Windstream vs. Element8
Whether you’re researching Windstream vs. Element8 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 |
|---|
![]() |
| Price: $19.99 - $79.99 / mo. |
| Speed: 10 - 2,000 Mbps |
| Internet Type: DSL, fiber, fixed wireless, and cable |
Rating (Reviews): (92) |
| Element8 |
|---|
![]() |
| Price: $70.00 - $110.00 / mo. |
| Speed: 500 Mbps |
| Internet Type: Fixed wireless |
Rating (Reviews): (0) |
Windstream and Element8 compete directly in approximately 0.18% of their service areas, with Windstream covering 8,678,961 people nationwide and Element8 serving 637,606. Windstream primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Element8 specializes in fixed wireless connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Windstream and Element8’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.
Jump to: Availability | Speeds | Plans & Pricing | Customer Reviews | Fees
Windstream vs. Element8 | Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Gigabit speeds available
- 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
- Includes standard security features
- Supports everyday activities like email and web browsing
- Compatible with standard Wi-Fi devices
Cons:
- Limited service availability
- Limited fiber availability
- Performance depends on local infrastructure
Windstream vs. Element8 | Availability
Windstream and Element8 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 | Element8 Available | No Coverage
Windstream currently offers internet service in 5,467 cities and 710 counties across 19 states, reaching approximately 8,678,961 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Charlotte, NC; Atlanta, GA; and Lexington, KY.
Internet availability can vary significantly even within specific cities and zip codes. For the most accurate information about Windstream and Element8 at your location, use our address search tool:
Windstream vs. Element8 | Speeds & Technology
Windstream and Element8 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 0.0% of their customers. They also offer fiber to less than 1% of their coverage area. Element8 relies on fixed wireless technology, which comprises 0.0% of their network, this is the only connection type they offer.
In terms of potential speeds across the country, Windstream offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,069 Mbps compared to Element8’s average speed of 500 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Windstream delivers faster speeds in 46.51% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.00%, and slower speeds in 53.49%.
The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. Windstream’s premium Fiber service reaches 53.8% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, Element8’s top-tier fixed wireless is available to 100.0% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.
Windstream vs. Element8 | Plans & Pricing
Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Windstream and Element8, 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, 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.
Element8 Internet Plans & Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Typical Download Speed | Typical Upload Speed | Connection Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essentials | $70.00 | 75 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Standard | $90.00 | 150 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Plus | $110.00 | 300 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
Sourced from pricing published on Element8's official website, 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. Element8 | Customer Ratings & Reviews
Compare how real customers rate Windstream and Element8 based on our comprehensive database of verified customer reviews across all service types.
Windstream vs. Element8 | 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
Element8 Service
Fee
Not Provided by Element8
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. Element8 | Top Cities
Windstream serves 5,467 cities while Element8 is available in 121 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.
Windstream Cities
- Availability: 24.94%
- Avg. Download Speed: 990 Mbps
- Availability: 5.26%
- Avg. Download Speed: 1,234 Mbps
- Availability: 94.07%
- Avg. Download Speed: 630 Mbps
- Availability: 13.12%
- Avg. Download Speed: 1,521 Mbps
- Availability: 92.63%
- Avg. Download Speed: 441 Mbps
Overlapping Cities
- Windstream Avg. Speed: 1,110 Mbps
- Element8 Avg. Speed: 500 Mbps
- Windstream Avg. Speed: 628 Mbps
- Element8 Avg. Speed: 500 Mbps
- Windstream Avg. Speed: 759 Mbps
- Element8 Avg. Speed: 500 Mbps
- Windstream Avg. Speed: 574 Mbps
- Element8 Avg. Speed: 500 Mbps
- Windstream Avg. Speed: 1,235 Mbps
- Element8 Avg. Speed: 500 Mbps
Element8 Cities
- Availability: 7.42%
- Avg. Download Speed: 500 Mbps
- Availability: 9.91%
- Avg. Download Speed: 500 Mbps
- Availability: 64.62%
- Avg. Download Speed: 500 Mbps
- Availability: 28.35%
- Avg. Download Speed: 500 Mbps
- Availability: 42.00%
- Avg. Download Speed: 500 Mbps

(92)
(0)
