Verizon vs. EarthLink

Whether you’re researching Verizon vs. EarthLink 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.

Verizon and EarthLink compete directly in approximately 86.81% of their service areas, with Verizon covering 282,939,228 people nationwide and EarthLink serving 269,769,206. Verizon primarily delivers internet through a fiber connection; EarthLink specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Verizon and EarthLink’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Verizon vs. EarthLink | Pros & Cons

Verizon vs. EarthLink | Availability

Verizon and EarthLink 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 | Verizon Available | EarthLink Available | No Coverage

Verizon currently offers internet service in 41,951 cities and 2,829 counties across 49 states, reaching approximately 282,939,228 residents. Their service area includes major markets like New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; and Chicago, IL. By comparison, EarthLink serves 269,769,206 residents in 41,344 cities and 2,917 counties in 48 states, with a presence in population centers such as New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; and Chicago, IL.

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

Verizon vs. EarthLink | Speeds & Technology

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

Across their service areas, Verizon primarily delivers internet through fiber, available to 0.0% of their customers. They also offer fixed wireless to less than 1% of their coverage area. EarthLink relies on fiber technology, which comprises 0.0% of their network, with DSL available in less than 1% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, EarthLink offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,532 Mbps compared to Verizon’s average speed of 499 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, EarthLink delivers faster speeds in 44.99% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 23.66%, and slower speeds in 31.34%.

The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. Verizon’s premium Fiber service reaches 14.7% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, EarthLink’s top-tier Fiber is available to 42.7% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Verizon vs. EarthLink | Plans & Pricing

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

Verizon Plans

EarthLink 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.

Verizon vs. EarthLink | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, Verizon earns an overall rating of 3.77 / 5 stars from 795 customer reviews, while EarthLink maintains a 3.40 / 5 rating from 15 reviews. Verizon outperforms EarthLink by 0.4 points in overall satisfaction. Verizon’s best-rated service is their Fiber offering at 3.88 / 5 stars, compared to EarthLink’s highest-rated service, Fiber, at 3.67 / 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.

Verizon vs. EarthLink | Top Cities

Verizon serves 41,951 cities while EarthLink is available in 41,344 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.