Top 10 Internet Service Providers Without Service Contracts

Let's face it - most Americans aren't exactly fans of their internet service providers (ISPs). In fact, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index's Telecommunications Study for 2021-2022, ISPs ranked dead last for customer satisfaction with a 64 rating on a zero to 100 scale. That's like being chosen last in a pickup basketball game, only worse! With customer satisfaction scores lower than the US Postal Service and gas stations, it's safe to say there's a lot of room for improvement.

One of the major pain points for customers is being locked into long-term contracts, typically ranging from one to two years. These contracts often come with hefty cancellation fees, which can force users to grin and bear it until the contract expires. In this article, we'll help you navigate the world of no-contract ISPs by covering the benefits of choosing a provider without a service contract and sharing our top 10 picks. 

The Top 10 Internet Service Providers Without Service Contracts

In this section, we present a well-researched list of the top 10 ISPs that provide high-quality internet services without long-term service contracts. As you review this list, you'll find valuable information about each provider, including their network coverage, average speeds, and pricing. This will enable you to easily compare and identify the best no-contract ISP for your specific needs.

Top 1: Verizon Fios Home Internet

Verizon Fios Home Internet takes the top spot on our list, offering a robust and reliable internet service without the need for a long-term contract. Verizon is renowned for its exceptional network quality, as evidenced by their impressive track record in the J.D. Power U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Study. 

For 30 consecutive times, Verizon is named the most awarded brand for Wireless Network Quality, accumulating over 185 J.D. Power Awards in total. This distinction places Verizon ahead of any other U.S. network provider in the study's history. Today, Verizon Fios is available in select areas including New York, Virginia, and Delaware.

Plans and Pricing

All Verizon plans share common features such as unlimited 4G LTE data, talk, and text, as well as the flexibility of no contract obligations, allowing customers to cancel at any time without additional charges.

• Start Unlimited ($70/month): Ideal for moderate data users, this plan includes DVD-quality streaming (480p), unlimited mobile hotspot (600 Kbps), a 6-month trial of Apple Music, and a 1-year Disney+ subscription.
• Play More Unlimited ($80/month): Tailored for entertainment enthusiasts, this plan comes with 50 GB of 5G Ultra-Wideband premium data, HD-quality streaming (720p), 15 GB high-speed mobile hotspot, and free subscriptions to Apple Music, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
• Do More Unlimited ($80/month): Designed for productivity, this plan features 50 GB of 5G Ultra-Wideband premium data, HD-quality streaming (480p), 15 GB high-speed mobile hotspot, 50% off a connected device plan, a 6-month Apple Music trial, 1-year Disney+ subscription, and 600 GB of Verizon Cloud storage.
• Get More Unlimited ($90/month): The most feature-rich option, this plan offers 50 GB of 5G Ultra-Wideband premium data, HD-quality streaming (720p), 30 GB high-speed mobile hotspot, 50% off a connected device plan, subscriptions to Apple Music, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, and 600 GB of Verizon Cloud storage.

Data Caps & Policies

All plans offer unlimited data usage. However, data speeds may be affected depending on the specific plan restrictions. Here's an overview of these limitations to help you better understand how they apply to each plan.

• Play More Unlimited, Do More Unlimited, and Get More Unlimited
• 50GB Premium Network Access per month
• Full LTE/5G speeds under the 50GB limit
• Data may be temporarily slower during network congestion after exceeding 50GB/month/line
• Start Unlimited
• No Premium Network Access included
• Constant possibility of data throttling

Top 2: Google Fiber

Google Fiber takes the second spot on our list, providing some of the fastest internet speeds available in the market today, with plans offering up to 5Gbps. These high-speed plans are perfect for those with a bigger budget who prioritize blazing-fast connections.

Google Fiber has gained praise for its outstanding performance, customer support, and straightforward pricing. Although its availability is limited to select areas in the US, Google Fiber is considered a top-tier choice for those seeking an exceptional internet experience. Their internet plans are currently available in a limited number of areas across the United States including Grandview, MO, Kansas City, KS, and Stanford, CA.

Plans and Pricing

• 1 Gig ($70/month): This plan offers symmetrical speeds of 1,000Mbps (1Gbps) for both download and upload. 
• 2 Gig ($100/month): With this plan, you'll get 2,000Mbps (2Gbps) download speed and 1,000Mbps (1Gbps) upload speed. 
• 5 Gig ($125/month): Experience ultra-fast speeds of 5,000Mbps (5Gbps) for both download and upload.
•  Google Webpass ($70/month or $63/month with a yearly plan): This plan offers 1,000Mbps (1Gbps) symmetrical download and upload speeds.

