Want to get more out of your home internet?
Whether you stream, game , or work from home, it’s difficult to overstate the importance of having fast, reliable Internet. But choosing your provider isn’t always as simple as picking the speediest option you can find. There are many factors to consider when looking for an Internet provider, such as price, customer service, and even how long the company has been operating—it’s a lot to factor in.
In this article, we'll compare Optimum and AT&T—two leading Internet providers—to help you decide which is best suited to your needs. Keep reading to learn how AT&T vs. Optimum compare on pricing, plans, speeds, installation process, and more.
AT&T vs. Optimum : A Breakdown of the Main Differences
Both Optimum and AT&T offer fast, reliable Internet and benefits like unlimited data and the option to bundle services. Here’s a complete breakdown of how Optimum vs. AT&T compare:
| Service | Optimum Internet | AT&T Fiber |
| Internet Speeds | 300 Mbps to 8 Gbps* | Up to 5 Gbps |
| Download Speed | 300 Mbps to 8 Gbps* | Up to 5 Gbps |
| Upload Speed | 300 Mbps to 8 Gbps* | Up to 5 Gbps |
| Data Cap | None | None |
| TV Packages | Optimum TV | DIRECTV |
| Contract Buyout | Doesn’t require annual contracts | Doesn’t require annual contracts |
| Years in Business | 53 | 40 |
| Installation Process | Professional installation | Professional installation |
*8 Gig Fiber Internet is currently available in portions of NY, NJ & CT. Fiber Internet is not available in all areas. Internet speeds may vary depending on location and connection type. Click here to see if 8 Gig is available in your area.
How Does the Installation Process Differ For Optimum and AT&T?
With Optimum, you can choose between self-installation and professional installation. When you opt for the former, you’ll receive the necessary equipment along with easy-to-follow installation instructions. If you live in a region that supports Optimum Fiber, you’ll get professional installation. A certified technician will visit your home and handle all aspects of installation including setting up your Optimum-provided modem and hardwiring one device. They can also assist you in creating your Optimum account if necessary. Altogether, the professional installation process can take up to three hours for fiber Internet.
AT&T exclusively offers professional installation. A technician will come to your home to install your equipment and upgrade fiber lines if needed to ensure you have the most up-to-date fiber optic technology. If replacing wiring is required, you can expect installation to take anywhere from four to six hours.
| Installation | Optimum Internet | AT&T Fiber |
| Type | Self-installation or professional installation | Professional installation |
| Modem | Modem included in the plan | Modem included in the plan |