FindBetterInternet

HAWTHORNE, CA INTERNET

Find internet providers in Hawthorne, CA

Find internet offered in Hawthorne, CA – easily compare options from multiple providers to find the plan that best fits your needs.

We analyzed 30 census tracts and 2 ZIP codes across Hawthorne using our Speed Score methodology to give you the real picture of what’s available. For most residents, AT&T, Spectrum, and Verizon offer the broadest coverage, though Starlink, T-Mobile, and HughesNet can work well for specific situations. We rank providers by actual serviceability in your area—not by who pays us the biggest commission—because you deserve straightforward, honest data when choosing your internet. —The FindBetterInternet Team

Person using internet

Shop and compare 7 internet providers for Hawthorne, CA

The 30-Second Verdict

Updated

If you want the fastest connection in Hawthorne, AT&T fiber is the headliner, though it’s picky about where it lands: its top-tier 5000/5000 Mbps plan reaches about 31 percent of the city, with another 14 percent getting gigabit fiber. That kind of symmetrical speed is genuine overkill for most folks, but it’s a dream for heavy work-from-home, big file uploads, competitive gaming, or a busy household of devices. Fiber is especially strong out in Del Aire (90304), where nearly half the ZIP can grab that 5-gig service. For most people, though, the smarter question is whether you really need multi-gig. Spectrum cable covers about 93 percent of Hawthorne at up to 1000/35 Mbps, and it wins big in Holly Glen (90250) and around 90251 — plenty for streaming, browsing, and Zoom classes at Hawthorne Math and Science Academy, usually cheaper too. If neither reaches you, T-Mobile or Verizon fixed wireless (up to 300/20 Mbps) makes a decent budget backup, and Starlink is the last-resort fallback. Coverage flips street to street, so confirm your exact address — and if you’re renting, make sure the unit is actually wired for fiber.

Speeds up to 5000 Mbps

Plans start at $55 /mo *


Coverage ~95.8% of city
Upload speeds 5000 Mbps
Connection type Copper, Fiber, Licensed Fixed Wireless
98

Speed Score: Faster than 98% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

98

Local data shows excellent speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers some of the best speeds available in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 5000 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 5000 Mbps
Avg. Latency Low

The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.

EST. CAPABILITIES

Streaming

Excellent

Multi-device

Excellent

Gaming

Excellent

Whole home

Excellent

THE TAKEAWAY

Our recommendation for Hawthorne

If you can get AT&T fiber at your address, it’s a top-tier choice, with plans reaching up to 5000↓/5000↑ Mbps and an outstanding 98/100 speed score that sits well above Hawthorne’s 62 average. Fiber availability is limited, though, reaching only about 31% of the city for the fastest tier, so check your specific address. If you’re limited to AT&T’s copper/DSL options (speed scores ranging from 3 to 52), expect basic performance suited only for light use, and it’s worth checking what other technologies are available at your location first.

About AT&T

AT&T covers most of Hawthorne, but your experience will vary dramatically depending on what’s available at your address. If you’re in the 30.7% of areas with fiber access, you’ll get excellent speeds (up to 5000 Mbps) that rank in the top tier statewide, but most residents will only have access to slower copper/DSL options (10-100 Mbps) with below-average speed scores that may struggle with streaming and video calls. Definitely check if AT&T Fiber is available at your specific address first—if not, you should compare other providers to see if they offer faster cable or fiber service in your area.

Available Plans

3
Copper
10 Mbps Download
1 Mbps Upload
Coverage 38.1% of city
98
Fiber
5000 Mbps Download
5000 Mbps Upload
Coverage 30.7% of city
39
Licensed Fixed Wireless
25 Mbps Download
3 Mbps Upload
Coverage 29.2% of city
43
Copper
50 Mbps Download
10 Mbps Upload
Coverage 27.1% of city
48
Copper
75 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 20.2% of city
52
Copper
100 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 18.2% of city
91
Fiber
1000 Mbps Download
1000 Mbps Upload
Coverage 13.7% of city
58
Licensed Fixed Wireless
100 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 8.7% of city
31
Copper
25 Mbps Download
5 Mbps Upload
Coverage 8.2% of city

