Durham, NC Internet
Internet Providers in Durham, NC
Compare every internet provider in Durham, NC: coverage from FCC filings, plan prices checked monthly, and an address check for your street.
The 30-Second Verdict
Updated| Rank | Provider | Speed Score | Coverage in Durham | Up to | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  SpectrumBest overall | 79 | 89% | 1,000 Mbps | $30/mo |
| 2 |  AT&T | 95 | 62% | 5,000 Mbps | $35/mo |
| 3 |  Google FiberFastest where available | 99 | 38% | 8,000 Mbps | $70/mo |
| 4 |  FrontierBroad backup | 99 | 69% | 7,000 Mbps | $29.99/mo |
| 5 |  Hotwire | 99 | 2% | – | – |
| 6 |  Brightspeed | 79 | 2% | – | – |
The ranking weighs each provider’s speed across everywhere it reaches. AT&T’s 95 is its fiber; in about a fifth of the area it serves, AT&T offers only DSL or Internet Air, which is why Spectrum ranks first.
Spectrum is the best overall, with cable speeds up to 1,000 Mbps reaching about 88% of the city. If Google Fiber reaches your address, it is the faster choice, with fiber speeds up to 8,000 Mbps reaching about 36% of the city. Where Spectrum does not reach, Frontier is the broadest backup, mostly DSL with a fastest common tier of 70 Mbps reaching about 5% of the city.
Fiber is the variable. Fiber reaches 84% of Downtown Durham (27701) but only 54% of Research Triangle Park (RTP) (27709). Find your neighborhood on the map.
Best Internet Providers in Durham, NC
Best plan here: Internet Gig 1 Gig — faster than 79% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Internet Gig 1 Gig$60/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)Cable1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$60Per month
- Internet Premier 500 Mbps$40/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)Cable500 MbpsDownload76Our score$40Per month
- Internet 100$30/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)Cable100 MbpsDownload21Our score$30Per month
Source: Spectrum official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Good
Good
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan offers up to 1,000 Mbps download and 35 Mbps upload, enough for busy households, 4K streaming, gaming, and multiple connected devices, with a Speed Score of 79/100 that is above the city average of 71. Its cable service is a solid, reliable option, though the Internet Gig plan reaches about 88% of Durham, so confirm that this fastest tier is available at your address.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Spectrum
Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan offers up to 1000 Mbps download and 35 Mbps upload, which is strong for streaming, gaming, video calls, and busy households. Its cable service is a good option across about 88% of Durham, though availability is address-dependent, and the up to 500 Mbps and 100 Mbps plans provide solid to basic service if Gig is not offered at your address.
Available Plans
Cable
Fiber
Best plan here: AT&T Internet 5 GIG speed — faster than 95% of all internet options in North Carolina
- AT&T Internet 5 GIG speed$90/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 discount applies for 12 months on 1Gb+ plans) · $150 Visa reward cardFiber5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$90Per month
- AT&T Fiber 1 GIG speed$50/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 off for 12 months; full plan cost due until discount starts within 3 bills) · $150 Visa reward cardFiber1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$50Per month
- AT&T Fiber 500Mbps$50/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers, $15/mo discount for 12 months applies after up to 3 bill cycles) · $100 Visa reward cardFiber500 MbpsDownload76Our score$50Per month
- AT&T Fiber 300Mbps$35/mo for 12 months (new customers, with AutoPay & paperless bill discount, wired connection to gateway) · $200 AT&T Visa Reward CardFiber300 MbpsDownload71Our score$35Per month
- AT&T Internet Air 300 Mbps$40/mo for 12 months (new customers, no annual contract, AutoPay eligible for additional $5/mo discount)Fixed Wireless300 MbpsDownload71Our score$40Per month
Source: AT&T official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
At $90/mo for 12 months, AT&T Internet 5 GIG offers up to 5000 Mbps both ways on fiber, plus a $150 reward card. Its 95/100 Speed Score is a top-tier result and above Durham’s city average of 71, making it an excellent choice for demanding households. Fiber availability depends on your address, with this plan reaching about 45% of Durham, while addresses without fiber may need to consider AT&T Internet Air’s fixed-wireless performance instead.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About AT&T
Starting at $35/mo, AT&T offers strong value in Durham, with fiber plans ranging from up to 300 Mbps for basic households to up to 5,000 Mbps both ways, while its 1 GIG plan costs $50/mo for up to 1,000 Mbps both ways. Fiber is available to about 47% of the city, and addresses without it may have Internet Air for $40/mo with up to 300 Mbps download and 30 Mbps upload, but fixed wireless can be less consistent for busy households, so check your address for fiber first.
