Starry vs. Surf

Whether you’re researching Starry vs. Surf 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.

Starry and Surf compete directly in approximately 0.00% of their service areas, with Starry covering 8,942,585 people nationwide and Surf serving 989,717. Starry primarily delivers internet through a fiber connection; Surf specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Starry and Surf’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Starry vs. Surf | Pros & Cons

Starry vs. Surf | Availability

Starry and Surf 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 | Starry Available | Surf Available | No Coverage

Starry currently offers internet service in 109 cities and 22 counties across 8 states, reaching approximately 8,942,585 residents. Their service area includes major markets like New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; and Brooklyn, NY. By comparison, Surf serves 989,717 residents in 468 cities and 57 counties in 3 states, with a presence in population centers such as Chicago, IL; Grand Rapids, MI; and Detroit, MI.

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

Starry vs. Surf | Speeds & Technology

Starry and Surf utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.

Across their service areas, Starry primarily delivers internet through fiber, available to 1.1% of their customers. They also offer fixed wireless to 99.8% of their coverage area. Surf relies on fiber technology, which comprises 65.8% of their network, with fixed wireless available in 49.0% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Surf offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 2,935 Mbps compared to Starry’s average speed of 339 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Surf delivers faster speeds in 0.00% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.00%, and slower speeds in 0.00%.

The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. Starry’s premium Fiber service reaches 1.1% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, Surf’s top-tier Fiber is available to 65.8% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Starry vs. Surf | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for STARRY and Surf, 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.

Starry Plans

Surf 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.

Starry vs. Surf | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, Starry earns an overall rating of 4.21 / 5 stars from 24 customer reviews, while Surf maintains a 3.86 / 5 rating from 22 reviews. STARRY outperforms Surf by 0.4 points in overall satisfaction. Starry’s best-rated service is their Fixed Wireless offering at 4.21 / 5 stars, compared to Surf’s highest-rated service, Fiber, at 4.18 / 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.

Starry vs. Surf | Top Cities

Starry serves 109 cities while Surf is available in 468 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.