Speeds may vary based on location and network conditions. AT&T Fiber plans: No annual contract, no data caps, symmetrical upload/download speeds. AT&T Internet Air (wireless): Speeds typically 40-140 Mbps. Equipment fee of $10/mo applies unless using customer-owned equipment where eligible. Autopay & paperless billing required for advertised pricing; without autopay, additional $10/mo charge applies. Limited availability – service and speeds not available in all areas. Internet speed claims represent maximum wired network service capability speeds and actual customer speeds may vary. Installation fees may apply. Early termination fees may apply to fixed wireless services. Additional terms apply.

Speeds up to 1000 Mbps

Plans start at $49.99 /mo *


Coverage ~92.9% of city
Upload speeds 35 Mbps
Connection type Cable
86

Speed Score: Faster than 86% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

86

Local data shows excellent speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers some of the best speeds available in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 1000 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 35 Mbps
Avg. Latency Low

The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.

EST. CAPABILITIES

Streaming

Excellent

Multi-device

Good

Gaming

Good

Whole home

Good

THE TAKEAWAY

Our recommendation for Hawthorne

Spectrum is a solid, reliable choice in Hawthorne, delivering cable speeds up to 1000↓/35↑ Mbps with a strong Speed Score of 86/100—well above the city average of 62. Its cable network reaches nearly 93% of the city, so it’s widely available and handles streaming, gaming, and multiple connected devices with ease. Just note the upload speed is modest at 35 Mbps, which is typical for cable, so heavy uploaders may want to weigh that against their needs.

About Spectrum

Spectrum is an excellent choice for Hawthorne residents, offering cable internet with download speeds up to 1000 Mbps to an impressive 92.9% of the area. With a speed score of 86/100, these speeds rank in the top tier for the state and will easily handle streaming, gaming, working from home, and multiple connected devices. The only notable limitation is the 35 Mbps upload speed, which may be a consideration if you frequently upload large files or stream content.

Available Plans

86
Cable
1000 Mbps Download
35 Mbps Upload
Coverage 92.9% of city

Speeds based on wired connection and may vary. Wireless speeds may vary. Requires Spectrum Internet service and modem. Free modem included; WiFi router is $5/mo or free with Internet Gig plan. No data caps. No annual contract required on standard plans. Promotional rate for 12 months; standard rates apply after promotional period. Installation fees may apply ($49.99 professional installation or free self-install kit). Early termination fees may apply if bundled services are disconnected. Equipment must be returned upon service termination or fees apply. Pricing, services, and availability subject to change without notice. Not available in all areas.

Speeds up to 1000 Mbps

Plans start at $35 /mo *


Coverage ~68.7% of city
Upload speeds 75 Mbps
Connection type Licensed Fixed Wireless
81

Speed Score: Faster than 81% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

81

Local data shows excellent speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers some of the best speeds available in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 1000 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 75 Mbps
Avg. Latency Medium

The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.

EST. CAPABILITIES

Streaming

Good

Multi-device

Adequate

Gaming

Adequate

Whole home

Good

THE TAKEAWAY

Our recommendation for Hawthorne

Verizon serves about 68.7% of Hawthorne with licensed fixed wireless, and if you can get their top tier at your address, the 1000↓/75↑ Mbps plan earns a strong 81/100 speed score—well above the city’s 62 average and competitive for most households. More widely available is their 300↓/20↑ Mbps option (78/100), a good pick that comfortably handles streaming, video calls, and everyday use across 62.2% of the city. Keep in mind that fixed wireless can be more sensitive to weather and network congestion than a wired connection, so if you need rock-solid, low-latency performance for gaming or heavy uploads, it’s worth confirming whether a wired option is available at your address.

About Verizon

Verizon covers about 68.7% of Hawthorne with Licensed Fixed Wireless service, which can be adequate but isn’t as reliable as fiber or cable. The good news is that most covered areas have access to their 300/20 Mbps plan (Speed Score: 78/100, better than average), though speeds may not be sufficient for households with heavy streaming or multiple users. I’d recommend checking if fiber or cable providers are available at your address first, as they’d offer more consistent performance for modern internet needs.

