Bottom line: Optimum wins where fiber is available — faster speeds (up to 8 Gbps), no data caps, and competitive pricing starting at $40/mo. CenturyLink (Quantum Fiber) wins on price for basic service at $30/mo and serves a much wider geographic area across 36 states.
Key Findings: CenturyLink vs Optimum
- Optimum's fiber reaches 8 Gbps; CenturyLink fiber tops at 940 Mbps
- CenturyLink DSL starts at $30/mo; Optimum starts at $40/mo
- Both have no data caps on any residential plan
- Optimum serves NY, NJ, CT + parts of 17 states; CenturyLink covers 36 states
- Optimum offers symmetric fiber uploads; CenturyLink DSL uploads max at 10 Mbps
- Customer satisfaction: Optimum scores 66/100 ACSI vs CenturyLink's 63/100
Plans and Pricing Comparison
CenturyLink Internet Plans (2026)
| Plan | Speed | Price | Technology | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simply Unlimited | Up to 100 Mbps | $30/mo | DSL | None |
| Quantum Fiber 200 | 200 Mbps | $40/mo | Fiber | None |
| Quantum Fiber 500 | 500 Mbps | $50/mo | Fiber | None |
| Quantum Fiber 940 | 940 Mbps | $70/mo | Fiber | None |
Optimum Internet Plans (2026)
| Plan | Speed | Price | Technology | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum 300 | 300 Mbps | $40/mo | Fiber | None |
| Optimum 500 | 500 Mbps | $60/mo | Fiber | None |
| Optimum 1 Gig | 1 Gbps | $80/mo | Fiber | None |
| Optimum 2 Gig | 2 Gbps | $120/mo | Fiber | None |
| Optimum 5 Gig | 5 Gbps | $180/mo | Fiber | None |
| Optimum 8 Gig | 8 Gbps | $300/mo | Fiber | None |
Technology and Speed Analysis
Optimum is investing heavily in fiber (FTTH), transforming from a cable-first provider into a fiber competitor. Where fiber is available, Optimum offers symmetric speeds up to 8 Gbps — far exceeding CenturyLink's 940 Mbps fiber maximum. CenturyLink's DSL network delivers 10-100 Mbps with limited upload capacity, making it inadequate for modern multi-device households.
Upload speeds matter for video calls, cloud backups, and content creation. Optimum fiber delivers symmetric uploads (300 Mbps up on the 300 plan), while CenturyLink DSL typically caps uploads at 5-10 Mbps. For remote workers and gamers, this difference is significant.
Coverage and Availability
CenturyLink serves 36 states, primarily in the western and midwestern United States. However, fiber (Quantum Fiber) is only available in select metro areas including Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Minneapolis, and Portland. Most CenturyLink customers still receive DSL service.
Optimum covers parts of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and through its parent company Altice, reaches 17+ states. Optimum's fiber rollout is concentrated in the tri-state area, with cable (coax) service in other markets.
Equipment and Installation
| Feature | CenturyLink | Optimum |
|---|---|---|
| Router Rental | $15/mo or free with Quantum Fiber | $10/mo (included first year on some plans) |
| Self-Install | Free for DSL | Free |
| Pro Install | $99 (free for fiber) | Free |
| WiFi 6E | Yes (Quantum Fiber) | Yes (Optimum Smart WiFi 6) |
| Mesh WiFi | Available ($5/mo/extender) | Available ($5/mo/extender) |
Reliability and Customer Experience
Both providers have invested in network reliability, but their approaches differ. CenturyLink's legacy DSL infrastructure has higher outage rates and slower resolution times. Quantum Fiber areas report significantly better uptime — comparable to top-tier fiber providers.
Optimum's fiber network delivers consistent 99.9% uptime in established markets. However, customers in cable-only areas report intermittent slowdowns during peak hours (7-11 PM), a common issue with shared DOCSIS infrastructure. Neither provider requires long-term contracts, so switching costs are minimal.
Who Should Choose Each Provider
- Choose Optimum if: Fiber is available at your address. Superior speed, symmetric uploads, and competitive pricing make it the clear winner
- Choose CenturyLink if: You need the lowest possible price ($30/mo), live outside Optimum's footprint, or Quantum Fiber is available in your area
- Consider neither if: You need speeds above 940 Mbps and Optimum fiber isn't available — look at AT&T Fiber or Google Fiber
Related Comparisons
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- Best Internet Providers 2026
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- Understanding Throttling
Fiber vs. Non-Fiber: The Defining Factor
Both CenturyLink (now Quantum Fiber in fiber areas) and Optimum have been investing in fiber buildout, making the comparison highly dependent on which technology is available at your specific address.
