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  • Home Improvement
  • Internet
  • Best Internet-Only Companies And Plans

Best Internet-Only Companies And Plans In 2025

Audited & Verified: Jul 7, 2025, 9:36pm

Ashlyn Brooks Staff Writer
Ashlyn is one of Forbes Home's in-house writers and a former civil engineer-turned content writer with over six years experience. Until recently, Ashlyn focused on creating content for Forbes Home as a freelance writer. Her areas of expertise range f...
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Ashlyn Brooks Staff Writer
Ashlyn is one of Forbes Home's in-house writers and a former civil engineer-turned content writer with over six years experience. Until recently, Ashlyn focused on creating content for Forbes Home as a freelance writer. Her areas of expertise range f...
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Written By
Ashlyn Brooks
Ashlyn Brooks Staff Writer
Ashlyn is one of Forbes Home's in-house writers and a former civil engineer-turned content writer with over six years experience. Until recently, Ashlyn focused on creating content for Forbes Home as a freelance writer. Her areas of expertise range f...
See Full Bio See Full Bio
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Ashlyn Brooks Staff Writer
Ashlyn is one of Forbes Home's in-house writers and a former civil engineer-turned content writer with over six years experience. Until recently, Ashlyn focused on creating content for Forbes Home as a freelance writer. Her areas of expertise range f...
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Staff Writer
Kristin Salaky Staff Editor
Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of professional experience as a writer and editor. She's previously worked at sites like Talking Points Memo, Insider, Delish, Angi and HomeAdvisor. She has a passion for lifestyle topic...
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Kristin Salaky Staff Editor
Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of professional experience as a writer and editor. She's previously worked at sites like Talking Points Memo, Insider, Delish, Angi and HomeAdvisor. She has a passion for lifestyle topic...
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Kristin Salaky
Kristin Salaky Staff Editor
Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of professional experience as a writer and editor. She's previously worked at sites like Talking Points Memo, Insider, Delish, Angi and HomeAdvisor. She has a passion for lifestyle topic...
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Kristin Salaky Staff Editor
Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of professional experience as a writer and editor. She's previously worked at sites like Talking Points Memo, Insider, Delish, Angi and HomeAdvisor. She has a passion for lifestyle topic...
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Reviewed By

| Staff Editor
& 1 other
Audited & Verified: Jul 7, 2025, 9:36pm
We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Home. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

Sometimes you just want internet service. That means no phone lines, no TV packages, no upsells—just fast, reliable service that gets the job done. Whether you’re working from home, streaming late into the night or just tired of paying for things you don’t use, there are plenty of providers offering internet-only plans that keep things simple.

At Forbes Home, we’ve done the digging to help you find the best no-strings-attached options for 2025. We’ve researched dozens of plans from 25 internet providers and surveyed more than 2,000 internet users to help find the best internet-only plans on the market right now.

Why you can trust Forbes Home

The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use data and expert advice to inform all of our content. For this article, we evaluated 26 national internet providers offering a variety of connection types, including fiber, DSL, cable, fixed wireless, satellite and 5G home internet services. We then scored them against 79 different attributes, including pricing, availability, customer reviews and more. Plus, our advisory board of licensed professionals fact-checks and reviews our content for accuracy and relevancy. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the internet providers’ methodology for the ratings below.

  • 25 national internet providers reviewed
  • 79 different attributes scored
  • Editorially fact-checked and reviewed
Show More
Internet Provider Guides
  • Best Internet Providers
  • Cheapest Internet Providers
  • Fastest Internet Providers
  • Best Internet For Rural Areas
  • Best Internet For Gaming
  • Best Internet, TV And Phone Bundles
  • Best Fiber Internet Providers
  • Best Unlimited Hotspot Plans
  • Best Unlimited Home Internet
{{ showSummarySection ? 'Hide Summary' : 'Show Summary' }}
  • Best Internet-Only Companies
  • Compare the Top Companies for Internet-Only Plans
  • T-Mobile Home Internet
  • AT&T Internet
  • Cox Communications
  • Comcast Xfinity
  • Charter Spectrum
  • Reasons You May Only Need Internet
  • Internet-Only Plans vs. Bundling
  • How Much Do Internet Plans Typically Cost by Themselves?
  • How To Choose the Best Internet-Only Plan for You
  • How We Selected the Best Internet-Only Providers and Plans
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Best Internet-Only Companies

