Wave Internet vs. Socket

Whether you’re researching Wave Internet 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.

Wave Internet and Socket compete directly in approximately 10.04% of their service areas, with Wave Internet covering 547,916 people nationwide and Socket serving 349,795. Wave Internet primarily delivers internet through a fiber connection; Socket specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Wave Internet and Socket’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Wave Internet vs. Socket | Pros & Cons

Wave Internet vs. Socket | Availability

Wave Internet 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 | Wave Internet Available | Socket Available | No Coverage

Wave Internet currently offers internet service in 380 cities and 19 counties across 1 state, reaching approximately 547,916 residents. Their service area includes major markets like St. Louis, MO; Jefferson City, MO; and Rolla, MO. 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 Wave Internet and Socket at your location, use our address search tool:

Wave Internet vs. Socket | Speeds & Technology

Wave Internet and Socket utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.

Across their service areas, Wave Internet primarily delivers internet through fiber, available to less than 1% of their customers. They also offer fixed wireless to 100.0% 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 Wave Internet’s average speed of 101 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Socket delivers faster speeds in 2.37% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.00%, and slower speeds in 97.63%.

The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. Wave Internet’s premium Fiber service reaches 0.1% 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.

Wave Internet vs. Socket | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Wave Internet, 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.

Wave Internet 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.

Wave Internet vs. Socket | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

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.

Wave Internet vs. Socket | Top Cities

Wave Internet serves 380 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.