Available Plans
Fiber
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Fiber
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Best plan here: 8 Gig — faster than 99% of all internet options in North Carolina
- 8 GigFiber8,000 MbpsDownload99Our score$150Per month
- 5 GigFiber5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$125Per month
- 2 GigFiber2,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$100Per month
- 1 GigFiber1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$70Per month
Source: Google Fiber official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Households with heavy streaming, gaming, remote work, or many connected devices will find Google Fiber an excellent choice, with up to 8,000 Mbps both ways and a 99/100 Speed Score, above Durham’s city average of 71. Fiber availability depends on your address, and the 8 Gig plan reaches about 36% of Durham, so confirm that this top-tier option is available before signing up.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Google Fiber
Households that stream heavily, work from home, game online, or have many connected devices should find Google Fiber an excellent option, with fiber plans offering up to 8,000 Mbps both ways and a top Speed Score of 99/100. The 1 Gig plan is available to about 38% of Durham, while the faster 2 Gig, 5 Gig, and 8 Gig plans reach about 36%, so availability is very address-dependent and worth checking before you choose.
Available Plans
Fiber
Fiber
Best plan here: Fiber 7 Gig — faster than 99% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Fiber 7 Gig$124.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, maintain service 365 days for Samsung credit) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber7,000 MbpsDownload99Our score$124.99Per month
- Fiber 5 Gig$104.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher, maintain service for 365 days) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$104.99Per month
- Fiber 2 Gig$79.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber2,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$79.99Per month
- Fiber 1 Gig$64.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig plan) · $400 Best Buy promo code for Samsung productsFiber1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$64.99Per month
- Fiber 500$44.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher for Samsung credit) · $400 Best Buy promo code for Samsung productsFiber500 MbpsDownload76Our score$44.99Per month
- Fiber 200$29.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher for Samsung credit) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber200 MbpsDownload57Our score$29.99Per month
Source: Frontier official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Up to 7,000 Mbps both ways on Frontier’s Fiber 7 Gig plan can easily handle large households, 4K streaming, cloud backups, and demanding gaming, earning a 99/100 Speed Score. That makes Frontier an excellent, top-tier option in Durham, well above the city’s 71 average. Fiber 7 Gig is available to about 26% of the city, so confirm your address can receive Frontier’s fiber service because the best technology may not reach every location.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Frontier
Up to 7,000 Mbps both ways can comfortably support large households, 4K streaming, fast downloads, and demanding work or gaming, making Frontier an excellent option where its fiber is available. Fiber 7 Gig reaches about 26% of Durham, so check your address first, since Frontier’s faster fiber plans are address-dependent even though they offer strong performance.
Available Plans
Copper
Fiber
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Fiber
Fiber
Fiber
Hotwire Communications
Speeds up to 8,000 Mbps
Price Not listed
Speed Score: Faster than 99% of all internet options in North Carolina
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Fiber is an excellent choice for low-latency streaming, gaming, video calls, and busy households. Hotwire Communications offers a fiber plan with up to 2,500 Mbps both ways and a Speed Score of 95/100, available to about 1% of Durham, so availability depends on your specific address.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Hotwire Communications
Hotwire Communications offers excellent fiber service, with symmetrical plans ranging from up to 1,200 Mbps to up to 8,000 Mbps for demanding work, streaming, gaming, and smart-home use. Availability is very limited in Durham and address-dependent, with the fastest plan reaching about 0% of census blocks, so check your exact address before counting on these options.
Available Plans
Fiber
Fiber
Fiber
Fiber
Fiber
Speed Score: Faster than 79% of all internet options in North Carolina
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Brightspeed’s fiber plan offers up to 1000 Mbps download and 1000 Mbps upload, enough for heavy streaming, gaming, video calls, and many connected devices, with a Speed Score of 79/100 that is above Durham’s 71 average. Fiber is a strong, competitive option where available, but its 0.6% city coverage means the best technology may not reach your address. Brightspeed’s copper plans range from up to 100/10 Mbps to 10/1 Mbps, with Speed Scores of 21/100, 20/100, and 1/100, so consider checking other providers first if fiber is unavailable.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Brightspeed
Brightspeed’s fastest option is fiber with up to 1000 Mbps both ways, a strong choice for streaming, video calls, gaming, and multiple connected devices. That fiber plan is available in about 1% of Durham’s census blocks, so availability is highly address-dependent, while the fallback copper plans reach only about 100 Mbps down and may be adequate for basic use but can feel limiting for modern households. Check your address for fiber first, and compare other faster providers if it is not available.