Available Plans

78
Licensed Fixed Wireless
300 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 62.2% of city
81
Licensed Fixed Wireless
1000 Mbps Download
75 Mbps Upload
Coverage 18.3% of city
44
Licensed Fixed Wireless
50 Mbps Download
5 Mbps Upload
Coverage 3.4% of city

Speeds: Fios speeds are wired and based on maximum wired speed to your router. Actual speeds may vary. 5G Home Internet speeds vary with location and conditions. Fees: Monthly equipment charges may apply; router purchase option available. One-time setup/activation fees may apply. Contracts: Generally no annual contract required; month-to-month service available. Data: No data caps on Fios plans. Early termination: If promotional pricing applied, early termination may result in charges. Availability varies by address. Additional taxes, fees, and surcharges apply.

Speeds up to 220 Mbps

Plans start at $120 /mo *


Coverage ~100.0% of city
Upload speeds 30 Mbps
Connection type Ngso Satellite
69

Speed Score: Faster than 69% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

69

Local data shows below average speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 220 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 30 Mbps
Avg. Latency High

The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.

EST. CAPABILITIES

Streaming

Adequate

Multi-device

Poor

Gaming

Poor

Whole home

Adequate

THE TAKEAWAY

Our recommendation for Hawthorne

Starlink’s satellite service covers 100% of Hawthorne with download speeds up to 220 Mbps and a speed score of 69/100, slightly above the city average of 62. That said, satellite internet comes with higher latency than wired connections, which can affect video calls and online gaming. Since Hawthorne is served by both fiber and cable options, it’s worth checking what wired technologies are available at your specific address before committing—Starlink is best suited for locations where those faster, lower-latency options aren’t accessible.

About Starlink

Starlink offers satellite internet with 220 Mbps download speeds across 100% of Hawthorne, earning a speed score of 69/100 (below average for the state). While this is faster than traditional satellite and adequate for most everyday activities, satellite technology comes with inherent limitations like higher latency and weather sensitivity that can affect video calls and gaming. Before choosing Starlink, check if fiber or cable providers serve your specific address, as those technologies typically offer more reliable performance for similar or better speeds.

Available Plans

69
Ngso Satellite
220 Mbps Download
30 Mbps Upload
Coverage 100.0% of city

Speeds: 25-100 Mbps download typical, with brief periods of higher speeds up to 220 Mbps. Upload speeds 5-10 Mbps typical. Speeds vary based on location, time of day, and network congestion. Latency 25-60ms typical. No data caps. No contracts – cancel anytime. One-time hardware purchase of $599 for standard dish and router (or $12/mo financing available in some areas). $50 shipping and handling fee. Service requires clear view of sky. 30-day trial period – full refund if returned within 30 days. Best effort service – speeds not guaranteed. Network management during congestion may prioritize certain traffic types. Monthly service fee subject to change.

Speeds up to 100 Mbps

Plans start at $50 /mo *


Coverage ~91.4% of city
Upload speeds 20 Mbps
Connection type Licensed Fixed Wireless
58

Speed Score: Faster than 58% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

58

Local data shows below average speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 100 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 20 Mbps
Avg. Latency Medium

The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.

EST. CAPABILITIES

Streaming

Good

Multi-device

Adequate

Gaming

Adequate

Whole home

Good

THE TAKEAWAY

Our recommendation for Hawthorne

T-Mobile covers about 91.4% of Hawthorne with fixed wireless service, so availability is broad—but the technology and speeds are on the modest side. Their faster plan tops out at 100↓/20↑ Mbps with a speed score of 58/100, which falls below the city average of 62, and it only reaches roughly 47.8% of the area; the more widely available 25↓/3↑ Mbps tier scores just 39/100. Fixed wireless is a reasonable option for lighter usage, but if your household relies on high-bandwidth activities, it’s worth checking whether faster fiber or cable service is available at your specific address before committing.

