A particular provider’s high-speed plans offer fast connections and unlimited usage at competitive rates, making it an excellent option for many individuals.
Its mid-tier plan comes at an affordable monthly cost, with options for even faster speeds available at a higher price.
Another service provider also delivers gigabit speeds, but its network type lacks the same upload speed capabilities.
However, the other provider’s affordable options work well for those who don’t need the highest speeds, although users should be aware of price increases after the first year.
Comparing AT&T and Cox: Pros and Cons
AT&T
Pros:
- Offers a variety of fiber-optic plans
- Does not require long-term contracts
- Fiber plans come with no data limits
Cons:
- Access to the fastest plans is limited
- DSL speeds can be inconsistent
Cox Communications
Pros:
- Provides top-tier customer service
- Features a broad selection of bundle options
- Offers flexible, no-contract plans
Cons:
- Imposes data caps on all plans
- Prices rise significantly after the first year
Plans and Pricing: Provider A vs. Provider B
Provider A offers several internet options, including high-speed connections, digital lines, and fixed wireless services. The high-speed options usually provide the best value but are less common.
Meanwhile, Provider B offers broadband with various speeds, from lower-tier plans to premium high-speed services.
Pro Tip:
If you’re uncertain which option fits your needs, use our tool to assess the internet speed required based on your activities and the number of connected devices.
AT&T Internet Plans and Prices
Plan | Monthly Cost | Speed | Connection Type |
Internet 100 | $60.00 | 100Mbps | Fiber |
Internet 300 | $55.00 | 300Mbps | Fiber |
Internet 500 | $65.00 | 500Mbps | Fiber |
Internet 1 Gig | $80.00 | 1, 000Mbps | Fiber |
Internet 2 Gig | $150.00 | 2, 000Mbps | Fiber |
Internet 5 Gig | $250.00 | 5,000Mbps | Fiber |
Internet Air | $60.00 | 75–225Mbps | Fixed Wireless5G |
One provider offers a variety of high-speed internet options, with top speeds reaching up to 5,000Mbps (5Gbps), the fastest available among large service providers in the region.
However, such extreme speeds are likely unnecessary for most users.
The 300Mbps plan at a competitive monthly cost provides reliable service, suitable for larger households, and remains affordable.
Additionally, users can cancel the service without facing early cancellation penalties.
For those in less populated areas with limited service choices, a specialized wireless internet option is available to serve users in areas with few alternatives.
Affordable and Fast 5G Solution
Use a budget-friendly and fast 5G solution instead. The provider has started retiring its older connection options and introduced this new alternative.
Like other wireless plans, this service relies on the company’s cellular infrastructure but benefits from 5G towers offering quicker speeds and reduced delays.
The plan remains low-cost and free of additional fees or excess data charges, making it an excellent choice for high-speed broadband.
Tip:
Want more details on wireless connections? Explore our guide for information on costs and availability.
Cox Internet Plans and Rates
Plan | Monthly Cost | Speed |
Go Fast | $50 | 100 Mbps |
Go Faster | $70 | 250 Mbps |
Go Even Faster | $90 | 500 Mbps |
Go Super Fast | $110 (for 24 months) | 1, 000 Mbps |
Go Beyond Fast | $150 | 2, 000 Mbps |
Cox provides several subscription options, letting users choose between cost-effective or higher speeds.
However, these offerings don’t match the quality of fiber services from competitors.
For example, one of Cox’s mid-tier options costs more monthly and delivers lower speeds than a competing high-speed plan.
Additionally, most of these options see a significant price increase after the first year.
Nevertheless, the service remains dependable and offers competitive speeds.
Users are more likely to find a subscription through Cox than a competitor’s high-speed service, making Cox the preferred choice for most.
Deals and Offers: Provider A vs. Provider B
Provider A:
- Sign up for a high-speed internet plan and a wireless package, purchase a mobile device through installments, and receive six months of free internet service, available until a specific deadline.
- Receive a cashback reward of up to $150 when you subscribe to a high-speed internet service and an eligible wireless plan before the specified deadline.
- Bundle internet and wireless services together and enjoy a 20% discount on your monthly internet cost, valid until the set date.
Provider B:
- Combine internet service with a mobile plan and save $15 each month.
- Get complimentary Wi-Fi equipment for one year with a specific internet plan, or enjoy it for two years with a higher-speed plan.
Additional Charges: AT&T vs. Cox
Company | Equipment Fee | Installation Fee | Other Fees |
AT&T | $10 per month (DSL) | Professional installation up to $99 (DSL) or free self-install kit | $15 per month (early termination), up to $9 (late payment) |
Cox Communications | $12 per month | Professional installation costs $100, or you can opt for a free self-install kit | $10 per month (early termination); late fees depend on state laws and regulations |
Both service providers charge for professional setup, but you can choose a self-setup option to avoid extra charges.