Available Plans
Fiber
Copper
Copper
Copper
Best plan here: 5G Home — faster than 71% of all internet options in North Carolina
- 5G Home$60/mo for 12 months (w/ Auto Pay & postpaid mobile unlimited plan that includes 5G Ultra Wideband; requires bundle)5G Fixed Wireless300 MbpsDownload71Our score$60Per month
Source: Verizon official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Verizon’s 5G fixed wireless connection offers up to 300 Mbps download and 75 Mbps upload, making it a good fit for streaming, video calls, and everyday browsing, though performance can vary with network conditions. Its Speed Score is 71/100, about the same as Durham’s city average, and the plan is available to about 54% of the city. Check your address to confirm eligibility, since this 5G Home coverage may not reach every location.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Verizon
Verizon’s 5G fixed wireless service offers up to 300 Mbps download and 75 Mbps upload, which is a good fit for streaming, video calls, and several connected devices, though performance can vary with wireless conditions. This plan is available to about 54% of Durham, so check your address carefully, and compare faster fiber or cable options first if they are available.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Best plan here: T-Mobile Amplified Home Internet 500 Mbps — faster than 76% of all internet options in North Carolina
- T-Mobile Amplified Home Internet 500 Mbps$45/mo for 12 months, then $60/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid MastercardFixed Wireless500 MbpsDownload76Our score$45Per month
- T-Mobile All-In Home Internet 500 Mbps$55/mo for 12 months, then $70/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid MastercardFixed Wireless500 MbpsDownload76Our score$55Per month
- T-Mobile Rely Home Internet 400 Mbps$35/mo for 12 months, then $50/mo (qualifying credit, postpaid voice line, and new Internet line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid MastercardFixed Wireless400 MbpsDownload76Our score$35Per month
Source: T-Mobile official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Homes seeking good everyday performance at a bundled price may find T-Mobile competitive, with up to 500 Mbps download and 60 Mbps upload and a Speed Score of 76/100, above Durham’s city average of 71. These fixed wireless plans are adequate for streaming, browsing, and typical connected households, but performance and availability can vary by location, with the 500 Mbps options reaching about 68% of Durham, so verify your address and compare available technologies before choosing.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About T-Mobile
T-Mobile is a good fit for households that want solid everyday performance, including streaming and multiple connected devices, without needing fiber-level service. Its fixed wireless plans offer up to 500 Mbps download and a good 76/100 Speed Score, but availability is address-dependent, with the 500 Mbps plans reaching about 68% of Durham, so check your address before signing up and compare any faster fiber or cable options nearby.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Best plan here: Residential Max 400 Mbps — faster than 76% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Residential Max 400 MbpsSatellite400 MbpsDownload76Our score$130Per month
- Residential 200 MbpsSatellite200 MbpsDownload57Our score$85Per month
- Residential 100 MbpsSatellite100 MbpsDownload21Our score$55Per month
Source: Starlink official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Adequate
Poor
Poor
Adequate
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Satellite internet can provide useful broadband for streaming and everyday use, but its higher latency may make gaming, video calls, and other real-time activities feel less responsive than wired connections. Starlink’s Residential Max plan offers up to 400 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload, with a Speed Score of 76/100, above Durham’s city average of 71, and is available across 100.0% of the city. Because all listed Starlink plans use satellite technology, check what other options reach your specific address before choosing, especially if low latency matters.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Starlink
Satellite internet can reach homes that lack wired service, but its higher latency may be noticeable for gaming, video calls, and other real-time activities. Starlink offers up to 400 Mbps down and 40 Mbps up for $130 per month, with that plan available to 100% of Durham, making it a good fallback where fiber or cable is unavailable, though you should check for those faster, lower-latency options at your address first.
