If you’re in the market for a new internet provider, you’re likely aware of cable and fiber internet. They’re both known for their speed and reliability, but they go about it a bit differently. Explore the similarities, differences and best uses for each technology.
Understanding Fiber Optic Internet
How Fiber Optic Internet Works
Fiber optic internet uses tiny glass fiber optic cables to transfer data at the speed of light. This newer technology can support many connected devices at once, making it easier to upload, download and connect quickly.
Advantages of Fiber Optic Internet
Fiber offers equally fast upload and download speeds that are significantly quicker than cable, satellite and DSL. Lagging is not an issue with fiber thanks to its low latency, allowing you to stream, game and surf the web seamlessly on multiple devices. Since data is transmitted through light signals, rain and lightning won’t interfere with your connection either.
Disadvantages of Fiber Optic Internet
Due to the complex installation process, the price of fiber internet may be higher than other types of internet upfront. Plus, many rural areas don’t have access to fiber internet just yet. However, providers are rapidly expanding their networks, so if it’s not an option now, it likely will be soon.
Understanding Cable Internet
How Cable Internet Works
High-speed cable internet uses the same technology as cable TV. The coaxial cables connect to a modem that transmits data through electric signals to provide an internet connection. Since signals travel through electric currents, it’s unable to provide symmetrical upload and download speeds, with upload speeds much lower than fiber. Cable’s copper wires were only designed for TV and voice, so it may not be able to meet the bandwidth demands of new data-intensive applications, like smart home technology.
Advantages of Cable Internet
As long as cable TV is available in your area, so is cable internet. There are many providers that offer cable, allowing you to shop around for the best service and price. Cable is still considered high-speed internet and can reach download speeds of up to 1 Gig with the most robust plans. If you have cable TV, you can sometimes bundle your package with internet services at a discount.
Disadvantages of Cable Internet
Lagging and buffering are more common with cable internet when too many devices are connected. If you’re streaming video on multiple devices, everyone’s playback speed will suffer due to network congestion. Upload speeds are also much slower, so it may take some time to post or send large files. Some companies will cap your data or charge overage fees that slow your speeds and increase costs. And they make it very hard to switch providers if you’re dissatisfied with their service.
Comparing Fiber Optic and Cable Internet
Speed and Performance
Fiber’s lightning-fast symmetrical upload and download speeds are perfect for people who consume and create content on the internet. Depending on how many devices are connected and how far away you are from your provider’s infrastructure, cable’s upload speeds vary from 5 Mbps to 50 Mbps. It isn’t slow, but it’s not the fastest.
Reliability and Stability
Electric signals in cable internet are more prone to connectivity issues in inclement weather compared to fiber internet. Fiber’s equally fast upload and download speeds and resistance to interference make it the much more reliable option. Designed for the future, where more devices require an internet connection, fiber offers enough bandwidth for all your connected devices at once, eliminating frustration during peak hours.
Availability and Coverage
Since cable internet uses the same cables that provide cable TV, it’s widely available in both urban and rural locations. Fiber internet networks are growing slowly but surely. Building a fiber network is a big investment and takes time, so many providers prioritize urban areas first. In rural areas, fiber is available now more than ever and continues to expand. Check for local companies bringing fiber to your area and sign up for email updates on their progress.
Cost and Value
Though fiber may cost more upfront, you can expect to pay about the same for fiber internet and cable plans over time. In some cases, fiber internet plans may cost less and offer more flexibility than cable. Discounts and financial programs like Lifeline make fiber internet more accessible.
| Fiber | Cable | |
|---|---|---|
| Upload Speeds | 200 Mbps-8 Gig or more | 5-50 Mbps |
| Download Speeds | 200 Mbps-8 Gig or more | 25 Mbps-1 Gig |
| Reliability and Stability | Low latency | High latency |
| Availability and Coverage | Limited availability, but expanding coverage | Widely available |
Use Cases and Suitability
Best Use Cases for Fiber Optic Internet
High-tech households can benefit from the unlimited bandwidth that can handle multiple devices at once. Lightning-fast upload and download speeds streamline remote work with buffer-free video calls and quick file transfers. If you’re into internet gaming, fiber’s low ping means a more responsive, lag-free experience. Whether you play on a console or computer, fiber’s speeds allow for crystal clear audio and video, perfect for streaming.
Best Use Cases for Cable Internet
If you’re a light internet user, cable may provide enough bandwidth for your needs. Basic activities like checking your email and surfing the web will load quickly, but streaming movies or online gaming will be impacted if multiple devices are connected at the same time.
What Internet is Best For Me?
While many consider fiber internet the superior choice, it’s up to you to decide which type of connection you need. Choose the option that best fits your digital life, what speeds you need, how important reliability is to you and your budget. If you live in a rural area, cable may be your best option until fiber is available in your community.
See the Difference Lumos Fiber Internet Can Make
Ready for always fast, always reliable internet? With our fiber internet plans of up to 8 Gig, you’ll never have to worry about lagging, buffering or glitching again. Lumos provides the speed, bandwidth and whole-home Wi-Fi you need for a digital life that never slows down.
Check for Lumos Fiber near you and experience home internet built for the future.
