{"id":323726,"date":"2025-11-07T22:53:21","date_gmt":"2025-11-08T03:53:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/?page_id=127737"},"modified":"2025-11-12T14:25:20","modified_gmt":"2025-11-12T19:25:20","slug":"best-cheap","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/utilities\/tv-providers\/best-cheap\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Cheap TV Providers of 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"best\" title=\"The Best Cheap TV Providers\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<p>The best cheap TV providers offer a variety of options at a low cost. In 2025, the lowest-cost legitimate ways to get live \u201ccable-style\u201d TV are streaming bundles such as <a href=\"https:\/\/frndlytv.com\">Frndly TV<\/a> (from $7.99\u2013$11.99\/mo), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> ($25\/mo), and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling TV<\/a> (~$45 for Orange or Blue). Full-lineup services like <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a> (~$72.99) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a> (~$81.99) cost more but include most local stations and broader sports coverage. The traditional providers below can still make sense for specific needs \u2014 like nationwide satellite coverage, two-year price locks, or flexible contracts \u2014 but budget-focused households should start by comparing the streaming options above.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"picks\" title=\"Our Picks\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The 5 Best Cheap TV Providers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#Outstanding_Customer_Satisfaction\">DIRECTV<\/a> &#8211;&nbsp;Best for nationwide satellite coverage and live sports<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Most_Channels\" rel=\"nofollow\" class=\"achor-toggles\">AT&amp;T TV<\/a> &#8211;&nbsp;Brand retired; see streaming alternatives below<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#No_Contract_Option\">Verizon Fios<\/a> &#8211;&nbsp;Best no\u2011contract traditional TV option<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Two_Year_Price_Lock\">DISH Network<\/a> &#8211;&nbsp;Best for price lock<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Flexible_Contract_Options\">Xfinity<\/a> &#8211;&nbsp;Best for flexible contracts and bundling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<section id=\"block_4195475ed5acf\" class=\"block b-item-list b-item-list--\" data-js=\"b-item-list\" data-preamp=\"b-item-list\">\n    <ul class=\"b-item-list__list\">\n            <\/ul>\n<\/section>\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"compare\" title=\"Comparison Chart\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Best Cheap TV Providers: Summed Up<\/h2>\n\n\n<section id=\"block---\" class=\"theme-block c-table \">\n  \n<div class=\"row\">\n    <div class=\" h-width-100\">\n    \n      <div class=\"table-responsive table-responsive--with-summary h-shadow-2dp h-border-small\">\n        <table class=\"table table-striped table-bordered table--bordered-top table--rounded\">\n          \n<thead>\n          <tr>\n                              <th class=\"c-table__header fixed\">\n                                Criteria\n        <\/th>\n                              <th class=\"c-table__header\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/directv\/tv\/?utm_mcid=3570450&amp;subid=r11043\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">DIRECTV<\/a>\n        <\/th>\n                              <th class=\"c-table__header\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/att\/tv\/?utm_mcid=3570449&amp;subid=r15360\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">AT&amp;T TV<\/a>\n        <\/th>\n                              <th class=\"c-table__header\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/verizon\/?utm_mcid=3574515&amp;subid=r11048\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">Verizon Fios TV<\/a>\n        <\/th>\n                              <th class=\"c-table__header\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/dish\/?utm_mcid=3570761&amp;subid=r12207\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">DISH TV<\/a>\n        <\/th>\n                              <th class=\"c-table__header\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/sp-2864904\/xfinity-bundles.html?cid=1000000092&amp;subid=r12208\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">Comcast XFINITY<\/a>\n        <\/th>\n            <\/tr>\n  <\/thead>\n          \n  <tbody>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Best For\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              Customer satisfaction\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              Variety of channels\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              No-contract option\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              Price lock\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              Flexible contracts\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Contract length\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              24 months\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              12 months\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              24 months (when bundled)\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              24 months\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              No contract; 12 months; 24 months (for Triple Play bundles) \n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              States serviced\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              50\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              21\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              9\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              50\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              39\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Free receiver\/DVR\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              \u2713\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              \u2713\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              \n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              \u2713\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              \u2713\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Installation fee\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              None\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              None*\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              None**\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              