Available Plans
Ngso Satellite
Best plan here: Viasat Essentials — slower than 81% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Viasat EssentialsSatellite55 MbpsDownload19Our score$69.99Per month
- Viasat UnleashedSatellite34 MbpsDownload15Our score$99.99Per month
Source: Viasat Inc official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
Viasat is a limited-performance satellite option compared with alternatives in Durham, with a headline Speed Score of 19/100 versus the city average of 71. Viasat Essentials offers up to 55 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload for $69.99 per month, with availability at 100% of the city, while Viasat Unleashed offers up to 34 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload for $99.99 per month and has a Speed Score of 15/100. Because satellite service can have higher latency and lower real-world performance, check what other providers are available at your specific address before choosing.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Viasat Inc
Viasat Inc is a dependable coverage option, but it should usually be a fallback rather than your first choice for modern internet needs. Its Viasat Essentials satellite plan offers up to 55 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload for $69.99 per month, with availability across 100% of Durham, but its Speed Score of 19/100 reflects satellite’s below-average performance and latency. Check your address for faster fiber or cable service first, since Viasat’s satellite plans may feel limited for streaming, gaming, video calls, and multiple users.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Best plan here: Fusion — slower than 79% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Fusion$94.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $119.99/moSatellite100 MbpsDownload21Our score$94.99Per month
- Select$49.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $74.99/moSatellite50 MbpsDownload16Our score$49.99Per month
- Lite$39.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $49.99/moSatellite25 MbpsDownload6Our score$39.99Per month
Source: HughesNet official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Durham
At $94.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $119.99/mo, HughesNet’s Fusion plan buys up to 100 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload, but its 21/100 Speed Score is below Durham’s city average of 71. As a satellite service, it has limited performance compared with alternatives, so consider checking other providers first, especially for lower-latency activities such as gaming or video calls. Fusion is shown as available to 100.0% of Durham, while Select costs $49.99/mo for the first 12 months and offers up to 50 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About HughesNet
At $39.99 to $94.99 per month for the first 12 months, HughesNet offers up to 25 to 100 Mbps download speeds, but the satellite connection and below-average Speed Score of 21/100 make it a modest value for the performance, especially for busy households. All three plans are available to 100% of Durham, so HughesNet can be a practical fallback where wired service is unavailable, but check your address for faster fiber or cable options first, since satellite may not meet modern streaming, gaming, or work-from-home needs.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Internet Provider Reviews in Durham, NC
We read 290 recent Google reviews of Durham listings for Spectrum and AT&T and sorted each one by what it is about. Store visits and phone-plan reviews are set aside.
What Spectrum customers report
Outages
Very poor
5% mention
Billing
Poor
10% mention
Support
Very poor
57% mention
Equipment
Very poor
46% mention
Cancelling
Poor
4% mention
“Came in to turn in my equipment and end service because I just moved. Robert called me up before I could even find a seat. The turn in was quick and easy because I had the original box all the equipment came in. 6/5 stars!”
“If you have a chance to jump to any other internet service provider, you should. Poor service – both in the actual internet service and people that work there. Service out often for days, barely any communication, and when repair personnel do come out they lack manners. I recently experienced an incredibly rude technician who told me to get back in my car and not ask him a question even though he was on my property.”
What AT&T customers report
Support
Mixed
12% mention
Reviews are shown exactly as posted on Google and link to the listing they came from. Star averages and counts are Google’s; the service rating and the subject grades are our reading of each review, refreshed monthly. How we do this.
Cheapest and Fastest Internet Plans in Durham
All 30 product lines from the 9 providers with published pricing here, showing the price you would be quoted today and what it reverts to.
Showing 10 of 30 plans
- StarlinkResidential Max 400 Mbps400 MbpsDownload76Our score$130Per month~100%CoverageSatellite
- SpectrumInternet Gig 1 Gig$60/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$60Per month~88.4%CoverageCable
- SpectrumInternet Premier 500 Mbps$40/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)500 MbpsDownload76Our score$40Per month~88.4%CoverageCable
- StarlinkResidential 200 Mbps200 MbpsDownload57Our score$85Per month~100%CoverageSatellite
- T-MobileT-Mobile Rely Home Internet 400 Mbps$35/mo for 12 months, then $50/mo (qualifying credit, postpaid voice line, and new Internet line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid Mastercard400 MbpsDownload76Our score$35$50Per month~68%CoverageFixed Wireless
- T-MobileT-Mobile Amplified Home Internet 500 Mbps$45/mo for 12 months, then $60/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid Mastercard500 MbpsDownload76Our score$45$60Per month~68%CoverageFixed Wireless
- T-MobileT-Mobile All-In Home Internet 500 Mbps$55/mo for 12 months, then $70/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid Mastercard500 MbpsDownload76Our score$55$70Per month~68%CoverageFixed Wireless
- AT&TAT&T Internet 5 GIG speed$90/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 discount applies for 12 months on 1Gb+ plans) · $150 Visa reward card5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$90Per month~45.1%CoverageFiber
- Verizon5G Home$60/mo for 12 months (w/ Auto Pay & postpaid mobile unlimited plan that includes 5G Ultra Wideband; requires bundle)300 MbpsDownload71Our score$60Per month~53.9%Coverage5G Fixed Wireless
- AT&TAT&T Fiber 1 GIG speed$50/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 off for 12 months; full plan cost due until discount starts within 3 bills) · $150 Visa reward card1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$50Per month~46.8%CoverageFiber
Prices are the current promotional rate where one is advertised. Sourced monthly from each provider’s own site; availability varies by address.
