CenturyLink Internet vs Optimum

CenturyLink, founded in 1930 and historically based in Monroe, Louisiana, is one of the long-standing internet providers in the United States and now operates under its parent company, Lumen Technologies. They deliver both DSL and fiber internet service, allowing them to reach a wide range of communities, including urban, suburban, and many rural areas. In locations where fiber is available, customers can experience symmetrical speeds up to around 940 Mbps, along with unlimited data, included WiFi equipment, and contract-free plans. In non-fiber areas, Simply Unlimited Internet plans can reach up to about 100 Mbps and also include unlimited data on a month-to-month basis. CenturyLink’s pricing is generally positioned as straightforward, with many plans avoiding aggressive promotional rates that later increase sharply. DSL plans typically cost around $55 per month, while fiber plans often average about $75 per month in eligible ZIP codes, sometimes with equipment or installation benefits included. Customer experience is where feedback becomes much more mixed. Many customers report ongoing concerns with billing accuracy, delayed refunds, long wait times for support, technician no-shows, and difficulty resolving issues. Because of this, the overall experience often depends heavily on whether fiber is available in your area and how consistent local service performance is.

Optimum, operating under their parent company Altice USA, are a major telecommunications provider headquartered in Long Island City, New York. Their core service area spans 21 states, with a strong concentration in the Northeast. The company provides internet, TV, and mobile services, with their most compelling offerings being their expanding fiber-optic network. Standout features include multi-gigabit speeds up to 8 Gbps, a "Price for Life" price lock guarantee on select fiber plans, and the inclusion of a Wi-Fi 6 gateway with no equipment fee. For value-seeking customers, Optimum promotes strong bundle discounts, often including a free unlimited mobile line for a year with certain internet plans, and an Affordable Access Program for eligible households. Despite these technical strengths, Optimum's reputation is severely impacted by consistent critical feedback. They hold an F rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting a high volume of unresolved customer complaints. Common grievances center on significant price increases after the promotional period ends, considerable difficulties with customer service, including long wait times and unhelpful support, and unreliable service in areas still dependent on its older cable infrastructure. This creates a stark contrast between their capable network technology and a frequently frustrating customer experience.