Quick Answer
Ziply Fiber and Astound Broadband offer distinct advantages for different customer needs. Ziply Fiber operates using fiber technology with speeds up to 50 Gbps starting at $20/mo, while Astound Broadband delivers cable service reaching 1.5 Gbps from $20/mo.
Choose Ziply Fiber if multi-gig speeds up to 50 gbps matters most to you. Choose Astound Broadband if you prioritize fast cable speeds up to 1.5 gbps. Both providers offer no contracts, making them flexible options without long-term commitments. Your final decision should be based on availability at your specific address, as both providers have limited geographic coverage.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Ziply Fiber | Astound Broadband |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Technology | Fiber | Cable |
| Max Speed | 50 Gbps | 1.5 Gbps |
| Starting Price | $20/mo | $20/mo |
| Contract Required | No contracts | No contracts |
| Data Cap | No data caps | No data caps |
| Coverage States | 4 states | 9 states |
| Phone | Check website | Check website |
Ziply Fiber Overview
Ziply Fiber delivers internet service using fiber technology across 4 states. With maximum speeds reaching 50 Gbps, Ziply Fiber serves customers ranging from light browsing users to bandwidth-intensive households.
Key Strengths
- Multi-gig speeds up to 50 Gbps
- No contracts or data caps
- Transparent, affordable pricing
- 100% fiber-optic network
Potential Drawbacks
- Limited to Pacific Northwest
- Relatively new company (2020)
- Availability varies by neighborhood
Astound Broadband Overview
Astound Broadband delivers internet service using cable technology across 9 states. With maximum speeds reaching 1.5 Gbps, Astound Broadband serves customers ranging from light browsing users to bandwidth-intensive households.
Key Strengths
- Fast cable speeds up to 1.5 Gbps
- No contracts or data caps
- Competitive pricing
- Bundle options available
Potential Drawbacks
- Limited geographic coverage
- Upload speeds lower than fiber
- Cable congestion possible
Speed Comparison
When comparing maximum speeds, Ziply Fiber offers up to 50 Gbps while Astound Broadband provides speeds reaching 1.5 Gbps. The speed difference reflects the underlying technology each provider deploys.
Ziply Fiber's fiber infrastructure provides symmetrical speeds ideal for upload-intensive activities. Astound Broadband's cable technology typically offers asymmetric speeds with faster downloads than uploads, which affects video calls and large file uploads.
For typical household usage, both providers handle standard activities like HD streaming, web browsing, and social media. However, households with 4+ users, multiple 4K streams, or extensive gaming benefit from higher-tier plans. A single 4K stream consumes about 25 Mbps, HD video conferencing needs 3-5 Mbps per participant, and large game downloads benefit from gigabit speeds.
Speed consistency matters as much as maximum advertised speeds. Fiber connections maintain advertised speeds more reliably than cable or DSL alternatives. During peak evening hours (7-11 PM), cable networks may experience congestion, while fiber typically maintains consistent performance.
Pricing Breakdown
Ziply Fiber positions itself with entry-level pricing starting at $20/mo, while Astound Broadband begins at $20/mo. However, entry-level pricing often applies to lower-speed tiers that may not meet your household's needs.
Contract requirements differ between providers. Ziply Fiber operates with no contracts, while Astound Broadband follows no contracts. No-contract plans provide month-to-month flexibility without early termination fees, allowing you to cancel or switch providers anytime.
Hidden fees and equipment costs substantially impact your actual monthly bill. Installation fees range from $50-100 or may be waived with promotional offers. Equipment rental fees (modems, routers, WiFi extenders) typically cost $10-15/month, though purchasing your own compatible equipment eliminates this recurring charge.
Long-term pricing considerations matter when evaluating total cost. Promotional rates typically expire after 12 months, increasing your bill by $10-30/month. Always ask about year-two and year-three pricing to calculate true long-term costs. Factor in potential annual rate increases of 5-10% even after promotional periods when budgeting for internet service.
Coverage & Availability
Geographic coverage represents the most critical factor in this comparison. Ziply Fiber serves 4 states, while Astound Broadband operates in 9 states. However, state-level presence doesn't guarantee local availability.
Within their coverage areas, availability varies dramatically by address. Ziply Fiber's fiber infrastructure requires specific network equipment at your location. Astound Broadband's cable network similarly depends on local infrastructure deployment.
Address-level availability checks are essential before making any decisions. Even within mapped coverage areas, specific addresses may lack service due to infrastructure limitations, homeowner association restrictions, or distance from network equipment. Both providers offer online address verification tools, though calling directly often provides more accurate availability information.