About T-Mobile

T-Mobile offers Licensed Fixed Wireless service to most of Hawthorne, but with below-average speeds that may struggle with modern internet needs. Their fastest option (100/20 Mbps) is only available to about half of the area and scores just 58/100 for speed in the state, while their 25/3 Mbps plan is quite slow for households with multiple users or streaming needs. You should check if faster cable or fiber providers serve your address first, as T-Mobile’s wireless options are best suited as a backup choice for areas without better alternatives.

Available Plans

39
Licensed Fixed Wireless
25 Mbps Download
3 Mbps Upload
Coverage 65.7% of city
58
Licensed Fixed Wireless
100 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 47.8% of city

Speeds typically 72-245 Mbps, some locations may receive 5G service with speeds up to 245+ Mbps. Actual speeds vary based on location, network conditions, and device capabilities. No annual contracts, no data caps, no equipment fees. Price Lock guarantee for existing customers on eligible plans. AutoPay discount required using eligible payment method (bank account or debit card). Credit check required. Service availability and speeds depend on cellular network coverage in your area. Not available in all areas. Taxes and fees additional.

Speeds up to 100 Mbps

Plans start at $49.99 /mo *


Coverage ~100.0% of city
Upload speeds 5 Mbps
Connection type Gso Satellite
29

Speed Score: Slower than 71% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

29

Local data shows below average speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 100 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 5 Mbps
Avg. Latency High

The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.

EST. CAPABILITIES

Streaming

Poor

Multi-device

Poor

Gaming

Poor

Whole home

Poor

THE TAKEAWAY

Our recommendation for Hawthorne

HughesNet’s Gso Satellite plan delivers 100↓/5↑ Mbps across all of Hawthorne, but its speed score of 29/100 falls well below the city average of 62, reflecting the inherent limitations of satellite technology like high latency and reduced real-world performance. While reliable coverage makes it a viable option where wired service isn’t available, satellite is best suited for basic browsing and email rather than video calls, gaming, or heavy streaming. Since Hawthorne is served by multiple providers—including fiber and cable options—it’s worth checking what faster, lower-latency technologies may be available at your specific address before committing.

About HughesNet

HughesNet offers satellite internet with 100% coverage in Hawthorne, but with a speed score of only 29/100, it’s significantly slower than most other options in the state. Satellite internet also comes with high latency that makes video calls and gaming difficult. You should definitely check if faster providers like cable or fiber are available at your address first, and only consider HughesNet as a last resort if no other options exist.

Available Plans

29
Gso Satellite
100 Mbps Download
5 Mbps Upload
Coverage 100.0% of city

Satellite internet service with download speeds up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds up to 3 Mbps. All plans include data allowances (15-200 GB/month depending on plan) with reduced speeds after cap is reached. Bonus Zone (2AM-8AM) offers additional data. 24-month service commitment required; early termination fees apply up to $400. Equipment lease fee included in monthly price. Professional installation required ($100-$150 fee may apply). Weather and line-of-sight conditions may affect service quality. Not available in all areas. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed.

Speeds up to 100 Mbps

Plans start at $49.99 /mo *


Coverage ~100.0% of city
Upload speeds 3 Mbps
Connection type Gso Satellite
16

Speed Score: Slower than 84% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

16

Local data shows below average speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 100 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 3 Mbps
Avg. Latency High

The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.

EST. CAPABILITIES

Streaming

Poor

Multi-device

Poor

Gaming

Poor

Whole home

Poor

THE TAKEAWAY

Our recommendation for Hawthorne

Viasat’s satellite service in Hawthorne delivers download speeds up to 100 Mbps, but its speed score of 16/100 sits well below the city average of 62, reflecting the high latency and performance limitations inherent to satellite technology. Since Viasat covers 100% of Hawthorne, it’s a reliable fallback for hard-to-reach locations, but its 3 Mbps upload and lag make it a poor fit for video calls, gaming, or heavy streaming. With faster wired options available in this market, we’d recommend checking what fiber or cable service you can get at your specific address before committing to satellite.