None\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              $60\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Price\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              Starting at $64.99\/month\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              Starting at $59.99\/month\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              Starting at $50\/month\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              Starting at $59.99\/month \n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              Starting at $49.99\/month\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Plans\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/directv\/tv\/?utm_mcid=3570450&amp;subid=r11043\" class=\"button\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/att\/tv\/?utm_mcid=3570449&amp;subid=r15360\" class=\"button\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/verizon\/?utm_mcid=3574515&amp;subid=r11048\" class=\"button\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/dish\/?utm_mcid=3570761&amp;subid=r12207\" class=\"button\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/sp-2864904\/xfinity-bundles.html?cid=1000000092&amp;subid=r12208\" class=\"button\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n      <\/tbody><!-- tbody -->\n        <\/table>\n      <\/div>\n      \n    <\/div>\n    \n  <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: small;\"><em>Data as of November 8, 2025<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em>*Installation fee waived with bundles<br>** Installation fee waived for online orders<\/em><\/p>\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"Outstanding_Customer_Satisfaction\" title=\"DIRECTV\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n            <span class=\"b-anchor\" id=\"directv-review\" > <\/span>\n    \n\n\n\n                                                            \n            <section id=\"directv\"\n         class=\"block b-item-list-card b-item-list-card--\"\n         data-js=\"block-item-list-card\"\n         data-preamp=\"block-item-list-card\">\n\n        <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card\">\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top\">\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"><\/span>\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"> Outstanding customer satisfaction<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__bottom\">\n                                                    <a target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/directv\/packages?utm_mcid=3570450&#038;subid=0771d052-c134-47c4-9944-fe5ed24fd32b\"\n                        data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='317155' data-tag-product-name='DIRECTV' data-tag-brand='DIRECTV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category=''\n                        aria-label=\"DIRECTV button\" \n                        rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" >\n                                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DIRECTV-Logo-328x328-1.jpg\" alt=\"Image for DIRECTV-Logo-328&#215;328\" \/>\n                                            <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right\">\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__top\n                        b-item-list-card__card__right__top--line\">\n                DIRECTV\n            <\/div>\n\n            <br>\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__topv2\" >\n                DIRECTV\n            <\/div>\n            <br>\n\n           <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__middle\">\n                                        <a class=\"reviews-btn--primary reviews-btn--large reviews-btn--expand\"\n                    disable-tagular\n                    target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/directv\/packages?utm_mcid=3570450&#038;subid=0771d052-c134-47c4-9944-fe5ed24fd32b\" type=\"button\"\n                    aria-label=\"DIRECTV button\" data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='317155' data-tag-product-name='DIRECTV' data-tag-brand='DIRECTV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category='' \n                    rel=\"nofollow sponsored\"\n                >\n                View plans<\/a>\n                        <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__bottomv2 h-margin-top-15\">\n                States serviced:\r\n50\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n        \n      <div class=\"grid-x\">\n        <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer cell back_to_top\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' >\n            <p>Return to top\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer-image lazyload\" alt='Return to top arrow' style=\"height: 20px; margin-left: 5px;\"\n                data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/Arrow.svg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/LightGray-placeholder.png\">\n            <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why We Chose It<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Nationwide availability and a robust channel lineup<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>DIRECTV remains widely available via satellite across the U.S. and is often chosen by households that want comprehensive live sports and premium-channel options. Earlier ACSI reports, such as the <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theacsi.org\" target=\"_blank\">2018 ACSI Telecommunications Report<\/a>, benchmarked subscription TV; in the latest ACSI telecom reporting, subscription TV continues to rank among the lowest-rated consumer services compared with other industries, underscoring the importance of overall value and reliability (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.theacsi.org\">ACSI 2023\u20132024<\/a>). With 4K\u2011capable content on supported equipment and advanced whole\u2011home DVR options, DIRECTV can be a strong fit where satellite service is preferred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free installation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Some providers charge for installation and activation of TV service. DIRECTV often includes standard professional installation promotions for new customers, which can reduce your upfront costs \u2014 but always verify any installation fees or credits for your address at checkout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bundling discounts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>You can sometimes bundle DIRECTV with home internet or phone through participating providers to simplify billing and unlock promotional