Looking for an Internet provider in Michigan? It’s one of the most populated states in the US, with more than 10 million people. Therefore, it demands plenty of broadband Internet for its residents, which is reflected in the variety of Internet providers across the state.
But are these connections stable enough? We’ve researched and compiled helpful information about the top 10 ISPs in Michigan to help you decide which one suits you best.
Top Internet Providers: Overview
Here is a summary of some parameters that define the specific providers on our list. But remember, these factors are bound to change from time to time.
| Provider | Connection Type | Download/ upload speeds up to | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | DSL and Fiber | 1000Mbps | 1.5/5 |
| Xfinity | Cable | 2000Mbps | 1.5/5 |
| HughesNet | Geo Satellite | 25Mbps | 2.0/5 |
| Viasat | Satellite | 100Mbps | 1.5/5 |
| EarthLink | DSL and Fiber | 1000Mbps | 2.0/5 |
| Spectrum | Cable | 1000Mbps – may vary | 2.5/5 |
| WOW! | Cable | 1000Mbps | 1.5/5 |
| Xtream Powered by Mediacom | Cable | 100Mbps | N/A |
| TOAST.net | DSL and Fiber | 1000Mbps | N/A |
| Iserv | DSL | 6Mbps | N/A |
1. AT&T
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This company is one of Michigan’s leading (ISP) providers, offering fiber-powered and DSL connections. It comes with multiple broadband fiber plans and all the advantages of fiber-optic Internet.
With AT&T, you won’t experience slow and jumpy connections even at peak times. You can access their services through DSL, or through fixed Internet offers and bundles with DirecTV for rural areas.
It’s the perfect choice for urban residents with access to AT&T fiber service. However, it’s not an ideal option in rural areas or for people who depend on bundled Internet and TV offers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick speeds | Fiber availability is limited |
| A variety of fiber plans with unlimited data | Fixed wireless plans have restricted data use |
| Excellent customer care service | |
| Outstanding bundles through DIRECTV |
2. Xfinity
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It’s the industry’s fastest Internet provider, with a reliable connection and a range of speed plans to accommodate various user needs.
It’s also the only provider with fiber-to-home service in the region. The company has plans to boost its connections to 6,000Mbps from its current speed of 3,000 Mbps in the central area.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide availability | Monthly equipment fee |
| Consistent connections | Unlimited data leads to extra monthly charges |
| Affordable options | |
| Provides 24/7 real-time support |
3. HughesNet
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It’s the leading Satellite ISP and enjoys wide coverage in remote areas. Unlike other connections, such as cable, DSL, or fiber, which may not reach your home, HughesNet gives you access to the Internet wherever you are.
All their plans have download speeds of up to 25Mbps and upload speeds of up to 3 Mbps. You can also buy data tokens based on your preference at an additional fee.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal for those living in remote areas and with no alternative Internet connections | Has high latency levels and slow speed |
| High starting price |
4. Viasat
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It comes in second as the best Satellite ISP and ranks as one of the best remote Internet service providers. It’s an affordable choice with a starting fee of $39.99 monthly for its Standard 12 plan, with the highest cost being $149.99 monthly.
However, you can save through upgraded customer services such as Viasat Voice bundles, EasyCare, and Viasat Shield (Internet protection). It’s ideal for those on a budget, sourcing for bundle services, and those in rural areas, including those who cannot access other Internet connections such as Fiber, DSL, or cable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable Internet plans | Low speed |
| Suitable for remote areas |
5. EarthLink
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Another great Internet provider in Michigan is EarthLink. It’s widely available, offering quality service and good broadband speed. Like Xfinity and AT&T, it has quick gigabit speed thanks to its fiber connection. In addition, it offers DSL Internet. EarthLink is top-rated in speed, reliability, price, and customer service.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High speeds | Unavailable in some areas, especially rural regions |
6. Spectrum
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Spectrum offers fast speeds and strong connections. It’s an excellent option in areas with limited fiber coverage. On average, its cable plans tend to be more expensive.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Consistent speeds | Attracts Wi-Fi charges |
