Ziply vs. First Step Internet

Whether you’re researching Ziply vs. First Step 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.

Ziply and First Step Internet compete directly in approximately 1.52% of their service areas, with Ziply covering 4,092,428 people nationwide and First Step Internet serving 158,852. Ziply primarily delivers internet through a fiber connection; First Step Internet specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Ziply and First Step Internet's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Ziply vs. First Step Internet | Pros & Cons

Ziply vs. First Step Internet | Availability

Ziply and First Step 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 | Ziply Available | First Step Internet Available | No Coverage

Ziply currently offers internet service in 722 cities and 73 counties across 5 states, reaching approximately 4,092,428 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Seattle, WA; Portland, OR; and Spokane, WA. By comparison, First Step Internet serves 158,852 residents in 100 cities and 11 counties in 2 states, with a presence in population centers such as Lewiston, ID; Moscow, ID; and Pullman, WA.

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

Ziply vs. First Step Internet | Speeds & Technology

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

Across their service areas, Ziply primarily delivers internet through fiber, available to 68.0% of their customers. They also offer DSL to 38.3% of their coverage area. First Step Internet relies on fiber technology, which comprises 8.5% of their network, with fixed wireless available in 99.9% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Ziply offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 4,056 Mbps compared to First Step Internet's average speed of 114 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Ziply delivers faster speeds in 88.69% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 2.76%, and slower speeds in 8.55%.

The availability of each provider's fastest technology varies significantly by location. Ziply's premium Fiber service reaches 68.0% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, First Step Internet's top-tier Fiber is available to 8.5% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Ziply vs. First Step Internet | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Ziply, sourced directly from FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband labels to ensure transparency and accuracy. Unfortunately, First Step Internet 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 Ziply plan details below to help you understand their offerings while we await First Step Internet's compliance with federal transparency requirements.

Ziply Plans

First Step Internet 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.

Ziply vs. First Step Internet | Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

When comparing customer satisfaction, Ziply earns an overall rating of 4.02 / 5 stars from 60 customer reviews, while First Step Internet maintains a 0.00 / 5 rating from 0 reviews. First Step Internet outperforms Ziply by 0.00 points in overall satisfaction. Ziply's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 4.22 / 5 stars, compared to First Step Internet'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.

Ziply vs. First Step Internet | Top Cities

Ziply serves 722 cities while First Step Internet is available in 100 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.