Windstream vs. Long Lines

Whether you’re researching Windstream vs. Long Lines 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 and Long Lines compete directly in approximately 0.05% of their service areas, with Windstream covering 8,666,574 people nationwide and Long Lines serving 74,119. Windstream primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Long Lines specializes in cable connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Windstream and Long Lines's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Windstream vs. Long Lines | Pros & Cons

Windstream vs. Long Lines | Availability

Windstream and Long Lines 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 | Long Lines 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, Long Lines serves 74,119 residents in 36 cities and 8 counties in 3 states, with a presence in population centers such as South Sioux City, NE; Sioux City, IA; and Storm Lake, IA.

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

Windstream vs. Long Lines | Speeds & Technology

Windstream and Long Lines 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. Long Lines relies on cable technology, which comprises 63.7% of their network, with fiber available in 42.2% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Long Lines offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,287 Mbps compared to Windstream's average speed of 807 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Long Lines delivers faster speeds in 28.00% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.37%, and slower speeds in 71.63%.

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, Long Lines's top-tier Cable is available to 63.7% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Windstream vs. Long Lines | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Windstream, sourced directly from FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband labels to ensure transparency and accuracy. Unfortunately, Long Lines has not complied with FCC requirements to provide their broadband label data, limiting transparency and the ability for consumers to make direct comparisons.

We've included the available Windstream plan details below to help you understand their offerings while we await Long Lines's compliance with federal transparency requirements.

Windstream Plans

Long Lines 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.

Windstream vs. Long Lines | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, Windstream earns an overall rating of 3.36 / 5 stars from 87 customer reviews, while Long Lines maintains a 1.00 / 5 rating from 1 reviews. Windstream outperforms Long Lines by 2.36 points in overall satisfaction. Windstream's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 3.86 / 5 stars, compared to Long Lines's highest-rated service, , at 0.00 / 5 stars.

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. Long Lines | Top Cities

Windstream serves 5,504 cities while Long Lines is available in 36 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.