectrum is the cable TV, internet, telephone, and wireless service arm of Charter Communications—a broadband connectivity company and cable operator.

The company has been serving over 32 million customers across 41 states in the U.S., specifically the states listed below.

So will it work well for you? Read on.

Who is Spectrum internet best for

Spectrum can be a good choice if you have the budget, considering its pricier than competitors. It offers fast download speeds which can be handy for any type of internet work.

Additionally, because of the speeds it offers, Spectrum can cater to a household of 10 people, and even businesses that have about 50 people connected to the internet.

That said, if you upload huge files regularly, you may want to look elsewhere. Since Spectrum primarily carries cable internet, they don't offer fast upload speeds.

The pros and cons may help you decide if Spectrum is for you.

Spectrum Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Up to 1 Gbps internet speed
  
• Affordable starting prices
  
• No term contract
  
• Fast download speeds
  
• No data caps

Cons:

• Limited number of internet plans
  
• Pricier standard rates
  
• Slow upload speeds

Spectrum Internet Plans, Prices, and Speeds

Spectrum has 2 standard service offerings. Check out the base prices of each:^[2][3]

Note that prices may vary depending on your location. Add-ons will affect the cost as well.

Spectrum has improved its internet service in most areas through the use of hybrid coaxial and fiber technology. Below are the speeds to note.

You won't need to worry about your data usage because Spectrum offers unlimited data.

That said, Spectrum doesn't specify if it has priority data. But it does have a disclaimer that the advertised speed isn't guaranteed at all times.

How do I choose a Spectrum Internet plan?

You'll want to choose an internet plan that suits your needs. This can be a bit tricky since you don't want to pay a higher price for a speed that you won't even fully maximize.

Here's how you can make a choice:

Internet Premier (500 Mbps)
Internet Premier is great for places with up to 20 people simultaneously using the internet. 500 Mbps is huge.

You can stream movies in 4K on multiple devices simultaneously without any buffering problems.

Here's what else you can do with it:

• Be in video conferences with more than 100 people on the call
  
• Play online games on multiple devices at once
  
• Stream and download movies simultaneously without issues

Internet Gig (1Gbps)
This plan is great for places with up to 50 people connected to and using the internet.

The download speed is twice as fast as Internet Premier. Theoretically, you can do everything previously mentioned all at the same time with no issues.

This internet speed is ideal for a business setting with many employees connected and using the internet simultaneously.

Spectrum Billing Information

Once you've subscribed to Spectrum Internet, here are some of the fees you might see on your bill every month:^[4]

• Internet plan ($50 to $70/mo for the first 12 months)
  This is the price of the plan of your choice. It may vary depending on your location.

• Wi-Fi service: $7/mo
  You get one free modem with any plan. But you'll pay $7/mo if you choose to rent Spectrum's WiFi router. However, you can skip the fee by using your compatible router.

• Applicable government/non-government taxes
  There are taxes to look out for. The price you pay will depend on the laws of your state.

• One-time installation fee ($30 to $65)
  This is the fee you pay to install the WiFi. You'll pay $30 if you choose self-installation. You're paying for the service activation charge.

  If you choose to have it installed by a professional, you'll be paying $65.

Considering all these fees, it begs the question...

Is Spectrum internet worth it?

Spectrum Internet can be worth it if you're looking for a reliable internet connection and are willing to pay more for it. If you don't really mind the slower upload speeds, it can be worth checking out.

That said, make sure that your plan of choice caters to the ideal number of users. You wouldn't want to overspend on a plan if you don't need it.

If you're convinced of Spectrum, here's how you can get started.

How to order from Spectrum Internet

To subscribe to a Spectrum Internet plan:

1. Go to Spectrum's website.
   
2. Input your address then click "Check Availability."
   
3. Select a plan plus any additional routers/modems you want, then click "Checkout."
   
4. Input your contact and billing information.
   
5. Select how you want to get your installation kit (delivered or pick-up).
   
6. Submit your order. Your total bill should be sent to your email.
   
7. Call 855-436-5187 and pay using a credit or debit card.

Remember to pay before the technician arrives.

How to Cancel Spectrum Internet Subscription

If you want to cancel your Spectrum Internet subscription, call the cancellation hotline at 833-267-6094.

You'll have to verify your account details with the agent. But if you call using the mobile number associated with the account, the Spectrum agent should already have your account information.

Spectrum doesn't have a term contract so you won't need to worry about any early termination fees.

That said, after you cancel your subscription, you'll need to return your equipment to Spectrum. Otherwise, you'll be charged a fee.

How to return your Spectrum equipment?

There are 4 ways to return your Spectrum equipment:

• Spectrum Store Drop-off
  Drop off your equipment directly at a Spectrum store.

• UPS
  Go to any UPS store and then mention that you're returning your Spectrum equipment. They will package and ship it to Spectrum for free.

• Home Shipment Return Kit
  You can request a home shipment return kit from Spectrum by calling (833) 267-6094. Spectrum will send you a cardboard box with a return label and bubble wrap.

  Then just bring the package to a FedEx store or a drop-off box.

• Equipment Pickup (for people with a disability)
  Call Spectrum at (833) 267-6094 to request a pickup.

Not quite sold on Spectrum Internet yet? Here's what clients have to say about them.

Spectrum Customer Reviews

Spectrum has mixed reviews when it comes to its internet services. But compared to competitors, it has better reviews.

Check out what Philece has to say about it:

Specifically, Spectrum gets praised for the reliability of its internet connection. That said, common customer complaints talk about:

• Bad customer service
  
• Unilateral price raise
  
• Slower speeds than the advertised speed

Here's what Jimmy has to say:

If you're experiencing some of these problems, you can get in contact with Spectrum customer service.

Spectrum Customer Service

Spectrum's customer support hotline is at 833-267-6094. Alternatively, you can read support articles for general or frequently asked questions.

How Spectrum Internet Compares

If Spectrum still doesn't feel quite right, there are alternatives you can check out.

Spectrum vs. Optimum

Given the number of plans offered, you have more choices with Optimum regarding speed and pricing. You may find a better option that fit your needs and budget.

Additionally, Spectrum's standard rates are a little more expensive compared to Optimum.

And while Optimum offers fiber internet plans, Spectrum only offers hybrid coaxial and fiber technology. This results in Spectrum having slower upload speeds.

That said, if Optimum isn't available in your area, chances are Spectrum might be. Optimum is only available in 21 states while Spectrum is available in twice as many states.

Spectrum vs. Verizon

Verizon offers an internet speed of up to 2 Gbps, while Spectrum only offers up to 1 Gbps. So, if Spectrum doesn't offer enough for your needs, you can check out Verizon instead.

Regarding prices, Spectrum's and Verizon's aren't too far off. However, Spectrum's normal rates are a little pricier compared to Verizon.

In terms of serviced locations, Spectrum is available in significantly more states than Verizon.

Bottom Line

Spectrum is a pretty good choice if you're looking for an edge in terms of internet reliability. Spectrum has been getting better reviews than other internet service providers in this aspect.

The caveat, like for many other internet providers, is poor customer service. And the fact that Spectrum has steeper prices than their competitors.

To recap, here are Spectrum's standard rates:

• Internet Premier (500 Mbps): $80/mo
  
• Internet Gig (1 Gbps): $100/mo

If you think better reliability is worth the steeper prices, Spectrum might be worth it. But if you're looking to get more affordable internet or fast upload speeds, then Spectrum isn't for you.

References