credits. Offers change frequently, so confirm current bundle pricing and eligibility before you order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Points to Consider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Promotional pricing and fees<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Promotional rates may change after an introductory period, and contract terms or early termination fees can apply on traditional satellite TV packages. If you prefer flexibility, consider month\u2011to\u2011month live TV streaming alternatives (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a>) that do not require long\u2011term commitments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Satellite signal reliability<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Satellite TV is more prone to service interruptions than cable or fiber because it requires a clear view of the sky to transmit programming into your home. Bad weather \u2014 like thunderstorms and blizzards \u2014 might interfere with service. However, if you live in an area with temperate weather, you\u2019re less likely to experience interruptions.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"Most_Channels\" title=\"U-verse\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n            <span class=\"b-anchor\" id=\"u-verse-review\" > <\/span>\n    \n\n\n\n                                                            \n            <section id=\"at&#038;t-tv\"\n         class=\"block b-item-list-card b-item-list-card--\"\n         data-js=\"block-item-list-card\"\n         data-preamp=\"block-item-list-card\">\n\n        <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card\">\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top\">\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"><\/span>\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"> Most channels<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__bottom\">\n                                                    <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/att\/tv\/?utm_mcid=3570449&#038;subid=9eece870-d230-452d-9649-a2ca3b1da375\"\n                        data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='335395' data-tag-product-name='AT&#038;T TV' data-tag-brand='AT&#038;T TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category=''\n                        aria-label=\"AT&#038;T TV button\" \n                        rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" >\n                                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/ATT-TV-Logo.jpg\" alt=\"Image for AT&#038;T-TV-Logo\" \/>\n                                            <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right\">\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__top\n                        b-item-list-card__card__right__top--line\">\n                AT&#038;T TV\n            <\/div>\n\n            <br>\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__topv2\" >\n                AT&#038;T TV\n            <\/div>\n            <br>\n\n           <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__middle\">\n                                        <a class=\"reviews-btn--primary reviews-btn--large reviews-btn--expand\"\n                    disable-tagular\n                    target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/att\/tv\/?utm_mcid=3570449&#038;subid=9eece870-d230-452d-9649-a2ca3b1da375\" type=\"button\"\n                    aria-label=\"AT&#038;T TV button\" data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='335395' data-tag-product-name='AT&#038;T TV' data-tag-brand='AT&#038;T TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category='' \n                    rel=\"nofollow sponsored\"\n                >\n                View plans<\/a>\n                        <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__bottomv2 h-margin-top-15\">\n                States serviced:\r\n21\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info\">\n        <div class=\"grid-x\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto \">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Pros <\/p>\n                <p>Channel selection<\/p>\n<p>HD DVR included<\/p>\n<p>Save by bundling<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto\">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Cons <\/p>\n                <p>Price increase after 12 months<\/p>\n<p>Channel padding<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    \n      <div class=\"grid-x\">\n        <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer cell back_to_top\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' >\n            <p>Return to top\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer-image lazyload\" alt='Return to top arrow' style=\"height: 20px; margin-left: 5px;\"\n                data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/Arrow.svg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/LightGray-placeholder.png\">\n            <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why We Chose It<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brand update and cheapest current alternatives<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>AT&amp;T TV\u2019s and U\u2011verse TV\u2019s traditional channel packages have been retired or rebranded. If you\u2019re shopping for lower-cost live TV in 2025, consider modern streaming options instead: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling TV<\/a> (choose Orange for ESPN or Blue for Fox\/NBC in select markets), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> (broad entertainment without sports\/locals), and <a href=\"https:\/\/frndlytv.com\">Frndly TV<\/a> (ultra\u2011cheap, family\u2011focused). For a fuller single\u2011app bundle with locals and national sports, compare <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cloud DVR is now standard<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Most live TV streaming services include cloud DVR so you can record without renting a cable box. <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\">YouTube TV<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> include unlimited DVR with time\u2011based retention, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling TV<\/a> includes a smaller DVR allotment unless you add more storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Save by bundling smartly<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>To keep costs down, pair a budget live TV app with an over\u2011the\u2011air antenna for local channels. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a> plus an antenna is often cheaper than full bundles like <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a>, as long as you don\u2019t need regional sports networks (RSNs).