Midco Internet Review

About Midco Internet Service

Midco is a regional telecommunications provider primarily serving the Midwest United States. Founded in 1939 as Mitchell Optical Company, Midco has evolved significantly, expanding its services beyond cable television to include robust internet, phone, and managed Wi-Fi solutions. The company focuses on delivering high-speed, reliable connectivity to its customers, often in areas where larger national providers have limited presence. Midco emphasizes community investment and customer service, aiming to be a trusted local partner for digital needs. Its service area spans multiple states, including North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Kansas, with a strong presence in both urban and rural communities. Midco currently serves over 400,000 residential and business customers.

Midco Internet Service Analysis

Midco offers a tiered selection of internet plans designed to meet various user needs, from basic browsing to demanding high-speed applications. The Midco Gig plan provides symmetrical-like upload speeds for its tier, which is exceptional for content creators and heavy users. All plans feature unlimited data, eliminating concerns about exceeding usage limits. The primary differentiator across plans is the download speed, with upload speeds scaling proportionally for higher tiers.

Technology and Infrastructure

• Network Type: Midco primarily utilizes a hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) network, often referred to as cable internet. In select areas, they are actively deploying and expanding their fiber optic infrastructure.
• Network Upgrades Planned for 2025-26: Midco is committed to ongoing network enhancements, including further fiber buildouts in underserved areas and DOCSIS 4.0 upgrades to its existing HFC network to support higher speeds and improved capacity.
• Equipment Provided: Customers can rent a modem and router combo for $10 per month. Midco also offers a managed Wi-Fi service for an additional fee, providing advanced router features and in-home Wi-Fi support.
• Installation Process: Standard installation involves a technician visit to set up the modem and ensure connectivity. Self-installation options may be available for existing Midco customers or in areas with pre-wired homes.
• Technical Specifications: Midco's HFC network leverages advanced technologies to deliver high bandwidth. Fiber deployments utilize pure fiber optic cables directly to the home (FTTH) for maximum speed and reliability.

Coverage and Availability

Midco's service footprint is concentrated in the Midwestern United States. Key states with extensive coverage include North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Kansas. The company is particularly strong in smaller to mid-sized cities and rural communities within these states, often serving as the primary or sole high-speed internet provider. While urban centers are covered, Midco's strategic focus often extends to providing competitive options in less densely populated areas. Availability can vary significantly even within contiguous regions, so checking specific addresses is crucial.

Pricing and Value Assessment

Midco's pricing offers competitive promotional rates for the first 12 months, making it attractive for new subscribers. After the promotional period, prices increase to standard rates, which are still generally in line with comparable services from national providers. The absence of data caps across all plans adds significant value, especially for heavy internet users. Bundling with TV and phone services can lead to substantial savings, enhancing the overall value proposition for customers seeking a comprehensive home service package.

Pros and Cons of Midco

Customer Experience and Support

Midco generally receives positive feedback for its customer service, particularly in the communities it serves. The company aims for a personalized approach, often contrasting with the experience of larger, national carriers. Support is readily available through multiple channels, catering to different customer preferences. While most users report satisfaction, like any provider, experiences can vary.

• Support channels available: Phone, online chat, email, and in-person at local offices.
• Average response times: Phone support typically has wait times of 5-15 minutes, with online chat often being faster.
• Installation satisfaction: Generally high, with technicians often praised for professionalism and thoroughness.
• Reliability ratings: Midco's HFC network is known for good reliability, with fiber offering superior uptime and performance.

How Midco Compares to Competitors

Final Verdict: Who Should Choose Midco?

Midco is an excellent choice for residents and businesses located within its service areas, particularly those in the Midwest seeking reliable, high-speed internet without data caps. It is ideal for individuals and families who stream extensively, engage in online gaming, or work from home and require consistent performance. Customers who value local service and support over the offerings of massive national providers will find Midco's approach appealing. Given its strong presence in smaller cities and rural areas, Midco often represents the best available high-speed option for many in its coverage zone. If you are in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Kansas, it is highly recommended to check Midco's availability for a potentially superior internet experience compared to other regional or national alternatives.