CenturyLink/Quantum Fiber areas: Where fiber is available, CenturyLink rebrands as Quantum Fiber and offers symmetrical speeds from 200 Mbps to 8 Gbps. Pricing is competitive — the 1 Gbps plan runs approximately $65/month with no contract and no data cap. Quantum Fiber has received strong reviews for reliability and straightforward pricing.
CenturyLink DSL areas: Where only DSL is available, CenturyLink's speeds max out at 10-40 Mbps. At these speeds, nearly any alternative — including Optimum's cable service — would be superior. CenturyLink DSL is a legacy service that the company is not actively improving.
Optimum Fiber areas: Optimum (formerly Cablevision, now owned by Altice) has been building out its fiber network in the Northeast. Optimum Fiber offers speeds from 300 Mbps to 8 Gbps with pricing starting around $40/month for 300 Mbps.
Optimum Cable areas: Where fiber is not yet available, Optimum delivers service over its cable (DOCSIS 3.1) network with speeds up to 1 Gbps download but limited upload speeds (typically 35-50 Mbps). Cable service is subject to peak-hour congestion.
Pricing and Hidden Costs Breakdown
Both providers have improved pricing transparency, but there are still important differences:
- CenturyLink/Quantum Fiber: Price-for-life guarantee on fiber plans — the rate you sign up at does not increase. No contract, no data cap, no equipment fee (router included). This is one of the simplest pricing structures in the industry.
- Optimum: Promotional pricing for 12 months, then increases $15-$30/month. Equipment rental adds $10/month for the router. Optimum does not enforce data caps on most plans, but the post-promotional price increases can be significant.
Over a 2-year period, CenturyLink Fiber's consistent pricing often results in lower total cost than Optimum despite similar or higher initial rates, because Optimum's post-promotional price increase adds up quickly.
Customer Service and Reliability Track Record
Customer experience varies significantly between these two providers:
- CenturyLink: Has historically ranked low in J.D. Power customer satisfaction surveys, though scores have improved in fiber-served areas. Quantum Fiber customers report better experiences than legacy DSL customers. The company has invested in app-based support and self-service tools.
- Optimum: Has struggled with customer satisfaction since the Altice acquisition. Common complaints include billing issues, long wait times for support, and technician scheduling difficulties. However, service reliability on the fiber network is generally good once installed.
Bottom line: if Quantum Fiber is available at your address, it is likely the better choice due to consistent pricing and no-contract terms. If you are comparing CenturyLink DSL against Optimum cable, Optimum wins on speed. If both have fiber at your address, compare the specific plan pricing and go with the better deal — both fiber networks are technically solid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Network Technology Breakdown
CenturyLink operates under two distinct brands in 2026. In markets where fiber is available, the service is marketed as Quantum Fiber — a premium fiber-to-the-home product with symmetric speeds up to 940 Mbps. In areas without fiber, customers get traditional CenturyLink DSL, which uses aging copper telephone lines and delivers speeds ranging from 10-140 Mbps depending on distance from the nearest equipment.
Optimum has been aggressively converting its cable footprint to fiber under the Altice USA umbrella. As of early 2026, approximately 60% of Optimum's footprint has access to fiber service, with plans to reach 85% by 2028. Optimum's fiber network delivers symmetric speeds up to 8 Gbps — the fastest residential tier available from any major ISP outside of Google Fiber's limited markets.
Upload Speed Comparison
Upload speeds are where these providers differ most dramatically:
- Optimum Fiber: Symmetric uploads (300/500/1,000/2,000/5,000/8,000 Mbps up)
- Quantum Fiber: Symmetric uploads (200/500/940 Mbps up)
- CenturyLink DSL: 3-10 Mbps upload regardless of download tier
- Optimum Cable: 20-35 Mbps upload on most plans
If you work from home, upload speed matters. Video calls on Zoom or Teams require at least 3-5 Mbps up, and uploading large files, backing up to the cloud, or streaming on Twitch demands even more. CenturyLink DSL's 3-10 Mbps upload is barely adequate for a single video .