About Viasat Inc

Viasat Inc offers satellite internet covering 100% of Hawthorne, but with a speed score of only 16/100, these are among the slowest options in the state. Satellite internet also comes with high latency that makes video calls and gaming difficult, so you should definitely check if faster cable or fiber providers are available at your address first. This would work as a last-resort option if no other providers service your location.

Available Plans

16
Gso Satellite
100 Mbps Download
3 Mbps Upload
Coverage 100.0% of city

24-month minimum service term required with early termination fees up to $400. Speeds may vary based on location, network conditions, and time of day. Installation fee typically $99-$299. Equipment lease fee of $13/mo or purchase option available. Data plans include priority data allowances (ranging from 40GB to 300GB depending on plan); after priority data is exhausted, speeds may be reduced during network congestion. Actual speeds may be lower than advertised maximum speeds. Service requires clear view of southern sky for satellite dish installation. Credit check required. Standard rates apply after promotional period ends, typically $69.99-$199.99/mo depending on plan. Some plans subject to data caps with additional fees for overage or speed throttling.

Best Fit by Household Type in Hawthorne

Best Fit

Students & Roommates

Spectrum's 1000 Mbps cable reaches 93% of Hawthorne for reliable shared streaming and studying.

Wide coverage across Holly Glen and Del Aire neighborhoods supports multiple devices simultaneously.

Check first: Upload limited to 35 Mbps; check AT&T fiber availability in your building first.

Best Fit

Remote Workers

AT&T fiber delivers 5000/5000 Mbps symmetrical speeds in 31% of Hawthorne for video conferencing.

Equal upload speeds critical for Zoom calls; strongest in Del Aire at 48% coverage.

Check first: Fiber unavailable in most of Holly Glen; verify address eligibility before committing.

Best Fit

Gamers & Streamers

AT&T's 5000 Mbps fiber offers lowest latency where available in Del Aire and parts of ZIP 90251.

Symmetrical gigabit speeds support simultaneous 4K streaming uploads and low-ping competitive gaming.

Check first: Only 31% city coverage; Spectrum's 1000/35 Mbps covers 93% as backup option.

Best Fit

Rural & Edge-of-City Homes

Starlink provides 220/30 Mbps across 100% of Hawthorne including areas cable doesn't reach.

Satellite coverage fills gaps where Spectrum and AT&T fiber infrastructure hasn't been deployed.

Check first: Higher latency than wired options; weather can affect service during heavy storms.

Top ZIP-Level Insights in Hawthorne

90251

Central Hawthorne

Spectrum is currently the strongest option for Households needing reliable gigabit availability.

Spectrum covers 73.3% with 1000 Mbps cable while AT&T fiber reaches only 23.3% with 5000 Mbps service.

90304

Del Aire

AT&T is currently the strongest option for Remote workers needing symmetrical fiber speeds.

Best fiber availability in Hawthorne at 48% coverage with 5000/5000 Mbps, plus Spectrum cable covers 37.2%.

90250

Holly Glen

Spectrum is currently the strongest option for Families prioritizing wide cable availability.

Spectrum dominates at 50.7% coverage with gigabit cable; AT&T fiber reaches only 29.8% with top speeds.

Internet providers near Hawthorne

Coverage can change completely a few miles down the road. If you’re moving to or shopping just outside Hawthorne, check the neighboring market directly.

Hawthorne Internet FAQs

What is the fastest internet provider in Hawthorne, CA?

AT&T offers the fastest speeds at 5000/5000 Mbps symmetrical fiber, but it reaches only 31% of Hawthorne residents. Spectrum's 1000/35 Mbps cable covers 93% of the city and is the fastest option widely available across Holly Glen, Del Aire, and Wiseburn neighborhoods.

Can I get fiber internet in Del Aire or Holly Glen?

AT&T fiber reaches 48% of Del Aire (ZIP 90304) with 5000 Mbps service, making it the best-covered neighborhood for fiber in Hawthorne. Holly Glen (ZIP 90250) has lower fiber availability at 29.8% coverage, with Spectrum cable covering 50.7% as the primary wired option.

