Los Angeles residents seeking reliable and fast internet service have several options to consider, with AT&T Fiber emerging as the top recommendation according to CNET’s analysis. Covering approximately 79% of the city, AT&T Fiber offers an excellent combination of speed, reliability, and customer-friendly perks such as included equipment and no contractual obligations. This makes it a strong choice for most households looking for a dependable internet experience that balances performance and value.
Beyond AT&T Fiber, there are other notable providers serving Los Angeles with a variety of plans catering to different needs and budgets. Spectrum stands out as a solid alternative, offering three internet plans priced between $30 and $70 per month. This range provides options for those prioritizing affordability without sacrificing too much on performance. For those who need budget-friendly internet, Frontier Fiber is worth considering. Its $40 monthly plan delivers symmetrical speeds of 200Mbps, which means equal download and upload speeds—a valuable feature for activities like video conferencing and online gaming.
For users seeking extremely high-speed internet, Sonic Telecom is a remarkable option. This provider offers blazing-fast speeds of up to 10,000Mbps (10Gbps) at a competitive price of just $50 per month. This makes Sonic Telecom one of the best bargains for large households or tech enthusiasts who require the fastest internet possible for streaming, gaming, and heavy internet usage.
When it comes to pricing, the average starting cost for internet service in Los Angeles hovers around $42 per month. However, there are more affordable options available. For instance, Starry offers the Starry 200 plan at $30 per month with speeds up to 200Mbps, making it one of the cheapest plans in the area. These lower-cost options make it easier for residents to find internet service that fits their budget without compromising too much on speed or reliability.
Internet deals and promotions in Los Angeles vary frequently, and providers often offer limited-time discounts or added perks. For example, Spectrum and Cox may provide lower introductory prices or include streaming service add-ons for a short period. Meanwhile, companies like AT&T, Frontier, and Verizon tend to maintain consistent pricing year-round without many promotional offers. To find the best current deals, consumers are encouraged to check regularly for the latest offers, as these can provide significant savings and added value.
Despite being a major metropolitan area, Los Angeles is not ranked among the top 50 fastest cities in the United States for internet speed. One key reason is the limited availability of 100% fiber-optic connections across the city. Currently, cable and DSL connections are still more prevalent. However, there are ongoing efforts by providers such as AT&T and Frontier to expand fiber access throughout the city. AT&T’s Fiber 2000 and Fiber 5000 plans and Frontier’s 2- and 5-gigabit fiber plans are becoming more widely available, which should improve internet speeds and reliability in the coming years.
For residents trying to select the right internet plan, it’s important to consider the type of activities they’ll be using the internet for. Basic tasks like browsing the web and sending emails require minimal bandwidth, but activities like videoconferencing, streaming high-definition video, and online gaming demand faster and more stable connections. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) provides guidelines on recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, though actual performance can vary based on the connection type, provider, and specific location.
Choosing an internet service provider (ISP) can be complex due to the many factors involved, including pricing, speed, customer satisfaction, and availability. Unlike consumer electronics, it is impractical for individuals to personally test every ISP in their area. CNET’s approach involves thorough research using data from providers, the FCC, and customer satisfaction surveys such as those from the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power. They also check real-world speed tests from sources like Ookla to ensure their recommendations are based on accurate, up-to-date information.
Among the top providers in Los Angeles, Spectrum is known for its consistent service and wide availability, making it a reliable choice for many households. Sonic Telecom holds the title for the fastest ISP in the city, but AT&T and Frontier’s fiber plans are strong contenders for those seeking a balance of speed and stability. The city’s internet landscape is gradually shifting as providers phase out older DSL lines in favor of expanding fiber networks. While cable internet currently dominates in Los Angeles, fiber is increasingly becoming the future of internet connectivity.
Regarding costs, most ISPs