Choosing a phone, cable TV, or internet service provider is a major decision. With so many popular service providers out there, how do you choose which one is the best?
This is especially true for households looking for their next internet service provider or ISP. The industry is filled with several popular brands and a few up-and-coming players.
Complicating matters is the increasing improvements in technologies and the add-ons that are offered by different players. And there are several internet service providers offering similar internet plans.
With diversity in options, how do you choose a service provider?
When faced with options, one of the best approaches to take is to compare at least two service providers and assess them based on several parameters. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at two of the most popular internet service providers in the United States:
Verizon Fios vs RCN internet. We present a comparison of these two providers in terms of price, speed, infrastructure, and service quality. These factors are essential when deciding which provider is best for you.
Table of Contents
What are the Differences Between FiOS and RCN Internet Connection?
You cannot choose an internet service provider if you only knew a little about it. Thus, as a consumer, you need to learn more about their products and services. To help us compare these two providers, let’s take a look at the basic services offered:
Verizon Fios – The company offers both DSL and fiber internet. The price for fiber internet ranges from $39.99 to $79.99 with speeds ranging from 200Mbps to 940 Mbps. It also offers Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) services which allow lower latency and speedier connection. Verizon’s internet services are currently limited to 11 states in the United States. Keep in mind that the company charges an upfront fee for the installation of their services.
RCN – This company offers cable and fiber internet connections. It provides high-speed Internet bundled with TV plans through DSL and coaxial cables. Price ranges from $19.99 to $49.99 per month with speed ranging from 10 Mbps to 940 Mbps. The company may also charge an installation fee like any other service provider.
For a better comparison, let’s assess these two service providers for their coverage, price, speed, and customer support.
Comparing RCN and Verizon’s Internet Speeds
Both Verizon vs RCN offer ultra-fast internet speed. Considering the published speed of these two providers, Verizon has a slight advantage over RCN.
The former can offer up to 940 Mbps. However, its speed and availability may be available only to certain areas. If you want a more reliable internet connection, you may want to sign up for its fiber connection.
The company offers consistent fast speeds through its fiber networks. With its base speed of 200 Mbps, you can already enjoy fast streaming and play games. Its competitor, RCN, also offers a reliable service that allows you to browse, stream, and play games confidently.
Monthly Cost, Data Allowance, and Value for Money
Cost is one of the biggest factors when selecting suppliers. Both RCN and Verizon Fios offer a wide array of internet service plans that will suit your budget. Before you purchase an internet plan, make sure to check the available plans and the inclusions if possible.
During our review, RCN offers a reasonable cost for its service plans ranging from $25 to $40 with data speed ranging from 25 Mbps to 155 Mbps. Also, it comes with a lower upfront fee as compared to Verizon’s upfront fees. On the other hand, you will pay $39.99 for 200 Mbps service delivered by Verizon.
When it comes to data capping, both companies remove the standard data cap. However, there are instances when Verizon may impose a cap depending on your location. This is why you need to verify the bundle offered to check the fine print.
In terms of bundled deals, both companies deliver. To get a fair comparison between different bundles, we recommend that you check the latest offerings of both companies. Also, watch out for promos that are considerably cheaper than standard packages.
Service Availability
When it comes to availability, Verizon offers a broader area coverage than RCN. It provides internet services to 11 states in the U.S. such as Connecticut and the District of Columbia. Customers from Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland can also avail of Verizon’s services.
RCN, on the other hand, has a limited reach. When we completed the review, its services are only available in at least 8 states that include Illinois, District of Columbia and New York. In terms of availability of services, Verizon again holds an edge over its competitor.
Customer Support – Do They Live Up To Their Promises?
Aside from the cost and speed, it is necessary for a company to have excellent customer service. Although service providers promise the best and most reliable services, problems can happen.
And you want complete technical assistance in the case that happens. One way to check the quality of support is by checking the company’s industry rating. For example, the American Consumer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) survey reveals that Verizon scores 73%. RCN currently does not hold a rating from the organization.
FAQs
If you’re still on the fence on which provider to use, then check out the following answers to frequently asked questions about the two services.
What are other services and perks bundled into the internet plan?
One of the ways service providers market their plans is by offering bundles to its customers. Under this arrangement, the company offers other products and services on top of the usual internet connection.
With Verizon, you can pick the internet speed and pays a corresponding monthly fee. Each plan is bundled with Disney for 12 months. There’s also an option to add YouTube TV which works for those who want to include a TV into the internet bundle.
RCN, on the other hand, also offers bundled packages that include to more than 60 premium TV channels. Based on this comparison, RCN offers different bundled options. However, these packages from RCN are only available in certain cities. The bundled packages of Verizon, on the other hand, are more widely available.
Can I count on discounts when I apply for internet service?
Yes. Discounts and deals are common to major service providers in the US. And both RCN and Verizon run regular campaigns to offer its customers with the best deals for its customers. For RCN, the company is currently offering a free service for 3 months. It also offers a ‘Latino Plan’ designed to meet the demands of a growing Latino community in different parts of the country.
Verizon also offers a Discount Program that is exclusive to military personnel and employees. Aside from this, the company also offers a regular $10 discount for a qualifying service. In terms of the availability of discounts, Verizon offers better options.
How can I get technical help in case I encounter some connection issues?
Both Verizon and RCN offers its customers with a variety of contact channels to help address connectivity issues. For Verizon, it offers 24/7 support and runs a Fios Community where you can get help and answers anytime.
What’s interesting about Verizon is that it also delivers customer support in Spanish. RCN also takes customer support seriously by offering complete contact channels from Live Chat to a toll-free number. The site is also available in Spanish just like Verizon.
Other Recommended Providers
Although RCN and Verizon offers premium internet service and lots of bundled plans, they are not perfect. Based on available reviews from customers and from testimonials published online, these companies are also known for certain issues. As a customer, you need to be aware of these complaints. And more importantly, make sure that there are other options out there.
Aside from these two, you can also consider Xfinity, CenturyLink, and Cox Internet. Xfinity, with an availability in 41 states, is a highly recommended supplier at least in terms of coverage. If you’re looking for a cheaper service, then CenturyLink is best for you. You can start at $49 monthly for 100 Mbps. And there’s Cox Internet that offers internet-only plans. The prices are also competitive but they are not as available compared to Xfinity.
Conclusion- Which is the Better ISP For You?
Consistency, affordability, and quality customer support are essential factors to consider when shopping for your next ISP. And when it comes to the best service providers in the market, Verizon and RCN are two of the most dependable companies.
But how do you choose between the two? And which company is worth your loyalty?
When it comes to speed and availability, Verizon offers a better service. It may be costly compared to RCN but it’s worth the price if you are looking for reliability and a high-speed connection.
However, it still needs improvement when it comes to customer support. As we checked some reviews, issues at Verizon are not properly addressed. We believe that technical and customer support is critical in the business. Speaking of complete support, RCN offers a better value for its customers. It comes with excellent client support service and they are always responsive to the client’s concerns.
Speed and data allocation-wise, RCN is also a good choice but the company has a lot of catching up to do due to its limited availability. Overall, Verizon Fios is a slightly better option and they can be better only if they improve their customer support services.
