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Brightspeed is a telecommunications provider primarily serving the southeastern and midwestern United States. Established in 2018 following a significant acquisition of CenturyLink's landline business in 20 states, Brightspeed aims to modernize its network and expand broadband access. The company focuses on delivering reliable internet services, including fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP) and DSL technologies, to both residential and business customers. Brightspeed is actively investing in network upgrades to enhance speeds and expand its fiber footprint across its service territories, aiming to bridge the digital divide in many communities. Key statistics for Brightspeed include operating in approximately 20 states, serving over 3 million customers, and a growing coverage area focused on underserved and rural regions.
| Plan Name | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Monthly Price | Equipment Fees | Data Caps | Contract Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brightspeed Fiber 100 | 100 Mbps | 100 Mbps | $55.00 | $15.00/month (rental) | Unlimited | No |
| Brightspeed Fiber 300 | 300 Mbps | 300 Mbps | $70.00 | $15.00/month (rental) | Unlimited | No |
| Brightspeed Fiber 500 | 500 Mbps | 500 Mbps | $85.00 | $15.00/month (rental) | Unlimited | No |
| Brightspeed Fiber Gig | Up to 1 Gbps | Up to 1 Gbps | $105.00 | $15.00/month (rental) | Unlimited | No |
| Brightspeed DSL Basic | Up to 25 Mbps | Up to 3 Mbps | $50.00 | $15.00/month (rental) | 1 TB | No |
Brightspeed offers a range of plans, with a strong emphasis on fiber optic services that provide symmetrical download and upload speeds. Fiber plans are generally unlimited, while DSL plans may have data caps. Monthly prices are competitive, especially for fiber, but equipment rental fees are standard across most plans. Contract requirements are typically absent for most residential plans, offering flexibility to consumers.
Brightspeed's service area is concentrated in the southeastern and midwestern United States, with a significant presence in states like North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Indiana, and Missouri. The company is actively working to expand its fiber footprint, particularly in rural and underserved communities where high-speed internet has been limited. While fiber availability is growing, many areas still rely on their DSL network, which can offer lower speeds. Urban areas may have more competitive options, but Brightspeed's focus is often on bringing advanced broadband to regions with fewer choices.
| Plan | Promotional Price (12 months) | Standard Price (after promotion) | Additional Fees | Bundle Savings Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brightspeed Fiber 100 | $55.00 | $65.00 | Installation Fee: $99 (waived for new fiber installs in select areas) | Yes (with TV and phone) |
| Brightspeed Fiber 300 | $70.00 | $80.00 | Installation Fee: $99 (waived for new fiber installs in select areas) | Yes (with TV and phone) |
| Brightspeed Fiber Gig | $105.00 | $115.00 | Installation Fee: $99 (waived for new fiber installs in select areas) | Yes (with TV and phone) |
| Brightspeed DSL Basic | $50.00 | $55.00 | Installation Fee: $50 | Yes (with phone) |
Brightspeed's pricing is competitive, especially for its fiber plans, which often include promotional rates for the first year. The transition to standard pricing after the promotional period is moderate. While equipment rental fees are present, the value proposition is strong for fiber, offering high speeds and reliability. Bundling options with phone and TV services can further enhance value for customers seeking integrated solutions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Symmetrical speeds with fiber plans | DSL speeds can be significantly slower and less reliable than fiber. |
| Expanding fiber network in underserved areas | Coverage is geographically limited to specific states. |
| No long-term contracts for most residential plans | Equipment rental fees add to the monthly cost. |
| Competitive pricing for fiber optic internet | Customer service reviews are mixed. |
| Unlimited data on fiber plans | DSL plans may have data caps. |
Customer support for Brightspeed can be a mixed experience, with some customers reporting positive interactions while others encounter challenges. The company offers multiple channels for support, aiming to address customer needs effectively. Reliability ratings for their fiber service are generally good, reflecting the stability of fiber optic technology. However, performance on DSL lines can vary greatly depending on network conditions and distance from the central office.
| Feature | Brightspeed | AT&T Fiber | Spectrum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network Type | Fiber, DSL | Fiber | cable |
| Max Download Speed | 1 Gbps (Fiber) | 5 Gbps | 1 Gbps (DOCSIS 4.0) |
| Max Upload Speed | 1 Gbps (Fiber) | 5 Gbps | Up to 50 Mbps (DOCSIS 3.1) |
| Starting Price (Fiber) | $55.00 | $55.00 | N/A (Spectrum does not offer dedicated fiber plans widely) |
| Data Policies | Unlimited (Fiber), 1 TB (DSL) | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Customer Satisfaction | Mixed | Generally High | Mixed |
Brightspeed is a compelling choice for consumers in its service areas who are seeking reliable, high-speed internet, especially through its expanding fiber optic network. It is an excellent option for residents in underserved or rural communities where fiber is being deployed, offering a significant upgrade over traditional DSL or satellite services. Customers who prioritize symmetrical download and upload speeds for activities like gaming, video conferencing, or content creation will find Brightspeed's fiber plans particularly attractive. The absence of long-term contracts on most plans also provides valuable flexibility. However, potential customers should verify fiber availability in their specific location, as DSL service may be the only option, offering lower speeds. For those in areas with robust fiber competition, comparing Brightspeed's offerings against other fiber providers is recommended to ensure the best value and performance.