Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications

Whether you’re researching Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications 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.

Centurylink and Northwest Communications compete directly in approximately 0.00% of their service areas, with Centurylink covering 40,883,758 people nationwide and Northwest Communications serving 49,609. Centurylink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Northwest Communications specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Centurylink and Northwest Communications's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications | Pros & Cons

Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications | Availability

Centurylink and Northwest Communications 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 | Centurylink Available | Northwest Communications Available | No Coverage

Centurylink currently offers internet service in 5,322 cities and 572 counties across 20 states, reaching approximately 40,883,758 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Phoenix, AZ; Minneapolis, MN; and Denver, CO. By comparison, Northwest Communications serves 49,609 residents in 35 cities and 3 counties in 1 state, with a presence in population centers such as Minneapolis, MN; New Richmond, WI; and Somerset, WI.

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

Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications | Speeds & Technology

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

Across their service areas, Centurylink primarily delivers internet through DSL, available to 93.9% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 18.5% of their coverage area. Northwest Communications relies on fiber technology, which comprises 95.5% of their network, with cable available in 28.7% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Northwest Communications offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 4,778 Mbps compared to Centurylink's average speed of 238 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Northwest Communications delivers faster speeds in 0.00% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.00%, and slower speeds in 100.00%.

The availability of each provider's fastest technology varies significantly by location. Centurylink's premium Fiber service reaches 18.5% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, Northwest Communications's top-tier Fiber is available to 95.5% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications | 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, Northwest Communications 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 Northwest Communications's compliance with federal transparency requirements.

Centurylink Plans

Northwest Communications 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.

Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, Centurylink earns an overall rating of 3.31 / 5 stars from 163 customer reviews, while Northwest Communications maintains a 0.00 / 5 rating from 0 reviews. Northwest Communications outperforms Centurylink by 0.00 points in overall satisfaction. Centurylink's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 3.84 / 5 stars, compared to Northwest Communications's highest-rated service, , at 0.00 / 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.

Centurylink vs. Northwest Communications | Top Cities

Centurylink serves 5,322 cities while Northwest Communications is available in 35 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.