Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵
Finding the Best Internet Provider in Denver
Seeking the ideal internet provider and plan in Denver, Colorado? For residents prioritizing rapid and reliable broadband, Quantum Fiber emerges as FASTNET’s preferred selection. This provider excels with its extensive availability, swift connections, and symmetrical download and upload speeds making it a top choice for internet in Denver. Should Quantum Fiber not meet your needs, Xfinity and Ting stand out as compelling alternatives, offering dependable performance and competitive pricing structures.
For Denver inhabitants focused on budget-friendly internet options, Xfinity’s Connect plan delivers 150Mbps for a mere $20 per month. Be mindful that this rate is promotional and will increase after the initial term. If speed is paramount, Quantum Fiber presents the fastest internet speeds in Denver with their 8-gigabit plan at $150 monthly. If this tier is unavailable in your area, their 3-gigabit option at $100 offers a robust alternative.
Denver Internet Providers: A Comparison
Provider | Internet Technology | Monthly Price Range | Speed Range | Monthly Equipment Costs | Data Cap | Contract | FASTNET Review Score |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
CenturyLink | DSL | $55 | Up to 40Mbps | $15 modem | None | None | 6.7 |
Hughesnet | Satellite | $50-$65 ($75-$90 after 12 months) | 50-100Mbps | $15-$20 or $300-$450 one-time purchase | 100-200GB | 2 years | 6 |
Live Wire Networks | Fixed Wireless | $25-$80 | 50-200Mbps | $5 router | None | None | N/A |
Quantum Fiber | Fiber | $45-$150 | 200-8,085Mbps | None | None | None | 6.7 |
Starry | Fixed wireless | $30-$55 ($40-$70 after 12 months) | 200-500Mbps | None | None | None | 7 |
T-Mobile Home Internet | Fixed wireless | $50-$70 ($35-$55 for eligible customers) | 87-415Mbps | None | None | None | 7.4 |
Verizon 5G Home Internet | Fixed wireless | $50-$70 ($35-$45 for eligible customers) | 50-1,000Mbps | None | None | None | 7.2 |
Viasat | Satellite | $100 | Up to 50Mbps | $15 or one-time $250 purchase | Unlimited | None | 6.1 |
Xfinity | Cable | $20-$85 | 150-1,300Mbps | $10-$25 (included in some plans) | 1.2TB for some plans | 1 year for some | 7 |
Ting | Fiber | $89 | 1,000Mbps | $11-$18 (optional) | Unlimited | None | N/A |
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Exploring Additional Internet Providers in Denver
- Google Fiber Webpass: This fixed wireless option from Google Fiber has limited availability in Denver. Primarily serving apartment complexes, it features a single, high-speed plan: symmetrical gigabit service at $70 per month (or $63 monthly with an annual commitment). GFiber includes complimentary installation and eliminates contracts and equipment charges. While not widely accessible throughout the Mile High City, GFiber service can be found at specific locations in the Highland, River North Art District, and West Colfax areas.
- Satellite Internet: Satellite internet is a universally accessible choice across the US. However, for Denver city residents, it’s likely not the optimal solution. More budget-friendly and faster plans are typically available via other technologies within city limits. For those in the more remote regions surrounding Denver (such as Highlands Ranch, Roxborough Park, and Sedalia), satellite may warrant consideration for establishing a connection. Unlike Hughesnet, Viasat’s updated unlimited data plans no longer necessitate a two-year contract. Both Hughesnet and Viasat remain prominent satellite providers. Starlink, offering unlimited data and no contracts, presents an appealing alternative, though it involves a substantial initial cost of approximately $349.
- T-Mobile Home Internet: T-Mobile’s fixed wireless service utilizes the company’s 4G LTE and 5G networks to deliver home internet access. Beyond its standard $50 monthly plan, the mobile carrier recently introduced two additional plans. The Amplified Home plan, starting at $60 per month, incorporates a $15 discount for qualifying mobile customers. The All-In Home Internet plan offers simplicity – no contracts, equipment fees, or data restrictions. While T-Mobile Home Internet spans the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan area, verifying address eligibility on the T-Mobile site is essential to determine if home internet service is available at a specific location.
