September 18, 2024

Cox Internet

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Cox boasts steady and reliable internet. With speeds of up to 2 GB, is it worth the price? And does it deliver its promises? Find out in this article.

5-point scale (the higher, the better)

Pros and Cons

  • Great bundles
  • No term contract
  • Good customer service reviews
  • Data caps
  • Pricey plans
  • Poor reviews on reliability

Bottom Line

Internet provider with great bundle offers but pricey internet-only plans

An unstable internet connection can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you're in the zone and feeling productive.

Even worse is the time wasted waiting for your connection to come back and waiting to speak with a customer service agent.

Fortunately, Cox Internet could be the solution. With positive reviews for customer service and a variety of plans to choose from, Cox might just be the answer to your productivity woes.

Read on for everything it has to offer.

What Is Cox Communications?

Cox Communications (formerly Cox Broadcasting Corporation) is one of the largest broadband companies in the US.

It provides internet, mobile, TV and streaming, smart home, and home phone services.

What factors are most important to you when choosing an internet service provider?

Who Is Cox Internet Best For?

Cox Internet is perfect for gamers and streamers. It's great for activities requiring high speeds, such as video streaming or playing FPS-heavy games. With speeds reaching up to 2 Gbps, Cox ensures a seamless and fast online experience.

Additionally, Cox Internet is an excellent choice for those planning to move to a new place. With some of the best bundles available, you can conveniently combine your home entertainment, phone plan, and internet services at a great rate (more on this below).

Service Locations
Cox is available in 19 states across the USA. These service areas include:[1]

  • Arkansas
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Connecticut
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Iowa
  • Idaho
  • Kansas
  • Lousiana
  • Massachusetts
  • Missouri
  • North Carolina
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Rhode Island
  • Virginia

Who should skip Cox Internet?

Cox isn't for those who are on a budget since it has pricier internet plans compared to its competitors. For comparison, Optimum's 2 Gbps plan costs $130, while Cox offers a similar plan for $150.

Optimum uses fiber, providing symmetrical upload and download speeds. In contrast, Cox doesn't use fiber, resulting in significantly slower upload speeds.

How important is internet speed to you in choosing a provider?

If you're on the fence about trying Cox Internet, here are more of its upsides and downsides.

Cox Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Great bundle options
  • Fastest internet speed is 2 GB
  • No term contract
  • Good customer reviews on customer service

Cons

  • Data caps
  • Slow upload speeds
  • Pricier than competitors
  • Poor customer reviews on reliability

Is Cox Internet good for gaming?
Cox Internet offers speeds that can handle gaming. You can play different games depending on the Mbps you choose.

Cox Plans and Prices

Cox offers 5 plans with no term agreement. This lets you cancel anytime without incurring an early termination fee.

PlanPrice Per Month
Go Fast (100 Mbps)Starts at $50
Go Faster (250 Mbps)Starts at $70
Go Even Faster (500 Mbps)Starts at $90
Go Super Fast (1 Gbps)Starts at $110
Go Beyond Fast (2 Gbps)Starts at $150

The 2 GB plan is new and not available in all states, so be sure to check if it's offered in your area.

Discounted Internet:
If you're looking for a cheaper option, Cox offers discounted internet through ConnectAssist for $30. Be sure to review the eligibility requirements before applying.

ConnectAssist Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, you need to be:[2]

  • A qualifying residential customer in Cox service areas
  • Participating in an eligible government assistance program like:

    • SNAP
    • Women, Infants and Children Program
    • Certain Public Housing programs
    • Pell Grant
    • Veterans Pension
    • Certain Tribal programs
    • Supplemental Security Income
    • Certain state Medicaid programs

Unfortunately, you get a data cap regardless of your plan. Take note of the details in the next section.

Cox Speeds and Data Caps

PlanDownload SpeedUpload SpeedData cap
Go Fast100 Mbps5 Mpbs1.25 TB
Go Faster250 Mbps10 Mbps1.25 TB
Go Even Faster500 Mbps10 Mbps1.25 TB
Go Super Fast1 Gbps35 Mbps1.25 TB
Go Beyond Fast2 Gbps100 Mbps1.25 TB

Cox has different upload and download speeds for each plan.[3] And although there's a data cap, it's higher than most competitors.

If you exceed the cap for the first time, Cox will issue a courtesy credit to cover any charges for that billing cycle.

However, if you exceed the data cap again in future billing cycles, Cox will automatically add 50 GB for $10 each time, up to a $100 limit of data overage charges or until your next usage cycle begins.

What is the difference between a data cap and priority data?
Priority data is usually found in unlimited data plans. This means your internet provider allocates a certain amount of data per month and if you exceed this, your speed is reduced but you still have access to data.

Data caps, on the other hand, refer to a set amount of data you can use each month. If you exceed this limit, you'll incur additional charges.

