Verizon Fios vs. cable: Why fiber is the clear winner
Verizon Fios utilizes a 100% fiber-optic network, providing symmetrical upload and download speeds on most plans, supporting activities like gaming and video conferencing. Fios's fiber infrastructure provides fast speeds and great network reliability, and Fios TV provides amazing picture quality.
Beyond just TV
Your favorite TV channels
From Fox to CNN, HBO to Starz, Fios TV has your favorite cable channels.
Channel lineupOnline TV services
Get 100% digital quality on every channel. Plus, unlike some cable or satellite services, Fios TV doesn't charge additional sports network or broadcast fees.
Fios TV plansCustomize your own TV & internet package
Get live online TV
Subscribe to YouTube TV for live TV streaming with over 70 channels including local news.
Learn moreMovie and streaming packages
Get more movies, shows, sports and more. Check out our entertainment and streaming packages from Disney+ to Hulu.
Learn moreSports packages galore
Fios TV offers subscriptions to the best sports packages - ESPN, NBA, MLB, NHL, NFL Redzone & more.
Learn moreComparison at a Glance: Fiber vs. Cable Internet
Verizon Fios |
Comcast Xfinity |
Charter Spectrum |
Optimum |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
100% Fiber-optic network
|
Yes
|
No
(Hybrid-fiber/coaxial cable network)
|
No
(Hybrid-fiber/coaxial cable network)
|
No
(Hybrid-fiber/coaxial cable network)
|
|
Symmetrical upload/download speeds on most plans
|
Yes
|
Only available in very limited locations.
|
Only available in very limited locations.
|
Only available in fiber locations.
|
|
Connection Type
|
100% Fiber optic network to the home
|
Coaxial cable
|
Coaxial cable
|
Coaxial cable
|
|
Router rental and
Whole-Home Wi-Fi |
Router rental included with all internet plans. Whole-Home Wi-Fi
included with Fios 1 Gig or 2 Gig plans
|
Gateway included with all plans.
|
Varies: Extra $10/mo
(only included for free on the Gig and 2 Gig plans.)
|
Included with select plans
|
|
Price Guarantee
|
Up to 5-year guarantee, depending on plan1
|
5-year price guarantee
(on select internet plans)
|
Empty
|
5-year price guarantee
|
- 3, 4 or 5-year price guarantee: For new and existing myHome customers. Applies only to the then-current base monthly rate exclusive of any other setup and additional equipment charges, discounts or promotion, plan perk and any other third-party services.
Symmetrical Speeds
Most Verizon Fios plans offer symmetrical upload and download speeds, while cable providers typically offer fast download speeds paired with much slower upload speeds. High upload speeds are important for video conferencing, sharing large files for work, supporting competitive, online gaming, and quickly backing up critical data to the cloud.
Fios 300 Mbps |
Fios 500 Mbps |
Fios 1 Gig |
Fios 2 Gig |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Download
|
Download
300 Mbps
|
500 Mbps
|
Up to 940 Mbps
|
Up to 2.3 Gbps
|
|
|
Upload
|
Upload
300 Mbps
|
500 Mbps
|
Up to 880 Mbps
|
Up to 2.3 Gbps
|
|
|
Benefits
|
Benefits
Up to 300 Mbps speed; Router rental included at no additional cost; Verizon 3-year Price Lock Guarantee1 |
Up to 500 Mbps speed; Router rental included at no additional cost; Verizon 4-year Price Lock Guarantee1 |
Up to 940/880 Mbps speed; Router rental and Whole-Home Wi-Fi included at no additional cost; Verizon 5-year Price Lock Guarantee1 |
Download and upload average wired speeds of 1.5 Gbps - 2.3 Gbps; Router rental and Whole-Home Wi-Fi included at no additional cost; Verizon 5-year Price Lock Guarantee1 |
- 3, 4 or 5-year price guarantee: For new and existing myHome customers. Applies only to the then-current base monthly rate exclusive of any other setup and additional equipment charges, discounts or promotion, plan perk and any other third-party services.
Beyond Internet: A Great Entertainment
Experience with Fios TV
Choosing Fios isn't just about some of the fastest internet speeds; it is also great for your living room experience.
Channel Count |
Key Benefits |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Your Fios TV
|
125+ Channels
|
Choose your top 5 favorite channels
|
|
More Fios TV
|
300+ Channels
|
Includes regional sports networks
|
|
The Most Fios TV
|
425+ Channels
|
Includes premium movie channels
|
Check our coverage map and benefits to see how you can upgrade today.
Compare Verizon Fios to Other Internet Providers:
Verizon Fios vs. Cable:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose Verizon Fios home internet?
Verizon Fios utilizes a 100% fiber-optic network. By using glass cables to transmit data as light, Fios offers benefits such as increased bandwidth for 8K streaming, VR, and smart home devices. To see if you can make the switch, check availability at your address today.
Is Verizon Fios a good choice for activities like gaming and video calls?
Yes, Verizon Fios is ideal for gaming and video conferencing. It offers symmetrical internet speeds on most plans, meaning your upload speeds are as fast as your downloads. Choosing Fios for gaming helps ensure that whether you are uploading a 4K video or competing in a match, your connection remains stable and responsive.
Where is Verizon Fios available and is it coming to my area?
We are constantly expanding our fiber footprint, notably through the recent acquisition of Frontier’s network. You can view our coverage map or check for Fios availability specifically at your home. If Fios has not reached your street yet, 5G Home Internet may be a reliable wireless home internet option for your household if available.
How much is Verizon Fios and how can I save money?
Verizon Fios offers competitive, budget-conscious pricing with a 3- to 5-year Price Guarantee depending on plan to ensure your monthly rate stays predictable. To get affordable home internet options, customers can enroll in the Auto-Pay discount and the Mobile + Home Discount, which provides additional savings for those who also have a Verizon mobile plan. We also offer a specialized Verizon Fios discount for the following eligible groups:
Additionally, households participating in federal assistance programs like SNAP may qualify for Verizon Forward to further reduce costs.
What makes Fios TV a great TV option for me?
Fios TV provides a great viewing experience because it delivers a 100% digital signal over a 100% fiber-optic network. Because fiber transmits data via light, this results in exceptional HD and 4K clarity for all your favorite live sports and movies. Explore our current Fios TV plans to see the difference for yourself.