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Month\u2011to\u2011month pricing, but expect periodic changes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Streaming services are generally contract\u2011free and billed monthly, but list prices and channel lineups can change. As a reference point, base prices are about $45 for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling Orange or Blue<\/a>, $25 for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a>, ~$72.99 for <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a>, and ~$81.99 for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a> before taxes\/fees\/add\u2011ons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Know what\u2019s included (locals and sports)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Cheaper services save money by offering fewer local channels and limited sports. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a> doesn\u2019t include CBS and only carries ABC\/Fox\/NBC in select markets, while RSNs are typically found on pricier options like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fubo.tv\/welcome\">Fubo<\/a> \u2014 which may add a <a href=\"https:\/\/support.fubo.tv\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360056866611-Regional-Sports-Fee\">Regional Sports Fee<\/a> in markets where you receive RSNs.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"No_contract_Option\" title=\"Verizon Fios TV\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n            <span class=\"b-anchor\" id=\"fios-review\" > <\/span>\n    \n\n\n\n                                                            \n            <section id=\"verizon-fios\"\n         class=\"block b-item-list-card b-item-list-card--\"\n         data-js=\"block-item-list-card\"\n         data-preamp=\"block-item-list-card\">\n\n        <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card\">\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top\">\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"><\/span>\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"> No contract option<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__bottom\">\n                                                    <a target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/verizon\/?utm_mcid=3574515&#038;subid=89639cfe-35a7-41aa-a7b0-cf642cdf9e02\"\n                        data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='316293' data-tag-product-name='Verizon Fios' data-tag-brand='Verizon Fios TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category=''\n                        aria-label=\"Verizon Fios TV button\" \n                        rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" >\n                                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Verizion-Fios-Logo-328x328-1.png\" alt=\"Image for Verizion-Fios-Logo-328&#215;328\" \/>\n                                            <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right\">\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__top\n                        b-item-list-card__card__right__top--line\">\n                Verizon Fios TV\n            <\/div>\n\n            <br>\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__topv2\" >\n                Verizon Fios\n            <\/div>\n            <br>\n\n           <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__middle\">\n                                        <a class=\"reviews-btn--primary reviews-btn--large reviews-btn--expand\"\n                    disable-tagular\n                    target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/verizon\/?utm_mcid=3574515&#038;subid=89639cfe-35a7-41aa-a7b0-cf642cdf9e02\" type=\"button\"\n                    aria-label=\"Verizon Fios TV button\" data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='316293' data-tag-product-name='Verizon Fios' data-tag-brand='Verizon Fios TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category='' \n                    rel=\"nofollow sponsored\"\n                >\n                View plans<\/a>\n                        <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__bottomv2 h-margin-top-15\">\n                States serviced:\r\n9\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info\">\n        <div class=\"grid-x\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto \">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Pros <\/p>\n                <p>No-contract option<\/p>\n<p>Two-year price lock for bundles<\/p>\n<p>Custom TV packages<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto\">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Cons <\/p>\n                <p>Router required<\/p>\n<p>Expensive equipment<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    \n      <div class=\"grid-x\">\n        <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer cell back_to_top\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' >\n            <p>Return to top\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer-image lazyload\" alt='Return to top arrow' style=\"height: 20px; margin-left: 5px;\"\n                data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/Arrow.svg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/LightGray-placeholder.png\">\n            <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why We Chose It<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">No-contract option<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Plenty of cable providers require customers to sign lengthy contracts, which can be both difficult and expensive to get out of. Contracts are particularly frustrating if you\u2019re a renter or student and don\u2019t know where you\u2019ll be living next year. Fortunately, Verizon Fios offers TV service without a term contract in many areas, making it easier to cancel or change plans if your situation changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Two-year price lock for bundles<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you know you\u2019re not moving anytime soon, bundling Fios services can be cost\u2011effective. In many cases, promotional prices are guaranteed for a defined term when you bundle TV with home phone and\/or internet \u2014 just verify the length of any price guarantee and what happens after it expires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Custom TV packages<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Most providers\u2019 TV packages are fixed tiers, but Fios has offered mix\u2011and\u2011match style options and channel packs so you can prioritize the categories you watch most. Review the current lineup to avoid paying for channels you