Data Caps & Policies

Google Fiber's unlimited data and no-contract policy make it an appealing option for those who value flexibility and transparency. 

Google Fiber offers true unlimited data, ensuring that you won't face any overage fees or throttling, even during peak usage times. Another advantage of Google Fiber is its no-contract policy, which means you won't be charged any termination fees if you decide to cancel your service. This provides flexibility and peace of mind to users who don't want to be locked into long-term commitments.

Top 3: AT&T Internet

AT&T is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, providing a range of services, including internet, television, and phone services. The company has been in the telecommunications industry for over a century and has a strong reputation for innovation and reliability.

In terms of its internet plans, AT&T offers a range of options, including DSL and fiber-optic services. The company's fiber internet service, which is known as AT&T Fiber, is particularly noteworthy for its fast speeds and reliable connections. AT&T Fiber has received high marks from customers and industry experts alike for its fast download and upload speeds, which are ideal for households that require a lot of bandwidth. It is also available in a wide range of states across the United States, including California, Illinois, and Texas.

Plans and Pricing

• Internet 100 ($55/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 100Mbps and upload speeds of up to 20Mbps using DSL technology.
• Internet 300 ($55/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 300Mbps and upload speeds of up to 300Mbps using fiber-optic technology.
• Internet 500 ($65/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 500Mbps and upload speeds of up to 500Mbps using fiber-optic technology.
• 1 Gig Internet ($80/month): This plan offers 1,000Mbps (1Gbps) for both download and upload using fiber-optic technology.
• 2 Gig Internet ($110/month): This plan offers 2,000Mbps (2Gbps) for both download and upload using fiber-optic technology.
• 5 Gig Internet ($180/month): This plan offers 5,000Mbps (5Gbps) for both download and upload using fiber-optic technology.

AT&T's fiber-optic technology is used for plans starting from Internet 300, which offers faster and more reliable internet speeds than traditional DSL connections. The company's top-tier plans offer symmetrical speeds, meaning that both download and upload speeds are the same, which can be particularly useful for activities like video conferencing or uploading large files.

Data Caps & Policies

AT&T's current data cap policy varies depending on the internet plan. For its fiber internet plans, there are no data caps, meaning you can use the internet as much as you want without worrying about additional charges or restrictions.

However, for plans with speeds below 100 Mbps, there is a 1 TB data cap. If you exceed this cap three times in a twelve-month period, you may be charged for additional data usage. The charge for data overage is $10 for every additional 50 GB of data used.

It's important to note that AT&T offers an option for customers to purchase unlimited data for an additional fee, which can be a good choice for heavy internet users who are concerned about exceeding their data cap.

Top 4: Spectrum 

Spectrum, the consumer brand of Charter Communications, became the second-largest internet provider in the U.S. after acquiring Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks in 2016. The company is known for providing high-speed internet access with minimal service disruptions, and its customer support is regarded as helpful and responsive. While there may be some regional variations in satisfaction levels, the overall consensus is that Spectrum delivers consistent quality service. 

As of 2022, Spectrum boasts an extensive coverage area, providing service to 28 million residential broadband subscribers across 42 states.

Plans and Pricing

Spectrum offers a range of internet packages that come with different features including unlimited data usage, free internet modem, free access to nationwide Wi-Fi hotspots, security suite for protecting your devices, and 24/7 customer support.

• Spectrum Internet® + WiFi + Mobile (priced at $49.99/month for 12 months): this plan provides speeds of up to 300 Mbps. It is best suited for streaming and browsing.
• Spectrum Internet® Ultra + WiFi + Mobile (priced at $69.99/month for 12 months): this plan offers speeds of up to 500 Mbps, making it ideal for remote work and video calls.
• Spectrum Internet® Gig + WiFi + Mobile:(priced at $89.99/month for 12 months): this plan delivers speeds of up to 1 Gbps, perfect for gaming enthusiasts.

Data Caps & Policies 

Spectrum has a customer-friendly approach when it comes to data caps. They do not enforce a hard data cap on their residential, fiber, and business internet services, allowing users to enjoy unrestricted internet usage. However, for mobile plans, Spectrum implements a soft data cap of 5.0 GB, 20 GB, or 30 GB, depending on the chosen plan. After reaching the soft cap, users will still have access to the internet, but at reduced speeds.

