Looking for a new internet service provider? Well, there are two internet connection types that you will frequently see while searching for a new ISP. Cable and DSL both are the most commonly available types of internet connections. DSL internet runs through landline phone wires and provides average speeds for regular internet use. Whereas Cable Internet uses underground coaxial infrastructure to provide access to end-users.
If your day-to-day online activity includes simpler tasks like checking email or streaming videos on one device or two, or you enjoy online gaming sometimes then a DSL connection would be a suitable choice for you. Some of the top DSL internet providers in the US are AT&T internet, Frontier, Windstream, and CenturyLink.
However, if you want a relatively faster option then you must go for cable internet as it provides consistent streaming on multiple devices, a smooth video calling experience, and easy large document uploads. Cable internet is a better option to pick if you enjoy frequent online gaming.
You can easily search for cable companies near me by just entering your zip code into the search bar, you’ll get a list of providers that serve in your area. Some of the top names that provide cable connection internet are Spectrum, Xfinity, Cox, and AT&T.
To explain it further to you we are going to tell you about the pros and cons of both connection types, so you can figure out what internet type you can settle best with:
Pros of cable internet
- Cable internet provides faster upload and download speeds.
- Multiple plans options are available in the market by different service providers. You get more variety to pick a plan that is best suitable for you.
- Cable internet provides a more reliable connection type.
- Provides extremely high bandwidth.
- Widely available nationwide.
Cons of cable internet
- Many hidden charges in the plans.
- Internet speeds are dependent on usage rates.
- It slows down frequently during peak hours.
- Often unavailable in rural areas.
Pros of DSL Connection
- Wider availability including rural areas
- DSL internet provides the option of not sharing bandwidth with other users
- Often comes with fixed pricing
- Affordable plans are available for people with different budgets.
- Offers minimal downtime.
Cons of DSL Connection
- Usually, the DSL service is provided by the phone company so it bounds you to carry phone service too.
- DSL connection often comes along with data caps.
- Slower speeds if you move farther from the distribution point of your DSL connection.
- Longer distance degrades quality offers unreliable service.
Which connection type is better in terms of availability?
Both DSL and Cable internet are widely available across the US. Stats from the FCC shows that around 88% of the population have at least one DSL provider delivering in their area whereas about 89% of people can easily get a cable internet provider around them.
The limitation comes in terms of speeds. Where you can get an average speed of 25 Mbps with your DSL connection, cable internet is capable of providing 250 Mbps or faster. So availability might not be an issue with both these connection types but if you want a high-performance choice then you must go for cable internet.
It will allow you to frequently back up your large files, give a better online gaming experience and allow multiple-device streaming simultaneously.
Which is better in terms of value?
DSL internet has all its benefits and we will not disagree on that but we have to say that cable internet is better in terms of value. It provides more consistent speeds, is faster than DSL, and comes with cheaper plans.
However, you might face price hikes with cable internet plans after the introductory months of your plan comes to an end. But if paying a little more gets you good speeds that can carry out all your online tasks smoothly, it’s worth paying for.
With more providers offering cable services, you might get lucky and get your hands on some bundle deals from the cable service provider for your TV as well as your internet service.
Should I get Cable Internet or DSL for my house?
It completely depends on your usage and the availability of providers in your area. If your household has many devices to facilitate from the internet, a lot of people are streaming at the same time, you’re a fan of gaming online and you often work remotely too, then cable internet can be a good option for you as it provides ten times faster speeds than DSL.
But if your internet usage is very average, you do not require high speeds for any online task more often and want an internet connection n budget then you can opt for a DSL connection considering the availability of providers around you. DSL is also a good option if you’re living in a rural area and cannot access cable internet.
Wrapping it up: Both the connection types are common and widely available. Every American must have at least one or two DSL or cable internet provider serving in their rea. But choosing a connection type that is best for your home depends on your needs and internet usage.
So consider what kind of online activities you usually do and need the internet for. If your activities involve high-end online tasks then we suggest that cable internet is your connection.
