Google Fiber VS AT&T Fiber

We live in a hyper-connected world, thanks to the internet. But staying connected is not a simple process as you not only have to choose the best internet provider that can satisfy your requirements, but you’ll also have to choose the technology that delivers the services. Recently, fiber internet has become the standard choice for many businesses.

Unfortunately, the only downside is its limited availability. Google Fiber and AT&T are two prominent fiber internet providers, and if your choice comes down to these providers, here is everything you should know about them.

AT&T

AT&T is a US-based company and is also considered a telecommunication giant. It is not only the largest ISP in the US but is also one of the largest in the world. AT&T uses the latest technology to deliver its broadband services to its customers. The company has been phasing out its DSL service since 2020 and instead uses fiber and hybrid fiber connections. AT&T fiber is the flagship service of AT&T that provides high-speed and reliable internet service.

Pros:

• A wide variety of plans
• Broader coverage
• Remarkable customer service

Cons:

• More expensive

Google Fiber

Google Fiber is a fiber internet broadband service by Google. First introduced in 2010, the service aimed to deliver high-speed internet connectivity to businesses and individuals. However, we haven’t seen much expansion since its pause in 2016. Currently, this service is available in select few cities.

Pros:

• Reasonable price for plans
• Free Installation
• No hidden fees

Cons:

• Limited availability

Google Fiber vs. AT&T Fiber

Availability

AT&T boasts the largest fiber network in the country. Available in 21 states, the company continues to expand its network, aiming to bring high-speed internet to more households.
Comparatively, the biggest drawback of Google Fiber is its limited availability. Currently, it offers its services in large metro areas, which include Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, Huntsville, Kansas City, Nashville, Orange County, Provo, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, The Triangle, and Wes Des Moines.

Plans & Pricing

Google Fiber

Google fiber offers two simple internet plans, Fast and Faster. Although it is limited to only a few cities, its internet plans are incredibly fast and priced better than other prominent fiber internet providers. It also does not rely on heavy promotional offers to draw its customers. Hence, this provider is worth checking out if it is available in your area.

AT&T Fiber

AT&T internet plans offer download speed ranging from 100 Mbps to 5000 Mbps. However, it primarily delivers only three fiber internet plans – Internet 300, 500, and 100, to its fiber footprint, and its multi-gig fiber plans are only available in a few cities.

Unlike Google Fiber, AT&T fiber also gives you the option of lower-level plans which are much cheaper. Comparatively, its gig plans are more expensive than Google Fiber. Let’s take a closer look at the offered plans.

Additional Fees

Equipment Fees

Both Google Fiber and AT&T do not charge equipment rental fees. AT&T previously used to charge monthly $10 for its equipment rental fee. However, it now includes it in your monthly bill. So, you don’t have to worry about paying this extra fee.

Installation Fees

Google fiber is known for its straightforward pricing, and unlike many other providers, it offers free installation. AT&T, on the other hand, charges $99 for professional installation, and although its self-installation is free, it is not available at every location. Hence, you have to check the eligibility for its self-install kit.

Internet Speed

When it comes to speed, both providers offer blazing fast options. AT&T offers a much broader range of internet speeds, from 300 Mbps to 5000 Mbps. However, it only provides its multi-gig plans in select cities. Hence, even if you live in an area under AT&T fiber’s coverage, you’ll have to check the availability of its multi-gig plans.

Comparatively, Google Fiber offers a smaller range of speeds, but its multi-gig plan is available to every household under its coverage area.

Data Caps

Neither ISP enforces data caps on their fiber internet plans. Hence, you can use the internet however you want without worrying about your data usage or your internet speeds getting throttled.

Contracts

Both ISPs offer contract-free internet plans, giving you the freedom to switch providers whenever you want without worrying about hefty termination fees.

Special Offers

Both providers provide something special to make their plans more attractive to their customers. While AT&T fiber plans include reward cards, you can get free 1 TB cloud storage and a mesh Wi-Fi network with Google Fiber.

Customer Service

AT&T is the clear winner, with strong customer ratings and reviews. AT&T Fiber showed remarkable results in J.D. Power’s latest Satisfaction Study and scored well in the American Customer Satisfaction Index’s latest rankings for ISPs.

Meanwhile, it is difficult to determine the customer service of Google Fiber as major reviewers like ACSI do not cover it. However, the customer reviews are somewhat mixed, with some people showing satisfaction with Google Fiber and others complaining about billing issues.

Final Words

Internet connectivity has become a part of our modern lifestyle. With our multiple daily operations requiring reliable and fast internet, fiber internet has quickly become popular among many. It has also become a standard for many businesses. However, its infrastructure is still developing, leaving fiber internet only available in large metro areas.

You are fortunate if AT&T and Google Fiber are options for your address. We have provided a detailed comparison of these providers to help you find a better combination of high-quality service and affordability.