Best high-speed internet of 2026
By
|
Edited By
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Compare gig and multi-gig internet plans near you by entering your ZIP code to see the fastest plan you can get. Our experts evaluate top high-speed ISPs like AT&T, Xfinity, Google Fiber, Verizon and Frontier for speed, reliability and overall value, so you can confidently choose the right plan for your needs.
View internet plans available near you
Best high-speed internet providers near you
SPECTRUM: Limited time offer; subject to change; new residential customers only (no Spectrum services within past 30 days) and in good standing with Spectrum. Taxes and fees extra in select states. SPECTRUM INTERNET ADVANTAGE: Offer based on eligibility requirements. Standard rates apply after promo period. Additional charge for installation. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds (including wireless) vary and are not guaranteed. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change. Not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. Price for Gig speed additional. Capable modem required for all Gig speeds. For a list of capable modems, visit spectrum.net/modem. ©2026 Charter Communications, all rights reserved. Internet Performance: Spectrum Internet is powered by fiber and delivered to your home via HFC. Updated as of 02/17/26.
AT&T: Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. Single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101. Plus taxes (w/ eligible Autopay & Paperless bill). Price after $10/mo AutoPay & Paperless bill discount. (Starts w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge applies in NV, OH, TX. One time install fee may apply.
VERIZON: Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on the internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. Auto Pay & paper-free billing required. Mobile + Home Discount: $15/mo savings on Verizon Home Internet plans when combined with any Verizon postpaid mobile phone plan (excludes business and data-only plans). Enrollment req’d for Fios Home Internet plans. $99 setup and other terms apply. Subj. to credit approval & may require a deposit. Fios avail. in select areas. Wired speeds advertised. Wireless speeds may vary due to device limits, multiple users, network & other factors. See Verizon.com/yourspeed for more info. © 2026 Verizon.
Key takeaways
- High-speed internet is available to 95% of the U.S.
- The cheapest high-speed internet is Frontier, starting at $29.99/mo.
- The fastest internet provider is Ziply Fiber, with up to 50 Gbps
- Gamers will enjoy Frontier’s fast fiber internet plans with low latency
Fastest internet plans available
The fastest internet plans available offer multi-gigabit speeds, with Ziply Fiber offering the fastest plan at 50,000 Mbps.
Most households don’t need multi-gig speeds; 300 to 1,000 Mbps is enough for families that stream and game simultaneously.
However, if you have heavy internet use in your home or small business, you can get fast internet at competitive pricing.
Fast fiber internet is available to just over half of the U.S., with affordable prices starting at $70.00/mo. for 1,000 Mbps. Cable internet starts at $50.00/mo. for 1,000 Mbps.
The following table displays some of the fastest internet plans from top national ISPs. While these providers are available in certain areas across the U.S., some regional providers with fast plans may not be included.
| Provider | Max download speed | Max upload speed | Starting price* | Connection type | Filters |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Ziply Fiber | 50,000 Mbps | 50,000 Mbps | $900.00/mo. | Fiber | $150.00/mo. and up |
 Google Fiber | 8,000 Mbps | 8,000 Mbps | $150.00/mo. | Fiber | $150.00/mo. and up |
 WOW! Internet | 5,000 Mbps | 5,000 Mbps | $180.00/mo. | Fiber | $150.00/mo. and up |
 Frontier Fiber | 7,000 Mbps | 7,000 Mbps | $109.99/mo.** | Fiber | Mid-range |
 AT&T Fiber Internet | 4,700 Mbps | 4,700 Mbps† | $155.00/mo.† | Fiber | $150.00/mo. and up |
 Xfinity | 2,000 Mbps | 2,000 Mbps | $100.00/mo. | Fiber | Mid-range |
 Verizon Fios | 2,300 Mbps | 1,500 Mbps | $94.99/mo.†† | Fiber | Cheapest |
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. Updated as of 02/17/26.