Spectrum also offers an attractive Contract Buyout policy for customers looking to switch from their current provider without incurring early termination fees. However, customers must order and install a Triple Play or limited Double Play promotion (subject to availability) and have no outstanding obligations to Charter to be eligible. Spectrum only covers the early termination fee from the previous provider up to $500, making it easier for customers to switch and enjoy Spectrum's services. 

Top 5: CenturyLink

CenturyLink is a top internet service provider (ISP) in the United States, known for its wide coverage, competitive pricing, and reliable service. Their extensive network reaches over 37 states, ensuring accessibility to a wide range of customers, including those in rural areas. This widespread coverage makes CenturyLink an ideal choice for people residing in areas where other ISPs may not be available. 

CenturyLink offers various plans and bundles, including options for customers who prefer a DSL connection or those who require more advanced fiber-optic speeds. With a long history in the telecommunications industry, dating back to 1930, CenturyLink has built a strong reputation for providing quality services to residential and business customers alike. Their commitment to continually expanding their fiber-optic network and improving their offerings ensures that CenturyLink remains a leading ISP and an excellent choice for customers seeking a dependable and cost-effective internet solution.

Plans & Pricing

• Simply Unlimited Internet ($50/month): This plan provides up to 100 Mbps speeds, ideal for working from home and shopping online. It features unlimited data on a 99.9% reliable network, allowing multiple users and devices to connect simultaneously. Customers can stream HD movies and enjoy the flexibility of no annual contract.
• Fiber Internet ($70/month): Offering up to 940 Mbps speeds, this plan boasts 20x faster upload speeds than cable. Users can stream HD content on 8+ devices and benefit from unlimited data on a 99.9% reliable network. The plan comes with no annual contract and includes free installation.
• Internet + Phone ($90/month): This bundled plan combines internet speeds of up to 100 Mbps with unlimited local and nationwide calling. With reliable internet and in-home WiFi, customers can stream HD movies and enjoy a seamless browsing experience. The plan features up to 100 Mbps speeds for both download and upload.

Data Caps & Policies

CenturyLink's Excessive Use Policy (EUP) enforces a data cap of 1.0 terabyte (TB) per month for residential High Speed Internet (HSI) customers. This cap accounts for both uploads and downloads. The vast majority of CenturyLink's HSI customers do not exceed this limit.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure an optimal internet experience for all users. The data cap does not apply to business HSI customers, residential fiber internet plans, or customers receiving discounted HSI service under a program promoting broadband adoption in low-income households. Additionally, Simply Unlimited Internet customers are exempt from the data usage limit.

CenturyLink's policy regarding overage fees or throttling for customers who exceed the data cap has not been explicitly mentioned. However, it is essential to review your specific plan details or contact CenturyLink's customer support for clarification on potential overage fees or throttling in case of exceeding the data cap.

Top 6: Astound Broadband

Astound Broadband's reputation as a top 10 ISP in the United States can be attributed to its focus on customer satisfaction, network reliability, positive customer reviews, and transparency. The company's exceptional customer service and round-the-clock support ensure that users' concerns are addressed promptly, leading to high customer satisfaction. Furthermore, Astound Broadband's investment in infrastructure and technology has resulted in a reliable network that users can depend on. As of today, Astound is available in various US states including Maryland, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.

Plans and Pricing

Astound Broadband offers a variety of internet packages that include unlimited data options, built-in Wi-Fi, and access to a 24/7 customer support service. Furthermore, subscribers have access to advanced security features and parental controls, ensuring a safe and secure browsing experience.

• 100Mbps Plan ($19.99/month): Up to 100 Mbps download, 15 Mbps upload
• 400Mbps Plan ($34.99/month): to 400 Mbps download, 20 Mbps upload
• 940Mbps Plan ($39.99/month): Up to 940 Mbps download, 20 Mbps upload
• 1200Mbps Plan ($49.99/month): Up to 1,200 Mbps download, 20 Mbps upload

Each Astound Broadband internet plan is tailored to different needs and budgets, with all plans featuring a reliable fiber/cable connection, unlimited data, and no contract term. However, it's essential to consider Astound Broadband's biggest drawback, which is the steep price hike after the promotional pricing period ends.

Each location may have varying price hike adjustments, to give you an idea how much the difference is from the promo price, here’s a list of the price hikes applicable to the Philadelphia area:

• 300 Mbps Plan Post-promotion price: $148/month
• 600 Mbps Plan Post-promotion price: $152/month
• Gig Internet Plan Post-promotion price: $160/month
• Modem cost: $7/month (optional)

Data Caps & Policies

Astound Broadband's internet plans are unique due to their lack of data caps, allowing users to enjoy unlimited internet usage without any concerns. This freedom to use the internet extensively is a major advantage for customers, particularly those who engage in data-heavy activities like streaming, gaming, and video conferencing. 

