EarthLink vs. TDS

Whether you’re researching EarthLink vs. TDS 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 TDS compete directly in approximately 0.79% of their service areas, with EarthLink covering 269,769,206 people nationwide and TDS serving 3,658,334. EarthLink primarily delivers internet through a fiber connection; TDS specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of EarthLink and TDS’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

EarthLink vs. TDS | Pros & Cons

EarthLink vs. TDS | Availability

EarthLink and TDS 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 | TDS Available | No Coverage

EarthLink currently offers internet service in 41,344 cities and 2,917 counties across 48 states, reaching approximately 269,769,206 residents. Their service area includes major markets like New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; and Chicago, IL. By comparison, TDS serves 3,658,334 residents in 1,933 cities and 297 counties in 31 states, with a presence in population centers such as Madison, WI; Nashville, TN; and Charlotte, NC.

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

EarthLink vs. TDS | Speeds & Technology

EarthLink and TDS 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 fiber, available to 0.0% of their customers. They also offer DSL to less than 1% of their coverage area. TDS relies on fiber technology, which comprises 0.0% of their network, with cable available in less than 1% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, TDS offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 3,704 Mbps compared to EarthLink’s average speed of 1,532 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, TDS delivers faster speeds in 6.55% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 1.84%, and slower speeds in 91.61%.

The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. EarthLink’s premium Fiber service reaches 42.7% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, TDS’s top-tier Fiber is available to 69.8% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

EarthLink vs. TDS | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for EarthLink and TDS, 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.

EarthLink Plans

TDS 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. TDS | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate EarthLink and TDS 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 TDS maintains a 3.05 / 5 rating from 37 reviews. EarthLink outperforms TDS by 0.4 points in overall satisfaction. EarthLink’s best-rated service is their Fiber offering at 3.67 / 5 stars, compared to TDS’s highest-rated service, Fiber, at 3.53 / 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. TDS | Top Cities

EarthLink serves 41,344 cities while TDS is available in 1,933 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.