won\u2019t use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Points to Consider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Router required<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Because Fios TV travels into the home via fiber-optic cables, you\u2019re required to have a router to receive service. Verizon\u2019s current <a href=\"https:\/\/www.verizon.com\">Fios Router<\/a> is typically available to rent for about $18\/month, and setup\/installation fees (often listed around $99) are frequently waived for online orders where self\u2011install is available. Some legacy routers \u2014 like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B00QGDLA5Y\/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B00QGDLA5Y&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=r15423-20&amp;linkId=0a40120f7e8168aefe20233539f4bafa\" target=\"_blank\">Actiontec MI424WR Rev. 1<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">Verizon Fios Quantum Gateway, Model G1100<\/a> \u2014 may work in certain setups, but always confirm compatibility with Verizon before purchasing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expensive equipment<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Other than giving you the option to buy your router, a Fios TV plan won\u2019t sell (or provide for free) any equipment. You\u2019ll pay a monthly fee for each receiver and DVR you need. This equipment can add up quickly and, depending on how many TVs you have and which package you select, may cost more than your actual service.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"Two_year_Price_Lock\" title=\"DISH TV\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n            <span class=\"b-anchor\" id=\"dish-review\" > <\/span>\n    \n\n\n\n                                                            \n            <section id=\"dish-network\"\n         class=\"block b-item-list-card b-item-list-card--\"\n         data-js=\"block-item-list-card\"\n         data-preamp=\"block-item-list-card\">\n\n        <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card\">\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top\">\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"><\/span>\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"> Two year price lock<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__bottom\">\n                                                    <a target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/dish\/?utm_mcid=3570761&#038;subid=c85ba96c-ae02-44b1-b4a2-706e722dfb00\"\n                        data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='317156' data-tag-product-name='DISH Network' data-tag-brand='DISH TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category=''\n                        aria-label=\"DISH TV button\" \n                        rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" >\n                                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DISH-Logo1-328x328-1.png\" alt=\"Image for DISH-Logo1-328&#215;328\" \/>\n                                            <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right\">\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__top\n                        b-item-list-card__card__right__top--line\">\n                DISH TV\n            <\/div>\n\n            <br>\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__topv2\" >\n                DISH Network\n            <\/div>\n            <br>\n\n           <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__middle\">\n                                        <a class=\"reviews-btn--primary reviews-btn--large reviews-btn--expand\"\n                    disable-tagular\n                    target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/dish\/?utm_mcid=3570761&#038;subid=c85ba96c-ae02-44b1-b4a2-706e722dfb00\" type=\"button\"\n                    aria-label=\"DISH TV button\" data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='317156' data-tag-product-name='DISH Network' data-tag-brand='DISH TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category='' \n                    rel=\"nofollow sponsored\"\n                >\n                View plans<\/a>\n                        <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__bottomv2 h-margin-top-15\">\n                States serviced\r\n50\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info\">\n        <div class=\"grid-x\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto \">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Pros <\/p>\n                <p>Two-year price lock<\/p>\n<p>Smart HD DVR included<\/p>\n<p>Soaring customer satisfaction rating<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto\">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Cons <\/p>\n                <p>Costly additional equipment<\/p>\n<p>Expensive entry-level package<\/p>\n<p>Satellite signal reliability<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    \n      <div class=\"grid-x\">\n        <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer cell back_to_top\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' >\n            <p>Return to top\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer-image lazyload\" alt='Return to top arrow' style=\"height: 20px; margin-left: 5px;\"\n                data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/Arrow.svg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/LightGray-placeholder.png\">\n            <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why We Chose It<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Two-year price lock<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s business as usual for TV providers to raise prices after the first year, but DISH TV\u2019s 24-month contract is known for its two\u2011year price guarantee, helping you budget with fewer surprises over the life of your agreement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Smart HD DVR included<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>DISH offers Hopper DVR options with voice remotes and whole\u2011home capabilities, letting you record multiple programs and watch across supported TVs. Exact storage and device specs vary by model and plan, so review current equipment details before ordering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Transparent pricing and service reputation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>While overall subscription TV satisfaction trails many other consumer services in recent ACSI reporting (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.theacsi.org\">ACSI 2023\u20132024<\/a>), DISH is often cited by customers for its straightforward two\u2011year pricing and channel variety. As with any provider, weigh total cost, channels, and equipment needs for your household.