FindBetterInternet

SAN CLEMENTE, CA INTERNET

Find internet providers in San Clemente, CA

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

We analyzed 16 census tracts and 3 ZIP codes across San Clemente using our Speed Score methodology to figure out what internet actually works here. For most residents, Cox Communications, AT&T, and Starlink offer the broadest coverage, though Verizon, T-Mobile, and HughesNet can be solid choices depending on your specific address. We rank providers by actual serviceability and real-world performance—not by who pays us the highest commission—because you deserve straightforward, honest data when choosing your internet. —The FindBetterInternet Team

Person using internet

Shop and compare 7 internet providers for San Clemente, CA

The 30-Second Verdict

Updated

If you want the fastest connection in town, AT&T fiber is the one to chase, reaching about 29 percent of the city with blistering speeds up to 5000/5000 Mbps and matching upload — genuinely overkill for most, but a dream for heavy work-from-home, huge file uploads, competitive gaming, or a house packed with devices. In the Pier Bowl area of Southwest San Clemente (92672), AT&T fiber shows up strong, covering around 41 percent of that ZIP. For most folks, though, Cox cable is the smarter, cheaper call: it covers roughly 80 percent of the city with speeds up to 2000/100 Mbps, which is plenty if you mainly stream, browse, and hop on video calls. Cox dominates Talega (92673) at nearly 80 percent, so that neighborhood leans cable. Ask yourself: do you really need multi-gig fiber, or is cable enough? If you’re on a budget or wired options thin out toward Forster Ranch or Cyprus Shore, T-Mobile or Verizon fixed wireless can fill in. And if neither fiber nor cable reaches your exact address, Starlink satellite is a solid fallback. Coverage shifts street to street — confirm your address, and for apartments verify the unit is actually wired for fiber.

Speeds up to 2000 Mbps

Plans start at $50 /mo *


Coverage ~95.0% of city
Upload speeds 500 Mbps
Connection type Cable, Fiber
94

Speed Score: Faster than 94% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

94

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 2000 Mbps
Avg. Upload Speeds 500 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 San Clemente

Cox Communications covers 95% of San Clemente, and its cable network is the workhorse here—most addresses will land on a 2000↓/100↑ Mbps plan (Speed Score 92/100) that’s a solid, reliable choice well above the city’s average top score of 63. If you’re in the small pocket where their fiber reaches (2000↓/100↑ Mbps, Speed Score 94/100), that’s an excellent, top-tier option with the low latency fiber is known for. Either way, check your specific address, since cable coverage is far broader than fiber’s roughly 5% footprint, and confirm whether you’re getting the faster 500↑ Mbps cable tier available in select areas.

About Cox Communications

Cox Communications is an excellent choice for San Clemente, covering 95% of the area with primarily high-speed cable internet offering up to 2000 Mbps download speeds that rank in the top tier statewide (Speed Scores of 91-94). The vast majority of residents can access these fast cable plans, with 80% of census blocks covered by their best options, making Cox a reliable provider for streaming, gaming, and remote work without needing to shop around further.

Available Plans

92
Cable
2000 Mbps Download
100 Mbps Upload
Coverage 80.1% of city
91
Cable
2000 Mbps Download
35 Mbps Upload
Coverage 12.9% of city
94
Cable
2000 Mbps Download
500 Mbps Upload
Coverage 8.0% of city
89
Fiber
1000 Mbps Download
100 Mbps Upload
Coverage 4.9% of city
94
Fiber
2000 Mbps Download
100 Mbps Upload
Coverage 0.2% of city
86
Cable
1000 Mbps Download
100 Mbps Upload
Coverage 0.2% of city

Speeds based on wired connection and may vary by address. Download speeds up to 1000 Mbps available in select areas. Upload speeds typically lower than download speeds. 1.25 TB monthly data plan included with most plans; additional data available for purchase or unlimited data option available for additional fee. Early termination fees may apply. Equipment rental fees apply unless customer-owned modem used. Professional installation fee or self-install kit may apply. Prices subject to change. Availability varies by location. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Service subject to Cox Residential Subscriber Agreement.

Speeds up to 5000 Mbps

Plans start at $55 /mo *


Coverage ~78.0% 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 San Clemente

If you can get AT&T fiber at your San Clemente address, it’s a top-tier choice—plans reach up to 5,000↓/5,000↑ Mbps with an outstanding 98/100 speed score, well above the city’s 63 average and ideal for heavy streaming, gaming, and working from home. However, fiber only covers about 32% of the city, so many addresses are limited to AT&T’s fixed wireless or copper service, which top out around 100↓/20↑ Mbps with speed scores of 58 or lower. If you fall into the copper/DSL range (some plans score as low as 3/100), it’s worth checking what other technologies are available at your specific address before committing.

About AT&T

AT&T’s service in San Clemente is a mixed bag—if their excellent fiber service (up to 5000 Mbps) is available at your address, you’re in luck with some of the fastest speeds in the state. However, fiber only reaches about 29-30% of the area, and most other locations get slower copper DSL or fixed wireless options that score below average and may struggle with modern streaming and video calls. Definitely check if fiber is available at your specific address first, as the alternative plans likely won’t meet your needs if you have multiple devices or work from home.