Compare Durham providers head-to-head
The matchup many Durham households compare. Green marks the better number.
AT&T FiberAT&T Fiber wins on top speed, gig price, upload and reviews; Spectrum wins on reach and starting price.
Best Fit by Household Type in Durham
Best Fit
Students & Roommates
Choose Spectrum Internet 100 at $30 promotional pricing for 12 months, reaching about 88% of Durham.
Its 100 Mbps cable tier reaches about 88% of the city and supports shared streaming, studying, and video.
Check first: Verify the address because Spectrum does not reach every Durham home.
Best Fit
Remote Workers
Choose Google Fiber 1 Gig where available, reaching about 38% of Durham.
Its 1,000 Mbps fiber tier reaches about 38% of the city and provides symmetrical upload and download speeds.
Check first: Google Fiber's 8,000 Mbps tier reaches only about 36% of Durham.
Best Fit
Gamers & Streamers
Choose Google Fiber 8 Gig where available for 8,000 Mbps symmetrical fiber service.
The 8,000 Mbps tier reaches about 36% of Durham, while Google Fiber's 2 Gig tier reaches about 38%.
Check first: Confirm fiber availability at your address before choosing the fastest tier.
Best Fit
Students & Roommates
Start with Google Fiber where fiber is available near campus-heavy areas.
Shared apartments need stable upload and download performance for Zoom, streaming, and concurrent device use.
Check first: Confirm your exact building is wired for the advertised plan tier before ordering.
Internet Providers by ZIP Code and Neighborhood in Durham
Almost every block in Durham can get Spectrum. What changes from one neighborhood to the next is fiber. Tap a ZIP code on the map, or type yours.
Blocks with fiber50%65%80%90%
All of Durham
75% of the city can get fiber
- Spectrumcable88%
- AT&Tfiber47%
- Google Fiberfiber38%
- Frontierfiber27%
71% of the city can choose between two or more cable or fiber providers.
All 8 residential ZIP codes in Durham
| ZIP | Neighborhoods | Any fiber | Spectrum cable | AT&T Fiber | Google Fiber | 2+ choices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27701 | Downtown Durham, Cleveland-Holloway, Old North Durham | 84% | 92% | 52% | 38% | 82% |
| 27703 | East Durham, Brier Creek (partial), Southpoint area | 83% | 88% | 23% | 69% | 79% |
| 27704 | North Durham, Gorman, Northgate | 82% | 91% | 45% | 35% | 78% |
| 27705 | Trinity Park, Watts-Hillandale, Duke University West Campus | 66% | 93% | 57% | 8% | 64% |
| 27707 | Forest Hills, Hope Valley, Lakewood | 77% | 93% | 70% | 39% | 75% |
| 27709 | Research Triangle Park (RTP) | 54% | 63% | 15% | 48% | 50% |
| 27712 | Northern Durham, Treyburn, Bahama area | 67% | 82% | 40% | 0.6% | 56% |
| 27713 | Southpoint, Woodcroft, Parkwood | 76% | 87% | 60% | 60% | 73% |
Share of each ZIP’s census blocks where the provider files that technology with the FCC; DSL and fixed wireless are not counted as fiber. Neighborhood names are approximate.
Internet providers near Durham
Coverage can change completely a few miles down the road. If you’re moving to or shopping just outside Durham, check the neighboring market directly.
Durham Internet FAQs
Who is the best internet provider in Durham, NC?