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Points to Consider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Additional equipment can be costly<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>DISH TV can get expensive if you need to add more DVRs and receivers to your home. The first DVR is included, but any additional equipment will impact your monthly bill. It\u2019s pretty common for TV providers to charge for extra equipment, so you should always factor in how many DVRs and receivers you\u2019ll need when comparison shopping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expensive entry-level package<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with a two\u2011year price guarantee, entry\u2011level satellite TV packages are often pricier than skinny streaming bundles. Over two years, you may pay a similar or higher total versus cheaper month\u2011to\u2011month streaming options if you don\u2019t need locals or RSNs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Satellite signal reliability<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>DISH TV uses satellites to deliver programming to homes, but this technology is sometimes not as reliable as other types of TV service. Inclement weather or tall trees or buildings that obstruct your dish\u2019s view of the sky can interrupt your service. For satellite TV to work, your satellite needs to have a clear shot at the Southern sky.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"Flexible_Contract_Options\" title=\"Comcast XFINITY\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n            <span class=\"b-anchor\" id=\"xfinity-review\" > <\/span>\n    \n\n\n\n                                                            \n            <section id=\"xfinity-internet\"\n         class=\"block b-item-list-card b-item-list-card--\"\n         data-js=\"block-item-list-card\"\n         data-preamp=\"block-item-list-card\">\n\n        <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card\">\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top\">\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"><\/span>\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"> Flexible contract options<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__bottom\">\n                                                    <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/xfinity\/internet\/?utm_mcid=3574394&#038;subid=3f4838f7-29d4-4e18-abdc-c14027e8fa4f\"\n                        data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='315555' data-tag-product-name='Xfinity Internet' data-tag-brand='Comcast Xfinity TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='month' data-tag-category=''\n                        aria-label=\"Comcast Xfinity TV button\" \n                        rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" >\n                                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Xfinity-Logo-328x328-1-1.png\" alt=\"Image for Xfinity-Logo-328&#215;328 (1)\" \/>\n                                            <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right\">\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__top\n                        b-item-list-card__card__right__top--line\">\n                Comcast Xfinity TV\n            <\/div>\n\n            <br>\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__topv2\" >\n                Xfinity Internet\n            <\/div>\n            <br>\n\n           <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__middle\">\n                                        <a class=\"reviews-btn--primary reviews-btn--large reviews-btn--expand\"\n                    disable-tagular\n                    target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.allconnect.com\/providers\/xfinity\/internet\/?utm_mcid=3574394&#038;subid=3f4838f7-29d4-4e18-abdc-c14027e8fa4f\" type=\"button\"\n                    aria-label=\"Comcast Xfinity TV button\" data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='315555' data-tag-product-name='Xfinity Internet' data-tag-brand='Comcast Xfinity TV' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='month' data-tag-category='' \n                    rel=\"nofollow sponsored\"\n                >\n                View plans<\/a>\n                        <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__bottomv2 h-margin-top-15\">\n                States serviced\r\n40\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info\">\n        <div class=\"grid-x\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto \">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Pros <\/p>\n                <p>Flexible contracts<\/p>\n<p>Variety of bundles<\/p>\n<p>Convenient installation<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line cell medium-auto\">\n                <p class=\"b-item-list-card__info__line--title\"> Cons <\/p>\n                <p>Prices and plans vary widely by location<\/p>\n<p>Low customer satisfaction rating<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    \n      <div class=\"grid-x\">\n        <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer cell back_to_top\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' >\n            <p>Return to top\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer-image lazyload\" alt='Return to top arrow' style=\"height: 20px; margin-left: 5px;\"\n                data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/Arrow.svg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/LightGray-placeholder.png\">\n            <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why We Chose It<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flexible contracts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>XFINITY TV offers more contract options than most TV providers, so you can select the one that works for you. Depending on location, choices may include no\u2011contract plans and 12\u2011 or 24\u2011month terms. Term contracts can lower your introductory rate, but if you might move soon, a month\u2011to\u2011month option helps you avoid early termination fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Variety of bundles<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>XFINITY lets you bundle TV with home phone, internet, and home security services, and its platforms increasingly aggregate popular streaming apps alongside linear channels. Bundling can deliver better value and make it easier to keep track of your total monthly spend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Convenient installation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Many TV providers now offer self\u2011install kits