Optimum vs Spectrum
Optimum and Spectrum compete head-to-head in parts of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Both offer gig+ speeds; the difference is in fiber expansion and pricing.
Optimum
Fiber / CableBest for: Tri-State households where Optimum fiber is live
- Starting
- $40.00/mo
- Top speed
- 8 Gbps
- Upload
- 20 Mbps – 8 Gbps (symmetrical on fiber)
- Contract
- No contract
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Equipment
- $10/mo smart router
Pros
- Up to 8 Gbps fiber
- Lowest entry price
- No annual contract
Things to consider
- Fiber not yet in every neighborhood
- Router fee applies
Spectrum
CableBest for: Households outside Optimum's fiber footprint
- Starting
- $49.99/mo
- Top speed
- 1 Gbps
- Upload
- 10 – 35 Mbps
- Contract
- No contract
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Equipment
- Modem free
Pros
- Free modem
- Available in 41+ states
- Simple pricing
Things to consider
- 1 Gbps max
- Slow upload speeds
Our verdict
Optimum wins where 5G/8G fiber is live.
Optimum wins where fiber is built out — it offers up to 8 Gbps. Spectrum wins on simplicity and free modem in areas where Optimum is still cable-only.
FAQ
Optimum vs Spectrum, answered
Is Optimum fiber available at my address?
Optimum's 5 Gig and 8 Gig fiber plans are limited to select neighborhoods. Enter your ZIP on our home page to check fiber availability at your specific address.
Which is cheaper?
Optimum's $40/mo entry plan is cheaper than Spectrum's $49.99/mo, though Spectrum includes the modem free.
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