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Watching TV is one of the most common ways to relax and unwind. After a long day of work, all I can think of is my couch. What’s playing on the TV isn’t as important. So long as I am entertained, I am happy. This is why Spectrum bill pay is on top of my monthly budget. Along with the rest of the utilities.
Of course, there is no denying the shift in the way we consume TV. In recent years, more and more people are shifting to streaming services. So now, we have easy access to thousands of hours of entertainment. But does that mean the end of cable TV providers is near?
The Evolution of Cable TV Providers
Cable TV companies have evolved. Most cable TV providers aren’t just providing you with cable TV. You have likely opted for a package that includes other services like internet and phone. So if your source of entertainment is streaming services you still need the internet. And the best place to get a good deal is with cable TV providers.
Best Cable TV Providers in 2022
There has always been tough competition amongst cable TV providers. You can always expect to find a better deal around the corner. But just because you are getting a better deal from one provider doesn’t mean they’re the best.
In fact, there are many things we consider when deciding on a provider. Not just the price. There is also the matter of quality service. And for some, after-sales service is what matters most. So instead of a 1 to 5 rating, here is a pro/con list. This may help you find a provider most suited to your needs:
Cox
Cox is among the more popular cable TV providers. Although it is only available in 18 states. They offer two packages. One is the basic TV starter package. This is the more reasonably priced of the two packages. And then there is the contour TV package.
Both packages offer 75 to 140+ channels. And there are options to add other channels including Sports and other specialty channels. If you want, you can also pay a little extra for HD channels. Or if you want a DVR then you can also opt for that. However, DVR is only available with Contour TV. Although you can record up to 6 shows at the same time.
Pros:
· Detailed online resources for DIY Installs
· Good customer service (63/100 ACSI Score)
· Customizable upgrade options
· Reasonable package prices
Cons:
· Additional fees if you opt for DIY Install
· Add-Ons can make your package a little pricey
· Most add-on options are available with the Contour TV Package
Spectrum
Spectrum is available in more states than Cox. 37 to be exact. Although prices don’t start as low as Cox packages, HD is free. And not just that. Spectrum also offers more channels. Packages range from 125 to 200+ channels.
Spectrum doesn’t even require you to commit to a long-term contract. This means you also don’t need to worry about paying more for using less. Long-term contracts offered by most providers have added fees for early termination.
Pros:
· Bundles offer significant savings
· Premium packages offer terrific value
· Good customer service (63/100 ACSI Score)
Cons:
· Sign-up discounts expire without warning
· Limited stand-alone TV packages
Optimum
Optimum is available in just a handful of states. However, they offer more channels than most other providers. Optimum TV packages offer from 220 to 420+ channels. That’s a lot! And they don’t require any contracts.
Optimum doesn’t have the cheapest packages. But they do offer good value. And the add-ons are reasonably priced. You also have the option of DVR services.
Pros:
· No long-term contract requirement
· Many channels to choose from
· Good customer service (61/100 ACSI)
Cons:
· Bundle options are limited
· Only available in limited states
Mediacom
Mediacom cable is available in more than 20 states. But the only way to get Mediacom cable TV is through bundle options. This means you would need to get either internet, phone, or both. Cable TV is not a standalone option. But the bundles are reasonably priced. And if the 170+ channels aren’t enough, you can always add-on.
Pros:
· Packages are customizable
· Add-ons are reasonably priced
· HD Channels and DVR are a premium option
Cons:
· Bundle is a must for cable TV
· One-year contract minimum
· Average customer service (56/100 ACSI Score)
Midco
Looking for a cable TV provider in the midwestern states? Midco cable might be for you. It is available in 5 states throughout the midwest. Although it doesn’t offer the cheapest packages, they do have more channels. You can select from 210 to 350+ channels.
Pros:
· Customizable package options
· No long-term contract required
Cons:
· Limited availability – only available in the Midwest·
Packages aren’t as competitive as some of the other providers