- Ting Internet: This fiber internet provider operates locally in Centennial, a southern suburb of Denver. It caters to users seeking exceptionally fast and consistent internet, featuring a symmetrical 1,000Mbps plan priced at $89 per month. Wi-Fi service can be added for $11 or $18 monthly, depending on the chosen service level, or users may opt to use their own router to avoid these fees.
- Verizon 5G Home Internet: Verizon’s 5G fixed wireless home internet product delivers higher average download speeds (300Mbps) compared to T-Mobile Home Internet. It follows a similar all-inclusive pricing model, encompassing installation, equipment, and fees for a flat $50 monthly rate. Furthermore, eligible Verizon Wireless subscribers can benefit from substantial monthly discounts.
Budget Internet Options in Denver
The most economical internet plan available in Denver is Xfinity’s Connect plan, providing 150Mbps download speeds for $20 per month. Although the price increases to $67 after the promotional duration, this juncture presents an opportunity to explore alternative providers or negotiate with Xfinity before committing at the higher rate.
Identifying the Most Affordable Internet Plan in Denver
Provider | Starting Price | Max Download Speed | Monthly Equipment Fee |
---|---|---|---|
Xfinity Connect | $20 | 150Mbps | $15 gateway rental (optional) |
Live Wire Networks | $25 | 50Mbps | $5 router |
Xfinity Connect More | $35 | 300Mbps | $15 gateway rental (optional) |
Starry 200 | $40 ($50 after 12 months) | 200Mbps | None |
Quantum Fiber 500 | $50 | 500Mbps | None |
Verizon 5G Home Internet | $50 ($35 with qualifying Verizon 5G mobile plans) | 300Mbps | None |
Hughesnet | $50 ($75 after 12 months) | 50Mbps | $15 or $300 one-time purchase |
T-Mobile Home Internet | $50 ($35 with eligible phone plans) | 318Mbps | None |
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Discovering Internet Deals and Promotions in Denver
Optimal internet deals and promotions in Denver fluctuate based on current discount offerings. While most promotions are temporary, we actively monitor for the latest available offers.
Denver internet service providers, including Xfinity and Rise Broadband, may present reduced introductory prices or limited-time promotions. Conversely, providers like CenturyLink and Quantum Fiber tend to maintain consistent standard pricing throughout the year.
For a more comprehensive compilation of promotions, consult our guide on the top internet deals.
Understanding Denver Broadband Speeds
When considering internet speeds, Denver’s performance is less impressive compared to other major US cities. It ranked 96th in median download speeds according to recent Ookla speed test data, achieving 126Mbps. (Disclosure: FASTNET’s parent company, Ziff Davis, also owns Ookla.) The same data indicated Xfinity as Denver’s fastest provider, registering a median download speed of approximately 239Mbps in the region.
For individuals needing greater speed, Quantum Fiber’s multi-gigabit options are available in select Denver neighborhoods. Numerous other Denver providers also offer gigabit plans, such as Ting Internet, Xfinity, and Verizon 5G Home Internet.
Top-Tier Fast Internet Plans in Denver
Provider | Starting Monthly Price | Max Download Speed | Max Upload Speed | Data Cap | Connection Type |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quantum Fiber 8 Gig | $150 | 8,085Mbps | 8,056Mbps | None | Fiber |
Xfinity Gigabit Extra | $85 | 1,300Mbps | 300Mbps | 1.2TB if using equipment, none if renting with Xfinity | Cable |
Ting Internet | $89 | 1,000Mbps | 1,000Mbps | None | Fiber |
Quantum Fiber 1 Gig | $65 940Mbps | 940Mbps | 940Mbps | None | Fiber |
Verizon 5G Home Plus | $70 ($45 with qualifying Verizon 5G mobile plans) | 1,000Mbps | 75Mbps | None | Fixed wireless |
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Internet Options in Neighboring Cities to Denver
Explore all results for internet providers in Colorado.