  • T-Mobile Home Internet: Best Overall
  • AT&T Internet: Best Unlimited Data
  • Cox Communications: Best Plan Options
  • Comcast Xfinity: Best Value
  • Charter Spectrum: Best Simplicity

Compare the Top Companies for Internet-Only Plans

Bells and whistles like bundling internet with cable or streaming plans can be enticing, but if your main focus is browsing the web, internet-only plans may be best for you. Below, we break down our choices for the best internet-only providers and share some of their top plans.

Please note that plans and pricing were accurate as of the time of writing, but they may vary due to your location and other factors.

T-Mobile Home Internet
T-Mobile Home Internet
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.9
Learn More
On T-Mobile's Website
Best For
Best Overall
Speed Range
87 Mbps – 415 Mbps
AT&T Internet
AT&T Internet
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.8
Learn More
On AT&T's Website
Best For
Best Unlimited Data
Speed Range
300 Mbps - 5 Gbps
Cox Communications
Cox Communications
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.7
Learn More
On Cox's Website
Best For
Best Plan Options
Speed Range
300 Mbps – 2 Gbps
Comcast Xfinity
Comcast Xfinity
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.4
Learn More
On Xfinity's Website
Best For
Best Value
Speed Range
400 Mbps – 2100 Mbps
Charter Spectrum
Charter Spectrum
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.4
Learn More
On Spectrum's Website
Best For
Best Simplicity
Speed Range
100 – 1000Mbps
COMPANY FORBES HOME RATING BEST FOR SPEED RANGE LEARN MORE
T-Mobile Home Internet
T-Mobile Home Internet
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.9
Best Overall
87 Mbps – 415 Mbps
Learn More
On T-Mobile's Website
AT&T Internet
AT&T Internet
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.8
Best Unlimited Data
300 Mbps - 5 Gbps
Learn More
On AT&T's Website
Cox Communications
Cox Communications
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.7
Best Plan Options
300 Mbps – 2 Gbps
Learn More
On Cox's Website
Comcast Xfinity
Comcast Xfinity
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.4
Best Value
400 Mbps – 2100 Mbps
Learn More
On Xfinity's Website
Charter Spectrum
Charter Spectrum
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.4
Best Simplicity
100 – 1000Mbps
Learn More
On Spectrum's Website

Top Internet-Only Providers and Plans in Detail

Best Overall

T-Mobile Home Internet

Learn More
On T-Mobile's Website
4.9
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Lowest Price Plan Available
$40
Internet Speed Range
87 Mbps – 415 Mbps
Connection Types Available
5G
4.9
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Overall

T-Mobile Home Internet

Lowest Price Plan Available
$40

Internet Speed Range
87 Mbps – 415 Mbps

Connection Types Available
5G

Learn More
On T-Mobile's Website

T-Mobile Home Internet earns the top spot on our list for its rare combination of affordability, simplicity and national reach, all without requiring a bundled TV or phone service. Its internet-only plans start at just $40 per month, with taxes and fees included, and every plan comes with unlimited data, no contracts and no equipment charges. Whether you’re living in a metro area or a more rural zip code, T-Mobile’s wide 5G coverage helps make stable internet more accessible where other providers fall short.

Learn more: T-Mobile Internet review

Why We Picked It

We chose T-Mobile Home Internet as our best overall pick because it delivers one of the most consistent internet-only experiences across pricing, setup and flexibility. Customers can choose from three core plans—Rely, Amplified or All-In—each offering unlimited data, competitive speeds and perks like premium security, streaming subscriptions or mesh Wi-Fi systems. The plans are easy to understand and designed for self-installation, making them better suited for users who want fast, straightforward service with minimal hassle.

Why We Like It

What we like about T-Mobile Home Internet is that you can get started with just a router and a 5G signal, which can be appealing for renters or households that want portability. And for the price, the speed-to-cost ratio is strong: The Rely plan reaches up to 318 Mbps for just $50. Meanwhile, higher-tier options like All-In still clock in under $75 and include extras like 24/7 video support.