and clearer appointment windows for professional installation, including weekend options in many markets. Check your address for eligibility and potential installation fees before you order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Points to Consider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Prices and plans vary widely by location<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not unusual for companies to offer different plans or raise rates based on location, but XFINITY\u2019s rates and packages vary more than its competitors\u2019. This can make it difficult to get an accurate price range for its TV packages. Its contract options also change depending on location \u2014 some cities only offer a single contract term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Customer satisfaction context<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Subscription TV remains among the lowest\u2011rated consumer services in recent ACSI telecom reporting (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.theacsi.org\">ACSI 2023\u20132024<\/a>). Historical reports like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theacsi.org\">2019-2020 ACSI Telecommunications Report<\/a> provide prior\u2011year context; your experience will depend on your local market, plan, and equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"guide\" title=\"Guide to Cheap TV Providers\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guide to Cheap TV Providers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to choose a cheap TV provider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consider additional fees and expenses<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The flat rate you see for your TV service may not include extra fees and costs. Traditional cable and satellite plans often add installation\/activation charges, box\/DVR rental fees, broadcast and regional sports surcharges, and taxes. Live TV streaming services tend to be contract\u2011free with fewer add\u2011ons, but you should still factor in premium channel packs and, for sports\u2011centric services, possible RSN fees (for example, <a href=\"https:\/\/support.fubo.tv\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360056866611-Regional-Sports-Fee\">Fubo\u2019s Regional Sports Fee<\/a> in some markets).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Equipment rental: <\/strong>Most cable and satellite providers charge monthly fees for TV receivers and DVRs. By contrast, many live TV streaming services include cloud DVR at no extra cost \u2014 for example, <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\">YouTube TV<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> include unlimited DVR with time\u2011based retention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Installation: <\/strong>Professional cable installation commonly runs about $60\u2013$100 when not waived; many providers offer low\u2011cost self\u2011install. As a reference, Spectrum lists $59.99 for professional install and $24.99 for self\u2011install activation (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.spectrum.com\">source<\/a>), and Cox offers $0 Easy Connect self\u2011install with professional install typically up to about $100 (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cox.com\">source<\/a>).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Late payments: <\/strong>Policies vary by company; some include a short grace period, while others assess a fee immediately after the due date. Check the fine print for your plan\u2019s late\u2011fee amount and timing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Broadcast TV: <\/strong>A broadcast TV fee covers local stations (e.g., ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC) on many cable plans and is assessed monthly. Amounts vary by provider and market.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional sports: <\/strong>RSNs typically sit behind pricier plans or separate fees. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fubo.tv\/welcome\">Fubo<\/a> may add a <a href=\"https:\/\/support.fubo.tv\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360056866611-Regional-Sports-Fee\">Regional Sports Fee<\/a> in markets that receive RSNs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Premium channels: <\/strong>Access to premium networks like HBO, STARZ and SHOWTIME usually costs extra. Some providers include limited\u2011time promos, after which standard rates apply.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Additional TV service:<\/strong> Traditional plans may charge a monthly fee for each additional TV\/receiver in your home. Streaming services generally allow multiple streams on supported devices, subject to plan limits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Check for rate increases&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Many providers advertise introductory pricing that changes after a promotional period. Streaming services are month\u2011to\u2011month but also raise list prices from time to time. As a benchmark, base pricing is currently about $45 for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a>, $25 for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a>, ~$72.99 for <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a>, and ~$81.99 for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a> (before taxes\/fees\/add\u2011ons). Always confirm your final price at checkout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Look for deals&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Cable and streaming companies compete aggressively for new customers. Look for time\u2011limited promos (free trials, discounted introductory months, or premium channel trials). If you don\u2019t need locals or RSNs, choosing a skinny bundle like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a> can keep your ongoing costs lower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Decide which channels you need&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Start with a must\u2011have list: Do you need ESPN? Local broadcast channels? Regional sports networks? If you don\u2019t need sports or locals, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> usually covers entertainment at the lowest cost. If you need ESPN but not RSNs, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling Orange<\/a> is the cheapest path. If you want a single app with most locals and national sports, compare full bundles like <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How We Chose the Best Cheap TV Providers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Availability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The cheapest TV provider in Maine is not necessarily the