AT&T vs. Centurylink

Whether you’re researching AT&T vs. Centurylink internet service at your current address, comparing internet options for potential locations, or just researching alternatives, this detailed comparison will help you understand which provider best suits you.

AT&T and Centurylink compete directly in approximately 11.95% of their service areas, with AT&T covering 251,049,052 people nationwide and Centurylink serving 40,883,758. AT&T primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Centurylink specializes in DSL connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of AT&T and Centurylink’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

Jump to: Availability | Speeds | Plans & Pricing | Customer Reviews | Fees

AT&T vs. Centurylink | Pros & Cons

AT&T vs. Centurylink | Availability

AT&T and Centurylink have distinct coverage footprints across the United States. Our interactive map shows exactly where each provider offers service and where they overlap, helping you understand your options.

Both Providers Available | AT&T Available | Centurylink Available | No Coverage

AT&T currently offers internet service in 39,788 cities and 2,871 counties across 48 states, reaching approximately 251,049,052 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Los Angeles, CA; Chicago, IL; and Dallas, TX. By comparison, Centurylink serves 40,883,758 residents in 5,322 cities and 572 counties in 20 states, with a presence in population centers such as Phoenix, AZ; Minneapolis, MN; and Denver, CO.

Internet availability can vary significantly even within specific cities and zip codes. For the most accurate information about AT&T and Centurylink at your location, use our address search tool:

AT&T vs. Centurylink | Speeds & Technology

AT&T and Centurylink utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.

Across their service areas, AT&T primarily delivers internet through DSL, available to 44.5% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 27.9% of their coverage area. Centurylink relies on DSL technology, which comprises 93.9% of their network, with fiber available in 18.5% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, AT&T offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,274 Mbps compared to Centurylink’s average speed of 238 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, AT&T delivers faster speeds in 29.54% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 6.09%, and slower speeds in 64.37%.

The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. AT&T’s premium Fiber service reaches 27.9% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, Centurylink’s top-tier Fiber is available to 18.5% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

AT&T vs. Centurylink | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for AT&T and Centurylink, drawn from our independently maintained pricing database. The source and verification date for each provider's plans are noted beneath the table.

Provider representatives can send plan or pricing updates through our contact page; verified changes publish shortly after review.

AT&T Plans

Centurylink Plans

Most households with 3-5 users need download speeds of at least 100 Mbps for smooth streaming, video conferencing, and everyday internet usage. Larger households or those with heavy users (gamers, 4K streamers, or remote workers) should consider plans with speeds of 300 Mbps or more for optimal performance.

Any prices listed are the base service rates and may not include additional charges such as equipment fees, installation costs, or other service-related expenses. For a comprehensive view of all potential charges, refer to our Fees & Details section below.

AT&T vs. Centurylink | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate AT&T and Centurylink based on our comprehensive database of verified customer reviews across all service types.

When comparing customer satisfaction, AT&T earns an overall rating of 3.63 / 5 stars from 938 customer reviews, while Centurylink maintains a 3.25 / 5 rating from 170 reviews. AT&T outperforms Centurylink by 0.4 points in overall satisfaction. AT&T’s best-rated service is their Fiber offering at 3.85 / 5 stars, compared to Centurylink’s highest-rated service, Fiber, at 3.80 / 5 stars.

Fees vary by plan and location. The fees shown apply to most plans; check with the provider for costs specific to your plan.

When comparing internet providers, remember that advertised prices rarely tell the complete story. Equipment fees alone can add $10-15 per month to your bill, while installation charges, early termination fees, and data overage penalties can significantly increase your total cost of service. Consider these additional costs alongside monthly rates when determining which provider offers the better value for your specific needs.

AT&T vs. Centurylink | Top Cities

AT&T serves 39,788 cities while Centurylink is available in 5,322 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.