What We Don’t Like

While the simplicity is a major plus, the performance can be hit or miss depending on your location. Because T-Mobile relies on 5G towers, users in areas with weak coverage may experience inconsistent speeds or higher latency, which is something to keep in mind if your household includes heavy streamers or remote workers. Customer service also receives mixed reviews, especially for tech support beyond the initial setup.

Who It’s Best For

T-Mobile Home Internet could be ideal for budget-conscious households, renters, rural residents and anyone tired of navigating fine print or required bundles. If you want a plug-and-play internet-only service that keeps things simple without sacrificing speed, this provider could be a good choice.

Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited data across all plans
  • Available in all 50 states
  • Premium plans include subscriptions to selected streaming services
  • $35 activation fee
  • Performance will vary based on your access to 5G coverage
  • Upload and download speeds likely won’t match wired internet providers
Customer Survey

T-Mobile customers had plenty of good things to say in our survey of 2,200 internet users. A standout 91% of respondents appreciated the clear, upfront pricing and contract terms, a rare win in an industry often criticized for fine print. Even better? T-Mobile made a strong impression with setup: 74% of customers said getting connected was a breeze, the highest ease-of-installation score of any provider we surveyed.

Plans and Pricing
PLAN SPEED MONTHLY PRICE* CONNECTION TYPE
Rely
87 – 318 Mbps
$40
5G
Amplified
133 – 415 Mbps
$60
5G
All-In
133 – 415 Mbps
$70
5G
* With auto-pay discounts

Best Unlimited Data

AT&T Internet

Learn More
On AT&T's Website
4.8
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Lowest Price Plan Available
$55
Internet Speed Range
300 Mbps - 5 Gbps
Connection Types Available
Fiber and fixed wireless
4.8
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Unlimited Data

AT&T Internet

Lowest Price Plan Available
$55

Internet Speed Range
300 Mbps - 5 Gbps

Connection Types Available
Fiber and fixed wireless

Learn More
On AT&T's Website

AT&T earns its place as the best pick for unlimited data thanks to its high-speed fiber plans with zero data caps. If you’re tired of watching your monthly usage or experiencing slow speeds, AT&T’s internet-only fiber options let you stream, download and work without limits. Plans range from 300 Mbps to a blazing-fast 5 Gbps, giving households of any size a future-proof solution, as long as it’s available in your area.

Learn more: AT&T Internet review

Why We Picked It

Unlimited data without fine print is becoming harder to find, especially paired with fiber speeds and reasonable pricing. We chose AT&T for this rare combination. Its fiber plans consistently deliver symmetrical upload and download speeds with generous bandwidth, making it one of the most reliable options for heavy users who don’t want to pay extra or worry about usage limits.

Why We Like It

In addition to unlimited data, AT&T makes the setup process relatively painless with no annual contracts or equipment fees and upfront details on installation costs with its fiber plans. The $55 entry-level fiber plan strikes a good balance for everyday households, while the 1 Gig and 2 Gig plans are well-suited for remote workers, streamers or content creators who need more muscle. Discounts for paperless billing and autopay are clearly disclosed, and there’s support available through multiple channels.

What We Don’t Like

AT&T’s biggest drawback is availability. Fiber coverage is still concentrated in metro areas, meaning many rural or suburban users are stuck with other plans (cable, 5G, etc.) that won’t deliver the same connection speeds and may have data caps and other restrictions. A one-time $99 professional installation fee may also apply for some users.

Who It’s Best For

AT&T is likely best for users who want high-speed, high-volume internet with zero restrictions in some cases. If fiber is available in your area and you value unlimited usage, AT&T could be worth looking at.

