Wave Internet vs. STE

Whether you’re researching Wave Internet vs. STE 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 STE compete directly in approximately 2.40% of their service areas, with Wave Internet covering 548,138 people nationwide and STE serving 13,171. Wave Internet primarily delivers internet through a fiber connection; STE specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Wave Internet and STE’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Wave Internet vs. STE | Pros & Cons

Wave Internet vs. STE | Availability

Wave Internet and STE 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 | STE Available | No Coverage

Wave Internet currently offers internet service in 379 cities and 19 counties across 1 state, reaching approximately 548,138 residents. Their service area includes major markets like St. Louis, MO; Jefferson City, MO; and Rolla, MO. By comparison, STE serves 13,171 residents in 28 cities and 6 counties in 1 state, with a presence in population centers such as Steelville, MO; Houston, MO; and Viburnum, MO.

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

Wave Internet vs. STE | Speeds & Technology

Wave Internet and STE 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 0.1% of their customers. They also offer fixed wireless to less than 1% of their coverage area. STE 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, STE offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 873 Mbps compared to Wave Internet’s average speed of 101 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, STE delivers faster speeds in 13.01% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.00%, and slower speeds in 86.99%.

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, STE’s top-tier Fiber is available to 87.0% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Wave Internet vs. STE | 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, STE 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 STE, 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

STE 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. STE | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, Wave Internet earns an overall rating of / 5 stars from customer reviews, while STE maintains a / 5 rating from reviews. outperforms by points in overall satisfaction. Wave Internet’s best-rated service is their offering at / 5 stars, compared to STE’s highest-rated service, , at / 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.

Wave Internet vs. STE | Top Cities

Wave Internet serves 379 cities while STE is available in 28 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.