If you're looking to purchase more than an internet connection, you may benefit from a bundle.

Cox Bundles

Cox provides a wide variety of affordable bundles packed with great features. From a TV box, camera, phone plan, and more, check out what you can get below.

Internet + Contour TV Box
For the Internet + Contour TV Box bundles, take note that you'll be getting a Contour Stream Player (4K streaming box and Voice Remote) and not a TV plan.

There is no term agreement for 100 Mbps and 250 Mbps bundles. Other bundles require you to subscribe for 1 year.

BundlePrice
100 Mbps internet + Contour Stream Player$50
250 Mbps + Contour Stream Player$70
500 Mbps + Contour Stream Player$90
1 Gbps + Contour Stream Player$120

With the Contour Stream Player, you'll be able to access streaming apps, and On Demand content that can be purchased, rented, or subscribed to.

Internet + TV bundles
For the Internet + TV bundle, you'll receive Internet service plus Contour TV Preferred, which includes 140+ channels and a Contour Box. This bundle requires a 1-year term agreement.

BundlePrice
100 Mbps + Contour TV Preferred$162
1 Gbps + Contour TV Preferred$232

Internet + TV + HomeLife
With this bundle, you get Contour TV Preferred, internet, and a Homelife base package so you can watch over your home from anywhere using the Panoramic Wi-Fi app.

The Homelife base package includes:

  • 1 HD Camera (equipment fee applies)
  • Continuous Video Recording for up to four cameras
  • EasyConnect installation for Homelife

Prices start at $177 for this plan. Plus, you're required to subscribe to a 1-year term agreement.

Internet + TV + Phone
Along with your internet plan, you'll also get Contour TV Preferred and a phone plan. Note that a 1-year term agreement is required.

BundlePrice
100 Mbps + Contour TV Preferred + Voice Preferred$182
500 Mbps + Contour TV Preferred + Voice Preferred$222
1 Gbps + Contour TV Preferred + Voice Preferred$252

Here are some of the phone plan features:

  • Block robocalls
  • Simultaneous ring
  • Call return
  • Speed Dial 8
  • Speed Dial 30
  • Call forwarding
  • Call waiting
  • 3-way calling
  • Selective call forwarding
  • Block selective calls
  • Caller ID
  • Call waiting ID

Is Cox Wi-Fi unlimited?
No. Cox Internet has a data cap of 1.25 TB. But you can purchase unlimited data as an add-on.

Cox Add-ons

If bundling isn't for you but you still want to customize your plan, Cox provides various add-ons you can select at checkout.

Cox Complete Care: starts at $10/month[4]
With this add-on, you'll have access to 24/7 tech support and protection from costly calls regarding repairs.

Some services include repairing, replacing, installing wires, troubleshooting of Cox equipment, and answering questions regarding Cox service or equipment. You can find the rest of the inclusions and disqualifications on the website.

Cox doesn't include fees related to installation or removal or relocation services, complex wiring, onsite computer configuration assistance, installation of home entertainment, wiring damage caused by vandalism, fire, flood, earthquake, Acts of God, gross negligence, or willful damage.

Unlimited Data with Complete Care: starts at $110/month[5]
With this add-on you'll get unlimited data, an expert tech to assist you 24/7, and protection from costly calls regarding repairs.

You'll be required to enter into a 24-month term agreement.

Contour Stream Player: starts at $5/month
This add-on gives you a TV player (it's not a TV plan).

Cox Homelife: starts at $15/month
This is a home security add-on. You can add up to 6 HD cameras in your house and keep an eye on your home from anywhere.

What do you think of the value for money offered by Cox Internet plans and bundles?

Cox Billing Information

Here are some of the fees you'll encounter in your monthly bill:

  • Your plan plus any add-ons ($50 to $150+)
    This is the main thing you pay for. The prices may vary depending on your plan of choice, add-ons you choose, your location, etc.

  • Equipment ($0 to $15)[6]
    This is the equipment that you pay for with your internet plan. You can choose to either pay $15/month for the Panoramic Wi-Fi or not pay any if you use your own equipment.

    In the first 2 years of your contract with Cox, they'll throw in the Panoramic Wi-Fi for free.

  • One-time installation fee ($0 to $100)
    You can opt to have a Cox technician install your equipment for $100 or you can install it yourself at no extra cost.

  • Government and non-government fees
    These are the taxes you have to pay. The amount may vary depending on your state laws.

Given all of these features and prices, should you go for Cox?

Is Cox worth it?

Cox is worth it if you're looking to get a bundled service. Internet prices alone aren't worth it since you'll find cheaper internet elsewhere. Plus, Cox internet isn't exactly known for its reliability.

But if you're moving or you want to switch internet providers, as well as home entertainment and phone services, then Cox is definitely worth it.

