Centurylink vs. Windstream

Whether you’re researching Centurylink vs. Windstream 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 Windstream compete directly in approximately 0.17% of their service areas, with Centurylink covering 40,883,758 people nationwide and Windstream serving 8,666,574. Centurylink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Windstream specializes in DSL connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Centurylink and Windstream's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Centurylink vs. Windstream | Pros & Cons

Centurylink vs. Windstream | Availability

Centurylink and Windstream 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 | Windstream 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, Windstream serves 8,666,574 residents in 5,504 cities and 713 counties in 19 states, with a presence in population centers such as Charlotte, NC; Atlanta, GA; and Lexington, KY.

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

Centurylink vs. Windstream | Speeds & Technology

Centurylink and Windstream 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. Windstream relies on DSL technology, which comprises 96.4% of their network, with fiber available in 50.4% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Windstream offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 807 Mbps compared to Centurylink's average speed of 238 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Windstream delivers faster speeds in 12.67% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 5.05%, and slower speeds in 82.28%.

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, Windstream's top-tier Fiber is available to 50.4% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Centurylink vs. Windstream | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Centurylink and Windstream, sourced directly from FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband labels to ensure transparency and accuracy. We've included both promotional and standard rates for each provider to give you a complete picture of what you'll pay over time. Plan availability and exact pricing may vary by location.

Centurylink Plans

Windstream 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. Windstream | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate Centurylink and Windstream 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 Windstream maintains a 3.36 / 5 rating from 87 reviews. Windstream outperforms Centurylink by 0.05 points in overall satisfaction. Centurylink's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 3.84 / 5 stars, compared to Windstream's highest-rated service, fiber, at 3.86 / 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. Windstream | Top Cities

Centurylink serves 5,322 cities while Windstream is available in 5,504 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.