[2025] Race Communications vs. AT&T Fiber: Which Fiber Internet Provider Should You Choose?
So, you’re trying to decide between AT&T Fiber and Race Communications. But let’s be real, comparing internet providers can feel like trying to decode a legal document. They all promise fast speeds, great deals, and cutting-edge technology, but once you start digging into hidden fees, conditional discounts, and service limitations, things get messy.
In this blog, we’ll break down Race Communications vs. AT&T Fiber, comparing internet speeds, pricing, hidden costs, and customer service, so you can make an informed decision without the headache.
⚠ Heads up! Internet plans, pricing, and promotions change frequently. This blog is based on the most up-to-date information as of February 25, 2025, but always check with your provider for the latest details.
Race Communications vs AT&T Fiber: Overview
Both Race Communications and AT&T Fiber offer top-tier fiber-optic internet, the best type of internet.
Race Communications excels with its straightforward pricing, free professional installation, and strong local customer support, making it a great choice for those seeking a community-focused provider.
AT&T Fiber, on the other hand, combines its fiber internet with extensive wireless services and attractive promotions.
Below, we’ve outlined a brief comparison to help you quickly understand the fundamental differences and similarities between Race Communications and AT&T Fiber:
| Features | Race Communications | AT&T Fiber |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Internet | ✔ | ✔ |
| Phone | ✔ | Wireless only |
| Professional Installation | ✔ | $99 |
| Wi-Fi Extender Rental | $5/month per extender | $10/month per extender |
| No Contracts | ✔ | ✔ |
| No Data Caps | ✔ | ✔ |
| Local Customer Support | ✔ | ✘ |
| Pricing for 500 Mbps | $49.95 | $65 |
| Pricing for 1 Gbps | $59.95 | $80 |
Looking at the table, a few things stand out right away. Both Race Communications and AT&T Fiber offer high-quality fiber internet, which is the best type of internet you can get. But beyond that, the differences start to stack up.
With Race Communications, professional installation is completely free. However, like many internet providers, Race has a fee structure as well. Race applies a Tech Assure Fee of $9.95 per month. This fee covers service calls and repairs for all Race-owned equipment, including wiring inside and outside the home. While it’s a mandatory charge, it’s clear and straightforward: $9.95 per month, and that’s it. It’s designed to ensure that you don’t face additional charges for repairs or service calls related to Race’s equipment, providing you with peace of mind.
AT&T Fiber, however, has a confusing and costly fee structure. Their official legal page lists a $99 installation fee, but their Broadband Facts document claims it’s $0. So which one is it?
If you’re considering AT&T, you might want to double-check before signing up – just to make sure you don’t get hit with an unexpected charge.
And it doesn’t stop there. If you opt for self-installation but need assistance, AT&T charges $99. Want a technician to install it for you? That’ll be $150. Need a service repair in the future? That’s another $150 just to get a technician to your home. Think you’re paying just $99 for installation? Not so fast! If you need a technician to install your AT&T Fiber, it could actually cost you $150. Need a service repair later? That’s another $150 just to get a truck to your house. Oh, and even ‘self-installation’ can cost you $99 if you need assistance.
Meanwhile, Race Communications offers free next-day service appointments. No extra fees, no service delays. If something goes wrong, you get fast, free support instead of an extra bill. No surprises, no fine print.
And let’s talk about customer support, where Race Communications really stands out. With Race, you get local, real-person support, not just a massive call center where you’re stuck on hold forever. AT&T is a big national provider, which means customer support might not always feel as personal or responsive. If you prefer talking to a real person who knows your area and can quickly resolve issues, Race has the edge.
Race Communications vs AT&T Fiber: Plan & Pricing Comparison
When evaluating the internet plans that best suit your needs and budget, both Race Communications and AT&T Fiber present a range of options.
In short:
- Race Communications is the more affordable fiber internet provider.
- AT&T Fiber offers a wider range of speed tiers to choose from.
- Race Communications provides the fastest internet speed available (10 Gbps).
