MetroNet vs Smithville - Comparison of Two Fiber Internet Providers in United States

There is no comparison to fiber internet service when it comes to residential internet connections.

Fiber is an essential component of a broadband diet. An internet connection built from fiber optic cables, which transmit data in pulses of light, can deliver up to gigabit download and upload speeds.

The greatest advantage of fiber is its ability to deliver faster speeds over longer distances in comparison to copper-based networks such as cable internet and digital subscriber line (DSL) internet. It is easily possible to get ten times the speed of a cable internet connection with a fiber optic line.

The fastest internet option for home use is fiber optic cable, but it is not widely available. As fiber optics are extremely costly to install directly on houses, it is not surprising that even major cities are still primarily served by cable.

However, still, there are 760 million households that have fiber access in the U.S., which makes up 43% of all households. In this comparison guide, we’ll analyze two fiber internet providers in the United States MetroNet and . We’ll compare them on the basis of plans, pricing, bundles, and contracts so US residents to whom the services of these providers are available can make an informed decision when choosing between the two.

MetroNet Vs Smithville – A General Comparison

MetroNet Internet offers a variety of download speeds, so customers can select a plan that fits their needs, whereas Smithville offers a single fiber internet plan. Both providers do not impose data caps on their plans, although that is a given with fiber internet services.

and Smithville both offer consistent symmetrical download and upload speeds in all areas they serve. This is because both providers deliver their fiber optic services over a 100% fiber-optic infrastructure.

MetroNet Vs Smithville – Availability

A total of 1.5 million residents across North Central and Midwest regions can access . Over 90 towns and cities in seven states can access MetroNet Internet. In contrast, about 63,000 Indiana residents have access to Smithville Fiber. Both are relatively small ISPs as compared to other large providers in the United States. Besides that, both have higher serviceability in Indiana. However, MetroNet provides its fiber internet services to a much larger group of subscribers and ranks as the 10th largest fiber internet service provider in the United States.

MetroNet Vs Smithville – Plans and Pricing

Smithville Fiber

MetroNet Internet Plans

As we mentioned earlier, Smithville provides one fiber internet plan with a download speed of 1 Gbps, while MetroNet offers plans with different speeds catering to the different needs of its customers. If we compare the fiber internet plan offered by Smithville with MetroNet’s 1 Gbps plan, both offer the same download speeds, so there’s not much to lose or win there. But if we talk about the price. There is a $10 difference between the promo price of both plans and a whopping $20 difference between the regular price. This means that Smithville fiber internet services are less expensive as compared to MetroNet fiber internet services.

MetoNet Vs Smithville - Additional Fees & Contracts

Contracts

With Smithville fiber internet, there are no long-term contracts unless the customer prefers one. It is possible to subscribe without signing a contract. Moreover, you can also opt for a long-term agreement to receive additional benefits. Customers will be charged early termination fees if they cancel their contracts or breach them in any other way prior to the end of their contracts. As a termination fee, the customer will be required to pay the total amount they would have paid at the end of their agreement.

MetroNet also does not require you to sign a contract. Instead, you will pay the standard rate month-to-month after the special promotion has ended. Moreover, if you decide to discontinue service for some reason, you will not be charged an early termination fee. This is particularly beneficial for students and renters.

MetroNet also offers a contract buyout option to new or returning MetroNet residential customers. Based on the final bill from the former provider, the total buyout credit will be determined, although it should not exceed $150.

Installation and Equipment

Customers are charged a one-time activation fee of $25 when they sign up for service for the first time. In certain cases, it may be necessary to pay for the first few months of service in advance. Internet service is subject to a pre-wire charge ($125 for ILECs and $300 for CLECs), but this can be waived under certain circumstances.

MetroNet on the other hand charges a Technology Fee of $9.95 which applies to all MetroNet Fiber plans. This mandatory flat monthly fee covers service calls, technician fees, or damages to MetroNet equipment or wiring both inside and outside your home. Other than that, a $4.95/mo Paper Billing fee also applies. It also charges an installation fee of $25, but you can reduce it by setting up automatic payments from a savings or checking account.

Nevertheless, MetroNet does not charge a separate fee for the wireless router – it is a part of the MetroNet package when you subscribe to the service.

Bundles

Although Smithville Internet plans are available on their own, it makes sense to bundle them with home phone service. Smithville Voice gives you unlimited nationwide calling, which means you'll save every month on your cellular bill.

Furthermore, you'll be able to receive 911 location accuracy, which is a great feature. Also, you'll save when you bundle voice and internet services together. The Smithville Fiber + Voice Bundle costs $72/mo. and offers symmetrical speeds of 1 Gbps alongside Smithville Voice services.

On the other hand, MetroNet offers MetroNet Fiber TV and MetroNet fiber phone services that can be bundled with its internet services. MetroNet fiber phone services offer 17 calling features and when bundled with MetroNet fiber TV and internet services, will cost up to $4.95 for the first 12 months.

MetroNet Vs Smithville – Which Fiber Internet Service Is Better For You?

You may be thinking, which fiber internet service provider will be the right pick for you. Although the unique selling points of both MetroNet and Smithville are not vastly different from one another. And whatever difference there may be, the other provider makes up for it by offering something the one doesn’t. For instance, is relatively cheaper, while MetroNet offers a range of download speeds, so subscribers can choose the one that will support their online activities.

With that being said, it all comes down to what you are using the internet for. If your household consists of two-three people who use the internet for streaming TV shows and some basic online activities, then the 200 Mbps package may be sufficient for you. If you want professional advice from an expert, who will not only take into account your internet needs but also your budget, call us at and let us assist you in making an informed decision about which provider’s services to subscribe to.

Frequently Asked Question

Is Smithville fiber internet cheaper than MetroNet internet?

Yes, the plan that offers a download speed of 1 Gbps is cheaper than the MetroNet 1 Gbps plan.

Is there a MetroNet discount?

For new customers, MetroNet Communications offers promotional prices on fiber internet services. The offer is valid only for a limited time. To find out which MetroNet promotions are available in your area, please call MetroNet Customer Service, who can inform you about the current promotions.