AT&T Review: Services, Deals, Alternatives, & More

AT&T, one of America’s telecommunications giants, offers many services that have become integral to our daily lives. From mobile phone plans to internet connectivity and TV packages, AT&T has positioned itself as a one-stop shop for communication.

This review guide covers all of AT&T’s service offerings, examining their quality, pricing, and overall value if you are considering subscribing, switching providers, or simply curious about AT&T’s offerings. 

I’ll provide an expert analysis to help you make informed decisions and even save up on your subscription costs. By the end of this guide, you’ll clearly understand AT&T’s strengths and weaknesses and how its services compare to the competition.

AT&T Review Summary: Quick Verdict

AT&T is worth it. It provides great Internet and TV coverage and, with its other supported services, can prove to be a great overall home internet, entertainment, and security solution.  

The table below provides a snapshot of how AT&T performs across its main offerings and my ratings out of 5 for each service offered.

Service	Rating	Key Points
Internet	4/5	Fast fiber options, wide availability, data caps on some plans
Fiber	4.5/5	Symmetrical speeds up to 5 Gbps, reliable performance, limited availability
Wireless	4/5	Extensive 5G coverage, competitive plans, good device selection
TV	3.5/5	DIRECTV integration, diverse channel lineup, can be pricey
Customer Service	3/5	Multiple support channels, but experiences can vary

AT&T shines in its internet and wireless offerings, particularly with its available fiber internet. The company’s extensive 5G network and competitive mobile plans make it a strong contender in the wireless market. 

While AT&T’s TV services offer a wide range of options, they can be expensive compared to streaming alternatives. Customer service can be hit or miss, as with many large providers.

In the following sections, I’ll share deeper information on each of these areas, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what AT&T offers and how it might fit your specific needs.

AT&T Offered Services

AT&T (American Telephone and Telegraph) is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world. It offers a wide range of services, primarily focusing on wireless communications, internet services, and digital entertainment. 

Its core offerings include mobile phone services, high-speed internet (including fiber), TV services, and business solutions.

AT&T’s services are widely available across the United States, with its wireless network covering the majority of Americans. Its fiber internet service is continuously expanding and is currently available in select metropolitan areas nationwide. 

It’s traditional internet and TV services have a broader reach, available in numerous states, particularly in the South, Midwest, and parts of the West Coast.

1. Phone Devices

AT&T offers a wide selection of smartphones and mobile devices from leading manufacturers. Customers can choose from the latest iPhones, Samsung Galaxy devices, Google Pixels, and more. 

AT&T offers options for purchasing devices outright, through installment plans, or as part of its upgrade programs. It also offers deals and promotions, often including trade-in options to make new devices more affordable.

Phone Device Payment Plans

Here are the different payment options for getting the phone deals from AT&T:

Plan Type	Details	Monthly Cost
Installment Plan	Device cost spread over 36 months	Varies by device
AT&T Next Up	Upgrade eligible after paying off 33% of the device	Additional $5-$10/mo
Buy Outright	Full price paid upfront	One-time payment

2. AT&T Wireless

AT&T Wireless provides mobile phone services, including talk, text, and data plans. Their network utilizes 4G LTE and 5G technologies, offering widespread coverage across the United States. 

AT&T’s wireless service includes features like mobile hotspot capabilities, international roaming options, and device protection plans. They also offer family plans and options for adding tablets or smartwatches to existing accounts.

AT&T Wireless Plans

For the AT&T wireless plans, you get unlimited calls, texts, and internet, the high speed of which varies depending on the plan chosen.

Plan Name	Data	Price (when taken 4 lines)
Unlimited Premium PL	Unlimited + 60GB hotspot data per line per month	$50.99/line/mo
Unlimited Extra EL	75GB high-speed data + 30GB hotspot data per line per month	$40.99/line/mo
Unlimited Starter SL	Unlimited + 5GB hotspot data per line per month	$35.99/line/mo

Features

• 5G access on all unlimited plans
• Mobile hotspot (varies by plan)
• AT&T ActiveArmor security
• International texting to 200+ countries
• 4K UHD streaming (on higher-tier plans)
• Unlimited talk, text, and data in Mexico and Canada (on select plans)

AT&T’s wireless plans are designed to cater to various needs, from individual users to large families, offering a range of data allowances and additional features at different price points. Check out more details here. 