Pros & Cons
  • Speeds up to 5 Gbps
  • Transparent pricing with autopay discounts
  • No equipment fees or contracts
  • Fiber plans are not available in every area
  • $99 installation fee
  • If fiber isn’t available to you, other plans will offer slower speeds
Customer Survey

Among the 2,200 home internet customers we surveyed, AT&T earned consistently strong marks across the board. A notable 88% of users said the company was upfront about its pricing and contracts, a detail that often makes or breaks trust with new subscribers. That same 88% also reported being satisfied with AT&T’s internet speeds. And when problems did arise, 87% of customers said AT&T was quick to respond and resolve them, helping the provider stand out for service reliability as well.

Plans and Pricing
PLAN SPEED MONTHLY PRICE* CONNECTION TYPE
Fiber 300
300 Mbps
$55
Fiber
Fiber 500
500 Mbps
$65
Fiber
Fiber 1000
1 Gbps
$55
Fiber
Fiber 2000
2 Gbps
$145
Fiber
Fiber 5000
5 Gbps
$245
Fiber
*Acquisition price based on currently available offers, before taxes and fees

Best Plan Options

Cox Communications

Learn More
On Cox's Website
4.7
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Lowest Price Plan Available
$50
Internet Speed Range
300 Mbps – 2 Gbps
Connection Types Available
Fiber-powered
4.7
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Plan Options

Cox Communications

Lowest Price Plan Available
$50

Internet Speed Range
300 Mbps – 2 Gbps

Connection Types Available
Fiber-powered

Learn More
On Cox's Website

Cox Communications stands out for offering one of the most flexible selections of internet-only plans on the market. With four different tiers—ranging from light-use packages to multi-gig speeds—Cox could be a top contender for households that want choice.

Learn more: Cox Internet review

Why We Picked It

We selected Cox for its variety and customizable plan structure. While many ISPs lock users into a few generic options, Cox caters to a wide range of internet users, offering download speeds between 300 Mbps and 2 Gbps and allowing you to tailor your plan to your needs and budget. It also supports promotional pricing for the first 24 months and allows for add-ons like 24/7 tech support and streaming devices.

Why We Like It

Cox plans are powered by a hybrid fiber-coaxial network, which offers the speed of fiber with the reach of cable infrastructure. Each plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, reducing the risk of commitment. We also like that Cox’s top-tier plans include upload speeds of up to 100 Mbps—ideal for households that regularly share large files or use cloud-based platforms. For those who just want the internet without extras, Cox’s simple self-installation option and clear online checkout process keep things efficient.

What We Don’t Like

Cox’s biggest limitation is its availability, as it only serves 19 states, and even within those, access may be restricted to select cities. Additionally, upload speeds on entry-level and mid-tier plans remain modest compared to fiber-only competitors. And while pricing is competitive up front, customers should be aware that promotional rates typically expire after two years, which can lead to a noticeable jump in monthly costs.

Who It’s Best For

Cox is likely ideal for users who value choice and who want an affordable internet-only plan for casual use or a high-powered option for intensive streaming and gaming. Cox’s range of speed tiers makes it easier to find a perfect fit. It could be appealing for families or professionals who expect their internet needs to grow over time and want the ability to upgrade without switching providers.

Pros & Cons
  • Four internet-only plan tiers from 300 Mbps – 2 Gbps
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Strong download speeds, with upgrade options for upload
  • Limited service area across just 19 states
  • Promotional rates increase after two years
  • Upload speeds trail behind some fiber competitors
Customer Survey

Out of the 2,200 home internet users we surveyed, Cox customers had a somewhat mixed experience. While 79% said the speed they received felt fair for what they were paying, fewer—about 69%—felt the company was clear about its pricing structure and terms. That transparency score landed a bit below several other providers in our review, suggesting room for improvement when it comes to setting expectations upfront.