Defining a Suitable Internet Speed
Present-day internet plans are generally sufficient for fundamental online tasks and communication. For activities like video conferencing, streaming, or online gaming, a more robust connection is recommended for optimal performance. Below is a summary of the FCC’s suggested minimum download speeds for various online applications. Please note these are general recommendations, and actual internet speed and service can vary depending on connection type, provider, and specific location.
For further details, consult our guide on assessing your required internet speed.
- 0 to 5Mbps: Supports basic online activities such as browsing, email, and low-resolution video streaming.
- 5 to 40Mbps: Enables higher-resolution video streaming and video conferencing.
- 40 to 100Mbps: Adequate bandwidth for a single user engaged in modern remote work, video streaming, and gaming.
- 100 to 500Mbps: Allows one to two users to simultaneously participate in bandwidth-intensive activities like video conferencing, streaming, and online gaming.
- 500 to 1,000Mbps: Accommodates three or more users engaging in simultaneous high-bandwidth online activities.
FASTNET’s Methodology for Rating Internet Providers in Denver
The internet provider landscape is vast and regionally specific. Unlike evaluating consumer electronics, direct testing of every internet service provider in a given city is impractical. Our methodology begins with leveraging a proprietary database of pricing, availability, and speed data. This database compiles historical ISP information, partner data, and mapping intelligence from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) at FCC.gov.
Our process extends further by cross-referencing our data with the FCC’s website to ensure comprehensive coverage of all service providers in an area. We also investigate provider websites, inputting local addresses to identify specific options for residents. To assess customer satisfaction, we consult sources such as the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power. Given the dynamic nature of ISP plans and pricing, all information is verified for accuracy at the time of publication.
With this localized information, we center our analysis around three core questions:
- Does the provider offer acceptable access to fast internet speeds?
- Do customers receive good value for their expenditure?
- Are customers satisfied with the service provided?
The answers to these questions are often nuanced. We recommend providers that consistently score favorably across all three criteria. When identifying the most affordable internet service, we prioritize plans with the lowest monthly cost, while also considering potential price increases, equipment fees, and contract commitments. Selecting the fastest internet service focuses on advertised upload and download speeds and incorporates real-world speed data from sources like Ookla and FCC reports.
For a more detailed exploration of our evaluation process, please visit our “how we test ISPs” page.
Concluding Remarks on Denver Internet Providers
While Denver offers various avenues for internet connectivity, the breadth of options may be less extensive compared to larger metropolitan areas. Xfinity’s cable internet, with its diverse plan offerings, likely represents the most widely accessible choice. However, for locations eligible for Quantum Fiber, particularly given its fiber service, it should be prioritized as a primary option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denver Internet Providers
How much is budget internet service in Denver?
The typical starting price for internet service in Denver averages around $42 per month. Xfinity’s Connect plan is the least expensive in Denver, delivering 150Mbps for $20 monthly. Quantum Fiber’s gigabit plan at $65 per month offers considerable value at approximately 7 cents per Mbps. While other providers may present lower-cost plans, none in the Denver area currently match Quantum Fiber’s value proposition.
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Which provider offers superior internet service in Denver?
As frequently emphasized, the optimal internet service is dependent on availability at your specific address. For the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area, Xfinity is a strong contender due to its broad availability and diverse plan selection. For residents with access to Quantum Fiber, especially its competitively priced gigabit plan, this provider may be considered the “best in Denver.”
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Are fiber internet providers present in Denver?
Yes, fiber internet service is available in Denver. Quantum Fiber provides most of the area’s fiber coverage, although it’s under the same corporate umbrella as CenturyLink. It’s important to note that CenturyLink’s service in Denver is DSL, not fiber. Google Fiber also has a presence, offering a fixed-wireless service called Google Fiber Webpass, rather than their fiber-optic service in this location. Ting Internet provides fiber internet, but its availability is limited to Centennial, just outside Denver city limits.
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