Comparing Internet Plans and Pricing
| Speed Tier | Race Communications | AT&T Fiber* |
|---|---|---|
| 300 Mbps | $35 | $55 |
| 500 Mbps | $49.95 | $65 |
| 1 Gbps | $59.95 | $80 |
| 2 Gbps | $145 | |
| 5 Gbps | $245 | |
| 10 Gbps | $120 |
*The price reflects a $10/month discount, which begins within two billing cycles, when you enroll in paperless billingand AutoPay using a debit card or bank account.
Please note: Speeds, pricing, and availability of internet plans may vary based on your location.
Race Communications consistently offers lower pricing across its internet speed tiers. For example:
- The 500 Mbps plan (Internet 500) costs $49.95/month, while AT&T charges $65/month. That’s $15/month in savings.
- The 1 Gbps plan (Gigabit Internet) is $59.95/month with Race, compared to $80/month with AT&T. Over a year, that’s $240 more with AT&T for the same speed.
What’s even more noticeable? AT&T doesn’t offer a 300 Mbps plan, meaning customers must start at 500 Mbps for $65/month, potentially paying for more speed than they actually need. Meanwhile, Race provides a budget-friendly Internet 300 for just $35/month, making fiber internet more accessible.
If you’re looking for ultra-fast speeds, Race Communications wins big on pricing. AT&T’s 2 Gbps plan costs $145/month and 5 Gbps jumps to $245/month, but they don’t even list a price for 10 Gbps.
Race, on the other hand, offers 10 Gigabit Internet for just $120/month, cheaper than AT&T’s 2 Gbps plan and over $100 less than their 5 Gbps option. That’s massive savings for power users, gamers, and businesses that rely on high-performance internet.
Mobile App Comparison: Race CommandIQ® vs. Smart Home Manager App
Both Race CommandIQ® and AT&T’s Smart Home Manager are packed with features to help you manage your home Wi-Fi network. Here’s a quick rundown of what each app offers to help you decide which one suits you best.
Similarities:
- NETWORK MANAGEMENT. Both apps allow users to manage their home Wi-Fi networks, including monitoring connected devices and managing user profiles.
- PARENTAL CONTROLS. Both provide features to set up and manage parental controls, such as screen time limits, content filtering, and user profile management..
- GUEST NETWORK. Both apps enable users to create a separate guest network to keep the main network secure.
- SPEED TESTS. Both apps include tools to run speed tests and monitor the network’s performance.
- SECURITY FEATURES. Both include built-in security features.
Race CommandIQ® offers ProtectIQ, which provides network security against viruses, malware, and phishing attempts.
AT&T Smart Home Manager includes ActiveArmor for enhanced security features, such as VPN, threat activity dashboard, and ID monitoring, available for $7/month.
Differences:
- DEVICE PRIORITIZATION. Race CommandIQ® allows for device prioritization, enabling users to prioritize bandwidth to specific devices for optimal performance.
- VIRTUAL ASSISTANT. AT&T Smart Home Manager includes a built-in virtual assistant for troubleshooting and support without needing to call customer service.
- COSTS. Race CommandIQ® includes security features like ProtectIQ at no extra cost, whereas AT&T charges an additional $7/month for ActiveArmor.
Summary:
- Both apps offer extensive network management capabilities, parental controls, guest network features, speed tests, and user-friendly interfaces.
- Race CommandIQ® stands out with device prioritization and included security features.
- AT&T Smart Home Manager distinguishes itself with a virtual assistant, more comprehensive management tools, and advanced security features available at an additional cost.
Choosing the right app depends on your specific needs. For more details, you can explore the Race CommandIQ® and AT&T Smart Home Manager websites.
Race Communications vs. AT&T Fiber: Final Verdict
Both Race Communications and AT&T Fiber are fiber internet providers. However, there are key differences that may influence your choice.
While both providers offer robust fiber internet options, Race Communications stands out for those seeking the highest possible speeds, strong local support, and community engagement.
AT&T Fiber offers a compelling option for users looking for a nationwide provider with wireless phone bundles.
Consider what matters most to you in terms of speed, support, and additional services when making your choice.
FAQs
Is Race Communications available everywhere?
Race focuses on areas where it can deliver its fiber-optic network.
See the Race Communications Service Areas here.
What is Race Communications customer support like?
Race’s community-focused approach may offer more personalized service than Spectrum’s larger operations.