Table of Content

  1. Overview of Spectrum’s Internet Coverage
  2. Overview of Spectrum’s Internet Coverage
  3. Spectrum Internet Pricing for New Yorkers
  4. Optimum Internet Pricing for New Yorkers
  5. Wrapping it up!

New Yorkers are a much well-connected population than the rest of the population in the US. Most important is the fact that they are not stuck with old or slow internet types, and instead have options like fiber and cable readily available. Spectrum and Optimum are one of the countless internet providers in the state. To be precise, there are over 27 internet providers in the state, and almost 99% of the population has access to a broadband connection.

The state’s average internet speed is 262.3 Mbps! While fiber internet is still rolling out to Americans, New Yorkers are in the lead with over 64% fiber coverage state-wide. These numbers are truly impressive. However, they do put New Yorkers in a difficult position when it comes to selecting the best internet provider for their homes. Here is a quick comparison between the two most popular and reliable internet providers in the state, Spectrum and Optimum.

  • Verizon

100 to 940 Mbps

Fiber, DSL

  • Spectrum

100 to 1000 Mbps

Cable, hybrid fiber-coaxial

  • Optimum

10 to 1000 Mbps

Cable

  • HughesNet

25 Mbps

Satellite

Overview of Spectrum’s Internet Coverage

Ever since the merger between Warner Cable and Bright House Network took place in 2016, Spectrum grew much larger in not only its revenue but also in availability. It now is claimed to be the second-largest cable provider in the country.

Spectrum offers cable internet, TV, and phone services in mostly urban and suburban areas. It is readily available in metropolitan cities like New York, and Orlando. It is available on the East Coast and the West Coast. In totality, it provides services in more than 42 states, although the coverage is scattered and kind of complicated. Here is a list of some states where Spectrum has the most dominating coverage.

  1. Alabama
  2. California
  3. Florida
  4. Indiana
  5. Michigan
  6. Missouri
  7. New York
  8. Ohio
  9. Texas
  10. Wisconsin

Overview of Optimum’s Internet Coverage

As compared to Spectrum’s wide area coverage, Optimum is not that widely available. However, that is perhaps the benefit of such providers that have limited availability. It keeps well-focused on their services and customers in the few select areas that they are operating in.

Optimum by Altice is available in 5 states only, and has the most prominent footprint in New York. 

Even though it has limited availability, it still is the 4th largest cable provider in the US, since it is accessible by 11.9 million people. While its cable services are accessible by so many people, it’s not the case with its fiber internet services, which are limited to only 1.7 million people.

Spectrum Internet Pricing for New Yorkers

Before you jump into Spectrum internet prices, you must be aware of the value-adding features and benefits you may be able to enjoy:

  • Unlimited data: Download, upload, stream and do HD video conferences without worrying about data overage.
  • Bundling options: get more cost savings when you bundle Spectrum’s internet with its other services, including TV and phone
  • Contract-free subscription: You can cancel anytime without worry.
  • Dedicated customer service to Spanish-speakers: Get assistance from servicio al cliente de Spectrum.
  • Contract buyout: if you are stuck with a bad provider, Spectrum will buy out the contract for you and save you the extra bucks.
Internet PlanSpeedPriceBest For
Spectrum Internet Standard200 Mbps$49.99/mo.4 to 5 devices, basic streaming
Spectrum Internet Ultra400 Mbps$69.99/mo.  5 devices, HD streaming, gaming
Spectrum Internet Gig1000 Mbps$109.99/mo.5 to 10 devices, 4K streaming, heavy gaming
Installation$49.99 standard fee, or you can choose self-installation for $9.99
CancellationNone
ModemFree
Router$5 monthly
Data overageUnlimited data
Late bill pay$8 to $9

Optimum Internet Pricing for New Yorkers

Let’s dig into the details and features of Optimum internet plans that New Yorkers can enjoy:

  • Free public Wi-Fi hotspots: Internet on-the-go without additional charges.
  • Spanish-dedicated customer support: Speak to an expert at servicio al cliente de Optimum for all queries!
  • Free HBO Max with select plans: You only need your optimum credentials to sign in to HBO Max app and stream without extra costs.
Internet PlanDownload SpeedUpload SpeedPrice
Optimum 300    300 Mbps20 Mbps$39.99/mo.        
Optimum 500    500 Mbps20 Mbps$59.99/mo.
Optimum 1 Gig  1000 Mbps35 Mbps$79.99/mo.
InstallationFree
CancellationNone
Modem$10/mo. Including a router
RouterIncluded with modem lease
Data overageUnlimited data
Late bill pay$10

Wrapping it up!

Clearly, Optimum and Spectrum have some excellent features and benefits to offer to New Yorkers. There is a lot to consider here, and you must weigh both these options based on:

  • Their prices
  • Contract requirements
  • Data allowances
  • Customer service quality
  • Availability

In the end, the decision depends mainly on what your household needs. For a complete entertainment and communications solution, Spectrum has better deals. However, for high speed gigabit standalone internet, Optimum has its own place!