HomepageUtilitiesInternetThe Best Cheap Internet Providers of 2021

The Best Cheap Internet Providers of 2021

Get the speed you need at the price you want ​

Advertiser Disclosure

Close icon.

We are an independent publisher. Our reporters create honest, accurate, and objective content to help you make decisions. To support our work, we are paid for providing advertising services. Many, but not all, of the offers and clickable hyperlinks that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us. The compensation we receive and other factors, such as your location, may impact what ads and links appear on our site, and how, where, and in what order ads and links appear. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, our site does not include information about every product or service that may be available to you. We strive to keep our information accurate and up-to-date, but some information may not be current. So, your actual offer terms from an advertiser may be different than the offer terms on this site. And the advertised offers may be subject to additional terms and conditions of the advertiser. All information is presented without any warranty or guarantee to you.

Reviews Report

  • AT&T and Verizon are Reviews.com’s best cheap internet providers, both earning 4.2 out of 5. 
  • The cheapest internet provider is Comcast, starting at $19.99 a month for 50 Mbps.
  • Top cheap internet providers offer reliable service, an affordable monthly price, and serviceable connection speeds

If the last year has taught us anything, it’s just how valuable an internet connection is. No matter how essential an internet connection is, though, no one wants to break the bank just to get online. We’ve taken a close look at the internet providers across the country to find the best options for cheap, fast internet. We let price take priority, but we aren’t interested in cheap internet that doesn’t provide good service — high speed and reliability are also crucial. We looked at data caps, connection type, and other factors to review the best cheap internet providers of 2021

We reviewed the top cheap internet providers in the country based on coverage, price, speed, and customer service. From the results, we identified the seven best internet providers to help you find the fastest speed for the lowest price.

The 7 Best Cheap Internet Service Providers

Compare the Best Cheap Internet Providers


Reviews.com ScoreJ.D. Power Customer SatisfactionPriceTop Download SpeedASCI Rating
AT&T4.2751$35–$60/mo.940 Mbps70
Verizon4.2769$39.99–$79.99/mo.940 Mbps77
Frontier3.8646$39.99–$79.99/mo.940 Mbps62
Comcast3.6730$19.99–$85.99/mo.1,200 Mbps72
Century Link3.4710$49–$65/mo.940 Mbps69
Spectrum3.2712$44.99–$109.99/mo.940 Mbps70
Cox3.4723$29.99–$99.99/mo.940 Mbps71

Information accurate as of May 2021
*J.D. Power’s 2020 Residential Internet Service Provider satisfaction study. Based on a 1,000-point scale.

Cheap Internet Providers, Reviewed

AT&T Internet

Best Overall Plan

Why we chose it

AT&T offers nearly nationwide coverage, affordable pricing, and solid download speeds — though navigating the company’s labyrinth of plans can feel unnecessarily complicated

  • 4.2 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
  • $35/mo. Starting Price
  • 940 Mbps Download Speed Measured in megabits per second (Mbps), this is the speed at which users will be able to download files from the internet.
  • 70 ACSI Score

Why we chose it

AT&T offers nearly nationwide coverage, affordable pricing, and solid download speeds — though navigating the company’s labyrinth of plans can feel unnecessarily complicated

Pros

  • Broad coverage
  • Reliably fast DSL
  • Equipment included

Cons

  • Limited availability for fiber
  • Volatile speed and pricing
  • Data cap costs more or requires bundled services
Read More

Features

  • Second-largest DSL internet provider in the country
  • Affordably priced plans for solid download speeds
  • Equipment cost included
  • Fiber internet options for higher speeds
  • Phone and TV bundles available
  • 1TB data caps on DSL plans

AT&T Internet Plans

  • Internet Basic (0.8–5 Mbps): $45/mo.
  • Internet 10 (10 Mbps): $45/mo.
  • Internet 18 (18 Mbps): $45/mo.
  • Internet 25 (25 Mbp)s: $45/mo.
  • Internet 50 (50 Mbps): $45/mo.
  • Internet 100 (100 Mbps): $45/mo.
  • Internet 300 (300 Mbps): $35/mo.
  • Internet 500 (500 Mbps): $45/mo.
  • Internet 1000 (940 Mbps): $60/mo.
Comcast XFINITY

Best for Fast Download Speeds

Why we chose it

Comcast XFINITY offers high-speed options for people who need them and affordable fiber internet options on a budget, though the best prices require at least a one-year contract.
  • 3.6 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
  • $19.99/mo. Starting Price
  • 1,200 Mbps Download Speed Measured in megabits per second (Mbps), this is the speed at which users will be able to download files from the internet.
  • 72 ACSI Score

Why we chose it

Comcast XFINITY offers high-speed options for people who need them and affordable fiber internet options on a budget, though the best prices require at least a one-year contract.

