Fees and fine print Compare plans
Starry Internet is a relatively new option for internet service, offering fixed-wireless service as an alternative to AT&T’s DSL and Fiber internet in urban areas like Los Angeles.
Starry is mostly offered in apartment buildings, while AT&T focuses on single-family homes and duplexes. While AT&T offers the highest speed with their fiber interet services, it’s not common for them to offer fiber at the same buildings where Starry has 200 Mbps fixed wireless service.
Therefore, Starry is usually the better option, for buildings choosing between Starry and AT&T. We recomend that you check for AT&T gigabit service, and if it’s not available, go with Starry.
AT&T vs Starry Internet Basic Features
| Feature | AT&T Internet | Starry Internet |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $55/mo. flat rate | $50/mo. flat rate |
| Download speed range | 5–5,000 Mbps | 200 Mbps |
| Upload speed range | 1–5,000 Mbps | 200 Mbps |
| Network type | DSL, Fiber | Fixed Wireless |
| Contract terms | Contract-free | Contract-free |
View AT&T Internet Plans → View Starry Plans →
AT&T vs Starry Data Usage Policies
Many internet providers in California use data caps to manage their network, meaning that if you use more than a certain amount of data, you will be charged extra on top of your monthly bill.
Starry offers unlimited data usage, making them a good choice for cord-cutters and younger buyers who don’t want legacy cable or paid TV services.
AT&T removed data caps for DSL and IPBB customers during the initial Covid-19 lockdowns, but as of 2024 the caps have been reinstated.
AT&T does not have data caps in California. Starry offers unlimited plans with no data caps.
AT&T offers internet plans with unlimited data
Starry offers internet plans with unlimited data
AT&T vs Starry Net Neutrality Policies
AT&T has a statement of support for Net Neutrality on their policy website, but has remained quiet on the topic of future paid prioritization for certain services.
Starry Internet maintains a detailed page on their website describing their traffic treatment in regards to Net Neutrality.
AT&T vs Starry Pricing and Fees
Here is a breakdown of how common add-on fees compare for AT&T and Starry plans. These types of fees are common with internet providers, and can result in larger bill each month.
Starry is the clear winner here, since they emphasis “fee-free service” as their primary differentiator. While AT&T tacks on numerous fees and raises the price for basic internet service after the first year by 20% or more, Starry offers flat-rate service and doesn’t add on to the price or change the price after you’re “on the hook.”
This policy has won them substantial goodwill with customers in the LA area, who are often very frustrated with pricing changes after years with only Spectrum or AT&T.
| Fee | AT&T | Starry |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi equipment fee | ~$0/mo. | Free |
| Price increases | Flat rate | Flat rate |
| Early Termination Fee | Free cancellation | Free cancellation |
Note that fee amounts described above may vary by plan. See the plan comparison tables for AT&T and Starry below for more information.
AT&T vs Starry Internet-Only Plan Comparison
Both providers have flat rate pricing, so you only need to consider fees and add-on services when purchasing service.
AT&T DSL Internet Plans
| Plan Name | Download Speed | Promo Price | Final Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet 25 | 25 Mbps | $55/mo | $65 |
| Fiber Internet 300 | 300 Mbps | $55/mo | $55 |
| Fiber Internet 500 | 500 Mbps | $65/mo | $65 |
| Fiber Internet 1000 | 1000 Mbps | $80/mo | $80 |
| Fiber Internet 2000 | 2000 Mbps | $125/mo | $150 |
| Fiber Internet 5000 | 5000 Mbps | $225/mo | $250 |
AT&T Fiber Internet Plans
| Plan Name | Download Speed | Promo Price | Final Price |
|---|
Starry Internet Plans
| Plan Name | Download Speed | Final Price |
|---|---|---|
| Starry Internet | 200 Mbps | $50 |
