EarthLink vs. Centurylink

Whether you’re researching EarthLink 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.

EarthLink and Centurylink compete directly in approximately 11.18% of their service areas, with EarthLink covering 268,204,138 people nationwide and Centurylink serving 40,883,758. EarthLink 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 EarthLink and Centurylink's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

EarthLink vs. Centurylink | Pros & Cons

EarthLink vs. Centurylink | Availability

EarthLink 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 | EarthLink Available | Centurylink Available | No Coverage

EarthLink currently offers internet service in 40,546 cities and 2,905 counties across 48 states, reaching approximately 268,204,138 residents. Their service area includes major markets like New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; and Chicago, IL. 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 EarthLink and Centurylink at your location, use our address search tool:

EarthLink vs. Centurylink | Speeds & Technology

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

Across their service areas, EarthLink primarily delivers internet through DSL, available to 41.6% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 41.4% 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, EarthLink offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,411 Mbps compared to Centurylink's average speed of 238 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, EarthLink 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. EarthLink's premium Fiber service reaches 41.4% 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.

EarthLink vs. Centurylink | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Centurylink, sourced directly from FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband labels to ensure transparency and accuracy. Unfortunately, EarthLink has not complied with FCC requirements to provide their broadband label data, limiting transparency and the ability for consumers to make direct comparisons.

We've included the available Centurylink plan details below to help you understand their offerings while we await EarthLink's compliance with federal transparency requirements.

EarthLink 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.

EarthLink vs. Centurylink | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, EarthLink earns an overall rating of 3.67 / 5 stars from 12 customer reviews, while Centurylink maintains a 3.31 / 5 rating from 163 reviews. EarthLink outperforms Centurylink by 0.36 points in overall satisfaction. EarthLink's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 4.20 / 5 stars, compared to Centurylink's highest-rated service, fiber, at 3.84 / 5 stars.

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.

EarthLink vs. Centurylink | Top Cities

EarthLink serves 40,546 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.