Pricing Beyond the Headline Rate
Monthly cost extends beyond the advertised price. Here's what you'll actually pay:
| Hidden Cost | CenturyLink | Optimum |
|---|---|---|
| Router Rental | $15/mo | $10/mo |
| Installation | Free (self-install) / $99 (pro) | Free (fiber) / $80 (cable pro) |
| Data Overage | None (no caps) | None (no caps) |
| Taxes & Fees | $3-8/mo varies by state | $5-12/mo varies by state |
| Price Lock | Quantum Fiber: price for life / DSL: 12-mo promo | No lock — price may increase after 12 months |
CenturyLink's "Price for Life" guarantee on Quantum Fiber plans is a genuine differentiator — the price you sign up at is the price you pay as long as you keep the service. Optimum's pricing can increase after promotional periods, though the company has historically limited increases to $5-10/mo.
Customer Experience and Support
Both providers have struggled with customer satisfaction historically. CenturyLink scored 63/100 on the 2025 ACSI, while Optimum scored 66/100. For context, the industry average is 64/100, and top performers like Verizon Fios score 70+.
CenturyLink's support has improved with the Quantum Fiber rollout, including a modern app for account management, speed tests, and troubleshooting. DSL customers, however, often report long hold times and limited technical support for aging equipment. Optimum offers 24/7 support via chat, phone, and its mobile app, with in-store support available at retail locations in the Northeast.
Making Your Decision
Choose CenturyLink/Quantum Fiber if: you want price stability (Price for Life guarantee), live in a Quantum Fiber market, or need basic affordable internet starting at $30/mo. CenturyLink's 36-state footprint means it's available in more locations nationwide.
Choose Optimum if: you want the fastest available speeds (up to 8 Gbps), live in Optimum's fiber footprint, or prioritize no data caps. Optimum's fiber offering is technologically superior to most of CenturyLink's network.
Avoid CenturyLink DSL if Optimum cable or fiber is available — even Optimum's cable plans will deliver faster, more consistent speeds than most DSL connections.
Enter your ZIP code to check which plans are available at your exact address.
Does CenturyLink have data caps?
Is Optimum fiber available everywhere?
No. Optimum's fiber is expanding but currently available in select areas of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Many Optimum customers still receive cable (coax) service. Enter your ZIP code above to check fiber availability at your address.
Which is better for streaming: CenturyLink or Optimum?
Optimum is better for streaming with faster speeds and no data caps. CenturyLink DSL may struggle with 4K streaming (requires 25 Mbps) in areas with slower DSL speeds. CenturyLink fiber handles streaming well but is less widely available.
Is Quantum Fiber the same as CenturyLink?
Yes. Quantum Fiber is CenturyLink's rebranded fiber internet service under parent company Lumen Technologies. Quantum Fiber represents upgraded fiber infrastructure with improved speeds (up to 940 Mbps) and service quality compared to legacy CenturyLink DSL.
Can I bundle TV with CenturyLink or Optimum?
Optimum offers traditional cable TV bundles starting around $85/mo for internet + TV. CenturyLink no longer offers TV bundles directly but partners with DIRECTV STREAM for discounted streaming TV packages. Most customers save money with a standalone internet plan plus a streaming service.
Does Optimum or CenturyLink have better customer service?
Neither provider excels at customer service. Optimum scores 66/100 on the ACSI, while CenturyLink scores 63/100. Both rank below the industry average of 68. Quantum Fiber customers report better support experiences than legacy CenturyLink DSL subscribers.
Data and methodology details are available on our research methodology page. Speeds, prices, and availability are verified against provider websites and FCC broadband data as of 2026.
Sources
This comparison references data from FCC Broadband Map, CenturyLink, Optimum, and the U.S. Census Bureau. Pricing and availability are subject to change.
Market Context
The broadband market concentration in areas served by both CenturyLink and Optimum varies significantly. According to FCC broadband deployment data, median household income and population density are key factors in determining which provider offers better value. The BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program may expand options in underserved areas where neither provider currently has strong coverage.
Our Verdict: CenturyLink vs Optimum
For most users, Optimum offers better value with plans starting at $40/mo, while CenturyLink delivers higher maximum speeds up to 940 Mbps. Your ideal pick depends on your budget, speed needs, and which provider serves your address.
