The search for exceptional business-class internet can be arduous at best, and the range of options have significantly expanded the frontier of broadband services. Cable, DSL, and fiber-optic networks wage a digital battle for ultimate relevancy only to be matched by service providers who work endlessly to promote their products as superior. But where does the favor truly fall between two of the biggest providers available: AT&T and Comcast?
As the oldest telecommunications provider in the country, AT&T has an established reputation for phone, television, and high-speed internet services that spans over 100 years. But how does it hold up against Comcast, a conglomerate equally recognized within the market for its cable TV and internet services? Here you will find an assessment of each service provider in regard to reliability, cost, availability, customer service, and network type. Here the score is settled: who wins out in the battle of Comcast business vs. AT&T business internet?
Opt for service you can rely on
When the internet is the driving force of a business, success depends upon the reliability of its connection. Comcast and AT&T both have high marks in reliability, making it tough to choose between the two. Something to consider when thinking about reliable internet is that many of Comcast’s wires are copper and have been around for a long time, potentially resulting in erosion that might interrupt your service. AT&T works through primarily fiber-optic wires which are newer and less susceptible to damage.
What kind of connection is best for business?
Business today is shaped by ever-evolving technology, especially when it comes to internet service. More small businesses are opting for a fiber-optic network in favor of faster speeds and a more sophisticated infrastructure, while networks that have historically dominated the industry are quickly losing ground.
Though AT&T and Comcast’s availability are pretty evenly matched, AT&T has coverage where it matters most, as a result, covering more customers. Comcast relies mostly on a cable connection, which is adequate for supporting a business. However, the copper lines are known to erode over time and weaken over distance, and line throttling can slow the connection down. The DSL connection AT&T provides operates through a phone line, though both services can be used simultaneously. Though not as fast as fiber, DSL ensures a dedicated line.
Satisfaction guaranteed?
Customer service promotes customer loyalty, which in turn guarantees longevity. Though Comcast boasts round-the-clock support, the company’s reputation for customer service is lackluster at best. In a 2020 survey conducted by J.D. Power, AT&T held the top spot in two of the business categories, including the large enterprise segment for a third consecutive year. Comcast did rank higher in the very small business segment by four points. The survey took customer satisfaction into account, as well as communications, sales representatives and account executives, reliability, cost of service, and billing. Those who engage with AT&T customer service ultimately report a positive experience, while many Comcast customers find the company’s support unsatisfying.
Cost counts—so does speed
Business runs on a budget, and that’s a crucial point of consideration for business internet customers.
Comcast has five packages businesses can choose from:
| Speed: | Monthly cost starting at: |
| 35 Mbps | $69.95 |
| 100 Mbps | $109.90 |
| 200 Mbps | $134.90 |
| 300 Mbps | $164.90 |
| 1 Gbps | $499.95 |
AT&T package pricing varies between its fiber and DSL services:
| DSL Service: | |
| Speed: | Monthly cost starting at: |
| 25 Mbps | $60.00 |
| 50 Mbps | $85.00 |
| Fiber service: | |
| Speed: | Monthly cost starting at: |
| 100 Mbps | $115.00 |
| 500 Mbps | $250.00 |
| 1 Gbps | $300.00 |
Although the introductory speed of 100 Mbps at AT&T slightly more than Comcast’s, it still has a better price point for the full gigabit service. AT&T fiber pricing is $200 less than that of Comcast’s, making it one of the more affordable prices for gig internet on the market. The AT&T gig internet option is also fiber-optic, which delivers equal download and upload speeds and capabilities that enable things like video conferencing, digital phone service, and integrated systems.
AT&T edges out the competition
Though Comcast makes a strong case as an affordable internet solution suited for small businesses, it can’t quite match the quality of AT&T services, which, paired with consistency and the legacy of the brand, presents a strong option for business customers. With an expanding, contract-free fiber-optic footprint and a strong uptime guarantee, AT&T proves itself a frontrunner in the internet race. Convenience makes Comcast a contender, as well as boons such as free installation and no data caps. But poor customer service and speeds that can’t quite match those of AT&T set the cable company back a pace, while AT&T continues to progress and contribute to the changing landscape of the internet. When the dust of the argument of Comcast business vs. AT&T business internet settles, AT&T wins the day.