Connection type
Cable internet plans fast and everywhere.
Cable reaches the vast majority of U.S. addresses and delivers gigabit downloads. The trade-offs are slower uploads and promo pricing that steps up after the first year — both easy to plan for once you can see them.
- $30/mo
- Plans from
- 100 Mbps – 2 Gbps
- Typical speeds
- 6
- Providers compared
Compare plans by ZIP
Free and no obligation. Providers confirm exact availability and final terms.
What matters most
Best for: Streaming-heavy families who want gigabit downloads without waiting for fiber.
Nearly nationwide
Cable is available at roughly 9 in 10 U.S. addresses.
Gigabit downloads
More than enough headroom for 4K on every screen at once.
Self-install friendly
Most cable orders ship a modem you can activate in 20 minutes.
Upside
- Wide availability
- Gigabit download tiers
- Frequent promo pricing
- Bundle options with TV
Trade-offs
- Uploads are a fraction of downloads
- Prices step up after promo
- Speeds dip during peak hours
Providers to compare
Ranked by our composite score of value, speed and satisfaction.
Spectrum
4.1Wide cable coverage with no data caps and no contracts, plus a contract buyout for switchers still stuck with another provider.
From $50/mo · up to 1 Gbps
Xfinity
4.2The widest range of speed tiers in the industry, from budget starter plans to multi-gig, with frequent price-lock promotions.
From $35/mo · up to 2 Gbps
Cox Communications
3.9Strong cable coverage across the Southwest and Southeast with flexible tiers and a low-cost plan for qualifying households.
From $40/mo · up to 2 Gbps
Optimum
4.0Competitive Northeast and Gulf Coast pricing with fiber in select markets and a price-for-life guarantee on some plans.
From $40/mo · up to 8 Gbps
Mediacom
3.7Cable service focused on smaller Midwest and Southern communities that larger providers skipped.
From $30/mo · up to 1 Gbps
WOW! Internet
4.1Midwest and Southeast cable with unusually low entry pricing, unlimited data, and no contracts.
From $30/mo · up to 5 Gbps
Prices are illustrative entry-level estimates — providers control pricing, terms, and availability.
Cable internet FAQs
Why is my cable upload speed so low?
Cable networks were built to send more data down than up. Expect 10–35 Mbps upload on most plans unless the provider has upgraded the node.
What happens after the promo ends?
Most cable prices rise $15–$30 a month at month 13. We show the post-promo price up front so it never surprises you.
See cable internet options at your address
One free ZIP search compares illustrative prices, speeds and terms from providers with footprints in your area.