Available Plans

39
Licensed Fixed Wireless
25 Mbps Download
3 Mbps Upload
Coverage 30.1% of city
98
Fiber
5000 Mbps Download
5000 Mbps Upload
Coverage 29.2% of city
3
Copper
10 Mbps Download
1 Mbps Upload
Coverage 21.7% of city
58
Licensed Fixed Wireless
100 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 8.9% of city
43
Copper
50 Mbps Download
10 Mbps Upload
Coverage 3.6% of city
91
Fiber
1000 Mbps Download
1000 Mbps Upload
Coverage 2.8% of city
48
Copper
75 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 2.5% of city
31
Copper
25 Mbps Download
5 Mbps Upload
Coverage 2.5% of city
52
Copper
100 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 1.7% 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 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 San Clemente

Starlink covers 100% of San Clemente via satellite, with its top plan delivering 220↓/30↑ Mbps and a speed score of 69/100—just below the city’s 63 average and edging into competitive territory for a satellite service. That said, satellite technology comes with higher latency than wired options, which can affect video calls, gaming, and other real-time activities. If reliable low-latency performance matters to you, it’s worth checking whether fiber or cable is available at your specific address before committing, since San Clemente has wired providers in the mix. Starlink shines best as an option where those faster, lower-latency technologies don’t reach.

About Starlink

Starlink provides satellite internet coverage across 100% of San Clemente, with their primary plan offering 220↓/30↑ Mbps speeds that rank in the top 31% statewide. While this is a solid option for areas without fiber or cable access, satellite internet does come with inherent limitations like higher latency and weather sensitivity, so you should first check if faster fiber or cable providers are available at your specific address. If traditional high-speed options aren’t accessible where you live, Starlink’s speeds are sufficient for most modern needs including streaming and remote work.

Available Plans

69
Ngso Satellite
220 Mbps Download
30 Mbps Upload
Coverage 99.7% of city
46
Ngso Satellite
100 Mbps Download
25 Mbps Upload
Coverage 0.3% 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 300 Mbps

Plans start at $35 /mo *


Coverage ~59.5% of city
Upload speeds 20 Mbps
Connection type Licensed Fixed Wireless
78

Speed Score: Faster than 78% of all internet options in California

SPEED SCORE

78

Local data shows average speeds for your area

This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers competitive speeds in your area.

Avg. Download Speeds 300 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 San Clemente

Verizon covers about 59.5% of San Clemente with licensed fixed wireless service, and its top plan delivers 300↓/20↑ Mbps with a Speed Score of 78/100—good, above-average performance that beats the city average of 63. If this 300 Mbps plan is available at your address, it’s a competitive choice for streaming, video calls, and everyday browsing, though fixed wireless can be more sensitive to weather and network congestion than a wired connection. Be aware that some addresses only qualify for the slower 50↓/5↑ Mbps tier (Speed Score 44/100), so if that’s your only option here, it’s worth checking whether faster fiber or cable technologies are available at your specific location.

About Verizon

Verizon covers about 60% of San Clemente but only offers Fixed Wireless service, which can be inconsistent compared to fiber or cable options. Their faster 300 Mbps plan has good speeds (better than average in California) and reaches 54% of the area, but fixed wireless technology can experience reliability issues with weather and obstacles. I’d recommend checking if other providers offer fiber or cable at your address first, but if those aren’t available, Verizon’s 300 Mbps plan could work for most households.

Available Plans

78
Licensed Fixed Wireless
300 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 54.0% of city
44
Licensed Fixed Wireless
50 Mbps Download
5 Mbps Upload
Coverage 18.8% 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 100 Mbps

Plans start at $50 /mo *


Coverage ~89.0% 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 San Clemente

T-Mobile’s fixed wireless reaches about 89% of San Clemente, with its faster tier delivering 100↓/20↑ Mbps at a speed score of 58 in the roughly 52% of the city where it’s available—adequate for streaming, video calls, and everyday browsing. That score falls below the city’s 63 average, and as a fixed wireless service it can be more variable than wired connections during peak times or in weather. If your address only qualifies for the 25↓/3↑ Mbps plan (score 39), it’s best suited to light use, and it’s worth checking whether faster fiber or cable options are available where you live before committing.

About T-Mobile

T-Mobile offers fixed wireless internet to 89% of San Clemente, but with below-average speeds that may struggle with modern household needs—their fastest plan scores just 58/100 for speed in California. While fixed wireless can work for basic browsing and streaming, you should definitely check if faster cable or fiber options from other providers are available at your address first. Consider T-Mobile mainly as a backup option if no better alternatives serve your location.

Available Plans

58
Licensed Fixed Wireless
100 Mbps Download
20 Mbps Upload
Coverage 51.6% of city
39
Licensed Fixed Wireless
25 Mbps Download
3 Mbps Upload
Coverage 46.5% 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 San Clemente

HughesNet provides satellite internet across 100% of San Clemente, with its Gso Satellite plan offering 100↓/5↑ Mbps but a low speed score of 29/100—well below the city average of 63. As a satellite service, it carries higher latency that can hinder video calls, gaming, and other real-time activities. Since San Clemente has faster wired options including fiber and cable, it’s worth checking what other technologies are available at your specific address before committing. HughesNet is best reserved as a reliable fallback where those faster connections don’t reach.

