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Fiber internet vs. cable internet: Key differences in speed, cost and availability

Roxanne Downer   Paste BN

If you’re exploring internet options for your home or business, fiber and cable are two of the most reliable choices. Both use wired connections, but they rely on different technologies.

Fiber uses fiber-optic lines that transmit data at the speed of light, whereas cable uses coaxial cables, which are traditionally used for TV service. Fiber typically offers faster upload and download speeds, but it's a newer technology and less widely available than cable. 

Understanding the differences in speed, cost and availability can help you decide which option best fits your needs and what's accessible through your local internet service provider (ISP). Read on to learn how fiber and cable internet compare and which one might be right for you.

Fiber vs. cable internet: What’s the difference?

Fiber and cable internet both deliver high-speed connections over wired networks, but they use different technologies to transmit data. Cable internet relies on coaxial cables — the same kind used for cable TV — and sends data via electrical signals. Fiber internet, on the other hand, uses fiber-optic cables that transmit data as light pulses through thin glass or plastic strands.

The result? Fiber generally offers faster speeds, especially for uploads, and tends to be more reliable with lower latency. However, it comes with a higher up-front cost and is less widely available. Cable internet, although slower by comparison, still offers fast download speeds and is more accessible, particularly in rural and suburban areas.

Key differences:

  • Transmission technology: Cable uses electrical signals over coaxial cables; fiber uses light over fiber-optic strands
  • Speed: Fiber offers higher speeds, especially for uploads
  • Availability: Cable is more widely available and easier to install in non-urban areas

What is fiber internet, and what are its advantages?

Fiber internet, also known as fiber-optic broadband, utilizes ultra-thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data as light signals, making it the fastest and most advanced internet technology available today. Providers, such as Google Fiber, Verizon and AT&T, offer speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second in some areas, far exceeding those of cable or DSL.

Fiber networks can be either full-fiber (all the way to your home) or hybrid systems that combine fiber and coaxial cables. While hybrid networks are more widely available, pure fiber delivers the most consistent speeds and performance.

Advantages of fiber internet

Fiber internet is known for its exceptional performance, making it a top choice for users who prioritize speed, reliability and future-ready connectivity. Here are the key advantages that set fiber apart from other internet options.

  • Speed: Fastest available download and upload speeds; often symmetrical
  • Reliability: Less affected by network congestion or weather
  • Low latency: Great for streaming, gaming and video calls
  • Security: Dedicated lines offer stronger protection against breaches
  • Scalability: Supports growing bandwidth needs and smart home tech

Drawbacks of fiber internet

However, fiber isn’t perfect. It tends to be more expensive, installation can be more complex, and availability is still limited, especially in rural areas. As of 2025, fiber internet is available to approximately 88.1 million U.S. households (56.5%), but access is expanding rapidly.

  • Cost: Typically higher monthly prices than cable
  • Availability: Limited access in rural or remote areas
  • Convenience: Fewer bundling options with TV or phone services
  • Installation: May require more complex or delayed setup depending on infrastructure

What is cable internet, and what are its advantages?

Cable internet is one of the most widely used types of high-speed internet in the United States. It delivers internet access through the same coaxial cables that transmit cable television, using radio frequency signals passed through a cable modem. Thanks to this existing infrastructure, cable internet is broadly available — even in many rural and suburban areas — and typically offers download speeds of 100 Mbps or more.

Providers, such as Optimum, Xfinity and Spectrum, offer speeds up to 2 gigabits per second in some areas.

While cable is generally slower than fiber in terms of both speed and performance, it remains a reliable and cost-effective option for most households. One major limitation is upload speed: cable connections are asymmetrical, meaning upload speeds are significantly lower than download speeds. It’s a strong choice for streaming, browsing and video calls, but less ideal for uploading large files or livestreaming.

Advantages of cable internet

Many providers offer bundled packages that combine internet with cable TV or phone service, and some plans include introductory rates at a low cost. Installation is typically straightforward because it utilizes existing wiring. Cable remains a popular and practical internet solution for many households, especially where fiber isn't yet available.

  • Availability: Offered in most urban, suburban and many rural areas
  • Affordability: Lower starting prices than fiber
  • Bundling options: Can be packaged with TV or phone services
  • Easy setup: Uses existing coaxial infrastructure

Drawbacks of cable internet

However, speeds can slow during peak hours due to network congestion, and some plans may come with hidden fees, such as activation or data overage charges.

  • Slower upload speeds compared to fiber
  • Shared bandwidth may reduce speeds during peak usage
  • May include hidden fees or price hikes after promo periods

How do fiber and cable internet speeds compare?