Plans and Pricing
PLAN SPEED MONTHLY PRICE* CONNECTION TYPE
Fast
300 Mbps
$50
Fiber-powered
Go Even Faster
500 Mbps
$60
Fiber-powered
Go Super Fast
1 Gbps
$70
Fiber-powered
Go Beyond Fast
2 Gbps
$110
Fiber-powered
* Costs are locked for one or two years, depending on the plan chosen

Best Value

Comcast Xfinity

Learn More
On Xfinity's Website
4.4
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Lowest Price Plan Available
$40.00
Internet Speed Range
400 Mbps – 2100 Mbps
Connection Types Available
Cable
4.4
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Value

Comcast Xfinity

Lowest Price Plan Available
$40.00

Internet Speed Range
400 Mbps – 2100 Mbps

Connection Types Available
Cable

Learn More
On Xfinity's Website

Xfinity continues to be a leader in internet-only options, offering an impressively tiered lineup of plans that can meet a wide range of household demands. From moderate users to ultra-connected homes, its streamlined plans (starting at just $40 per month) include perks, like very high data caps of 1.2 TBs and advanced Wi-Fi equipment. With options that scale both speed and value, the plans can be smart picks for anyone looking to pay only for what they truly need.

Learn more: Xfinity Internet review

Why We Picked It

Xfinity stands out for its clear-cut plan tiering. Whether you’re a casual browser or a high-intensity streamer, the brand’s mix of speeds and price points makes it easier to customize your internet experience. All current plans come with equipment included for the first year, a $10 monthly discount with autopay and paperless billing and additional promotional perks, like a year of Xfinity Mobile Unlimited. This makes it easy for users to scale their internet without being upsold on extras they may not use.

Why We Like It

We like how Xfinity simplifies decision-making without sacrificing performance. The $40 per month 400 Mbps plan is great for average users, while the $50 per month 1,100 Mbps plan offers high-speed internet with bundled streaming and gaming support. The top-tier 2,100 Mbps plan—available for $70 per month—suits households with heavy usage across dozens of devices.

What We Don’t Like

Despite a strong plan variety, the downside is Xfinity’s reliance on promotional pricing. After the first year, monthly costs often increase, and customers must stay vigilant to avoid unexpected bill changes. Upload speeds can slow in some areas, which may be limiting for remote workers, streamers or creatives who frequently share large files.

Who It’s Best For

Xfinity is best for individuals and families who want customizable internet service without bundling. It could be well-suited for users who anticipate growing bandwidth needs, such as households adding smart home devices, hybrid workers or competitive gamers.

Pros & Cons
  • Multiple internet-only plans with speeds from 400 to 2,100 Mbps
  • Additional perks like advanced Wi-Fi equipment
  • Offers a 5-year price lock guarantee option
  • Prices typically increase after the first year
  • Upload speeds can be slow, especially in some areas
  • Promotional perks have expiration periods
Customer Survey

Among the 2,200 internet customers we surveyed, feedback on Xfinity was generally positive, though not without caveats. Roughly 81% of Xfinity users said they’d feel comfortable recommending the service to friends or family, while 76% noted that their internet connection was dependable day to day. While those numbers reflect a solid baseline of satisfaction, they also suggest Xfinity may trail slightly behind top performers in consumer confidence.

Plans and Pricing
PLAN SPEED MONTHLY PRICE* CONNECTION TYPE
Connect More
400 Mbps
$40
Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
Fast
600 Mbps
$55
Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
Gigabit
1100 Mbps
$70
Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
Gigabit X2
2100 Mbps
$100
Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
* With price guarantees on a one-year term contract. Taxes and equipment not included. Including up to $10 per month auto-pay & paperless bill discount.

Best Simplicity

Charter Spectrum

Learn More
On Spectrum's Website
4.4
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Lowest Price Plan Available
$30
Internet Speed Range
100 Mbps – 1 Gbps
Connection Types Available
Cable
4.4
Forbes Home Improvement
Our ratings take into account factors like price, customer reviews, customer support options, free Wi-Fi hotspots included, free professional, annual contract required, setup/activation fees and unlimited data. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Simplicity

Charter Spectrum

Lowest Price Plan Available
$30

Internet Speed Range
100 Mbps – 1 Gbps

Connection Types Available
Cable

Learn More
On Spectrum's Website

Charter Spectrum keeps things simple—and that’s a good thing for customers who value straightforward, no-strings-attached internet. With just three high-speed internet-only plans and no contracts, data caps or early termination fees, Spectrum is one of the easiest ISPs to get started with. While plan variety is limited, what you do get is reliable, high-speed service at competitive prices across a broad national footprint.

