Optimum Internet Plans and Pricing
Compare Optimum plans from $25/mo with fiber speeds up to 8 Gbps
Optimum by Altice offers cable and fiber internet starting at $25/month for 200 Mbps. Fiber plans include speeds up to 8 Gbps symmetrical with a 5-year price lock. All plans include unlimited data, no contracts, and free equipment. Optimum is available in 21 states with growing fiber coverage.
Based on Optimum pricing data as of February 2026.
Optimum Internet Plans and Prices
| Plan Name | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Promo Price | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum FASTPASS (Cable) | 200 Mbps | 35 Mbps | $25.00/mo | $55.00/mo |
| Optimum 300 (Cable) | 300 Mbps | 20 Mbps | $30.00/mo | $70.00/mo |
| Optimum 500 | 500 Mbps | 50 Mbps | $30.00/mo | $65.00/mo |
| Optimum 1 Gig | 1,000 Mbps | 100 Mbps | $50.00/mo | $85.00/mo |
| Optimum 2 Gig Fiber | 2,000 Mbps | 2,000 Mbps | $65.00/mo | $95.00/mo |
| Optimum 5 Gig Fiber | 5,000 Mbps | 5,000 Mbps | $85.00/mo | $115.00/mo |
| Optimum 8 Gig Fiber | 8,000 Mbps | 8,000 Mbps | $125.00/mo | $155.00/mo |
Fiber plans include 3-4 months free and 5-year price lock. No contracts or data caps. Prices as of February 2026.
Why Choose Optimum Internet?
Optimum 500 - Best Value
Technology: Cable/Fiber
Speeds: 500 Mbps download / 50 Mbps upload
Price: $30.00/mo with 60-month price lock
Perks: 12 months HBO Max free
Best for: Most households, streaming, remote work
Equipment and Installation Options
When signing up for Optimum, you can choose between professional installation and self-installation depending on your connection type. Professional installation typically costs $50-100 and includes equipment setup, line testing, and WiFi optimization for your home layout. Self-installation kits are available for most plans and include step-by-step instructions, all necessary cables, and a preconfigured modem or gateway device. Self-installation takes approximately 30-60 minutes and saves on setup costs.
For equipment, Optimum offers the option to rent a modem and WiFi router for a monthly fee or use your own compatible equipment. Purchasing your own modem and router costs $140-250 upfront but saves $10-15 per month in rental fees, paying for itself within 12-18 months. If you choose to rent, the provider handles all firmware updates and equipment replacements at no additional charge. Call 1-866-317-0736 to check availability and current promotions.
Optimum 2 Gig Fiber - Best for Families
Technology: Fiber (FTTH)
Speeds: 2,000 Mbps download / 2,000 Mbps upload (symmetrical)
Price: $65.00/mo + 3 months free
Equipment: Gateway 6 + Extender included
Best for: Large households, gamers, multiple 4K streams
Optimum 8 Gig Fiber - Ultimate Performance
Technology: Fiber (FTTH)
Speeds: 8,000 Mbps download / 8,000 Mbps upload (symmetrical)
Price: $125.00/mo + 4 months free
Equipment: Premium Gateway + Extender included
Best for: Professionals, content creators, home offices
What Optimum Speed Do You Need?
For 1-2 Users (Light Use)
Recommended: Optimum FASTPASS (200 Mbps) - $25/mo
Supports HD streaming, web browsing, email, and basic video calls on 3-5 devices.
For 3-5 Users (Moderate Use)
Recommended: Optimum 500 (500 Mbps) - $30/mo
Supports multiple HD/4K streams, gaming, remote work, and smart home devices. Includes HBO Max free for 12 months.
For 5+ Users or Heavy Use
Recommended: Optimum 2 Gig Fiber (2 Gbps) - $65/mo
Symmetrical speeds support demanding applications, large file transfers, and multiple simultaneous users.
For Power Users
Recommended: Optimum 5 or 8 Gig Fiber - $85-$125/mo
Maximum performance with symmetrical multi-gig speeds for professionals and content creators.
Optimum Coverage and Availability
Optimum, operated by Altice USA, provides cable and fiber internet service across 21 states. The company has been aggressively expanding its fiber-to-the-home network, offering some of the most competitive pricing and speeds in its markets. Optimum is particularly strong in the New York tri-state area and has significant presence in Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
States Where Optimum is Available
- New York - Long Island, Westchester, Bronx, Brooklyn
- New Jersey - Northern and Central New Jersey
- Connecticut - Fairfield County
- Texas - Expanded Suddenlink markets
- Arkansas - Statewide (former Suddenlink)
- Louisiana - Statewide (former Suddenlink)
- West Virginia - Select areas
- Pennsylvania - Select areas
Optimum Key Features
- 5-Year Price Lock: Fiber rates guaranteed for 60 months
- Up to 8 Gbps: Among the fastest residential speeds available
- Free Equipment: Gateway 6 and Extender included with fiber
- No Data Caps: Unlimited data on all plans
- No Contracts: Month-to-month service
- Free Months: Up to 4 months free on fiber plans
- HBO Max: 12 months free on 500 Mbps and higher
- Optimum Advantage: Low-income assistance program
Frequently Asked Questions About Optimum
How much does Optimum internet cost?
Optimum plans start at $25/month for 200 Mbps cable and go up to $125/month for 8 Gbps fiber. The 500 Mbps plan at $30/month offers exceptional value with a 60-month price lock and free HBO Max for a year. Fiber plans also include 3-4 months free service.
