CNET’s broadband experts have meticulously evaluated internet providers in North Carolina to help consumers find the ideal plan. Whether prioritizing speed or affordability, there’s an option for every need. Spectrum emerges as the top overall provider due to its widespread availability, fast speeds, and reasonable pricing. However, for those seeking the absolute fastest speeds, Google Fiber leads the pack with its impressive 8,000 Mbps offerings, albeit with limited availability in select cities. This comprehensive guide explores various internet options across North Carolina, including rural alternatives and city-specific breakdowns, ensuring everyone can find a suitable connection.
North Carolina boasts impressive internet speeds, ranking seventh nationwide. While major cities like Charlotte and the Triangle benefit from the lightning-fast speeds of AT&T and Google Fiber, other areas rely on diverse connection types. Spectrum shines as the overall best provider due to its widespread reach, competitive speeds, and straightforward pricing. Even in rural areas, options like local fiber providers, fixed wireless from T-Mobile Home Internet, and satellite internet ensure connectivity for all. However, availability varies by location, highlighting the importance of checking specific addresses for available services.
For those residing in rural North Carolina, finding reliable internet access is crucial. Brightspeed offers DSL and fiber options with varying speed tiers, while Hughesnet and Viasat provide satellite internet for complete state coverage, albeit with data caps. T-Mobile Home Internet emerges as a strong contender with its fixed wireless solution, offering decent speeds and competitive pricing, especially for existing T-Mobile customers. This variety ensures that even in less populated areas, residents have choices for connecting to the online world.
North Carolina exhibits commendable broadband infrastructure, with nearly all residents having access to speeds of 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload. The state boasts a median download speed of 231 Mbps, significantly exceeding the national average, thanks in part to the presence of Google Fiber. Several North Carolina cities rank among the fastest in the nation, highlighting the state’s robust internet landscape. However, fiber internet, while rapidly expanding, primarily remains concentrated in urban centers like Charlotte and the Triangle.
Internet pricing in North Carolina typically starts around $50 per month, although T-Mobile offers discounts for eligible phone plan customers. Actual prices vary depending on location and chosen plan. CNET’s selection process for top internet providers involves rigorous analysis of pricing, availability, speed information, and customer satisfaction data. By consulting multiple sources, including FCC data, provider websites, and customer satisfaction surveys, CNET ensures its recommendations are comprehensive and accurate.
Looking ahead, North Carolina’s broadband future is bright, bolstered by a $1.5 billion federal grant to expand high-speed internet access. This initiative aims to connect underserved areas, improve digital literacy, and make internet access more affordable. With ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and affordability, North Carolina is poised to further solidify its position as a state with robust internet infrastructure, benefiting residents and businesses alike.