Learn more: Spectrum Internet review

Why We Picked It

Spectrum stands out for offering contract-free internet with speeds that meet the needs of most modern households. Unlike providers that advertise promotional pricing and then lock you into long commitments, Spectrum keeps its sign-up process clear and hassle-free. Plus, the included modem and optional self-installation kit help reduce upfront costs.

Why We Like It

Spectrum delivers excellent value for internet-only customers who don’t want to be locked into a long-term plan. Its 500 Mbps and 1 Gbps offerings are fast enough to support streaming, remote work and even light to moderate gaming on multiple devices. We also like that Spectrum doesn’t charge extra for unlimited data, which is becoming rarer among major providers.

What We Don’t Like

While the no-contract model is a big plus, Spectrum’s plan options are limited. If you’re looking for ultra-fast fiber options, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Who It’s Best For

Spectrum is a strong fit for customers who want fast, reliable internet without the burden of contracts or data caps. If you’re after a clean, no-fuss internet setup with broad availability and enough speed for daily streaming and browsing, Spectrum’s simplicity could make it a smart pick, especially for households that might need to move or change plans in the near future.

Pros & Cons
  • No contracts or early termination fees
  • No data caps
  • Free installation and activation
  • Only available in 39 states
  • Slow upload speeds of 20 Mbps on the Internet Premier plan
  • Limited plan options
Customer Survey

In our survey of 2,200 recent internet buyers, Spectrum customers generally had confidence in their connection, with 83% saying they found the service to be reliable. However, billing was a sticking point for some. Forty-four percent of Spectrum users reported that their monthly rate increased after the initial promotional period, one of the higher rates of post-promo price hikes among providers in our study.

Plans and Pricing
PLAN SPEED MONTHLY PRICE* CONNECTION TYPE
Internet Advantage
100 Mbps
$30
Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
Internet Premier
500 Mbps
$50
Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
Internet Gig
1 Gbps
$70
Hybrid fiber-coaxial cable
* For one year

Reasons You May Only Need Internet

Not everyone needs the full internet, TV and phone bundle anymore. With streaming services replacing traditional TV and mobile plans covering voice calls, many households are realizing that a standalone internet connection is all they really need.

Internet-only plans are also ideal for remote workers, online students, gamers and cord-cutters who want fast, reliable service without paying for unused extras. Plus, choosing internet on its own can give you more flexibility to switch providers or upgrade your plan as your needs evolve, without being tied into a long-term bundle deal.

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Build Your Internet Plan With Xfinity


Internet-Only Plans vs. Bundling

Internet-only plans keep things simple: You get broadband access without adding cable TV, landline phone or home security services. Bundling, on the other hand, packages multiple services under one bill—often with an initial discount

While bundling can be convenient and may save you money in the short term, the monthly price tends to go up after the promo period ends. Bundles also sometimes include services you don’t really use. Internet-only plans are usually more transparent and flexible, letting you choose your own streaming or VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) options—like Zoom, Skype or internet-based phone apps—separately and avoid paying for extras you don’t need.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on how you use your home internet. For many, a streamlined internet-only plan offers better value and fewer strings attached.


How Much Do Internet Plans Typically Cost by Themselves?

The average cost of internet per month runs about $65 per month, but prices can swing significantly based on speed, provider and location. Some plans start as low as $20, while top-tier options can exceed $300, though most households won’t need anything in that upper range.

Cost often correlates with download speed: Basic 25 Mbps service might cost around $35 per month, while gigabit speeds typically run closer to $85 per month. The type of connection matters too. Here’s what you can expect by internet type:

  • DSL: $54 per month — slower but more affordable
  • Cable: $69 per month — common and moderately priced
  • Fiber: $81 per month — fast but less widely available
  • Satellite: $93 per month — pricier and slower, but useful in rural areas
  • 5G Home Internet: $51 per month — an emerging, affordable option

And don’t forget about hidden costs—installation fees, equipment rentals and promotional rates that expire after 12 to 24 months can all drive your bill higher than the advertised price. Some providers also charge “junk fees” under ambiguous names like “technology service fee” or “network enhancement charge,” so be sure to read the fine print.

