Searching for the Best DSL Provider

My Quest for Speed, Savings, and the Perfect Router

With my DSL contract expiring soon and the holiday season approaching, I decided it was the perfect time to scout for new internet service offers. The DSL market is fiercely competitive, with providers rolling out enticing deals to grab market share. So, why not take advantage of this and see if I could land a better package — maybe even a shiny new router as a bonus? This is me searching for the Best DSL Provider.

The Hunt for the Perfect DSL Router

Currently, I’m using a freenetKomplett 16000 plan, which has served me well. However, my tech enthusiast side can’t resist the allure of upgrading my router. I have my eye on the FRITZ!Box 7270 by AVM, a powerful device packed with features that would be a welcome upgrade from my current FRITZ!Box 7170. I love the 7170 for its versatility, but it lacks a USB 2.0 port — a small limitation that could be easily solved with an upgrade.

The challenge? Finding a provider that includes the FRITZ!Box 7270 in their offer. Most providers list generic “DSL router with telephony and Wi-Fi” options, leaving me guessing about the actual model. Fortunately, 1&1 offers exactly what I want — though under a different name, the “1&1 HomeServer.” This rebranding creates a bit of confusion, but at least I know I’d be getting my desired router with them.

Comparing the Deals

I compiled a list of must-have features for my new DSL plan:

• Complete DSL package with no need for a separate Telekom line.
• High speed of 16,000 kbps (fast enough for streaming, downloading, and gaming).
• Flat-rate internet and landline calls within Germany, so I don’t have to worry about overages.
• Extra perks are welcome but not essential.

With these criteria in mind, I created a comparison table of some of the most popular nationwide DSL providers and their current packages:

Key Takeaways

After digging into the details, here’s what stood out:

• Strato (now part of Deutsche Telekom) offers the cheapest option for my desired features, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious users.
• Kabel Deutschland has the fastest available speed, clocking in at 32,000 kbps — perfect for heavy downloaders and streamers.
• 1&1 is the only provider that includes the FRITZ!Box router I want, though it’s rebranded as the “1&1 HomeServer.”
• T-Com offers virtually no perks and is the most expensive, but it remains a solid choice for those looking for reliability.

Note that this list focuses only on providers with nationwide availability. Local providers might offer different packages, but I kept my search broad for comparison purposes.

The Rise of IPTV and Other Perks

While I was comparing plans, I stumbled upon an interesting trend — many DSL providers are expanding into IPTV. With traditional cable providers like Kabel Deutschland and Kabel BW now offering DSL services, telecom companies are responding by bundling television services with internet packages. This convergence of services could be a game-changer, offering customers a one-stop-shop for internet, phone, and TV.

Another popular feature among providers is the free SIM card with mobile minutes. Many plans include free mobile calls to landlines, which could eliminate the need for a landline phone flat rate altogether. It’s a smart way to cut costs, especially if you’re like me and make most of your calls from your mobile anyway.

Final Thoughts

After gathering all this information, I’m leaning toward 1&1 because they offer the FRITZ!Box router I want, plus a good mix of features and incentives. However, I’ll hold off on making a final decision until closer to the holidays. Many providers release special seasonal deals, and I don’t want to miss out on a potential bargain.

This process has shown me just how many options are out there — and how much you can save by taking the time to compare plans. If you’re in the market for a new DSL provider, I highly recommend doing a bit of research and considering your needs carefully. With new offerings like IPTV and mobile perks, today’s DSL plans are about more than just internet speed.

I’ll keep you posted on my decision as new deals roll in. Stay tuned for updates, and happy hunting if you’re also in the market for a new DSL provider!

Images: avm.de