MetroNet

MetroNet is a telecommunications company that provides fiber internet, TV, and phone service in some parts of the Midwest. The majority of MetroNet’s subscribers reside in Indiana, Illinois, and parts of Kentucky. In total, MetroNet’s fiber-optic network reaches approximately 1.5 million people, making it the 10th largest residential fiber provider in the United States. That’s all very impressive, but what does that mean for you?

MetroNet is somewhat new to the ISP world, so let’s take a closer look. Below, we’ll examine MetroNet as a company, provide a breakdown of their prices, give a few recommendations for plans, and answer frequently asked questions about their services.

What to Expect from MetroNet

If you’re a streamer or someone who uploads videos frequently, you’ll have an easier (and faster) time uploading your videos with fiber internet. MetroNet only offers fiber internet, which means that you can expect greater speed and reliability than you could with cable and DSL internet providers. The price for MetroNet’s internet is not the cheapest I’ve ever seen for fiber internet, but it’s not the most expensive either. (You can get a discount on MetroNet internet if you’re a student.)

MetroNet is the best choice in most cities where it is available thanks to its network and reasonable pricing. Competing with cable providers who charge higher prices for the second-best connection type makes it easy for MetroNet to stand out.

Having fiber internet is MetroNet’s best feature, but the company doesn’t offer too many more — they don’t offer any extra plan features besides a Wi-Fi system that can provide signal throughout your home. But even this feature has its limits: You only get it free if you choose MetroNet’s gigabit plan.

A Breakdown of MetroNet’s Plan and Pricing

MetroNet’s internet-only plans range from $49.95 to 69.95 per month, not including the monthly $9.95 Technology Service Fee.

It’s important to note that these are the promotional rates for the first year of service with MetroNet. If you choose to continue using MetroNet internet after the first year, the prices will look more like this after that:

While the standard pricing stays the same for the 100 Mbps plan, you will see an increase in the price per Mbps with every other MetroNet plan. MetroNet’s pricing is a bit higher than I’ve seen for fiber internet. But I don’t mind it since they’re one of the few fiber internet providers in the midwest. Frontier serves the Midwest (with lower prices too), but Frontier’s connections can get shaky outside of major cities.

MetroNet could have a slight advantage over other providers if they didn’t have their technology service fee. To me, the “technology service fee” looks like an equipment fee by a different name. The good news is that the technology service fee is lower than the fees that many of its competitors charge. Extra fees like installation, equipment, data overage fees, and early termination fees (ETFs) can dramatically boost your bill, which is why it’s good to know that MetroNet doesn’t require contracts (meaning no ETFs) and doesn’t have data caps on any plan. MetroNet’s installation fee ($25) is the lowest I’ve seen for any internet provider and easier to waive than with most competitors (just sign up for paperless billing and autopay to get out of the installation fee).

Why Choose MetroNet?

MetroNet internet is ideal for:

• People who want to switch providers
• Remote workers
• Households with “dead zones”
• Gamers, streamers, and cord-cutters

If you live in an area where MetroNet is available, the chances are good that your choice will be between MetroNet and cable or DSL providers — many of which might not even be cheaper than MetroNet’s faster service. Cable internet providers like Xfinity offer great features for streamers and cord cutters, but what good are they when your internet isn’t connecting? Fiber internet doesn’t have as many outages caused by network congestion as cable internet, and that’s a big deal. MetroNet’s plan features may not be the most exciting, but having reliable internet is better than stressing over a slower connection.

Our MetroNet Internet Recommendations

For an Internet-Only Plan…

MetroNet’s up to 1 Gbps plan has the fastest speed and lowest price per Mbps, but the price is higher than I’d recommend anyone pay for internet service. The up to 500 Mbps plan has a lower price overall for way more speed than most households, and even small businesses, need. It’s a great plan for someone regularly hosting events in their home or are planning to have a bigger household. Having too much speed is better than not having enough speed.

For a Bundle Plan…

MetroNet’s TV plans cost more than I’m used to seeing with cable providers. I recommend bundling MetroNet’s up to 200 Mbps plan with their Preferred TV plan. The bundle will cost about $167 a month, but you’ll have access to all the biggest channels. Sports fans can watch the official network for each major league and syndicated networks like ESPN, Fox, and CBS. Families will have enough channels to entertain kids and adults.

Company Summary

You’d think after 15 years of serving, there’d be more to know about MetroNet. The provider is pretty quiet about themselves and how quickly they expand their network. MetroNet’s headquarters is located in Evansville, Indiana.

Frequently Asked Questions About MetroNet

When will MetroNet be in my area?

• MetroNet is continuing to expand its fiber-optic network into new territory. MetroNet services are already available in parts of Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, and Ohio.

How much does MetroNet cost?

• The amount you pay will depend on the type of service and plan you want. For example, internet-only plans range from $49.95-$69.95. MetroNet TV ranges from $17.72-$85.27 per month. MetroNet phone service costs just $9.95 when bundled with an internet-only plan.

Does MetroNet have TV?

• MetroNet offers three fiber TV plans: Standard, Basic, and Preferred. The Basic plan is better for sports fans while the Preferred plan has a variety of channels for all sorts of viewers. MetroNet’s Standard TV plan mostly has local channels and shopping networks.