Cox vs. Windstream

Is Cox or Windstream better for you?

Check out how Windstream and Cox stack up when it comes to internet plans, TV channel options, customer service ratings and more. Depending on where you live and what you need at home, you may find that either Cox or Windstream is a better provider for you.

• Best for internet plan variety: Cox offers more standalone internet plans and speeds than Windstream. Cox has 10 Mbps, 30 Mbps, 150 Mbps, 500 Mbps and 1,000 Mbps plans where available.
• Best for no-contract, unlimited data plans: Windstream offers internet plans without data caps or contract requirements.
• Best for internet customer satisfaction: According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). Both Cox and Windstream scored a 61/100 for internet service in 2020.

Cox vs. Windstream availability

Cox offers internet, TV and home phone services in select areas of 18 states while Windstream advertises internet and phone service in select areas of 19 states. Though Windstream offers service in more states, Cox is available to more than twice the number of households as Windstream — Cox covers 6.75% of U.S. households compared to Windstream’s 2.67%, according to the Federal Communications Commission.

Cox service areas are localized to metropolitan areas across the U.S. and include parts of the eastern, southern, central and western U.S. Windstream is available in more suburban or rural areas, covering much of the southern, central and eastern U.S.

Regions where the two providers overlap include eastern Nebraska, central Oklahoma, northern Florida, southern Georgia, parts of Arkansas and regions of some other states. Click to find internet plans from Cox, Windstream or other providers in your area.

When it comes to overall availability, Cox takes the cake with three times the availability offered by Windstream. If you’re looking for service in your area, you’re far more likely to find Cox services offered near your residence. 

Cox vs. Windstream cheap internet plans

Where Cox and Windstream are both available, the cheapest internet plan will almost always be from Cox. In select regions of the country though, like Lincoln, NE, Windstream may offer cheaper internet deals if you’re lucky enough to be located in one of those areas.

• Cox cheapest internet plan

  • $29.99/mo.* for up to 10 Mbps
  • $2.99/Mbps
  • $9.99/mo.* Panoramic Wi-Fi router rental (optional)
  • $75 professional installation, $20 for self-installation
  • No internet activation fee
  • 1-year term agreement

• Windstream cheapest internet plan

  • $19.99/mo.* for up to 25 Mbps
  • $0.80/Mbps
  • Internet modem lease $9.99/mo.*
  • $35 setup and installation fee (optional)
  • $50 internet activation fee
  • No monthly term agreement

 *Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. As of 07/08/20.

Remember that the cheapest plan doesn’t mean the best value. In select areas, you can get Windstream internet speeds up to 200 Mbps for around the same price as Cox’s 30 Mbps plan. Plus, Windstream offers free professional installation for select internet plans while Cox charges for both self-installation and professional installation.

Both Cox and Windstream give you the option to use your own modem and router, which could save you on monthly internet costs. Check out Cox compatible modems and routers and Windstream compatible modems and routers. Keep in mind that using your own router will limit your service capabilities and access to technical support.

Unique provider services we love

• Cox offers Cox Homelife

  Cox Homelife gives you the ability to monitor your home’s security devices and other smart home technology from the convenience of your mobile device. Plus, with qualifying bundles, you can enjoy free equipment like a home monitoring camera. Save energy and manage your home security system on-the-go with Cox’s unique security and home automation service.

• Windstream 30-day money back guarantee and bill credit

  Windstream offers customers a 30-day money back guarantee so you can get all service charges, equipment fees and installation costs fully refunded. In select areas, Windstream also gives new customers a one-time bill credit.