3. Internet

AT&T offers various internet services, including fiber, DSL, and fixed wireless options. 

Their fiber internet service, where available, provides symmetrical upload and download speeds, making it ideal for high-bandwidth activities like streaming, gaming, and working from home. 

AT&T no longer provides DSL or fixed wireless internet even in the areas where fiber is unavailable. Use this link to check the AT&T internet availability in your area.

Before we look at the plans, it’s important to note that availability and pricing may vary by location. The following table provides a general overview of AT&T’s internet plans:

AT&T Internet Plans

Starting from 300 Mbps speed, these plans go up to 2 gigs per second with its premium plan for available regions.

Plan	Speed	Price	Data Cap
Internet 300	300 Mbps	$55/mo	None
Internet 500	500 Mbps	$65/mo	None
Internet 1 Gig	1000 Mbps	$80/mo	None
Internet 2 Gig	2000 Mbps	$110/mo	None
Internet 5 Gig	5000 Mbps	$180/mo	None

These plans primarily reflect AT&T Fiber offerings, but their availability will vary. 

Features

• No data caps on fiber plans
• Free security suite with AT&T ActiveArmor
• Access to nationwide AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots
• Smart Home Manager app for network control
• Option to add AT&T TV for a bundled discount

4. AT&T TV Service – DirecTV

AT&T TV (now DIRECTV) is a television service that offers live TV, on-demand content, and cloud DVR capabilities. 

It provides a mix of streaming and cable experience, allowing users to watch their favorite shows and sports across various compatible devices.

DirecTV Stream Plans

Let’s look at the general pricing structure for the DirecTV plans:

Plan	Channels	Price	Discount
Entertainment	90+	$74.99/mo	None
Choice	125+	$79.99/mo	$10/mo for 24 months
Ultimate	160+	$109.99/mo	$10/mo for 24 months
Premier	185+	$154.99/mo	$10/mo for 24 months

These prices are introductory rates and may increase after the first year. Regional sports fees may apply to some plans.

Features

• No annual contract is required
• 4K HDR streaming is available on select content and compatible devices
• Unlimited cloud DVR storage
• Stream on up to 20 devices at home and 3 on-the-go
• Access to popular streaming apps

5. AT&T Prepaid Services

AT&T Prepaid offers flexible, no-contract wireless plans with options for both individual lines and family plans. 

These services provide an alternative to traditional postpaid plans, allowing customers to pay in advance for their service without credit checks or long-term commitments. 

AT&T Prepaid Plans

The AT&T prepaid service includes options for both limited data and unlimited plans. Here’s an overview of AT&T’s prepaid plans:

Plan	Data	Price (1 line)
AT&T Prepaid Unlimited talk and text + 5GB data	5GB	$30/mo
AT&T Prepaid 8GB data	8GB	$33/mo
AT&T Prepaid 15GB	15GB	$40/mo
AT&T Prepaid Unlimited	Unlimited	$40/mo
AT&T Prepaid Unlimited Plus	Unlimited + 10GB hotspot	$25/mo (when the price is paid for the year at once)
AT&T Prepaid Unlimited MAX + 25GB Hotspot data	Unlimited data + 25GB hotspot data	$55/mo with Auto-pay

Some of these prices reflect AT&T’s auto-pay discount. Without auto-pay, plans are typically expected to be charged higher.

Features

• No annual contract
• Mobile hotspot on select plans
• Rollover data on limited data plans
• HD streaming on Unlimited Plus plan
• 5G access on compatible devices and plans
• Mexico and Canada usage included on select plans

AT&T’s prepaid offerings provide flexibility for those who prefer to avoid credit checks or long-term commitments while still enjoying many features of postpaid plans.

AT&T Home Phone Services

AT&T offers traditional landline and modern digital phone services for residential customers, as well as home phone services.  

Their home phone options include AT&T Phone (a VoIP service that works over an internet connection), AT&T Phone – Advanced (which uses cellular networks or broadband), and traditional landline service. 

All these services include caller ID, call waiting, and voicemail. 