Below, we break down every major difference between CenturyLink and Optimum — from speed tiers and monthly pricing to contract terms, data policies, equipment costs, and customer support — so you can make an informed decision for your household.
Speed Comparison: CenturyLink vs Optimum
Speed is often the most important factor when choosing an internet (or TV) provider. Here is how CenturyLink and Optimum compare on raw speed capabilities:
| Speed Metric | CenturyLink | Optimum |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Download Speed | 940 Mbps | 8 Gbps |
| Maximum Upload Speed | 940 Mbps | 8 Gbps |
| Technology | Fiber, DSL | Cable, Fiber (FTTH) |
| Entry-Level Speed | 200 Mbps | 300 Mbps |
CenturyLink uses Fiber, DSL technology, delivering symmetrical upload and download speeds on fiber plans. Optimum relies on Cable, Fiber (FTTH), which also offers symmetrical speeds on fiber connections.
CenturyLink Plans and Pricing (2026)
CenturyLink offers 2 plan tiers starting at $50/mo:
| Plan | Speed | Monthly Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simply Unlimited | 200 Mbps | $50/mo | No annual contract, No data caps on fiber, Price for Life guarantee |
| Fiber Gigabit | 940 Mbps | $65/mo | Symmetrical speeds, No data caps, Price for Life guarantee |
All CenturyLink plans come without annual contractsand without data caps. Additional features include Price for Life guarantee, No annual contracts, No data caps on fiber.
Optimum Plans and Pricing (2026)
Optimum offers 4 plan tiers starting at $40/mo:
| Plan | Speed | Monthly Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum 300 | 300 Mbps | $40/mo | No contracts, No data caps, Free installation |
| Optimum 500 | 500 Mbps | $60/mo | No contracts, No data caps, Smart Wi-Fi 6 included |
| Optimum 1 Gig | 1 Gbps | $80/mo | No contracts, No data caps, Smart Wi-Fi 6 included |
| Optimum Fiber 2 Gig | 2 Gbps | $90/mo | Fiber only, No contracts, No data caps |
All Optimum plans come without annual contractsand without data caps. Notable features include Fiber speeds up to 8 Gbps, No contracts, Optimum Mobile bundling.
Pricing Breakdown and Hidden Costs
Looking at sticker price alone does not tell the full story. Here is what you should consider for each provider:
CenturyLink Costs
- Starting price: $50/mo
- Equipment: Router/modem typically included or available for rental
- Installation: Self-install available for DSL (modem shipped free).
- Contracts: No annual contract required
- Data caps: No data caps
Optimum Costs
- Starting price: $40/mo
- Equipment: Router/modem typically included or available for rental
- Installation: Free professional installation on most plans.
- Contracts: No annual contract required
- Data caps: No data caps
Technology Comparison
CenturyLink delivers service via Fiber, DSL. Fiber connections provide the most reliable and fastest speeds with the lowest latency, making it the gold standard for home internet.
Optimum uses Cable, Fiber (FTTH). Fiber-to-the-home provides symmetric speeds and the lowest latency, ideal for gaming, video conferencing, and large file transfers. Cable internet uses DOCSIS technology over coaxial lines, offering wide availability but typically with lower upload speeds than fiber.
Coverage and Availability
CenturyLink is a regional provider serving 36 states, headquartered in Monroe, Louisiana. Optimum is a regional provider covering 4 states from its base in Long Island City, New York.
Since CenturyLink serves 36 states and Optimum covers 4, your location will determine which provider — or both — are available to you. Always check address-level availability before making a decision.
Contract Terms and Data Caps
| Policy | CenturyLink | Optimum |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Contract Required? | No | No |
| Data Caps? | No data caps | No data caps |
| Early Termination Fee? | None — no contract | None — no contract |
| Price Lock? | Price guaranteed for subscription period | Prices may increase after promotional period |
Customer Service and Reliability
CenturyLink support: Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM CT; 24/7 technical support; online chat; CenturyLink app
Optimum support: 24/7 customer support by phone; Optimum stores in NY/NJ/CT open Mon-Sat
Both providers offer technical support for troubleshooting connectivity issues. When evaluating customer service quality, consider that regional providers like CenturyLink may provide more personalized, local support with shorter wait times. Check recent reviews from customers in your area for the most current service quality information.