Pros

  • Large coverage map
  • No contract options available
  • High -speed plans available

Cons

  • Hidden fees
  • Slower upload speeds
  • Contract required for best prices
Read More

Features

  • Fiber internet connection available
  • Phone and TV packages available
  • Fastest available download speeds
  • Widespread availability in 39 states
  • 1.2TB data caps

Comcast XFINITY Internet Plans

  • 50 Mbps: $19.99/mo.
  • 100 Mbps: $34.99/mo.
  • 200 Mbps: $49.99/mo.
  • 400 Mbps: $64.99/mo.
  • 600 Mbps: $74.99/mo.
  • 1,200 Mbps: $84.99/mo. 
Verizon Fios

Best for No-Commitment Plans

Why we chose it

Verizon Fios offers fast, reliable fiber internet connection for a price that won’t break the bank with no monthly contract. The only downside is that it’s available in only certain parts of the country.
  • 4.2 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
  • $39.99/mo. Starting Price
  • 940 Mbps Download Speed Measured in megabits per second (Mbps), this is the speed at which users will be able to download files from the internet.
  • 77 ACSI Score

Why we chose it

Verizon Fios offers fast, reliable fiber internet connection for a price that won’t break the bank with no monthly contract. The only downside is that it’s available in only certain parts of the country.

Pros

  • High-value fiber plans
  • Special offers
  • Waived or reduced installation fee
  • Savings for Verizon Wireless customers

Cons

  • Limited fiber availability
  • Expensive equipment costs
  • Price increase after first year
Read More

Features

  • Fiber internet option available
  • No advertised data caps
  • No annual contract required
  • Lots of special offers with Verizon packages and partners
  • $15/mo. Router rental

Verizon Fios Internet Plans

  • 200 Mbps: $39.99/mo.
  • 400 Mbps: $59.99/mo.
  • 940 Mbps: $79.99/mo.
Frontier Communications

Best for Unlimited Data

Why we chose it

Verizon Fios offers fast, reliable fiber internet connection for a price that won’t break the bank with no monthly contract. The only downside is that it’s available in only certain parts of the country.
  • 3.8 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
  • $39.99/mo. Starting Price
  • 940 Mbps Download Speed Measured in megabits per second (Mbps), this is the speed at which users will be able to download files from the internet.
  • 62 ACSI Score

Why we chose it

Verizon Fios offers fast, reliable fiber internet connection for a price that won’t break the bank with no monthly contract. The only downside is that it’s available in only certain parts of the country.

Pros

  • One of the fastest DSL provider
  • Contract-free plans with price lock
  • No data cap

Cons

  • Low ASCI score
  • Limited high speed options
  • Hidden fees
Read More

Features

  • DSL and fiber plans available
  • Accessible in rural areas
  • Router cost included
  • Contract-free plans available
  • Unlimited data

Frontier Communications Internet Plans

  • Internet Basic (6 Mbps): $39.99/mo.
  • Internet Preferred (12 Mbps): $44.99/mo.
  • Internet Premium (24 Mbps): $54.99/mo.
  • FiberOptic 50 Mbps: $49.99/mo.
  • FiberOptic 500 Mbps: $59.99/mo.
  • FiberOptic 940 Mbps: $79.99/mo.
Charter Spectrum

Best for Switching Providers

Why we chose it

Charter Spectrum offers a broad coverage map for cheap internet and will pay your early termination fee if you switch from another provider — but price increases after the first year.
  • 3.2 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
  • $44.99/mo. Starting Price
  • 940 Mbps Download Speed Measured in megabits per second (Mbps), this is the speed at which users will be able to download files from the internet.
  • 70 ACSI Score

Why we chose it

Charter Spectrum offers a broad coverage map for cheap internet and will pay your early termination fee if you switch from another provider — but price increases after the first year.

Pros

  • Highest speed in its price range
  • No-contract plans with buyout offer
  • No data cap

Cons

  • Price increase after first year
  • Limited support if you use your own equipment
  • Unspecified upload speed
Read More

Features

  • Pays early termination fees when switching providers
  • No contracts required
  • Bundles available with other services
  • Modem included
  • No data caps

Charter Spectrum Internet Plans

  • 100 Mbps: $49.99/mo.
  • 200 Mbps: $49.99/mo.
  • 400 Mbps: $69.99/mo.
  • 940 Mbps: 109.99/mo.
Cox Communications Internet

Cheapest Startup Costs

Why we chose it

Cox Communications offers solid value for its baseline plans with no contracts and locked price for three years, but has data caps and poor service.
  • 3.4 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
  • $29.99/mo. Starting Price
  • 940 Mbps Download Speed Measured in megabits per second (Mbps), this is the speed at which users will be able to download files from the internet.
  • 71 ACSI Score

Why we chose it

Cox Communications offers solid value for its baseline plans with no contracts and locked price for three years, but has data caps and poor service.

