A good internet plan can cost you a pretty penny, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Many internet service providers (ISPs) have a variety of packages to choose from, and the finest internet service deals feature fast speeds and an affordable package.
How to find the best internet deal and a speed that doesn’t disappoint? Here’s all you need to know:
1: Buy Only the Speed You Need
While it’s nice to have high speed but what do you need 100 Mbps for if you’re the only internet user in the house? Some providers like WOW! The Internet can give you an honest opinion about what speed you really need. You can simply call Spectrum internet customer service and ask any speed-related questions.
With plans that offer download speeds of 100 Mbps or more, Internet companies are pushing high-speed to the next level. If you require this speed, that’s fantastic. The majority of families do not.
Depending on your carrier, switching to a lower, more appropriate speed could save you $20 or more each month. Use the table below to figure out what speed you require, then contact your provider to get your plan reduced. The recommended speeds are based on several devices performing the mentioned activities. If you just have one device gaming or streaming HD video at a time, for example, you can reduce the speed.
Speed | No. of devices | Activities |
10+ Mbps | 1 device | Checking emails, streaming music, web browsing |
30 Mbps | 1 to 3 devices | Checking emails, streaming music, web browsing, video conferencing, video streaming |
70 Mbps | 4 to 7 devices | Web browsing, online gaming, video conference, HD streaming |
2: Bundle the Services
If you already have cable, you can save money by bundling your cable and internet services with the same provider. However, be wary of the up-sell. Some companies may try to persuade you to pay an extra $5 or $10 per month for extra speed or channels. Over time, even little monthly increases pile up, defeating your purpose of saving money.
It’s super convenient to pay a single monthly bill for two or three services (cable and internet or cable, internet, and phone).
3: Bring Your Own Equipment
It’s convenient to get equipment from the provider at the time of signing up for their services but that monthly rental fee can make the deal more expensive than what it initially was. However, the best approach to reducing your bill is to bring your own equipment.
Companies charge $10 to $15 per month for the rental fee services. The total rental expenses would be $240 to $360 if you stayed with that firm for two years. For less than $200, you can buy a top-rated modem and router. Even if you’re able to save up to $40, it’s worth it. In case you already have a router, that’s great news. Use it and save the expense! Just make sure it’s compatible with the provider’s internet plan.
Remember that some service providers will not provide assistance or troubleshooting for your personal equipment.
4: Don’t Hesitate to Negotiate
You probably don’t know this but it’s possible to get a good deal by negotiating with a provider. Since most customers don’t even try, assuming the prices are fixed, they miss out on a great opportunity to lower their bills. Don’t be nervous, give it a shot.
To play the bargaining game, you don’t have to be a fast-talking salesperson. Your argument should be straightforward: I’ve found a better deal elsewhere and I am considering it. This should be enough to make the support agent give you a deal you can’t say no to.
Be firm and remain as polite as you can. Don’t bluff. If you have evidence to back up your claim, the power is yours. This might mean you will have to do some heavy research on the competitors of the ISP you are thinking of settling for.
5: Ask About COVID Relief
While the coronavirus has had an impact on broadband providers, the majority are working hard to ensure that their customers are able to stay connected. In some situations, you might have to be their customer to get relief. But, there’s no harm in asking if they are willing to offer some relief to new customers as well. To contact a provider to negotiate a price, call, use social media, or online chat.
6: Cash on Government Subsidies
If you have a low income, you may be eligible for broadband internet subsidies. Some internet service providers have special plans for low-income households.
Another way to look for government subsidies is to check The Federal Communications Commission’s website. You may be eligible for a broadband subsidy if your income is at or below 135 percent of the federal poverty level, or if you are enrolled in government programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or others.