Contract Terms & Flexibility
Ziply Fiber operates with no contracts, providing customers month-to-month flexibility. Astound Broadband follows no contracts, offering similar freedom to cancel or change service without early termination penalties.
Data cap policies significantly impact heavy internet users. Ziply Fiber implements no data caps, while Astound Broadband maintains no data caps. Unlimited data eliminates usage anxiety and allows unrestricted internet consumption, which matters increasingly as household bandwidth demands grow with 4K/8K streaming, cloud gaming, and continuous smart home device connectivity.
Customer Service & Reliability
Customer service quality and network reliability significantly impact your long-term satisfaction beyond initial signup. Both Ziply Fiber and Astound Broadband typically offer 24/7 phone support, though wait times vary from under 5 minutes during off-peak hours to 30+ minutes during evening peak periods.
Technical support availability matters when issues arise. Online chat support and mobile apps provide alternative contact methods, with response times depending on issue complexity. Both providers maintain self-service portals for basic troubleshooting, bill payment, and service modifications without contacting support directly.
Network reliability and uptime percentages indicate service consistency. Fiber networks typically maintain 99.9%+ uptime due to fiber's resilience to interference and weather. Check local reviews and neighborhood social media groups for specific reliability experiences in your area, as network performance varies significantly by location.
Regional Service Considerations
Local market conditions influence service quality beyond advertised specifications. Ziply Fiber operates in 4 states, while Astound Broadband serves 9 states. Market competition levels affect pricing, upgrade priorities, and customer service responsiveness.
Infrastructure age impacts long-term service quality. Newer fiber deployments provide headroom for future speed increases, while legacy networks may face limitations as bandwidth demands grow. Both providers invest in network upgrades, though fiber infrastructure generally offers better long-term scalability than cable or DSL alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get both Ziply Fiber and Astound Broadband at my address?
Availability depends on your specific location. Ziply Fiber operates in 4 states while Astound Broadband serves 9 states. Some addresses may have access to both providers if their coverage areas overlap. Check availability with both providers using your complete address including apartment/unit number.
Which provider offers faster speeds?
Ziply Fiber offers maximum speeds of 50 Gbps, while Astound Broadband provides up to 1.5 Gbps. Actual speeds depend on the specific plan you select and availability at your address. Consider your household's actual bandwidth needs rather than defaulting to the highest available speed.
Do these providers require contracts?
Ziply Fiber operates with no contracts, while Astound Broadband follows no contracts. Both providers offer month-to-month flexibility without long-term commitments or early termination fees.
Which is more affordable?
Ziply Fiber starts at $20/mo, compared to $20/mo from Astound Broadband. Total cost depends on the speed tier you need, equipment fees, taxes, and promotional availability. Always compare all-in pricing including installation, equipment, taxes, and year-two rates when evaluating affordability.
Are there data caps with these providers?
Ziply Fiber implements no data caps and Astound Broadband maintains no data caps. Unlimited data eliminates usage anxiety and overage fees, making both providers suitable for bandwidth-intensive households with heavy streaming, gaming, and remote work usage.
What technology does each provider use?
Ziply Fiber primarily uses fiber technology, while Astound Broadband operates cable infrastructure. Technology choice affects speed consistency, upload performance, and future upgrade potential.
How do I check availability at my address?
Contact Ziply Fiber through their website or Astound Broadband through their website with your complete address. Online availability checkers provide initial screening, but calling directly often reveals current promotions and more accurate installation timelines.
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InternetProviders.ai is an independent internet service comparison platform. We provide objective analysis to help consumers make informed decisions about internet service. Our comparison data comes from provider websites, public filings, and independent research. We may earn referral commissions from some providers featured on our site, but this does not influence our editorial content or recommendations. Our reviews remain independent and unbiased, focusing on helping you find the best internet service for your specific needs and location.
Is Ziply Fiber or Astound Broadband better for remote work and video conferencing?
For remote work and frequent video calls, upload speed and connection stability are critical. Ziply Fiber provides fiber-optic connectivity with upload speeds that support HD video conferencing without interruptions. Astound Broadband offers cable and fiber service that can also handle video calls, though upload speeds may differ. If you regularly participate in video meetings, cloud-based collaboration, or upload large files, compare the upload speeds on each provider's plans in your area before deciding.
Can I bundle TV or phone service with Ziply Fiber or Astound Broadband?
Ziply Fiber offers bundling options that may include TV, phone, and internet services depending on your service area, often at a discounted rate compared to purchasing each separately. Astound Broadband also provides bundle deals in many markets. Bundling can reduce your overall monthly bill and simplify billing into a single statement, though standalone internet plans sometimes offer better value if you do not need additional services.