Pros

Cons

Read More

Features

  • Elite Gamer data optimization software available for gamers
  • No contract for 50Mbps plans and up
  • Promotional prices lock for 3 years
  • Panoramic Wi-Fi limits dead zones
  • 1.25TB data cap

Cox Communications Internet Plans

  • Internet Starter 10 (10 Mbps): $29.99/mo.
  • Internet Essential 50 (50 Mbps): $39.99/mo.
  • Internet Preferred 150 (150 Mbps): $59.99/mo.
  • Internet Ultimate (500 Mbps): $79.99/mo.
  • Gigablast (940 Mbps): $99.99/mo.

Cheap Internet: What You Need to Know

How do I find cheap internet near me?

  • Bundle cable and internet: If you are planning to get cable as well as internet, you can get cable and internet by bundling with one provider. Most internet providers that offer both cable and internet services have special bundles that can help save money every month. Search for “cheap internet bundles near me” to find providers in your area that offer bundles.
  • Bring your own router/equipment: Most internet service providers either require you to purchase a modem and router directly from them or add a monthly rental cost to use their equipment. You can save money by using your own.
  • Switch providers: The trick of most internet service providers is that the price offered at sign-up is not the price after a year. Often, that initial price is considered a promotional deal, with an increase built-in. You can save by bouncing around providers and scoring that initial price or by finding providers that will pay off termination fees if you switch.
  • Factor in fees: Also take into account additional fees, like paying to rent equipment, overage charges, and post-promotion monthly price increases. The advertised price you see for home internet typically only covers the internet service itself. Most providers tack on extra fees and expenses that can quickly turn a cheap home internet plan into one that is quite pricey.
  • Consider your location and what you need: The unfortunate fact is that many parts of the country, especially rural locations, may only have one cheap internet provider available. Without competition, your best bet may be to settle for lower data speeds. If you can make that sacrifice, you can save some money.
  • Decide how much speed you need: The internet plans we reviewed offer speeds ranging from 25 to 1,000 Mbps. If you live alone and don’t use the internet for much more than email and social media, something on the lower end should be more than sufficient. On the other hand, large families and those who enjoy activities like video streaming and online gaming should consider a much faster plan. Use our internet speed guide to choose the right type of connection for your home.

Cheap internet for low-income households 

Low-income households can often feel at a loss when it comes to getting fast, cheap internet provider service, but there are programs available that can help make this essential service affordable. The Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline program offers qualifying households a $9.25 per month stipend for internet service. If your household income is 135% or less than the federal poverty line, or if you receive other benefits like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension, and Survivors Benefit, or Tribal Programs benefits, you likely also qualify for cheap internet in your area through Lifeline.

Cheapest Internet Connections, Explained

Figuring out the cheapest internet provider means also finding the cheapest internet connection available in your region.

For example, satellite internet (including new satellite ISP provider Starlink) is often more expensive and less reliable but reaches rural areas. On the other hand, DSL is a common option and offers a solid balance of performance and affordability. Fiber offers the best download speeds and most reliable service but is pricier and only available in some regions.

Cheap Internet FAQ

Find Cheap Internet Near You

Methodology 

We evaluated internet service providers based on customer satisfaction, data caps, download speed, plans, and customer support to determine Reviews.com scores and create our best internet service provider reviews. To compare internet service providers with other brands across the board, we calculate each Reviews.com score based on the following:

  • Customer Satisfaction: Reviews.com used J.D. Power’s 2020 Residential Internet Service Provider Satisfaction Study to calculate an average rating of internet providers across all applicable regions.
  • Top Download Speeds: We awarded higher scores to internet providers with higher download speeds.
  • Number of Plans: Internet providers with more plan options to choose from scored higher in our methodology.
  • Data Caps: No one wants to be left without internet for the rest of the month, so we awarded internet providers with higher scores if they had high or no data caps. 
  • Customer Support: We reviewed and compared the number of channels that customers could reach each provider’s customer support representatives. The more channels of contact available, the higher the score.

About the Authors

The Reviews.com staff is dedicated to providing you with all the deep-dive details. Our writers, researchers, and editors came together from Charlotte, Seattle, San Juan, Fort Worth, Fort Lauderdale, San Diego, and Chicago to put this review together.

Table Of Contents