The provider supplies all necessary equipment for internet access, including a network device, router, and a media or recording device when TV service comes with the package.
Alternatively, you can buy your equipment to reduce expenses.
Using the provided equipment guarantees compatibility with your service; if issues occur, the provider covers repairs.
One provider doesn’t charge for network and signal devices with its high-speed options, while the other charges a monthly fee for its combined network device.
Tip: Opt for your network device
Many service providers allow the use of personal devices to bypass rental fees.
Many options exist, including higher-performance devices for faster speeds or those with extended range for comprehensive coverage.
Customer Ratings: AT&T vs. Cox
Provider | Overall Rating | Speed | Price | Reliability | Customer Support |
AT&T | 3.9/5 | 3.9/5 | 3.7/5 | 3.8/5 | 3.8/5 |
Cox Communications | 3.7/5 | 3.9/5 | 3.4/5 | 3.7/5 | 3.8/5 |
Both providers received strong ratings in our annual satisfaction survey.
While both scored similarly in performance and support, one showed slightly greater satisfaction with service reliability.
Both earned their lowest marks in the cost category, one outperforming the other by achieving a higher satisfaction score.
Neither service showed significant issues, as both ranked in the upper half across all measured areas.
Either option will likely meet your needs, though one shows higher overall satisfaction.
Pro tip:
Unsure about the speeds required? Try our speed test to measure your current connection for a more accurate comparison.
Top TV and Internet bundle options
Package | Internet Speed | TV Channels | Price |
Cox Go Faster with Contour TV Starter | 250Mbps | 75+ | $121.00/month |
Cox Go Even Faster with Contour Preferred | 500Mbps | 140+ | $185.00/month |
DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT paired with AT&T Fiber Internet 300 | 300Mbps | 75+ | $112.99/month |
Bundling internet and television services from a single provider simplifies billing and often results in a more affordable deal.
One provider offers bundle options, including its television service, providing a broad range of entertainment channels.
Users can opt for a streaming TV service instead of traditional cable for a lower-cost alternative.
Any internet plan (ranging from moderate to high speeds) can pair with various television service plans, offering multiple channel options.
Another provider bundles the internet with a popular streaming service, delivering several plans and various entertainment channels.
The streaming service works with any television, eliminating the need for specialized equipment.
Additionally, traditional satellite options remain available for areas lacking high-speed internet access.
Types of Internet Connections: AT&T vs. Cox
Internet Provider | Available Connections |
AT&T | Offers fiber and fixed wireless options |
Cox Communications | Provides cable and fiber connections |
The company mainly provides high-speed internet, with alternative options for rural locations.
Another provider uses a different infrastructure. In terms of performance and dependability, fiber-optic networks are superior.
The first company offers speeds up to 5Gbps for downloads and uploads, making it the fastest available from a major service provider.
The alternative system also delivers fast and dependable service, but while it offers up to 1,000Mbps for downloads, upload speeds generally fall short.
Consider this when engaging in activities requiring heavy uploads, such as sharing media, streaming events, or participating in virtual meetings.
Tip:
What is your connection type? Refer to our guide to understand various connection options.
Data Caps: AT&T vs. Cox
Provider | Data Cap Details |
AT&T | Fiber plans offer no data caps, with plans up to 75Mbps, including a 1TB limit, and fixed wireless plans capping at 350GB. |
Cox Communications | Provides a 1.25TB data cap |
The provider offers unlimited data for customers on its high-speed internet plans, while its wireless service has a 350GB data limit.
The other provider sets a 1.25TB data allowance for all its users, which should meet the needs of most individuals, although heavy media consumers may face restrictions.
Contract Options: AT&T vs. Cox
Provider | Contract Duration | Details |
AT&T | No contract required | Fiber and AT&T TV services do not require a contract |
Cox Communications | 1-year contract or month-to-month | Choose a month-to-month plan for an extra $10.00/month |
You don’t need to commit to a long-term agreement with the provider.
All its subscription options follow a flexible, monthly structure, allowing cancellation anytime without facing termination penalties.
Another provider gives you the choice between a fixed-term agreement or a flexible month-to-month option for an additional fee.
If you choose the fixed-term deal, you’ll incur a charge for every remaining month if you cancel early.
Opting for the contract may save money initially, but early cancellation could lead to additional costs.
Installation Fees and Self-Installation Kits Comparison
Provider | Installation Fee | Self-Installation Kit Provided |
AT&T | Charges up to $99 | Offers a free self-installation kit |
Cox Communications | Charges $100 | Includes a free self-installation kit |
Both providers charge for professional setups, but you can reduce costs through specific options. One company offers a free DIY kit, allowing you to avoid the setup fee.
The other provider charges for professional setup but provides a DIY kit at no extra cost.
Service Provider Comparison: Coverage
Both providers operate in similar regions—one in 21 areas and the other in 18. However, the first provider typically covers a more extensive scope within each region.