The Best Internet Providers in Long Beach, California: A Comprehensive Guide
Frontier Fiber: The Top Choice for Speed and Value
When it comes to internet service in Long Beach, California, Frontier Fiber stands out as the top recommendation from CNET. This provider offers lightning-fast symmetrical speeds, unlimited data, and competitive pricing, making it a standout choice for residents. Starting at just $30 per month, Frontier Fiber delivers some of the fastest speeds available, including a 7-gig plan for $110 per month, ideal for heavy users like gamers and streamers. With no contracts, equipment fees, or data caps, Frontier Fiber provides a hassle-free experience. However, like many ISPs, Frontier Fiber does increase prices after the first year of service, so budget-conscious users should keep that in mind.
For those looking for predictable billing without surprise price hikes, T-Mobile Home Internet is a strong alternative. It guarantees a locked-in rate for as long as you stay subscribed, making it a great option for long-term users. T-Mobile also offers discounts for bundling internet with eligible mobile plans, which can make it even more affordable for existing T-Mobile customers. While it may not match Frontier Fiber’s top speeds, it provides reliable fixed wireless service at competitive rates.
A Closer Look at Long Beach Internet Providers
Long Beach is served by several internet service providers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Spectrum is another top contender, offering budget-friendly plans starting at $30 per month and covering nearly all of Long Beach. However, like Frontier Fiber, Spectrum’s prices go up after the introductory period. T-Mobile and Verizon are notable for their fixed wireless offerings, with T-Mobile being more widely available and Verizon offering savings for customers who bundle with its wireless plans.
Satellite internet is also an option, though it’s rarely the best choice due to high prices, slow speeds, and data caps. HughesNet and Viasat are traditional satellite providers, while Starlink, a newer option from SpaceX, offers better speeds but comes with a hefty $120 monthly bill and a $249 upfront cost for the satellite dish.
Affordable Internet Options in Long Beach
For budget-conscious users, Spectrum and Frontier Fiber are the cheapest internet providers in Long Beach, with plans starting at $30 per month. While both providers increase prices after the introductory period, their initial rates make them excellent choices for those looking to save. T-Mobile and Verizon are the only ISPs in Long Beach that offer a price lock, ensuring your monthly rate stays the same as long as you maintain service. This feature can be especially appealing for users who want predictable billing without hidden fees.
Finding Internet Deals and Promotions in Long Beach
Internet deals and promotions in Long Beach can vary depending on the time of year and provider. While many deals are short-lived, it’s worth keeping an eye out for discounts, such as lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons. Verizon, for example, may offer limited-time promotions for new customers, while Frontier, T-Mobile, and Spectrum tend to maintain consistent pricing throughout the year. For the latest offers, users can check out CNET’s guide to the best internet deals, which is regularly updated with new information.
Long Beach Broadband Speeds: How They Stack Up
Long Beach ranks 51st out of the 100 most populated cities in the U.S. in terms of internet speed, according to Ookla speed test data. Residents enjoy median download speeds of 232Mbps and upload speeds of nearly 40Mbps, which is faster than in cities like Los Angeles and San Diego but slower than in Santa Ana and Irvine. Frontier Fiber leads the pack with its 7-gig plan, offering symmetrical upload and download speeds of up to 7,000Mbps. AT&T and Spectrum also offer high-speed plans, with AT&T’s 5-gig plan starting at $240 per month and Spectrum’s gigabit plan starting at $50 per month.
What’s the Best Internet Speed for Your Needs?
The right internet speed for you depends on how you plan to use your connection. For basic tasks like browsing, email, and low-quality video streaming, 0-5Mbps is sufficient. For higher-quality video streaming and videoconferencing, 5-40Mbps is recommended. If you’re working from home or enjoying online gaming, 40-100Mbps should meet your needs. Families with multiple users or those who want to stream and game simultaneously may need 100-500Mbps or more. CNET’s guide on how much internet speed you really need can help you choose the best plan for your household.
How CNET Evaluates Internet Providers
When selecting the best internet providers, CNET considers factors like speed, value, and customer satisfaction. The team uses a combination of proprietary databases, FCC data, and customer reviews to evaluate ISPs. Frontier Fiber and Spectrum stand out for their affordability and speed, while T-Mobile and Verizon are praised for their price locks and bundle discounts. Frontier Fiber’s fiber-optic network, available to 65% of Long Beach residents, offers the fastest and most reliable speeds in the city.
Final Thoughts on Internet Providers in Long Beach
Long Beach residents have several excellent internet options to choose from, with Frontier Fiber leading the pack due to its fast speeds, affordable pricing, and lack of data caps or contracts. For those who prioritize predictable billing, T-Mobile Home Internet is a strong contender. Spectrum and Verizon also offer solid plans, especially for users who want flexibility or bundle discounts. Whether you’re a heavy internet user or just need basic connectivity, there’s a plan in Long Beach that’s right for you.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the best internet providers in Long Beach, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision for your home or business.