***w/Auto Pay and Paperless Bill per month. Exclusive offer for qualified addresses. For new residential Internet customers only. Max speeds are wired, Fiber 1 Gig location dependent. Wi-Fi, actual & average speeds vary. Fiber 7 Gig (6,300-7,000) and requires 7 Gbps capable devices and wiring.
†Plus taxes (w/ eligible Autopay & Paperless bill). Price after discounts: $90/mo discount for new residential customers and $10/mo w/ eligible Autopay & Paperless bill (w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge in TX, OH, NV applies. Limited availability. May not be available in your area. Call or go to fiber.att.com to see if you qualify. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. Single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101.
††Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on the internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. Auto Pay & paper-free billing required. Mobile + Home Discount: $15/mo savings on Verizon Home Internet plans when combined with any Verizon postpaid mobile phone plan (excludes business and data-only plans). Enrollment req’d for Fios Home Internet plans. $99 setup and other terms apply. Subj. to credit approval & may require a deposit. Fios avail. in select areas. Wired speeds advertised. Wireless speeds may vary due to device limits, multiple users, network & other factors. See Verizon.com/yourspeed for more info. © 2026 Verizon.
Enter your ZIP code to view internet plans available near you
How we evaluated high-speed internet providers
To find the best high-speed internet providers, we focused on four categories: affordability, performance, value and customer satisfaction.
We gave the most weight to performance, which includes both download and upload speeds. Download speeds are what matter for most internet activities — streaming, browsing social media, downloading files — but upload speeds are also essential for things like Zoom meetings and online gaming.
Each category also contains multiple sub-factors, all of which are weighted differently to impact the provider’s overall score. For each sub-factor, we score all providers on a continuous scale of 1 to 5, relative to the industry as a whole. Because the average download speed in America is currently 290 Mbps, for example, we assigned all plans with download speeds between 100 and 299 Mbps a score between 3 and 4. Xfinity’s 200 Mbps plan received a 3.50 score for download speed, while Spectrum’s 500 Mbps plan got a 3.71.
We only considered standardized data points in our scoring system. More abstract data like consistency of service and brand reputation is still part of our analysis, but we opted to let our writers address them in the context of each review.
Fast internet provider breakdown
Plans starting at
$70.00 /mo.
Speeds up to
8,000 Mbps
Overview
Google Fiber’s fastest speed plan is up to 8 Gbps, which virtually eliminates buffering and lag for internet-heavy households with several gamers and streamers. Google Fiber has other plans available — at 1 and 3 Gbps — ideal for tech-savvy smart homes or remote workers. Each of Google Fiber’s plans offers symmetrical upload and download speeds. The plans do not have a data cap or contract and equipment is included. Google Fiber is not yet widely available across the U.S. but is working to expand its service to new cities.
Google Fiber Customer Reviews:
Plans starting at
$45.00 /mo.
Speeds up to
4,700 Mbps
Overview
AT&T Fiber offers the best high-speed internet plans of any nationwide provider. If you need the most bandwidth, AT&T Fiber has multi-gigabit speed tiers of 2,000 and 4,700 Mbps.* However, affordable plans start at just $45.00/mo.,* plus taxes (w/ eligible Autopay & Paperless bill), for 100 Mbps of upload and download speed — plenty for all but the most connected households.
*Price after $10/mo AutoPay & Paperless bill discount. (Starts w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge applies in NV, OH, TX. One time install fee may apply. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For 5GIG, single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101. Updated as of 02/17/26.
AT&T Customer Reviews:
Plans starting at
$34.99 /mo.
Speeds up to
2,300 Mbps
Overview
Verizon Fios is another great option for fast fiber internet, whether you’re gaming, streaming or just want reliable fiber speeds. Its prices are slightly lower if you bundle services — $34.99/mo. for 300 Mbps when paired with a qualifying mobile plan. For households with five or more users that need more speed, Verizon also has a 1,000 and 2,000 Mbps plan available in select locations. You can also usually take advantage of new customer promotions with Verizon, and you won’t have to sign an annual contract.