If you're interested, read on to learn how to order.

How to Order Cox Internet

Here's how to order a Cox Internet plan:

  1. Go to the Cox homepage. At the top of the homepage, click Products then a drop-box should appear.
  2. Select Order Cox Services.
  3. Enter your address, then click Check Availability.
  4. Scroll down and look for Shop Internet. Click View Plans.
  5. Choose your speed.
  6. Select the Panoramic Wi-Fi equipment ($15) or your own equipment.
  7. Choose add-ons (if any).
  8. Enter all your personal information and pay your bill.

Cox Internet doesn't require you to enter into a term contract. You can cancel anytime without paying an early termination fee.

How to Cancel Cox Internet

If you'd like to cancel your service, call the Cox customer service hotline at 800-234-3993. Just tell the customer service agent that you want to cancel your plan.

Cox Customer Reviews

Like other internet providers, Cox has received mixed reviews. Some customers praised Cox for its good customer service, while others appreciated the great selection of bundles available.

Here's what Hyrum has to say:

"I just got off the phone with Jessica and she did a phenomenal job! When we installed the service they told us they wouldn't charge for a certain aspect, then the bill came a month later with the charge on it. So I called in to correct it.

She apologized for the miscommunication and credited our account for the discrepancy. To me that is the sign of a great company taking responsibility. I recommend them so far!" (From ConsumerAffairs)

However, other people have a bad experience with Cox. They mainly complain about:

  • Unreliable connection
  • Frequent price raises
  • Speeds lower than advertised speed
  • Overcharges on the monthly bills

Check out what Paul has to say:

"I was recommended Cox Internet when I moved into my apartment by the complex. The Internet went down several times a month, there was an outage for over three weeks, and anytime you would inquire about the problem, they would just say 'having issues in your area' or 'maintenance'.

I work from home and rely on the Internet. My contract ends at the end of December, and I am so happy to be changing services. I have not had this bad of services since dial up internet. As new people moved into the complex, I tried to warn them before getting Cox." (From ConsumerAffairs)

Cox Customer Service

If you're having trouble with your internet plan or have some questions, you can:

How Cox Compares

Still not sure if you want to go with Cox? See how it compares to other internet providers.

Cox vs. Verizon Fios

CoxVerizon Fios
SpeedUp to 2 GbpsUp to 2 Gbps
Data Offered1.2 TBNo data caps
Plans OfferedStarts at $50/moStarts at $49.99/mo (w/ Auto Pay)

If you're looking for a cheaper option, Verizon Fios is a better choice. Cox plans are pricier. Plus Verizon has higher customer ratings for reliability and customer service support.

That said, both providers offer a wide variety of plans with speeds up to 2 Gbps. Like Cox, Verizon doesn't charge early termination fees, so you can cancel easily if you're not satisfied with the service.

Cox vs. Spectrum

CoxSpectrum
SpeedUp to 2 GbpsUp to 1 Gbps
Data Offered1.2 TBNo data caps
Plans OfferedStarts at $50/moStarts at $50/mo for 12 months

Pricing varies between the two providers. Some of Cox's plans are more expensive than Spectrum's. For example, Cox's 500 Mbps plan starts at $90, while Spectrum's standard price is $80. Cox's 1 Gbps plan costs $120, compared to Spectrum's $100.

However, if you're looking for more variety, Cox offers five plans compared to Spectrum's two standard options.

Additionally, if your internet activities require fast internet like video streaming or fast paced games, then Cox has an internet plan that goes up to 2 Gbps. Spectrum only offers up to 1 Gbps.

That said, for data-heavy usage, Spectrum is better since it has no data caps.

Bottom Line

Cox is a great option if you're looking to bundle your internet plan with another service. You'll get the most out of Cox if you subscribe to one of their bundles.

This is because Cox's internet plans alone aren't the cheapest. You'll probably find better deals with other internet providers.

To recap, here are the plans that Cox offers:

  • Go Fast (100 Mbps): $50
  • Go Faster (250 Mbps): $70
  • Go Even Faster (500 Mbps): $90
  • Go Super Fast (1 Gbps): $110
  • Go Beyond Fast (2 Gbps): $150

Having said this, if you're looking to get reliable internet or even cheaper internet, then Cox may not be the best option.

References

  1. ^ Cox. Cox Service Areas, Retrieved 08/19/2024
  2. ^ Cox. Low-Cost Internet, Retrieved 08/19/2024
  3. ^ Cox. Speeds and Data Plans Information for Internet Service, Retrieved 08/19/2024
  4. ^ Cox. Cox Complete Care, Retrieved 08/19/2024
  5. ^ Cox. Add Internet Data to Your Plan, Retrieved 08/19/2024
  6. ^ Cox. Panoramic Wifi, Retrieved 08/19/2024

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