Check out the plans and prices to subscribe to AT&T Home phone services: 

1. AT&T Phone plans

Plan	Price
Phone Unlimited North America	$24.99/mo
Phone InternationalPlus II	$34.99/mo
AT&T Phone + AT&T Internet	$24.99 + $55/mo

2. AT&T Phone – Advanced plans

Plan	Price
Home phone service + unlimited nationwide calling	$45/mo
Home phone service + international calling	$50/mo

3. Landline Plans

Plan	Price
Traditional home phone	$53/mo
Complete Choice® Enhanced	$67/mo
Long Distance	Call AT&T for pricing

AT&T Home Phone services provide reliable voice communication, and for qualifying individuals, this service can be available at a $30 discount under the AT&T Lifeline program. 

AT&T Smart Technology

AT&T has embraced smart home technology, offering a range of connected devices and services. This includes smart home security systems, automation tools, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. 

AT&T’s smart technology offerings allow customers to remotely control various aspects of their home, such as thermostats, lights, and security cameras, all through a centralized app or voice commands. 

These services enhance home comfort, increase energy efficiency, and improve security. AT&T’s smart home solutions can often be integrated with their internet and wireless services for a seamless connected experience.

AT&T Accessories

Since AT&T plans also include devices as offerings, it offers various accessories to complement its mobile devices and enhance the user experience. 

These accessories are designed to work seamlessly with AT&T’s phones, tablets, and other connected devices. 

From protective cases and screen protectors to wireless chargers and Bluetooth headsets, AT&T provides options for both functionality and style. 

Many of these accessories are available for purchase online or in AT&T retail stores, and they can often be added to existing AT&T plans.

List of available accessories or types of accessories on AT&T:

1. Phone cases and screen protectors
2. Wireless chargers and power banks
3. Bluetooth headphones and earbuds
4. Smartwatches and fitness trackers
5. Car mounts and vehicle accessories
6. Speakers and smart home devices
7. Gaming accessories
8. Memory cards and storage solutions
9. Cables and adapters
10. Camera attachments and lenses

Available Deals And Discounts On AT&T

AT&T offers various discounts to specific groups of customers. Here’s an overview of the discounts available:

1. Business Employee: AT&T provides special offers for employees of participating companies. These may include discounts on wireless plans or devices.
2. AARP: Members can receive AARP benefits on AT&T services, which include discounts like $10/mo per line, waived activation and upgrade fees, and 15% off on wireless accessories.
3. Military: Active duty military, veterans, and their families are eligible for 25% discounts on wireless plans and 20% off on prepaid AT&T services.
4. First Responders: Police, firefighters, EMTs, and other first responders also receive a special AT&T first responder 25% discount on AT&T wireless plans.
5. Nurses and Physicians: Nurses, physicians, PA-Cs, and families are eligible for a 25% healthcare discount on AT&T services as a token of appreciation for their work.
6. Teachers: Educators at all levels can often access special offers on AT&T wireless plans and services, and get a 25% AT&T teachers discount, click this link to know more.
7. Union: Members of participating unions are also eligible for union discounts on AT&T services through their union membership and get $100 in bill credits per line when switching, a $10/mo per line discount, waived activation and upgrade fees, and 20% wireless services discount.
8. Students: Lastly, eligible students get a special AT&T student discount that can save $10/mo per line on the AT&T Unlimited premium® PL Plan. 

These discounts typically require eligibility verification and may vary in terms of the specific benefits offered. Customers are encouraged to check with AT&T directly or visit their website for the most up-to-date information on available discounts and how to apply.

AT&T Bundle Packages

AT&T offers a variety of bundle package deals that combine multiple services for cost savings and convenience. These bundles are designed to meet diverse customer needs while providing value. 

Here are some key bundle options:

1. Wireless + Home Internet

New and existing customers can save 20% every month off one eligible service when bundling internet with unlimited wireless from AT&T. This offer provides flexibility to switch plans anytime, fast unlimited internet and wireless data, and AT&T ActiveArmor for 24/7 security.

2. AT&T Fiber + DIRECTV

This bundle pairs superfast internet with a wide range of TV channels, offering strong, fast Wi-Fi with the best of live TV and on-demand content.

3. Wireless + Home Internet + TV

Customers can combine all three services for additional savings, especially when getting AT&T Fiber and AT&T Wireless at the same time.

