Ever since the commercialization of the internet in the early 1990s, it has become so ubiquitous that it’s almost impossible to imagine a life without it. With the rise of smart appliances, some microwaves need the internet to function. So, let’s say you’re in the US and are shopping around for the best internet service provider for your needs. This article explores two of the top ISPs in the country and puts them on a weighing scale to help you make the best decision for your needs. Ready? Let’s discuss Nomad Internet vs Kinetic by Windstream.
Nomad Internet
As the name suggests, Nomad Internet offers mobile and rural internet solutions. The company is the prime choice for many RVers, travelers, and rural businesses/dwellers across the United States. Below are some of the reasons that make it particularly attractive to its users.
- Low Latency and High Speed
For non-techies, latency describes the delay that happens when a user takes an action on a web application (e.g., an online game or browser) and when they get a response. With an average latency of 20-30 ms, Nomad Internet is fast.
- Flexible
If you are into freedom from corporate deception, then you’ll love Nomad. Their pricing is fully transparent, and their basic plan even comes with a free modem. You won’t be locked in long-term contracts and can pause and resume service as needed without penalty.
- Far-reaching
The thing is, most of the rural US is not wired up for the internet. Nomad offers an innovative workaround by delivering internet service via pre-existing cellphone networks. This ensures stable internet access even in the remotest of places covered by the ISP.
- Unlimited Data
Did someone say data caps? With Nomad’s unlimited data plans, you’ll never have to worry about hitting your monthly cap. Enjoy unlimited internet with no throttling at 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps speeds.
Kinetic by Windstream
Kinetic is yet another ISP that’s targeted towards the rural population. Primarily, it distributes its internet via DSL and fiber-optic cables. Their primary target is residential and businesses located in their coverage area. Below are some of the reasons you might consider their service.
- High Speeds
Kinetic’s basic plan offers speeds of up to 500 Mbps. With additional plans featuring speeds as high as 8 Gbps, the company is an excellent choice for anyone with speed as their main concern.
- Bundling Options
Besides internet services, Kinetic also offers TV and phone services as add-ons. Compared to traditional companies, these add-ons are pretty affordable since you only have to top up a small amount of your internet subscription.
- No Contract
Don’t worry about long-term contracts. Kinetic allows users to purchase monthly subscription plans that can be adjusted, canceled, and renewed without surcharges. Simply, payments are flexible and can be easily automated.
- No Data Caps
Kinetic also offers unlimited data plans. With your monthly subscription, you can enjoy using the internet as much as you like without worrying your speeds will start getting throttled once you hit your cap.
Nomad Internet vs Kinetic
While both options look great at first glance, a deep dive exposes several major differences you might want to consider.
- Availability
Because of their mode of distribution (via cellphone networks), Nomad Internet is more far-reaching than Kinetic. The latter is only available in 18 states and areas with the wired infrastructure needed to support it.
- Transparency
While Kinetic’s plans are cheaper, they exclude modem rental fees. In comparison, Nomad Internet offers a free modem with its most basic plan. Kinetic Giga speed options are only available in a few select areas.
- Cost
No matter where you are in the country, the cost of your Nomad Internet plan stays the same. With Kinetic, however, prices vary based on location.
- Flexibility
Since Kinetic requires a fixed address, mobile users like travelers and RVers will find Nomad Internet to be the better option. This is in addition to residents and businesses in far-flung places that only have cellphone connectivity.
Conclusion
A careful analysis of your unique situation is important before you make your pick. If you lived in one of the 18 states covered by Kinetic and are near the necessary infrastructure, their solution might be more sensible. However, Nomad Internet is the better option for true rural areas and digital nomads who want all the trappings of high-speed Internet. With low latency, flexible plans, and unlimited data, Nomad is made with just you in mind.