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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Internet For Your Home With Spectrum Internet


How To Choose the Best Internet-Only Plan for You

Finding the best internet-only plan comes down to a mix of speed, reliability, value and how each fits your household’s specific habits.

Start by estimating how much speed you need. A single person streaming casually or working remotely might get by with 50 to 100 Mbps. But a family with multiple people gaming, video calling, and streaming in 4K? You’ll likely want at least 300 to 500 Mbps or more.

Here are a few tips to help narrow your choice:

  • Count your devices. More users = more bandwidth demand, so tally up how many devices you often have operating at once. From there, you can check resources like the FCC’s Broadband Speed Guide and recommendations from companies to pick the best plan for you.
  • Check availability. Not all plans or providers are offered in every area. Start by entering your address on company websites to get a lay of the land.
  • Look past promo pricing. Understand what your rate will be after 12 or 24 months, as this may not be the first price you see on a website when you enter your address. Read through any fine print carefully.
  • Compare fees. Equipment rental and activation charges can add up, so be sure to factor these in too.
  • Skip the bundles. If you only need internet, avoid plans that sneak in extras like cable or phone service.
  • Look for providers that don’t lock you into contracts. With internet-only plans growing in popularity, many ISPs now offer no-contract, no-data-cap options that put you in control.

Local Internet Providers By City

  • Abilene
  • Amarillo
  • Austin
  • Corpus Christi
  • Dallas
  • El Paso
  • Fort Worth
  • Houston
  • Lubbock
  • Midland
  • Odessa
  • San Angelo
  • San Antonio

How We Selected the Best Internet-Only Providers and Plans

To pick the best internet providers for internet-only plans and determine our rankings, the Forbes Home editorial team compared 25 major internet providers across 79 different metrics, including average plan cost, installation fees and plan speeds. You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates internet providers in our detailed methodology page.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best download and upload speeds for internet-only plans?

The right speed depends on how many people and devices are in your household. For light browsing and emails, 25 to 100 Mbps is usually enough. Families or remote workers may need 300 to 500 Mbps to support streaming, video calls and multitasking. If you’re a serious gamer or run a smart home, plans with 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) or more may be worth it. For upload speeds, aim for at least 10 Mbps for basic activities like video calls, or search for higher if you’re regularly uploading large files or streaming.

Who has the fastest internet?

AT&T currently offers the fastest residential internet speeds with fiber plans that go up to 5 Gbps in select areas. Other providers like Google Fiber, Verizon Fios and Xfinity also offer multi-gig plans, though availability varies widely by region. Just keep in mind that not every household needs extreme speeds; most users will be well-served by 500 Mbps to 1 Gbps plans.

Can I get internet by itself?

Yes—many providers now offer internet-only plans without requiring phone or TV service. These standalone plans often come with competitive pricing, fewer fees and more flexibility. Whether you’re cutting the cord or simply want a streamlined bill, options from T-Mobile, Spectrum, Cox, Xfinity and others make it easy to choose just internet with no bundled extras.

Read More

  • Best Internet Providers
  • Best Internet Providers For Gaming
  • Best Rural Internet Providers
  • Best Internet, TV & Phone Bundle
  • Fastest Internet Providers
  • How Much Does Internet Cost Per Month?
Information provided on Forbes Home is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.

Forbes Home adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.

Ashlyn Brooks
Ashlyn Brooks Staff Writer

Ashlyn is one of Forbes Home's in-house writers and a former civil engineer-turned content writer with over six years experience. Until recently, Ashlyn focused on creating content for Forbes Home as a freelance writer. Her areas of expertise range from home improvement, moving services, home warranties and home security. As a homeowner and tireless DIY enthusiast, Ashlyn combines her deep knowledge and practical expertise to provide valuable insights and advice. Her dedication to enhancing homeowners' understanding and skills in managing their properties has been the cornerstone of her writing career.

Kristin Salaky
Kristin Salaky Staff Editor

Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of professional experience as a writer and editor. She's previously worked at sites like Talking Points Memo, Insider, Delish, Angi and HomeAdvisor. She has a passion for lifestyle topics and has extensive experience researching and reporting on topics that will help make your house a home.

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