CenturyLink Internet vs Verizon

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.

Founded in 2000 and headquartered in New York City, Verizon is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, serving millions of residential and business customers nationwide. As an internet service provider, they offer multiple ways to connect, including fiber-optic internet in select markets and wireless home internet options in areas where wired broadband may be limited. This multi-network approach allows customers to choose a service that aligns with their location, household size, and daily internet use. Fiber-based service is built around consistent performance and low latency, supporting activities such as video conferencing, streaming, and multi-device use. Wireless options focus on ease of setup and broader reach, appealing to households that prioritize convenience or lack access to traditional broadband infrastructure. Pricing structures emphasize predictability through time-based guarantees, while self-install options and centralized account tools aim to simplify the overall experience. Customer feedback reflects a mix of strengths and challenges. Many users highlight strong performance where infrastructure is available, while others raise concerns about billing clarity and support responsiveness. Industry benchmarks and accreditation records position Verizon as a prominent, established provider, making this review a helpful starting point for understanding how their services compare across different use cases.