AT&T vs Cox Internet: A Comprehensive Comparison (2023)

Choosing the right Internet Service Provider (ISP) can be a daunting task and involves considering many factors such as speed, price, and customer service. The two main players in the market are AT&T and Cox Communications. In this article, we will look at and compare these ISPs, discuss their different features and options so you can make an informed decision.

AT&T Review

AT&T is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, offering a variety of internet services, including DSL, fiber optic and landline wireless connections. They have a wide reach and serve millions of customers across the country.

Cox review

Cox Communications is a well-known cable and Internet service provider in the United States, offering high-speed Internet services primarily over cable and fiber optic lines. They have a smaller coverage area than AT&T, but are still a popular choice in the regions they serve.

Speed ​​comparison

When it comes to speed, AT&T's fiber internet service offers download speeds of up to 5,000Mbps, while their DSL service tops out at 100Mbps. Cox's cable internet service, on the other hand, offers download speeds of 25Mbps to 1000Mbps, while their Gigablast fiber plan offers up to 1000Mbps.

Internet plan options

AT&T Internet Plans

AT&T offers several internet plans with different speeds and prices. They have three main fiber plans: Internet 500, Internet 1000 and Internet 5000, offering download speeds of 500Mbps, 1000Mbps and 5000Mbps respectively. Their DSL plans have lower speeds starting at 10Mbps and ending at 100Mbps.

Cox Internet Plans

Cox offers a range of internet plans including Starter 25, Essential 50, Preferred 150, Ultimate 500 and Gigablast. These plans provide download speeds of 25Mbps, 50Mbps, 150Mbps, 500Mbps, and 1000Mbps respectively.

Price comparison

AT&T's fiber plans start at around $55 a month while their DSL plans start at around $45 a month. Cox's plans are competitively priced, with their Starter 25 plan starting at around $30/month and their Gigablast plan around $100/month.

Contract and package options

AT&T contracts and bundles

AT&T typically requires a 12-month contract for its Internet plans, with some exceptions. They also offer bundled deals that include TV and telephone services, potentially saving customers money on their monthly bills.

Cox contracts and packages

Cox offers no-contract options for customers who prefer month-to-month services, but they also have contracts for those looking for discounted rates. They offer bundled deals that include TV and telephone services, which can be a cost-effective option for many customers.

Customer service

AT&T provides 24/7 customer support via phone, live chat and social media. They also have an extensive online help center that has articles, guides, and troubleshooting tips. AT&T's customer support is generally known to be reliable, but wait times can sometimes be long during peak hours.

Cox offers customer support via phone, live chat, email and social media. They also have an extensive online help center with articles and guides to help customers troubleshoot common issues. While Cox's customer support is generally responsive, some customers have reported inconsistent experiences.

Equipment and installation

AT&T hardware and installation

AT&T provides a Wi-Fi gateway (a combination of modem and router) for its Internet services. The equipment rental fee is usually included in the monthly subscription cost. Professional installation is available, but self-installation is also an option for customers who prefer to set up their service themselves.

Cox equipment and installation

Cox requires customers to use a Panoramic Wi-Fi modem and router, which comes with an additional monthly rental fee. Customers can also choose to purchase equipment directly. Professional installation is available for a fee, but Cox also offers do-it-yourself kits for those who prefer to handle the installation process themselves.

Data limits and charges

AT&T's fiber plans come with unlimited data while their DSL plans have a 1TB data cap. Customers who exceed their data allowance may be subject to additional charges. AT&T also charges a one-time activation fee to new customers, but this fee is often waived during promotions.

Cox Internet plans come with a 1.25 TB data allowance and customers who exceed the limit may be charged additional fees. They also charge a one-time installation fee, which may vary depending on whether the customer chooses a professional installation or a self-installation.

Additional remarks

When comparing AT&T and Cox, there are additional factors to keep in mind that may affect overall satisfaction with your Internet service. These considerations include:

Availability

Both AT&T and Cox have extensive coverage areas, but availability varies by region. To determine which provider is available in your location, it's important to check their coverage maps and enter your address on their websites.

Efficiency and reliability

While speed is an important factor, it's also important to consider each provider's overall performance and reliability. Factors such as network congestion, weather, and infrastructure may affect your Internet experience. Reading customer reviews and researching the performance of each provider in your area can provide valuable information about their reliability.

Promotions and special offers

Both AT&T and Cox often offer promotions and special offers for new customers, such as discounts, waiving activation fees, or free installation. Be sure to check current promotions before signing up, as these can make a significant difference to your overall costs.

Flexibility and scalability

If you expect your internet to change in the future, be sure to choose a provider that offers the flexibility to upgrade or downgrade your plan. Both AT&T and Cox offer a range of internet plans with different speeds and prices, allowing customers to find a plan to suit their changing requirements.

Consumer satisfaction

It's important to study customer satisfaction ratings and reviews from both AT&T and Cox to understand how well they meet customer expectations. Consider factors such as customer support responsiveness, billing practices, and overall satisfaction with the web service.

Application

AT&T and Cox are reputable ISPs, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. AT&T offers faster speeds with its fiber plans and unlimited data for those plans, while Cox has more affordable entry-level plans and no-contract options. Ultimately, choosing the best provider will depend on your specific needs, location, and budget.

Frequently asked questions