Centurylink vs. Optimum

Whether you’re researching Centurylink vs. Optimum 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 Optimum compete directly in approximately 0.48% of their service areas, with Centurylink covering 40,883,758 people nationwide and Optimum serving 20,642,705. Centurylink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Optimum specializes in cable connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Centurylink and Optimum’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Centurylink vs. Optimum | Pros & Cons

Centurylink vs. Optimum | Availability

Centurylink and Optimum 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 | Optimum 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, Optimum serves 20,642,705 residents in 3,357 cities and 358 counties in 21 states, with a presence in population centers such as New York, NY; Brooklyn, NY; and Bronx, NY.

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

Centurylink vs. Optimum | Speeds & Technology

Centurylink and Optimum 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. Optimum relies on cable technology, which comprises 99.8% of their network, with fiber available in 56.0% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Optimum offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 4,787 Mbps compared to Centurylink’s average speed of 238 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Optimum delivers faster speeds in 1.99% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 1.47%, and slower speeds in 96.54%.

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, Optimum’s top-tier Fiber is available to 56.0% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Centurylink vs. Optimum | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Centurylink and Optimum, 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.

Centurylink Plans

Optimum 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. Optimum | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, Centurylink earns an overall rating of 3.25 / 5 stars from 170 customer reviews, while Optimum maintains a 3.05 / 5 rating from 256 reviews. Centurylink outperforms Optimum by 0.2 points in overall satisfaction. Centurylink’s best-rated service is their Fiber offering at 3.80 / 5 stars, compared to Optimum’s highest-rated service, Fiber, at 3.38 / 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.

Centurylink vs. Optimum | Top Cities

Centurylink serves 5,322 cities while Optimum is available in 3,357 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.