| Easy-to-use package selections | Expensive |
7. WOW!
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This cable-based Internet provider is among the cheapest, with a monthly fee of $24.99 and speeds of between 100 Mbps to 1000 Mbps. In addition, you can bundle this Internet with your phone and TV services.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Relatively cheap | Tends to be slow |
| Multiple packages to choose from |
8. MediaCom
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It’s a cable ISP with reasonably priced Internet plans. MediaCom’s cheapest package costs $29.99 per month for the first year, with download speeds of up to 60Mbps. This ISP is among the top 10 best cable ISPs, with download speeds of up to 1,000Mbps, and 50 Mbps speed for uploads. It’s suitable for those who require steady speeds on a budget, as well as households that need mesh Wi-fi.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has reliable connections | Has a data cap |
| Prices increase after the first year |
9. TOAST.net
Toast.net delivers Internet to residential and business consumers through Fiber and DSL connections. It’s generally available in areas where AT&T dominates, and offers unlimited data plans.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent speed (ideal for streaming) | No cap plan, so it can get expensive |
| No installation charges | |
| Offers extra services for businesses (cloud email, managed IT services) |
10. Iserv
Michigan is Iserv’s largest coverage area. It’s also one of the providers that will save you unnecessary installation costs. That’s because it delivers Internet through your telephone outlet. However, you will need a DSL modem, Wi-fi router, or an Ethernet cable to access the Internet.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers multiple packages designed for all types of businesses | Limited range |
| Provides data storage services | Slow speeds, especially with heavy usage |
| Offers 24/7 support |
What to Look for When Selecting an Internet Provider
Below are some factors to consider when shopping for an Internet service provider.
Cost
There is a considerable price discrepancy between various Internet providers. The cheapest plan might cost around $15 a month with download speeds of 30 Mbps. However, these rates are subject to change. Pricier plans offer ultra-fast connections ranging from $65 to $80 more a month.
Generally, Internet access in Michigan is a bit costly, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get a good provider for your budget and needs. Take time to shop around!
Reliability
An unreliable Internet connection can ruin your day. Check to see if the provider offers real-time support. Does it have many cases of downtime? A bit of research can save you from future inconveniences.
Speed
Typically, your Internet speed should be quick regardless of your online task. High latency levels lead to frustrations. To solve the problem, you can upgrade to a faster plan. Also, consider your tasks online, budget and location before settling for a particular Internet provider.
Extra charges
Look out for excess billing from the ISPs. Go for the easy-to-use plan with flexible payment methods. Base your decision on customers’ reviews, which you can find published on unbiased sites. That way, you know what to expect from your preferred provider.
4 Types of Internet Providers
These are the four broadband technologies for Internet connection.
#1: Satellite Internet
About 55% of remote areas have access to high-speed Internet via a cable connection, and at least 20% fiber optic internet availability. As a result, satellite Internet can come in handy in rural areas even though it has a slower speed due to its low signal strength.
#2: Cable Internet
It’s a widespread Internet connection, sharing a similar infrastructure to your TV. It’s also popular and inexpensive. In addition, it offers faster speeds than DSL via parallel cables for cable TV, with download speeds between 175, 275- 500 Mbps.
#3: DSL Internet
DSL provides faster and more reliable speeds in remote areas than satellite Internet, with relatively cheaper plans. It offers Internet services through phone cables, which are ten times quicker than dial-up service.
#4: Fiber
Fiber offers high speeds when it comes to both downloads and uploads. Though cable Internet provides excellent download speeds, it has slower uploads. Therefore, Fiber is a great option for users with vast amounts of data, such as businesses. Fiber is highly recommended for heavy Internet users.
Who Is Michigan’s Fastest Internet Provider?
AT&T offers excellent speed for downloads (up to 5 Gbps through its fiber connections), making it the city’s favorite type of Internet.
The company is also admired for its excellent customer service. Xfinity is equally fast, with download speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps. In addition, it stands out for its low latency levels and general affordability.
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