Top 7: Xfinity

Xfinity, a part of Comcast, is the largest cable internet provider in the United States. They offer 41 states in the US a variety of internet packages, catering to different needs and budgets. One of the key reasons Xfinity is included in this list is its prepaid plans, which offer flexibility and convenience to customers who prefer a no-contract service.

As the largest cable internet provider in the United States, Xfinity has the resources and infrastructure to deliver high-quality service to millions of customers. Furthermore, Xfinity has continuously invested in improving its technology and customer support, ensuring it remains competitive and relevant in the rapidly-evolving telecommunications industry. 

Plans and Pricing

Xfinity does not completely offer non-contract plans, unless you opt for their prepaid service. It is advisable to check their deals to know what requires a contract or not. They also offer varying prices for each area.

• Connect/Performance Starter ($20-$40/month): Up to 75 Mbps download, 10 Mbps upload
• Connect More/Performance ($40-$60/month): Up to 200 Mbps download, 10 Mbps upload
• Fast/Performance Pro ($50-$60/month): Up to 400 Mbps download, 10 Mbps upload
• Superfast/Blast Pro! ($65-$70/month): Up to 800 Mbps download, 20 Mbps upload
• Extreme Pro/Ultrafast ($70-$80/month): Up to 1000 Mbps download, 20 Mbps upload
• Gigabit ($80-$110/month): Up to 1200 Mbps download, 35 Mbps upload
• Gigabit X2 ($120/month): Up to 2000 Mbps download, 200 Mbps upload
• Gigabit Pro ($299.95/month): Up to 6000 Mbps download, 6000 Mbps upload.

Xfinity Internet Plans: Central Prices

• Connect: $19.99/month promo price, $60.00/month final price
• Connect More: $39.99/month promo price, $70.00/month final price
• Fast: $49.99/month promo price, $80.00/month final price
• Superfast: $59.99/month promo price, $90.00/month final price
• Ultrafast: $69.99/month promo price, $100.00/month final price
• Gigabit Extra: $79.99/month promo price, $110.00/month final price
• Gigabit X2: $120/month
• Gigabit Pro: $299.95/month

Xfinity Internet Plans: Northeast Region Prices

• Performance Starter: $25.00/month promo price, $59.00/month final price
• Performance: $40.00/month promo price, $79.00/month final price
• Performance Pro: $29.99/month promo price, $89.00/month final price
• Blast!: $50.00/month promo price, $99.00/month final price
• Extreme Pro: $60.00/month promo price, $109.00/month final price
• Gigabit: $70.00/month promo price, $119.00/month final price
• Gigabit X2: $120/month
• Gigabit Pro: $299.95/month

Xfinity Internet Plans: West Region

• Connect: $19.99/month promo price, $59.00/month final price
• Connect More: $40.00/month promo price, $79.00/month final price
• Fast: $50.00/month promo price, $89.00/month final price
• Superfast: $50.00/month promo price, $99.00/month final price
• Ultrafast: $60.00/month promo price, $109.00/month final price
• Gigabit Extra: $70.00/month promo price, $119.00/month final price
• Gigabit X2: $120/month
• Gigabit Pro: $299.95/month

Data Caps & Policies

Xfinity has a standard data cap of 1.2 Terabytes for their internet plans. This means that you have a monthly limit on the amount of data you can use. However, you have the option to pay an extra $30 a month or get the xFi Gateway Complete for $25/month to remove the data cap.

If you exceed the data cap without paying for unlimited data, Xfinity charges overage fees of $10 for every additional 50 GB of data used, up to a maximum charge of $100 per month. It is important to note that Xfinity provides two courtesy months, during which you will not be charged for exceeding the data cap.

Top 8: Starry Internet

Starry Internet is a great option for those who are in their coverage area and want to save on their monthly internet costs without having to worry about long-term contracts or additional hardware costs. The company offers fixed wireless broadband internet services using next-generation wireless technologies similar to 5G, which enables them to deliver faster and more reliable internet services.

One of the key benefits of Starry Internet is their no-strings-attached pricing model. Customers can subscribe to their internet plans for as long as they want and cancel at any time without incurring any early termination fees. Additionally, the company offers free equipment and installation, which means that customers don't have to worry about purchasing or setting up any additional hardware At the moment, Starry is only available in six metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles, New York City, and Washington, D.C.

