Cable internet versus DSL
Numerous people have trouble deciding between DSL and cable internet. Consumers want to select the best broadband connection at the lowest prices, but the many different packages offered by ISPs only end up confusing them even more. As a result, this confusion will cause consumers to shy away in trying to understand and just sign up for the first broadband service they see. In this article, the most frequent questions will be answered to assist you in making an informed decision.
Cable Speed
Cable connection is almost always faster than residential DSL and has the ability to download at speeds of 20 mbps if you chose one of the fastest plans. Despite the proclamations to allow really fast download speed, cable customers will possibly not experience this type of performance. This is because your neighbors will be sharing the connecton with you so the speed will be affected. As a result, you’ll experience a steeper decrease in speed during peak hours. Although you will be sharing the cable bandwidth with your neighbors, you will probably not notice a drop in performance wild checking your email and surfing normally.
DSL Speed
Although DSL can sometimes be faster than cable, internet providers usually supply ADSL which is slower than cable. Basic DSL connection is usually limted to speeds of 384 to 768kbps while faster DSL connections permit speeds of 6 mbps or more. Contrary to the cable internet network, you do not share your connection with neighbors so your DSL speed remains pretty consistent. Distance between your home and your DSL provider is a very important factor because distance will have an adverse effect on your DSL’s performance.
Cable Price
Cable internet is normally more expensive than DSL connection because it’s faster. Cable prices can cost from $40 to $60 a month depending on the plan of your choice. If getting cable TV and a home phone is part of your plan, you can save money by ordering internet and both of these services in a special package from the same cable company.
DSL Price
Just like cable internet, DSL can have varying costs depending on the speeds that you select, but you can expect prices to be generally lower than cable. You can expect to pay a monthly amount of $20 to $20 for DSL. Like cable, some DSL providers like AT&T also provide internet, TV, and phone deals in a cheaper bundled package. If you are using TV and phone services from a DSL provider and will be getting internet connection from them also, they might have a packaged offer available.
Which one should you get?
Despite some minor drawbacks, both internet connections are very reliable with good enough speed to work for different users. With that said, if you enjoy playing onling games and downloading movies, you might want to consider cable although it might cost you a little extra. The average DSL connection can hold its own for casual games and movies, but expect to move up to the next speed level or switch to cable if you plan on doing lots of downloading.
Check for Cable and DSL internet availability to see where you are located in terms of distance to the ISP and do some cost-benefit analysis so you can decide which internet connection gives you the most bang for your buck.
