Optimum has different internet plans and prices, but it depends on where you are. Here are some common Optimum cable and fiber plans. Just so you know, Optimum’s fiber network is still growing, so it might not be everywhere yet.
- Best Optimum Internet Plans
- Choosing Between Optimum Fiber and Optimum Cable Internet
- Pros
- Cons
- Optimum Internet Speeds Overview
- Optimum Internet Reach & Areas
- Optimum Equipment Info
- People May Also Ask
- What Types of Optimum Internet Are There?
- Who Owns Optimum Internet?
- How Fast is Optimum Internet?
- Is Optimum WiFi Good?
Best Optimum Internet Plans
| Optimum Plan | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Starting Price* | Connection Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum 300 | 300 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $40.00/mo. | Cable |
| Optimum 500 | 500 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $60.00/mo. | Cable |
| Optimum 1 Gig | 940 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $80.00/mo. | Cable |
| Optimum Fiber 300 | 300 Mbps | 300 Mbps | $40.00/mo. | Fiber |
| Optimum Fiber 500 | 500 Mbps | 500 Mbps | $60.00/mo. | Fiber |
| Optimum Fiber 1 Gig | 940 Mbps | 940 Mbps | $80.00/mo. | Fiber |
| Optimum Fiber 2 Gig | 2,000 Mbps | 2,000 Mbps | $100.00/mo. | Fiber |
| Optimum Fiber 5 Gig | 5,000 Mbps | 5,000 Mbps | $180.00/mo. | Fiber |
Choosing Between Optimum Fiber and Optimum Cable Internet
Optimum’s fiber plans are only in about 1.3 million homes in the U.S. But, the company behind Optimum, Altice, is working to bring more fiber to people. Usually, it’s better to go with fiber instead of cable because it does not slow down as much when many people are using it.
Now, Optimum’s 500 and 940 Mbps plans are more than what most homes need. To give you an idea, 500 Mbps is plenty for streaming Netflix in super high quality on 20 TVs all at once. If you work from home or do video calls, check the upload speeds on the plans without fiber. The fiber plans from Optimum have the same speed for uploading and downloading, which is great.
Pros
- No Data Caps: Optimum doesn’t have any data caps, so you don’t have to worry about extra fees if you use a lot of data.
- No Contracts: Optimum offers plans without contracts, meaning you can avoid long-term commitments and early termination fees.
- Equipment Included: Optimum includes equipment with their 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps, and Gig plans.
Cons
- Rate Hikes: Optimum’s prices go up after promotional periods end.
- Equipment Rental Fees: Optimum has various fees for equipment, which can add to your monthly bill.
- Very Little Bundle Savings: Even though Optimum has some bundling options, you might not save much compared to getting standalone TV service from other providers.
Optimum Internet Speeds Overview
With Optimum, you usually get the speed you pay for. The FCC’s latest report on fixed broadband shows that, on average, Optimum customers get about 114% of the speeds they were promised. Simply put, Optimum often gives you more speed than you expect.
This does not mean you will always get speeds faster than what they say. Things like where your router is, the time of day, and how many devices are connected can affect your internet speed. Still, Optimum generally does well in this area.
Optimum Internet Reach & Areas
Optimum is in 21 states, including the bigger NYC region. In places like The Bronx, Brooklyn, Poughkeepsie, Long Island, and Yonkers, you can get Optimum internet. More than 12 million people can access Optimum.
It is also in parts of western Connecticut, eastern New Jersey, and some rural spots in West Virginia and Pennsylvania. It is available in states across the Midwest, West, and South too. About 5% of the country can get Optimum’s cable, and 1.5% can get fiber.
Optimum offers both fiber and cable internet plans. They have been working fast to bring fiber to more homes. However, no matter where you are, Optimum is known for having fast internet, even if it can be expensive.
Optimum Equipment Info
For the equipment, Optimum charges $13.50 each month: $10 for the modem/router and $3.50 for a “network maintenance fee.” This covers their Altice Gateway tool and Optimum WiFi service.
If you prefer, you can buy your own router and modem instead of paying monthly. There are advantages to doing this. Many customers complain that their Optimum WiFi gear does not work as well as promised. Getting better equipment can often make your internet speed much better.
In certain areas, Optimum is giving away a free WiFi extender with some plans. This gadget can be put in another part of your home to make sure WiFi reaches every corner. You get one for free, and if you want more coverage, you can add extra ones for $3 each month.
Installation Cost
Optimum asks for a one-time fee of $59 for regular installation on most plans. However, if you are getting both internet and TV in a bundle, the fee goes up to $99. If you choose to install it yourself, that is always free.
No Limits on Data
Optimum does not have any data caps on their internet plans. So, you do not need to stress about reducing your streaming or gaming time.
People May Also Ask
What Types of Optimum Internet Are There?
Optimum has two kinds: Optimum Fiber and Optimum Internet. If Optimum Fiber is in your area, you can get their best plans with super-fast speeds up to 5,000 Mbps.
Who Owns Optimum Internet?
Optimum is an American telecom brand run by Altice USA. It is the fourth-largest cable provider in the U.S. and a Fortune 500 company.
How Fast is Optimum Internet?
Optimum gives cable internet with speeds up to 940 Mbps in most places they cover.
Is Optimum WiFi Good?
Optimum has different internet speeds, so you can pick a plan that suits you without paying too much. For most small families, starting with 300 Mbps download speeds is a good idea. Optimum West and East have 300 Mbps plans with their cable and fiber service.