Installation Process
CenturyLink Installation
Self-install available for DSL (modem shipped free). Fiber requires professional installation (free, 2-3 hours).
Optimum Installation
Free professional installation on most plans. Self-install available for cable at existing Optimum locations.
Best Use Cases: Who Should Choose Which Provider?
Choose CenturyLink if you:
- Want access to high-speed fiber or wired internet
- Live in one of the 36 states served by CenturyLink
- Want budget-friendly plans starting at $50/mo
- Value price for life guarantee
Choose Optimum if you:
- Want access to high-speed fiber or wired internet
- Live in one of the 4 states served by Optimum
- Want budget-friendly plans starting at $40/mo
- Value fiber speeds up to 8 gbps
For Gamers
If low latency gaming is a priority, CenturyLink with fiber has a clear advantage — fiber connections typically deliver 1-5ms latency compared to 25-50ms for cable and 20-40ms for 5G.
For Remote Workers
Video conferencing and cloud applications require reliable upload speeds. Fiber providers like CenturyLink offer symmetric upload speeds, which is essential for video calls, screen sharing, and large file uploads.
For Families and Streaming
A household with 4+ people streaming simultaneously should look for at least 200 Mbps. CenturyLink starts at 200 Mbps while Optimum starts at 300 Mbps. For 4K streaming on multiple TVs, consider plans offering 500 Mbps or higher from either provider.
2-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Monthly prices only tell part of the story. Here is what each provider costs over a 2-year period, including the base plan price:
| Cost Factor | CenturyLink | Optimum |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Plan (24 months) | $1,200 | $960 |
| Mid-Tier Plan (24 months) | $1,560 | $1,920 |
| Contract Requirement | None | None |
| Early Termination Fees | $0 | $0 |
| Data Overage Risk | None | None |
When choosing between CenturyLink and Optimum, factor in not just the monthly price but also equipment rental fees, installation costs, and any promotional rate expirations. The lack of contracts from both providers means you can switch without penalty if service does not meet expectations.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | CenturyLink | Optimum |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Fiber, DSL | Cable, Fiber (FTTH) |
| Max Download Speed | 940 Mbps | 8 Gbps |
| Max Upload Speed | 940 Mbps | 8 Gbps |
| Starting Price | $50/mo | $40/mo |
| Number of Plans | 2 | 4 |
| Contracts | No | No |
| Data Caps | No | No |
| Coverage | Regional (36 states) | Regional (4 states) |
| Headquarters | Monroe, Louisiana | Long Island City, New York |
| Founded | 1930 | 1973 |
| Customer Support | Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM CT | 24/7 customer support by phone |
| 2-Year Entry Cost | $1,200 | $960 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CenturyLink or Optimum cheaper?
CenturyLink starts at $50/mo while Optimum starts at $40/mo. However, the cheapest option depends on the speed tier you need and any promotional pricing available in your area. Over a 2-year period, the entry-level plan from CenturyLink costs approximately $1,200 compared to $960 from Optimum.
Which provider has faster speeds?
CenturyLink offers a maximum download speed of 940 Mbps, while Optimum goes up to 8 Gbps. Keep in mind that actual speeds depend on your location, the plan you choose, and network congestion.
Do CenturyLink or Optimum require contracts?
CenturyLink does not require annual contracts. Optimum also has no contract requirement. This means you can cancel either service at any time without paying an early termination fee.
Do these providers have data caps?
CenturyLink does not impose data caps on any plan. Optimum also has no data caps.
Can I bundle CenturyLink and Optimum services?
These two providers are competitors, so bundling their services together is not typically an option. However, each provider may offer its own bundle discounts — for example, mobile + internet packages.
Which provider is better for rural areas?
Satellite options like Starlink may also be worth considering if neither provider serves your exact address. Always verify service at your specific address before signing up.
How We Compared CenturyLink and Optimum
This comparison is based on publicly available plan information, pricing, and features as of 2026. We evaluated both providers across key factors including speed tiers, monthly costs, contract requirements, data policies, technology type, coverage area, customer service availability, and total cost of ownership. All pricing reflects standard rates — promotional offers and regional variations may apply. We recommend checking each provider's website for the most current plans available at your address.
For more details on each provider, visit our full CenturyLink review or our complete Optimum review. You can also explore other internet provider comparisons to find the best service in your area.