4. Business Bundles

For home businesses, AT&T offers a complete solution, including AT&T Business Fiber, AT&T Phone for Business, network security, and internet backup. Bundling with wireless can save an additional $30/month.

The best deal depends on individual needs and usage patterns. AT&T’s bundle packages offer the convenience of a single bill and often come with promotional pricing or rewards for new customers. 

However, it’s always advisable to compare the bundled price to the cost of services purchased separately to ensure the best value.

Check out this link if you want to combine and make your own AT&T bundles: 

AT&T Customer Service

AT&T’s customer service ratings are mixed. While they’ve made efforts to improve in recent years, they often receive average ratings in industry surveys. 

Common praise includes the availability of multiple support channels, while criticisms on the customer service is a thing of concern. Check out this Reddit thread for more context on the concerns that actual AT&T users have to share. 

But, looking at the bright side, while some experiences can be bitter, J.D. Power’s 2023 U.S. Wireless Customer Care Performance Study placed AT&T #1 slightly above average among full-service carriers, highlighting the good side of their support services. 

AT&T provides several customer service options to address user concerns and queries via the below methods: 

Phone Support: 

Available 24/7 for most services, and has separate lines for queries on different services: 

1. Wireless support: 800.331.0500 – for landline, 611 – for mobile
2. Internet or home phone support: 800.288.2020 – for landline 

Online Chat: 

Accessible through the AT&T website via the small “Chat” icon on the right of the screen.

Social Media: 

AT&T maintains active support channels on platforms like X at @ATT and Facebook @ATT.

In-Store Support: 

Available at AT&T retail locations and as per appointment.

AT&T Alternatives & Competitors

With numerous options available in the market, here’s how AT&T stands against its competitors: 

Note: Since these services offer multiple services, comparing I’ve only compared them on a surface level. 

Provider	Key Features	Comparison to AT&T
AT&T	Extensive 4G LTE coverage, Growing 5G network, Bundle options with internet and TV, AT&T ActiveArmor security	Baseline for comparison
Verizon	Largest 5G network, Reliable service, Premium streaming perks	Slightly more expensive but often has better coverage
T-Mobile	Rapidly expanding 5G network, Competitive pricing, International benefits	Often cheaper, especially good for urban users
Xfinity Mobile	Uses Verizon’s network, Bundle discounts with Xfinity Internet, By-the-gig plans available	Can be cheaper if bundled with Xfinity internet
Google Fi	Flexible data plans, Great for international use, Seamless network switching	Better for low-data users or frequent travelers
Spectrum Mobile	Uses Verizon’s network, No data caps when bundled with the internet, Multi-line discounts	Can be cheaper if bundled with Spectrum internet

The “better” option largely depends on individual needs, location, and budget:

1. Verizon often edges out AT&T in network reliability but at a higher cost.
2. T-Mobile has become increasingly competitive, especially in urban areas and for budget-conscious consumers.
3. Xfinity and Spectrum can provide better value through bundling for existing customers.
4. Google Fi offers unique flexibility, particularly for international travelers.

AT&T remains competitive with its extensive 4G LTE coverage, growing 5G network, and bundle options. Its pricing is generally in line with other major carriers. 

However, AT&T’s strength against its alternatives and competitors lies in its comprehensive service offerings, allowing customers to bundle wireless with internet and TV services. 

Some competitors may offer more tailored solutions for specific needs like budget consciousness or international travel.

Remember that prices and features can vary based on location and current promotions, so it’s always best to check the latest offers when deciding.

Conclusion: AT&T Offers Complete Package For Connectivity And Entertainment

AT&T is a telecommunications giant in the United States, offering a comprehensive suite of services from mobile plans to home internet and smart home solutions. 

With extensive 4G LTE coverage and ongoing 5G expansion, AT&T provides reliable connectivity for most users. While not always the cheapest, their competitive pricing offers good value, especially with bundles and group discounts. 

However, despite recent efforts, customer service remains an area for improvement. While AT&T is a solid choice for many, consumers should still compare alternatives like Verizon and T-Mobile, as the best provider can vary based on location and specific needs. 

AT&T’s robust offerings make it a strong contender in the telecommunications market.