Spectrum is the best overall provider, with cable up to 1,000 Mbps reaching about 88% of Durham. Google Fiber is faster where available, offering 8,000 Mbps symmetrical fiber across about 36% of the city, so check your address before choosing it.
What is the fastest internet in Durham, NC?
Google Fiber is fastest where available, offering 8,000/8,000 Mbps fiber reaching about 36% of Durham. Spectrum is the best overall provider, with 1,000 Mbps cable reaching about 88%, making it the more broadly available high-speed option.
Which internet provider covers the most of Durham, NC?
Spectrum covers the most of Durham, reaching about 89% of the city, the widest footprint of any wired or fixed-wireless provider. Satellite from Starlink and Viasat Inc reaches every address but with higher latency.
What is the cheapest internet plan in Durham, NC?
Frontier Fiber 200 is the cheapest plan at $29.99 per month for 200 Mbps, reaching about 27% of Durham. This promotional price applies for 12 months to new customers, with Fiber 1 Gig or higher required for the Samsung credit.
Can I get fiber internet in Durham?
Fiber service is available from Frontier across about 26% of Durham, AT&T across about 47%, and Google Fiber across about 38%. Availability varies by address, so verify the specific fiber tier before relying on symmetrical speeds or multi-gig service.
What internet speed do I need in Durham?
A 100 Mbps plan suits lighter households, while 500 Mbps or 1,000 Mbps better supports several simultaneous streams, calls, and downloads. Durham options include Spectrum's 100 Mbps tier reaching about 88% and Google Fiber's 1 Gig tier reaching about 38%.
Which internet providers serve Trinity Park in Durham?
Frontier reaches about 41% of ZIP 27701, Google Fiber about 23%, and Spectrum about 11% in Trinity Park. Frontier's listed local service is 7,000 Mbps fiber, while Google Fiber lists 8,000 Mbps fiber where each address qualifies.
Is AT&T Fiber better than Spectrum in Durham?
AT&T Fiber's 1 Gig plan is $50/mo with 1,000 Mbps upload; Spectrum's is $60/mo with 35 Mbps upload. AT&T Fiber sells up to 5,000 Mbps here and Spectrum up to 1,000 Mbps. Spectrum reaches more of Durham (about 88% vs 47%), so check which one your address gets.
Is Starlink worth it in Durham?
Rarely. Starlink starts at $55/mo, and cable or fiber reaches about 92% of Durham. It makes the most sense at an address with no wired or 5G home internet option.
Is $100 a month a lot for internet in Durham?
For most homes, yes. A 1 Gig plan in Durham costs $50 (AT&T), $60 (Spectrum), $64.99 (Frontier) a month in our latest price check. If you pay more than $80 for a gig, your promo price may have ended.
How We Analyze Internet in Durham
FCC Broadband Data
We use the FCC National Broadband Map, updated twice a year with provider-reported coverage at the census block level.
Speed Score
A state-wide percentile of each plan’s maximum advertised download speed against every option filed with the FCC in the state, all technologies on one scale. It is not a measured speed test.
Coverage Calculation
Provider coverage shows what percentage of census blocks in Durham report service availability from each provider.
Data Coverage for Durham
How We Calculate Speed Score
The Speed Score is a state-wide percentile from 0 to 100. It answers one question: of every internet option filed with the FCC in this state, across every technology, what share is slower than this plan’s maximum advertised download speed?
What goes in:
- The plan’s maximum advertised download speed, as the provider files it with the FCC and lists it for sale.
- Every other serviceable option in the state from the FCC Broadband Data Collection, counted by the census blocks it reaches.
Speed Score = share of the state’s filed options with a lower advertised download speed
A score of 85 means this plan’s advertised speed beats 85% of the options filed in the state. Fiber, cable, DSL, fixed wireless and satellite are all on the same scale, so a 1,000 Mbps plan scores the same whoever sells it.
What it is not: a measured speed test. It does not include latency, upload speed, reliability or congestion. Real throughput at an address varies with wiring, equipment and time of day.
How providers are ordered on this page: each provider’s tier scores are averaged across the census blocks it serves, then multiplied by the share of the city it reaches. Wired providers rank ahead of wireless-only ones, and satellite last, because their filings describe a signal footprint rather than a plant. The same rule sets the title and the 30-second verdict.
Data source: FCC National Broadband Map (Broadband Data Collection), republished roughly twice a year; provider plan lists checked monthly.
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.