EarthLink vs. Google Fiber

Whether you’re researching EarthLink vs. Google Fiber 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 Google Fiber compete directly in approximately 2.60% of their service areas, with EarthLink covering 268,204,138 people nationwide and Google Fiber serving 7,256,944. EarthLink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Google Fiber specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of EarthLink and Google Fiber's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

EarthLink vs. Google Fiber | Pros & Cons

EarthLink vs. Google Fiber | Availability

EarthLink and Google Fiber 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 | Google Fiber 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, Google Fiber serves 7,256,944 residents in 244 cities and 57 counties in 18 states, with a presence in population centers such as Kansas City, MO; San Antonio, TX; and Austin, TX.

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

EarthLink vs. Google Fiber | Speeds & Technology

EarthLink and Google Fiber 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. Google Fiber relies on fiber technology, which comprises 92.6% of their network, with fixed wireless available in 8.0% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Google Fiber offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 6,660 Mbps compared to EarthLink's average speed of 1,411 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Google Fiber delivers faster speeds in 9.26% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 1.87%, and slower speeds in 88.87%.

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, Google Fiber's top-tier Fiber is available to 92.6% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

EarthLink vs. Google Fiber | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Google Fiber, 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 Google Fiber plan details below to help you understand their offerings while we await EarthLink's compliance with federal transparency requirements.

EarthLink Plans

Google Fiber 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. Google Fiber | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate EarthLink and Google Fiber 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 Google Fiber maintains a 4.29 / 5 rating from 89 reviews. Google Fiber outperforms EarthLink by 0.62 points in overall satisfaction. EarthLink's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 4.20 / 5 stars, compared to Google Fiber's highest-rated service, fiber, at 4.29 / 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. Google Fiber | Top Cities

EarthLink serves 40,546 cities while Google Fiber is available in 244 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.