Verizon Customer Reviews:
Plans starting at
$29.99 /mo.
Speeds up to
7,000 Mbps
Overview
Frontier’s fiber service provides superb speeds for a reasonable price. Households with numerous bandwidth-draining devices like game consoles will appreciate the added fast speed of the gig plan. We like the 500 Mbps plan the best, and you won’t have to worry about data caps or equipment fees. Frontier also offers multi-gigabit internet plans with speed tiers of 2, 5 and 7 Gbps. If you can only get Frontier’s DSL service (called Frontier® Internet) in your area, you’re probably better off searching out a cable provider.
Frontier Customer Reviews:
Plans starting at
$30.00 /mo.
Speeds up to
5,000 Mbps
Overview
If you want high-speed internet at the lowest price around, it’s hard to beat WOW Internet. Fiber plans start at just $40.00/mo. for 100 Mbps, which is one of the most affordable rates in the country; however, this speed is best for households with fewer than four users. Prices increase by $10.00 to $20.00 in the second year, but even with that factored in, WOW is still cheaper than most other providers. Gamers or remote workers who need more bandwidth can go all the way up to 5,000 Mbps of download speed. WOW doesn’t require a contract and also offers a customizable Wi-Fi service.
WideOpenWest (WOW) Customer Reviews:
Plans starting at
$40.00 /mo.
Speeds up to
2,000 Mbps
Overview
If you’re a super-connected household shopping for the fastest internet speeds, Xfinity goes up to 2,000 Mbps in some areas. For most households with light to average internet use, Xfinity’s 300 Mbps plan is an affordable choice. Because it’s a cable provider, Xfinity’s upload speeds aren’t as fast as fiber plans, which could impact competitive gaming or uploading large files. There are still some high-speed options that are competitive with fiber speeds, but keep in mind that Xfinity’s upload speeds are slower and vary based on your location.
Xfinity Customer Reviews:
Understanding high-speed internet industry terms
These days, just about every provider claims to have the best high-speed internet in the world, with terms like “gigabit” and “high-speed” thrown around at will. Gigabit and multi-gigabit plans are best suited for bandwidth-heavy internet activities, like gaming, and many connected devices under one roof.
Here are a couple more industry terms you may come across in your search for high-speed internet plans and what they mean for you.
The internet speeds on the provider’s website are advertised maximum speeds but not necessarily the actual speeds you will get at your home. Still, in most cases, your actual speeds should be close to advertised speeds when connected with an Ethernet cable (e.g., device is plugged directly into your router and not using Wi-Fi). If not, consider upgrading to a new router capable of higher speeds to get more value out of your internet plan.
Fiber internet providers are usually the fastest option that come closest to advertised speeds, but high-speed internet can mean something different for everyone — find out the speed you need before shopping for a plan.
Other internet providers with high-speed options
We listed many of the top high-speed providers by availability, but it’s possible that other high-speed providers are available at your address.
Here are some more expert tips for finding who has the fastest internet at your address:
- When shopping for high-speed internet, compare plans from national and local providers available near you
- In some cases, regional providers can be the fastest internet option. For example, EPB, a local Chattanooga, Tennessee, fiber provider, has a 10 Gbps plan for around the same price as Xfinity’s 2 Gbps plan
- The fastest gigabit plans can be pricey — save money by buying a plan with speeds that suit your needs, rather than picking the fastest option
The following table explores well-known internet providers who may also be available in your area.
| Provider | High speed plan | Max download speed | Starting price* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cox | Go Beyond Fast | 2,000 Mbps | $115.00/mo. |
| CenturyLink | Fiber Gigabit | Up to 940 Mbps | $75.00/mo.** |
| Spectrum | Internet 2 Gig | 2,000 Mbps | $90.00/mo.*** |
| Kinetic | Kinetic Fiber 2 Gig | 2,000 Mbps | $79.99/mo. |
| Optimum | Fiber 8 Gig | 8,000 Mbps | $120.00/mo. |
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. Updated as of 02/17/26.