Does Optimum have data caps?
No, Optimum has no data caps on any plan. All customers get unlimited data at no extra cost. This applies to both cable and fiber internet services, so you can stream, download, and browse without worrying about usage limits.
Does Optimum require a contract?
No, Optimum does not require contracts. All plans are month-to-month with no early termination fees. While there is no contract, the 5-year price lock is an optional benefit that protects you from rate increases without locking you into any commitment.
What is the fastest Optimum speed?
Optimum Fiber offers speeds up to 8 Gbps (8,000 Mbps) symmetrical on their highest tier plan. This is among the fastest residential internet speeds available in the US, with upload speeds matching download speeds for demanding applications.
Is Optimum equipment included?
Yes, Optimum includes the Fiber Gateway 6 and one WiFi Extender free with fiber plans. Cable plans include the modem. Professional installation is $100 or free if you order online or choose self-installation. Equipment is included at no monthly rental fee.
Where is Optimum available?
Optimum is available in 21 states with particularly strong coverage in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. The company expanded significantly by acquiring Suddenlink markets in the South and Southwest. Call 1-866-200-7273 to check availability.
Does Optimum offer free months?
Yes, Optimum fiber plans include 3-4 months free depending on the tier. The 2 Gig, 5 Gig plans include 3 months free, while the 8 Gig plan includes 4 months free. Additionally, plans 500 Mbps and higher include 12 months free HBO Max.
What is Optimum's price lock?
Optimum offers a 5-year (60-month) price lock on most fiber plans, guaranteeing your monthly rate will not increase for the entire period. This is one of the longest price guarantees in the industry and provides significant savings compared to providers that raise rates after 12 months.
Last updated: February 2, 2026
Reviewed by: Editorial Team
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this provider's installation process like?
this provider offers both professional installation and self-installation options depending on your location and service type.
Does this provider have data caps?
Data cap policies vary by plan. Review this provider's current terms of service or contact them for specific information.
Can I stream 4K video with this provider?
Most of this provider's mid-tier and higher plans provide sufficient speeds for 4K streaming, typically requiring 25+ Mbps.
Does this provider offer student or senior discounts?
Discount programs vary. Contact this provider directly or check their website for current promotional offers and eligibility.
What is this provider's cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by contract type. Check this provider's terms of service or contact customer service for details.
Making the Right Choice
Selecting the right internet provider is a decision that impacts your daily digital life for months or even years to come. When evaluating Optimum alongside other options in your area, consider not just the advertised speed and price, but the total value proposition including reliability, customer support quality, equipment costs, and contract flexibility. Read recent customer reviews from users in your specific area, as service quality can vary between regions. Take advantage of any trial periods or money-back guarantees to test the service before making a long-term commitment. Remember that the cheapest plan is not always the best value when you factor in hidden fees, data caps, and potential speed throttling during peak hours. Investing a little more each month for a reliable, high-speed connection often pays dividends in productivity, entertainment quality, and overall household satisfaction with your internet service.
Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you click through and make a purchase. This does not affect our rankings or reviews. Our editorial content is based on objective research and analysis.
Making the Most of Your Internet Connection
Regardless of your provider or plan, several practices help maximize your internet experience. Position your router centrally in your home, elevated and away from walls and large appliances. Update your router firmware regularly, as manufacturers release performance and security improvements frequently.
For the best speeds, connect high-bandwidth devices directly to your router using ethernet cables. Wi-Fi is convenient but introduces latency and speed loss, particularly through walls and over longer distances. Modern mesh Wi-Fi systems can improve wireless coverage for larger homes.
Monitor your monthly data usage if your plan includes a data cap. Most providers offer usage tracking through their app or account portal. Setting up usage alerts at 75% and 90% thresholds prevents surprise overage charges or throttling.
Optimum Customer Experience
The customer experience with Optimum encompasses everything from initial sign-up through daily use and ongoing support. Understanding what to expect helps you make an informed decision.
Ordering and installation: New customers can typically order service online or by phone. Professional installation is usually completed within 3-7 business days. Some plans qualify for self-installation, which eliminates the wait time and installation fee.
Account management: Optimum provides online account access where you can view your bill, monitor data usage, manage your plan, and troubleshoot common issues. Mobile app functionality allows you to manage your account, check your connection status, and contact support from your phone.
Technical support: When issues arise, Optimum offers multiple support channels including phone, chat, and online troubleshooting guides. Response times vary by channel and time of day. For urgent connectivity issues, phone support typically provides the fastest resolution.
Plan flexibility: Most Optimum plans allow upgrades or downgrades without early termination fees. If your needs change — whether you're adding remote workers, streamers, or downsizing — you can adjust your plan accordingly.
Optimum Network Technology
Optimum's network infrastructure determines the speed, reliability, and latency you can expect from your connection. The technology serving your address directly impacts your daily internet experience.
Fiber optic connections deliver the highest performance with symmetric speeds and minimal latency. Cable connections offer strong download speeds using upgraded coaxial infrastructure. DSL provides basic broadband over telephone lines, while fixed wireless uses cellular towers to deliver broadband without physical wiring.
Network investments continue to expand Optimum's fiber footprint and improve cable network capacity. Areas served by newer infrastructure generally experience better peak-hour performance and higher available speed tiers. Checking your specific address reveals which technology serves your location.