Windstream vs. CMS Internet
Whether you’re researching Windstream vs. CMS Internet 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.
| Windstream |
|---|
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| Price: $39.99 - $99.99 / mo. |
| Speed: 10 - 2,000 Mbps |
| Internet Type: DSL, fiber, fixed wireless, and cable |
Rating (Reviews): (87) |
| CMS Internet |
|---|
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| Price: Unavailable, please see site for details |
| Speed: 100 - 1,000 Mbps |
| Internet Type: Fixed wireless and fiber |
Rating (Reviews): (0) |
Windstream and CMS Internet compete directly in approximately 0.00% of their service areas, with Windstream covering 8,666,574 people nationwide and CMS Internet serving 153,798. Windstream primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; CMS Internet specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Windstream and CMS Internet’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.
Jump to: Availability | Speeds | Plans & Pricing | Customer Reviews | Fees
Windstream vs. CMS Internet | Pros & Cons

Pros:
- Fast upload speeds
- Service available in rural areas
- Offers discounted intro pricing
- Wide range of plan options
Cons:
- Limited service availability
- Installation fees apply
- Contracts required for best pricing

Pros:
- Fast upload speeds
- Service available in rural areas
- Fiber service available
- Multiple payment options available
Cons:
- Limited service availability
- Higher speeds require premium pricing
- Speeds fluctuate during peak usage hours
Windstream vs. CMS Internet | Availability
Windstream and CMS Internet 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 | Windstream Available | CMS Internet Available | No Coverage
Windstream currently offers internet service in 5,504 cities and 713 counties across 19 states, reaching approximately 8,666,574 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Charlotte, NC; Atlanta, GA; and Lexington, KY. By comparison, CMS Internet serves 153,798 residents in 114 cities and 11 counties in 1 state, with a presence in population centers such as Mount Pleasant, MI; Grand Rapids, MI; and St. Louis, MI.
Internet availability can vary significantly even within specific cities and zip codes. For the most accurate information about Windstream and CMS Internet at your location, use our address search tool:
Windstream vs. CMS Internet | Speeds & Technology
Windstream and CMS Internet utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.
Across their service areas, Windstream primarily delivers internet through DSL, available to 96.4% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 50.4% of their coverage area. CMS Internet relies on fiber technology, which comprises 25.8% of their network, with fixed wireless available in 98.7% of their service locations.
In terms of potential speeds across the country, Windstream offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 807 Mbps compared to CMS Internet’s average speed of 378 Mbps.
The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. Windstream’s premium Fiber service reaches 50.4% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, CMS Internet’s top-tier Fiber is available to 25.8% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.
Windstream vs. CMS Internet | Plans & Pricing
Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Windstream and CMS Internet, 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.
Windstream Internet Plans & Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Typical Download Speed | Typical Upload Speed | Connection Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 100 Mbps | $19.99 | 100 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber 300 Mbps | $34.99 | 300 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber 1 Gig | $39.99 | 1000 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber 2 Gig | $59.99 | 2000 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber Max 2 Gig | $79.99 | 2000 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
Sourced from pricing published on Windstream's official website. These provider-reported typical speeds reflect plan-specific expectations, while speed metrics elsewhere on our site measure maximum available performance across areas. Pricing is subject to change and may not be available in all areas.
CMS Internet Internet Plans & Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Typical Download Speed | Typical Upload Speed | Connection Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6G Plus | $59.95 | 100 Mbps | 25 Mbps | Cable |
| Fiber Plus | $59.95 | 300 Mbps | 300 Mbps | Fiber |
| Fiber Premium | $74.95 | 600 Mbps | 600 Mbps | Fiber |
| 6G Premium | $79.95 | 200 Mbps | 25 Mbps | Cable |
| 6G Ultimate | $109.95 | 400 Mbps | 50 Mbps | Cable |
| Fiber Ultimate | $109.95 | 1000 Mbps | 1000 Mbps | Fiber |
Sourced directly from CMS Internet's FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband label data, last verified June 2026. These provider-reported typical speeds reflect plan-specific expectations, while speed metrics elsewhere on our site measure maximum available performance across areas. Pricing is subject to change and may not be available in all areas.
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.
Windstream vs. CMS Internet | Customer Ratings & Reviews
Compare how real customers rate Windstream and CMS Internet based on our comprehensive database of verified customer reviews across all service types.
Windstream vs. CMS Internet | Fees & Details
Beyond advertised monthly rates, additional fees and service details significantly impact your total internet costs. The tables below outline equipment charges, installation fees, contract terms, data caps, and other important factors to consider when comparing these providers. Understanding these details helps you avoid unexpected costs and choose the plan that offers the best overall value.
Windstream Service
Fee
Not Provided by Windstream
CMS Internet Service
Fee
Installation
$99.00
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.
Windstream vs. CMS Internet | Top Cities
Windstream serves 5,504 cities while CMS Internet is available in 114 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.
Windstream Cities
- Availability: 24.82%
- Avg. Download Speed: 689 Mbps
- Availability: 5.25%
- Avg. Download Speed: 992 Mbps
- Availability: 94.71%
- Avg. Download Speed: 570 Mbps
- Availability: 13.15%
- Avg. Download Speed: 1,038 Mbps
- Availability: 93.13%
- Avg. Download Speed: 388 Mbps
Overlapping Cities
Windstream and CMS Internet don't compete in any cities.
We still compare these non-competing providers because many of our users are researching internet options for different locations—whether for an upcoming move, a second home purchase, or simply to understand regional differences in internet service. This comparison helps you evaluate both providers based on the same criteria, giving you valuable insight regardless of where you currently live.
CMS Internet Cities
- Availability: 87.26%
- Avg. Download Speed: 706 Mbps
- Availability: 2.93%
- Avg. Download Speed: 321 Mbps
- Availability: 84.26%
- Avg. Download Speed: 200 Mbps
- Availability: 74.29%
- Avg. Download Speed: 201 Mbps
- Availability: 100.00%
- Avg. Download Speed: 421 Mbps
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