When it comes to selecting an internet service provider (ISP), two popular options for many households and businesses are iMon and Mediacom. Both companies offer high-speed internet access, but they differ in services, availability, reputation, and pricing.
This comprehensive guide examines the key features, pros and cons of iMon and Mediacom to help you determine which ISP is the better choice for your needs.
| Feature | iMon | Mediacom |
| Max Download Speed | 1000 Mbps | 1000 Mbps |
| Max Upload Speed | 50 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
| Contract Terms | None | 1 or 2 years |
| Data Caps | None | 1 TB/month |
| Modem Rental | $10/month | $14/month |
| Avg. Monthly Cost | $40-80 | $50-150 |
iMon is a growing regional fiber optic internet provider founded in 2005 and based in Iowa. The company operates its own high-speed fiber network offering symmetrical gigabit connections up to 1000 Mbps download and upload speeds to select areas.
Founded in 1995 and based in New York, Mediacom is one of the largest cable internet providers in the U.S. Mediacom offers high-speed cable internet to homes and businesses with availability in over 22 states.
Internet download and upload speeds are a top priority for most home and business users. Fiber optic providers like iMon can offer faster symmetrical speeds where downloads and uploads are equally fast.
Mediacom’s cable network relies on shared bandwidth in local areas so heavy neighborhood usage can impact speeds during peak evening times. While gigabit downloads are advertised, real-world sustained speeds for simultaneous devices tend to be lower compared to fiber.
iMon also limits upload speeds to 50 Mbps across plans, meaning slower uploads for transferring data to cloud storage or servers. For businesses uploading and sharing large files, iMon’s upload constraint puts them behind true fiber providers.
A major consideration when selecting an internet provider is availability at your location. iMon’s fiber optic network is only available in select regions of Iowa. Availability can even be limited in certain towns and neighborhoods.
In contrast, Mediacom has broad availability spanning 22 states across the Midwest, Southeast, and smaller regions on both coasts. The large cable provider can offer service to many more households and businesses than the regional iMon.
Those moving within Mediacom’s coverage range can likely switch between locations and maintain service. iMon users would need to verify availability or select a new provider when moving outside of Iowa.
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Mediacom requires new customers to agree to standard one or two year contracts to receive promotional pricing for service. Early termination of these contracts results in fees around $10-15 multiplied by the number of months remaining.
iMon internet plans do not impose contracts or commitments on subscribers. You can cancel anytime without penalty. This contract-free approach provides flexibility if you need to pause or discontinue service.
Both ISPs charge activation and installation fees for new service. Mediacom also tacks on modem rental fees starting at $14/month and sometimes additional outlet charges. iMon has a flat $10/month modem rental fee.
Mediacom imposes data caps limiting how much data you can use each month without extra charges. Caps range from 150-1000 GB per month depending on speed tiers. Exceeding the cap results in $10 overage fees for each additional 50 GB block.
iMon fiber internet plans do not enforce defined data caps. This allows you to use as much data as needed without worrying about overage fees. For heavy bandwidth uses like video streaming, gaming downloads, and multiple users, iMon can provide more data flexibility.
Mediacom offers customers the option to bundle internet service with cable TV, home phone, and mobile plans for discounted package pricing. Bundling multiple services through a single provider can potentially be more convenient and affordable.
As a smaller regional company, iMon does not provide bundles for TV or mobile service. Subscribers can only bundle basic internet and home phone plans. For customers wanting a wider range of bundled services, Mediacom would be the better choice.
Both Mediacom and iMon provide 24/7 customer support via phone, online chat, and through account management websites and apps. However, Mediacom has faced many complaints over poor customer service experiences including long phone wait times and unhelpful representatives.
iMon subscribers report more positive experiences with helpful customer service and quick issue resolution. As a local company, iMon can also provide more personalized support. Wait times tend to be shorter for both phone and online chat support.
Mediacom is equipped to offer competitive introductory pricing for the first year ranging from $50-150 per month. Regular pricing after promotions can jump significantly higher for continued service unless subscribers negotiate new deals.
Without contracts, iMon has consistent transparent pricing starting around $40 per month for the lowest speed tier. Gigabit fiber plans cost $80 per month. Taxes and fees are included without extra surprises. This straightforward pricing can make budgeting easier.
For the lowest monthly costs, iMon provides better long-term value. Mediacom promotions can be very affordable initially but require savvy consumers to keep pricing low after the first year.
Mediacom is ranked among the worst ISPs based on consumer satisfaction surveys and complaints. The large corporation faces criticism for poor customer service, network reliability issues, and frustrating billing practices. These complaints have earned Mediacom very low satisfaction scores.
As a local ISP focused on Iowa communities, iMon enjoys a better reputation and higher satisfaction from customers. The company emphasizes community involvement and reliable customer service. Subscribers appreciate their fair policies and pricing.
Mediacom Communications Corporation is the 5th largest cable provider in the U.S. The company is privately owned by the Commisso family and headquartered in New York state.
Mediacom offers fast internet speeds at competitive introductory prices. However, the brand is notorious for poor customer satisfaction and service issues. Surveys consistently rank them as one of the worst ISPs for consumer experience.
In terms of speed and availability, Mediacom competes well with Xfinity which is the largest cable ISP. But Xfinity/Comcast generally scores better for customer satisfaction due to more reliable service and better support.
Mediacom charges $14 per month to rent a cable modem. You can avoid this fee by purchasing your own compatible DOCSIS 3.1 modem. Make sure to confirm the approved model list with Mediacom if opting to use your own device.
Also Read: Differences Between WOW And Comcast.
When considering iMon and Mediacom for your home or business internet needs, weigh factors like availability, speed consistency, data caps, contracts, reputation, and affordability. For seamless connectivity with greater data freedom, contract flexibility, and better customer satisfaction, iMon Fiber is the superior choice in regions where available.
Mediacom does offer wider availability and bundled plans but with the trade-off of slower performance, overage fees, required contracts, and poor reputation. Carefully examine the pros and cons aligned with your specific requirements.
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