Speed is one of the biggest differentiators between fiber and cable internet. Both can deliver fast download speeds, but fiber has a clear edge in maximum performance and upload capabilities.

  • Download speeds: Fiber plans typically range from 300 Mbps to 2,000 Mbps, with some providers offering up to 5, 8 or even 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) in select areas. Cable internet plans typically cap out around 1 Gbps, although some hybrid networks can achieve slightly higher speeds.
  • Upload speeds: Fiber offers symmetrical speeds, meaning uploads are just as fast as downloads. For example, a 300 Mbps fiber plan provides both 300 Mbps download and 300 Mbps upload speeds. Cable internet, however, typically has significantly slower upload speeds, often only one-tenth to one-thirtieth of the download speed.

According to Speedtest.net, the average U.S. download speed as of June 2025 was 287.59 Mbps, and the average upload speed was 51.83 Mbps. Fiber connections can easily exceed both averages — especially for users who stream, game or upload large files — while cable speeds may fluctuate more due to network congestion and infrastructure limitations.

How do fiber and cable internet costs compare?

The cost of fiber and cable internet depends on your provider, location and the speed tier you select. In areas where both are available, pricing is often competitive. However, there are key differences to consider.

  • Fiber costs: Plans with speeds up to 1 Gbps typically range from $50 to $100 per month. Multi-gigabit fiber plans (up to 10 Gbps) can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per month. Fiber internet often comes with more stable pricing and fewer promotional rate hikes, but may require a higher up-front cost due to installation and infrastructure.
  • Cable costs: Basic cable internet plans can start as low as $9.95 to $50 per month, while higher-speed packages may cost $80 or more. Many cable providers offer low introductory rates that increase significantly after the promotional period.

On average, fiber internet costs around $138 per month, while cable averages closer to $70. Cable may also offer bundling options with TV or phone service, which can potentially lower your monthly bill. 

Keep in mind that both types of internet may come with additional fees for equipment, installation or activation; however,  fiber providers like Google Fiber, AT&T and Verizon Fios tend to be more transparent with their pricing.

Where is fiber vs. cable internet available?

Availability is one of the most significant differences between cable and fiber internet — and often the deciding factor for many households.

  • Cable internet is widely accessible, covering about 95% of the United States, according to the Federal Communications Commission. It’s available in most cities, towns and suburban areas. Even many rural communities have access through local cable providers.
  • Fiber internet reaches just about 56.5% of U.S. households. It's typically found in mid-to-large cities and some suburban areas, but is far less common in small towns and rural regions.

Because fiber requires newer infrastructure, it’s slower to expand, leaving many people outside urban centers with cable or satellite as their primary options.

How do fiber and cable internet providers compare?

Here is a summary comparison of popular fiber and cable providers and their typical offerings:

Fiber providers

  • AT&T: 300–5,000 Mbps; $55–$245 per month
  • Frontier: 500–5,000 Mbps; $50–$155 per month
  • Google Fiber: 1,000–8,000 Mbps; $70–$150 per month
  • Optimum (fiber):300–8,000 Mbps; $75–$280 per month
  • Verizon Fios: 300–2,000 Mbps; $50–$110

Cable providers

  • Astound: 300–1,500 Mbps, $25–$60 per month
  • Breezeline: 100–1,000 Mbps; $20–$60 per month
  • Cox: 300–2000 Mbps; $50–$150
  • Optimum (cable):300–1,000 Mbps; $30–$80 Mbps
  • Spectrum: Offers a one-year price guarantee

Fiber vs. cable: How to choose the right internet for your home

When deciding between fiber and cable internet, your choice will largely depend on your speed needs, budget and availability. Fiber offers faster and more reliable performance (especially for upload speeds) with lower latency and stronger long-term scalability. However, it's not yet available everywhere and may come with a higher up-front cost.

Cable internet, on the other hand, is more widely available and often comes with lower introductory prices and bundled options for TV or phone services. The tradeoff is slower upload speeds, potential congestion during peak hours and pricing that may increase after the promotional period.

Other essential factors to consider include:

  • Installation: Fiber may require new infrastructure, while cable typically uses existing lines
  • Bundling: Cable often allows you to package internet with TV and phone services; fiber usually does not
  • Fees: Watch for installation, equipment rental and activation fees with either type
  • Customer service: Provider reputation can impact your experience with billing, outages and tech support

Ultimately, fiber is the better choice if it's available and fits your budget; however, cable remains a solid and accessible option for most households.

Contributing: Lisa Iscrupe, Hannah Whatley, Allconnect

This article was edited with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. Learn more about Gannett’s AI guidelines and policy here.

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