Plans and Pricing

• Starry Basic ($30/month): 50 Mbps download, 50 Mbps upload
• Starry Plus ($50/month): 200 Mbps download, 100 Mbps upload
• Starry Pro ($65/month): 500 Mbps download, 250 Mbps upload
• Starry Gigabit ($80/month): 1,000 Mbps download, 500 Mbps upload

Data Caps & Policies

Starry Internet is committed to providing an open internet experience to their customers, with no restrictions on the amount of data usage. They do not prioritize or limit access to any content, application or service, nor do they inspect or collect the contents of data packets that transit through their network. Starry also does not throttle or prohibit specific content, applications or services, providing users with a truly unrestricted internet experience.

However, one drawback of Starry's services is that they are a relatively new company, having only been founded in 2016. As a result, they do not offer other services such as cable TV or home phone services, which means users do not have the option of bundled services with this company. Nonetheless, for those seeking reliable, high-speed internet services without any data caps or restrictions, Starry's internet plans offer a highly competitive option in the market.

Top 9: Optimum

Optimum offers a variety of internet packages that cater to different user needs, ranging from 200 Mbps to 1 Gig. Optimum also provides users with free access to Optimum Wi-Fi hotspots scattered throughout the United States, allowing customers to stay connected on-the-go.

The company has consistently ranked highly in customer satisfaction surveys, and its internet service has received positive reviews from technology publications. Optimum's internet service is available across the United States, but its coverage areas are primarily concentrated in the Northeastern states, such as New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Connecticut. 

Plans and Pricing

• Optimum 300 ($40/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 300 Mbps and upload speeds ranging from 20 to 300 Mbps.
• Optimum 500 ($60/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 500 Mbps and upload speeds ranging from 20 to 500 Mbps.
• Optimum 1 GIG ($80/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 940 Mbps and upload speeds ranging from 35 to 940 Mbps.
• Optimum 2 GIG ($120/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 2,000 Mbps and upload speeds of 2,000 Mbps.
• Optimum 5 GIG ($180/month): This plan offers download speeds of up to 5,000 Mbps and upload speeds of 5,000 Mbps.

It's important to note that the prices listed above are the starting prices and may vary depending on the user's location and whether they bundle their internet service with other services like TV or phone. Additionally, upload speeds for plans that do not have access to Optimum's fiber internet will be lower than those with access to fiber.

Data Caps and Policies

Optimum's internet service does not have data caps, meaning users can enjoy unlimited data usage without any additional fees or overage charges.

Top 10: Cox

Cox has a reputation for providing reliable internet service with minimal downtime and interruptions. The company also offers various add-ons, such as Cox Panoramic Wifi, which allows customers to connect multiple devices to the internet, and Cox Homelife, which provides home security and automation services. 

Additionally, Cox offers a prepaid internet plan for customers who want more flexibility with their internet service, similar to Xfinity's prepaid internet plan. Their internet plans are available in several states including Arizona, Nebraska, and Nevada.

Plans and Pricing

• Starter 25 ($44.99 per month or $29.99 for the first year): This plan offers download speeds of up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 3 Mbps.
• Preferred 150 ($83.99 per month or $59.99 for the first year): This plan offers download speeds of up to 150 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 10 Mbps.
• Ultimate 500 ($99.99 per month or $79.99 for the first year): This plan offers download speeds of up to 500 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 10 Mbps.
• Gigablast ($119.99 per month or $99.99 for the first year): This plan offers download speeds of up to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 35 Mbps.

Cox also offers a StraightUp Prepaid Internet plan, which costs $50 per month and offers download speeds of up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 3 Mbps. This plan includes a data cap of 1 TB per month and does not require a contract.

Data Caps & Policies

One important thing to note about Cox's internet plans is their data cap policy. Unlike some other internet service providers that simply slow down speeds when customers exceed their data limit, Cox charges overage fees. However, Cox's data caps are set fairly high, with most plans offering a monthly data limit of 1.25 TB, which is more than enough for most households.

The Bottom Line: Is Going Contractless Right For You?

In conclusion, choosing to go contractless for your internet service is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re still considering whether you should go contractless or not, it’s useful to recall the following benefits it offers:

• No cancellation or early termination fees
• Flexibility to switch providers or plans without penalty
• Easier to manage if you are likely to move residences in the near future
• More cost-effective if you only need internet for a short period of time
• Gives you the opportunity to try out different providers and plans to find the best fit for you.

It is also important to have a clear understanding of your internet usage and to match it with the available options provided by service providers in your area.

Want to find the best internet service provider for you? We recommend visiting Broadband Search. Their internet provider search tool can help you compare prices, features, and plans from multiple internet service providers in your area.