What is the cheapest internet option in Hawthorne?

Spectrum and AT&T typically offer promotional starting rates around $50-$55/month for entry-level speeds where available, though exact pricing varies by address and current promotions. T-Mobile's fixed wireless reaches 91% of Hawthorne and often provides competitive pricing for 100/20 Mbps service in 48% of the city.

What internet speed do I need for working from home in Hawthorne?

AT&T's fiber plans with 1000/1000 Mbps or higher provide ideal symmetrical speeds for video conferencing and large file uploads, available in 14-31% of Hawthorne. Where fiber isn't available, Spectrum's 1000/35 Mbps cable (93% coverage) handles most remote work needs, though upload speeds may limit simultaneous video calls.

What internet providers are available near SpaceX Headquarters in Hawthorne?

The SpaceX area falls primarily in ZIP 90250 where Spectrum covers 50.7% with 1000/35 Mbps cable and AT&T fiber reaches 29.8% with 5000/5000 Mbps service. Verizon's fixed wireless also covers 69% of Hawthorne citywide with 300/20 Mbps speeds, providing a third wired-alternative option in many locations.

How We Analyze Internet in Hawthorne

FCC Broadband Data

We use the FCC National Broadband Map, updated quarterly with provider-reported coverage at the census block level.

Speed Score

Our proprietary score weights technology type (fiber=100%, cable=85%, etc.) with download (70%) and upload (30%) speeds, ranked as a state percentile.

Coverage Calculation

Provider coverage shows what percentage of census blocks in Hawthorne report service availability from each provider.

Data Coverage for Hawthorne

ZIP Codes Analyzed:
9025090251
Census Tracts: 30 tracts
Census Blocks: 918 blocks analyzed

How We Calculate Speed Score

Our Speed Score is a state-level percentile ranking (0-100) that shows how a provider’s service compares to all other internet options available in your state.

The Formula:

We calculate a raw performance score using:

Technology Factor × (Download Speed × 70% + Upload Speed × 30%)

Technology Factors:

Not all connections are equal. We weight each technology based on real-world reliability and performance:

  • Fiber: 100% – Fastest, most reliable technology
  • Cable: 85% – High speeds, shared neighborhood bandwidth
  • Fixed Wireless (Licensed): 70% – Dedicated spectrum, weather-dependent
  • Copper/DSL: 65% – Distance-limited, aging infrastructure
  • Fixed Wireless (Unlicensed): 60% – Shared spectrum, variable performance
  • Satellite (LEO): 40% – Low-earth orbit (e.g., Starlink), higher latency
  • Satellite (GEO): 15% – Geostationary orbit, significant latency

Percentile Ranking:

After calculating raw scores, we rank every service option in your state by geographic coverage (census blocks served). A score of 85 means this service performs better than 85% of all internet options available in your state.

Data Source: FCC National Broadband Map data, updated quarterly.

How We Calculate Capabilities

Estimated Capabilities predict how well each internet plan supports common household activities based on speed requirements and connection type.

Rating Scale:

  • Excellent – Optimal performance, handles peak usage easily
  • Good – Reliable performance with minimal issues
  • Fair – Functional but may experience slowdowns during heavy use
  • Poor – Not recommended; expect frequent buffering or lag

How We Rate Each Category:

Streaming

Based on download speed. 4K streaming requires 25+ Mbps per stream; HD requires 5+ Mbps. We account for multiple simultaneous streams.

Multi-device

Evaluates total bandwidth capacity divided by typical household device count (phones, tablets, smart TVs, computers). Fiber and cable handle many devices better than DSL or satellite.

Gaming

Considers both upload speed (for sending game data) and latency (ping time). Fiber and cable excel here; satellite connections struggle due to inherent signal delay.

Whole Home

Assesses whether the connection can reliably serve an entire household during peak evening hours. Factors in technology type (shared vs. dedicated bandwidth) and total speed capacity.

Note: Actual performance depends on your specific location, network congestion, and equipment quality.