EarthLink vs. Socket

Whether you’re researching EarthLink vs. Socket 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 Socket compete directly in approximately 0.08% of their service areas, with EarthLink covering 268,204,138 people nationwide and Socket serving 349,795. EarthLink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Socket specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of EarthLink and Socket’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

EarthLink vs. Socket | Pros & Cons

EarthLink vs. Socket | Availability

EarthLink and Socket 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 | Socket 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, Socket serves 349,795 residents in 59 cities and 18 counties in 1 state, with a presence in population centers such as Columbia, MO; Jefferson City, MO; and Sedalia, MO.

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

EarthLink vs. Socket | Speeds & Technology

EarthLink and Socket 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. Socket relies on fiber technology, which comprises 79.8% of their network, with DSL available in 56.6% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Socket offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,545 Mbps compared to EarthLink’s average speed of 1,411 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Socket delivers faster speeds in 12.92% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 8.42%, and slower speeds in 78.66%.

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, Socket’s top-tier Fiber is available to 79.8% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

EarthLink vs. Socket | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Earthlink, drawn from our independently maintained pricing database. The source and verification date for each provider's plans are noted beneath the table. Unfortunately, Socket has not complied with FCC requirements to provide their broadband label data, limiting transparency and the ability for consumers to make direct comparisons.

If you represent Socket, getting listed is simple: publish your machine-readable broadband label file, or send your current plan lineup through our contact page, and your plans will appear here shortly after verification.

EarthLink Plans

Socket 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. Socket | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, EarthLink earns an overall rating of 3.40 / 5 stars from 15 customer reviews, while Socket maintains a 3.67 / 5 rating from 6 reviews. Socket outperforms Earthlink by 0.3 points in overall satisfaction. EarthLink’s best-rated service is their Fiber offering at 3.67 / 5 stars, compared to Socket’s highest-rated service, Fiber, at 3.40 / 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.

EarthLink vs. Socket | Top Cities

EarthLink serves 40,546 cities while Socket is available in 59 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.