**Limited availability. Service and rate in select locations only. Paperless billing required. Taxes and fees apply. Rate excludes CTL Fee not to exceed $1.50/mo./line.
***Price for Gig speed additional. Capable modem required for all Gig speeds. For a list of capable modems, visit spectrum.net/modem. ©2026 Charter Communications, all rights reserved.
Internet connection types by max speed
The type of internet connection you use determines the maximum possible speed you can get. A good internet speed ultimately depends on what you are using the internet for and how many devices you have connected to Wi-Fi at one time.
Allconnect: Let us compare high-speed internet providers for you
Why should you choose Allconnect? We’re the #1 broadband marketplace in the U.S., meaning you can trust us to search, compare and order internet and TV service for your home.
Get started
Fast internet FAQs
What is a good speed for “high-speed” internet?
Internet plans with advertised speeds of at least 100 Mbps are typically good enough for streaming and gaming over a Wi-Fi connection. But, if you have a smart home with three or more internet users, a fast plan would be anything with 300 Mbps and up, with a fiber connection.
What is a fast internet connection?
“Fast internet” is a subjective phrase since some households need more or less speed than others. What is fast for a family of two may be slow for a family of six.
Nevertheless, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) classifies 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload as the minimum speed required for an internet connection to be considered high-speed broadband. While 100 Mbps is likely not enough for most households with multiple internet users, it can be a good baseline for determining the speed you need.
Who are the fastest providers for download speeds?
As of June 2025, Speedtest.net reported that at 363.54 Mbps, AT&T Fiber is the fastest. The fastest mobile connection is by T-Mobile with a median 5G download speed of 299.36 Mbps.
How do I speed up my internet connection?
Consider resetting your modem and router. Also, be sure to check for any unwanted devices on your connection that may be hogging your bandwidth.
Here are some more troubleshooting steps you can take to help boost your Wi-Fi signal:
- Take a speed test to find out what you’re currently getting
- Update the security settings on your router to cut off bandwidth leeches
- Optimize your router’s settings
- Purchase a new wireless router every five years
- Angle one Wi-Fi antenna up and one to the side
- Move your wireless router to an elevated, clear spot
- Add a Wi-Fi extender
What’s the fastest internet type?
Fiber is the fastest internet connection type because of the light delivery through thin glass tubing. It doesn’t rely on slower cabling and electric or cell towers to deliver speeds. Because of its construction, it supplies symmetrical download and upload speeds, making uploading videos or projects as easy and quick as downloading a file.
We value your feedback
Was this page helpful?
We value your feedback
We’re glad! Tell us what helped most on this page.
We value your feedback
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Your insight helps, and we’ll do our best to improve your experience.
Written by
Lisa Iscrupe
Senior Writer, Broadband & Data Content
Lisa Iscrupe is a senior writer and broadband expert specializing in internet and connectivity solut… View profile
Lisa Iscrupe’s Favorite Article
Unlimited hotspot plans from mobile carriers
Edited by
Anine Sus
Editor I
Anine Sus is an editor and publisher with Allconnect. With eight years of experience editing and wri… View profile
Anine Sus’s Favorite Article
How to negotiate your internet billRelated pages
-
Featured
![30% of Americans say their internet is too slow. Here’s how to fix it]()
30% of Americans say their internet is too slow. Here’s how to fix it Joe Supan — 4 min read -
Featured
![How much internet speed do I need?]()
How much internet speed do I need? Robin Layton — 8 min read -
Featured
![How much speed do you need for streaming?]()
How much speed do you need for streaming? Robin Layton — 7 min read
Latest
-
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Frontier + Verizon: What current customers need to knowCamryn Smith — 2 min read
-
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
The best Wi-Fi routers of 2026Lisa Iscrupe — 5 min read
-
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
What are the hidden costs on a Cox bill?Robin Layton — 2 min read
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for internet news and promos
By subscribing, you agree to receive Allconnect newsletter and promotional emails. Your privacy is important to us.