About HughesNet

HughesNet offers satellite internet with 100% coverage in San Clemente, but with a speed score of just 29/100, it’s significantly slower than most other options in the area. 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. Consider HughesNet only as a last resort if no other providers service your specific location.

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 San Clemente

Viasat’s Gso Satellite plan reaches every address in San Clemente with download speeds up to 100 Mbps, but its speed score of 16/100 falls well below the city average of 63, reflecting the inherent limitations of satellite technology—namely high latency that can hamper video calls, gaming, and other real-time activities. Satellite is best viewed as a reliable fallback when wired options aren’t available at your location. With 100 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up, it can handle streaming and browsing, but if faster fiber or cable service reaches your address, those technologies will deliver noticeably better everyday performance.

About Viasat Inc

Viasat Inc offers satellite internet with 100 Mbps download speeds across 100% of San Clemente, but with a speed score of only 16/100, this represents one of the slower options in the area. Satellite internet typically comes with high latency and data caps that make it challenging for video calls, gaming, or streaming on multiple devices. You should definitely check if faster cable or fiber providers are available at your address first, and only consider Viasat as a backup 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 San Clemente

Best Fit

Students & Roommates

Cox 2000 Mbps cable covers 80% of San Clemente for shared streaming and downloads.

High speeds across Talega and Southwest San Clemente handle multiple users simultaneously.

Check first: Upload only 100 Mbps; check exact address as 13% gets slower 35 Mbps upload.

Best Fit

Remote Workers

AT&T fiber delivers 5000/5000 Mbps symmetrical speeds to 29% of the city.

Symmetrical uploads critical for video calls; strongest in Southwest San Clemente and ZIP 92674.

Check first: Fiber reaches only 29% citywide; confirm availability before committing to address.

Best Fit

Gamers & Streamers

AT&T fiber 5000/5000 Mbps ideal where available; Cox 2000/100 Mbps covers more area.

Low latency fiber in 29% of city; Cox reaches 80% with 2000 Mbps downloads.

Check first: Cox upload only 100 Mbps may limit streaming; verify fiber availability first.

Best Fit

Rural & Edge-of-City Homes

Starlink 220/30 Mbps covers 100% of San Clemente with no wired infrastructure needed.

Satellite reaches areas beyond Cox and AT&T footprints with consistent speeds citywide.

Check first: Higher latency than wired; HughesNet and Viasat slower at 100 Mbps down.

Top ZIP-Level Insights in San Clemente

92673

Talega

Cox Communications is currently the strongest option for High-speed cable for families.

Cox 2000/100 Mbps reaches 79.8% of Talega, with AT&T fiber 5000/5000 Mbps available to 13.2% of homes.

92672

Southwest San Clemente (Pier Bowl)

Cox Communications is currently the strongest option for Cable and fiber competition.

Cox cable covers 48.3% at 2000/100 Mbps while AT&T fiber reaches 41% at 5000/5000 Mbps symmetrical speeds.

92674

ZIP 92674

AT&T is currently the strongest option for Symmetrical fiber for remote work.

AT&T fiber leads with 36.3% coverage at 5000/5000 Mbps, closely followed by Cox cable at 35.6% coverage.

Internet providers near San Clemente

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

San Clemente Internet FAQs

What is the fastest internet provider in San Clemente?

AT&T fiber offers 5000/5000 Mbps symmetrical speeds to 29% of San Clemente, the fastest available in the city. Cox Communications provides 2000/100 Mbps cable to 80% of the city, offering wider availability with high download speeds but lower uploads.

Can I get fiber internet in Talega San Clemente?

AT&T fiber reaches 13.2% of Talega (ZIP 92673) with 5000/5000 Mbps speeds. Cox cable covers 79.8% of Talega at 2000/100 Mbps, providing broader availability though it's not fiber technology.

What is the cheapest internet option in San Clemente CA?

T-Mobile fixed wireless reaches 52% of San Clemente at 100/20 Mbps and typically offers promotional starting rates lower than cable or fiber. Satellite providers (HughesNet, Viasat, Starlink) cover 100% but generally cost more with data caps or higher monthly fees.

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

AT&T fiber's 5000/5000 Mbps symmetrical service (available to 29% of the city) provides excellent upload speeds for video calls. Cox 2000/100 Mbps cable reaches 80% of San Clemente and works well for most remote work, though upload is limited to 100 Mbps.

What internet is available near San Clemente Pier in Downtown Del Mar?

Southwest San Clemente near the pier (ZIP 92672) has Cox cable covering 48.3% at 2000/100 Mbps and AT&T fiber reaching 41% at 5000/5000 Mbps. This area has strong competition between both providers, so check your exact address for the best option available.

How We Analyze Internet in San Clemente

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 San Clemente report service availability from each provider.

Data Coverage for San Clemente

ZIP Codes Analyzed:
926729267392674
Census Tracts: 16 tracts
Census Blocks: 637 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.