100 Mbps Fiber vs 375 Mbps Cable: Which Is Faster?

When comparing 100 Mbps fiber internet to 375 Mbps cable internet, the answer often depends on what you are experiencing and what factors you prioritize. It's important to clarify that these speeds represent different things: fiber refers to upload and download bandwidth, while cable might not always meet these expectations.

Understanding Speed vs. Bandwidth

First, let's clarify the difference between speed and bandwidth. Bandwidth refers to the capacity of your internet connection, or how much data can be transmitted at once. Speed, on the other hand, is often understood to mean how fast something responds or how quickly data is delivered. When people speak of faster internet, they are usually referring to lower latency, or less delay in responsiveness.

Bandwidth Differences

Typically, a cable modem has a much lower upload capacity compared to a fiber connection. If your activity relies heavily on high upload speeds, and you are consistently hitting those caps with your current internet plan, you might feel that your internet appears slower. Conversely, fiber connections often do not face these limitations, offering more consistent speeds and reliability.

Over-subscription and Latency

Cable connections are often more oversubscribed, meaning the bandwidth is shared among more users. This can lead to significant slowdowns during peak usage times, such as evenings and weekends. However, fiber connections generally have lower latency, which can make all the difference for activities like gaming, where quick responsiveness is critical.

Real Usage Scenarios

For most everyday tasks, such as streaming videos, browsing the web, or playing a multi-player RPG on a gaming console, the 100 Mbps download speed is usually more than sufficient. Activities that use less than 100 Mbps, such as downloading files, checking emails, or utilizing cloud services, will not notice any significant difference between 100 Mbps and 375 Mbps connections.

Specific Scenarios

While fiber connections are generally considered superior, specific circumstances can influence your decision. Factors such as infrastructure, location, and personal needs can play a role. In urban areas, fiber infrastructure might be more robust, offering consistently better performance. However, in rural or less developed areas, cable might still provide reliable service.

Understanding the Test Results

It's important to understand that the peak speeds quoted (100 Mbps for fiber and 375 Mbps for cable) represent the peak capacity, not the actual speed you will consistently experience. In real-world usage, the speed might be much lower due to various factors, including service-level agreements and actual testing of the internet connection.

For a more accurate test of your current internet speed, you can use an Internet Speed Test. It is advisable to test your connection at different times of the day, as speed can vary depending on the time and day, particularly on weekdays versus weekends, and during peak hours versus off-peak hours.

Bottom line: In most cases, a fiber connection is preferable due to its lower latency and higher reliability. However, it's crucial to consider your specific needs and circumstances to make an informed decision.