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Shopping decisions

Compare home internet packages

Advertised speeds and prices often apply to new customers, and availability varies by address even within one city. Start from your address and your usage so you only compare packages you can get.

A text to start with

I'm in [general area] and comparing internet options. I work from home with video calls most of the day and sometimes upload large files, so upload speed matters as much as download. I'm looking at [provider A] and [provider B]. Compare their packages by download and upload speed, equipment fees, contract terms and the price after any promotion ends.

Example request. Change the details to fit your situation.

What to check in the answer

An answer that lists only download speeds leaves out half of what matters for working from home. Equipment rental fees add to the monthly cost, and some providers let you use your own modem or router, so ask each one. The price after the promotion should appear next to the introductory price. Availability data is often out of date, so confirm service at your address with each provider.

What to do next

Contact each provider to confirm availability at your exact address and ask for the standard rate in writing. If you plan to buy your own equipment, check the provider's approved equipment list first.