I'll go with the second option, since even in peak time the contention ratio will never reach that maximum, and even if it reaches 50:1, other users may not use the same bandwidth allocation (I meant you may load extensively, but other users just get online and have "light" request).
Lower Contention Ratio only mean more reliable and quality service (normally offer for business lines which (mostly) use a constant bandwidth all the time), while 20:1 is for home users who may not require a constant bandwidth at all.
It's quite a "relative" answer, since nothing you can guarantee (and compare) about the service of those packages.
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by: PeteLongPosted on 2004-05-25 at 01:22:55ID: 11149667
All ADSL lines – regardless of service provider - are subject to contention, meaning that the network bandwidth available is shared between a number of subscribers. The ratio to which the available bandwidth is shared between users is called the "contention ratio". All UK providers, including BT, are subject to the same contention ratios. Services targeted at casual home users are frequently cheaper, but have a higher contention ratio. This means that the available network capacity is shared between a greater number of users. Business services have a lower contention ratio, which will provide a more consistent level of performance. A 50 to 1 contention ration means the bandwidth may be shared with up to 50 other subscribers, whereas a 20 to 1 contention ration means the bandwidth may be shared with no more than 20 other subscribers
However some ASDL circuits only provide 256Kb up no matter if you get 512,1mb or 2mb so check with the provider - it it were my choice Id choose the 1mb liink, you will find that twice the theroetical bandwith will give you greater 'apparent to the user'throughput
Pete