cheapest TV provider in Missouri or New Mexico. Availability relies on infrastructure (for cable) and signal access (for satellite). Streaming live TV services, by contrast, are available nationwide over broadband and don\u2019t require a cable box. To make this review helpful to the most readers, we focused on options with broad availability and simple setup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Price<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The price written in foot-tall gold letters on promotional material is likely not the price you\u2019ll end up paying. We dug into potential rate changes after promotional periods and common extras like installation, activation, equipment, and sports fees. For streaming, we referenced current list prices from provider sites \u2014 e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/frndlytv.com\">Frndly TV<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a> \u2014 and noted fees such as <a href=\"https:\/\/support.fubo.tv\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360056866611-Regional-Sports-Fee\">Fubo\u2019s Regional Sports Fee<\/a> that affect the all\u2011in cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Value<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A TV package may be cheap, but if it doesn\u2019t include the channels you want, is it worth any money at all? We compared lineups and features to ensure entry\u2011level plans still deliver meaningful value. We gave credit to services that include unlimited cloud DVR (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\">YouTube TV<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a>) and highlighted trade\u2011offs around locals and sports (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a>\u2019s limited locals and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fubo.tv\/welcome\">Fubo<\/a>\u2019s RSN fees).<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"questions\" title=\"FAQ\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cheap TV Providers FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"block_38416e279a933\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">What are the best cheap TV providers?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the best cheap <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/utilities\/tv-providers\/best\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">TV providers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> today are live TV streaming services \u2014 notably <a href=\"https:\/\/frndlytv.com\">Frndly TV<\/a> (ultra\u2011cheap, family\u2011focused), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> (broad entertainment without sports\/locals), and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling TV<\/a> (cheapest path to ESPN or Fox\/NBC news\/sports in select markets). If you want a fuller single\u2011app bundle with locals and national sports, <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a> are strong but costlier options. Availability is nationwide for these streaming services; always confirm current prices and channel lineups. <\/span><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5e598e3842864\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">Do TV providers run credit checks?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many traditional TV providers do run credit checks before offering service (and may require deposits), while most streaming live TV services do not because they bill month\u2011to\u2011month via a card or digital wallet. If your credit is limited, contract\u2011free streaming options can help you avoid deposits and early termination fees. <\/span><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_dbd1f00ed66dc\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">What are early termination fees?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cable and satellite companies impose early termination fees when you cancel service before your contract ends. Fees and proration vary by provider. Streaming live TV services are generally contract\u2011free, so you can cancel any time without an ETF. <\/span><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5e598e3842865\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">Is streaming TV cheaper than cable?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually, yes \u2014 but you\u2019ll trade off locals and\/or sports. As of now, <a href=\"https:\/\/frndlytv.com\">Frndly TV<\/a> starts at $7.99\u2013$11.99, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.philo.com\">Philo<\/a> is $25, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sling.com\">Sling<\/a> is about $45 for Orange or Blue. Full bundles with locals and broader sports, like <a href=\"https:\/\/tv.youtube.com\/welcome\/\">YouTube TV<\/a> (~$72.99) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hulu.com\/live-tv\">Hulu + Live TV<\/a> (~$81.99), cost more but cover more channels. Pairing a skinny bundle with an over\u2011the\u2011air antenna can be the cheapest path if you mainly need locals plus a few cable channels. <\/span><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_c675b13d839ed\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">What\u2019s the difference between cable and satellite TV?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cable TV uses a wired connection while satellite TV is wireless and requires a dish with a clear view of the sky. Satellite can be more susceptible to weather\u2011related interruptions; cable and fiber are generally more consistent. Both can offer HD and select 4K programming depending on the provider and equipment. <\/span><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The best cheap TV providers offer a variety of options at a low cost. In 2025, the lowest-cost legitimate ways to get live \u201ccable-style\u201d TV are streaming bundles such as Frndly TV (from $7.99\u2013$11.99\/mo), Philo ($25\/mo), and Sling TV (~$45 for Orange or Blue). Full-lineup services like YouTube TV (~$72.99) and Hulu + Live TV [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":345,"featured_media":358547,"parent":2268,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-templates\/template-reviews.php","meta":[],"categories":[1306],"tags":[],"post_author":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Best Cheap TV Providers of 2025 | Reviews.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The best cheap TV providers offer the channels you truly want at a reasonable price \u2014 and with a mimimum of hidden charges and fees.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/utilities\/tv-providers\/best-cheap\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" 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