DSL vs. Cable Internet: Pros and Cons | Move.org
DSL vs. Cable Internet: Pros and Cons
We compared prices, speeds, and bundles for DSL and cable internet services from industry-leading internet providers to determine if cable or DSL service is better. In most cases, cable is the clear winner.
Our pick
Prices $19.99–$109.99/mo.
- 10–1,000 Mbps download speeds
- 1–50 upload speeds
- Landline phone and streaming service bundle options
Second place
$32.99–$69.95/mo.
- 3.5–500 Mbps download speeds
- 1.5–30 Mbps upload speeds
- Cable TV and streaming service bundle options
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Bottom line
If you’re looking for internet service after moving into a new place, the two most common internet types you’ll find are cable and DSL. Each has its strengths and weaknesses—but we think cable is your best bet.
DSL vs. cable internet
- Bottom line
- Pros and cons
- Compare top features
- Pricing
- Speeds
- Availability
- Customer experience
- Our pick
- FAQ
Pros and cons
Cable
- Faster upload and download speeds
- Lots of options
- Greater reliability
- Hidden fees
DSL
- Straightforward pricing
- More availability in rural areas
- Fewer plan options
- Slower speeds
Compare top features
| Internet type | Price* | Download speed | Upload speed | Find plans |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSL | $32.99–$69.95/mo. | 3–500 Mbps | 1.5–30 Mbps | Find DSL Providers |
| Cable | $19.99–$109.99/mo. | 10–1,000 Mbps | 1-50 Mbps | Find Cable Providers |
Data as of 08/16/2021. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
*Prices and speeds taken from listings by the internet provider.
DSL vs. cable internet: What’s the difference?
DSL operates through the copper wiring of landline phone systems, making it widely available but also a bit old-fashioned and slow. 100 Mbps is the typical speed for DSL.
Cable runs on coaxial wiring laid by cable companies, allowing speeds up to 1,000 Mbps.
DSL vs. cable pricing
Expect to spend about $50 to $60 per month for a decent DSL or cable internet connection. DSL offers more straightforward plans, while cable provides speed and bundle options.
DSL vs. cable speeds
| Internet speed (download) | What you can do online |
|---|---|
| 5–10 Mbps | Web browsing, Checking email, Streaming video in SD on 1–2 devices |
| 25 Mbps | Downloading large files, Hosting Zoom video meetings, Playing online games with 1–2 players |
| 50 Mbps | Hosting Zoom meetings with large groups, Streaming video in 4K on 2–3 devices |
| 100 Mbps | Operating smart home security cameras in HD |
| 500 Mbps | Downloading multiple large files at the same time, Streaming video in 4K on multiple devices |
| 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) | Doing practically anything online without delays |
FAQ about DSL vs. cable internet
What is DSL internet?
DSL runson copper wiring through a landline phone network, delivering speeds up to 100 Mbps.
What is cable internet?
Cable runs over a coaxial cable network, providing speeds up to 1,000 Mbps.
How fast is DSL internet?
DSL typically provides speeds in the range of 1–25 Mbps.
Which is better: DSL or cable internet?
Cable is generally the better option as it offers higher speeds and reliability.