Unexpected additions to a monthly internet bill can be disappointing. An addition of $15 a month just for basic internet equipment does not seem justified. However, there are many internet providers like AT&T and Spectrum, who have a much more affordable alternative to offer. Here are the top 3 Internet Providers with the Cheapest Equipment Fee.
Table of Contents
Internet Providers with the Cheapest Equipment Fee
Here are some industry-leading ISPs who have the cheapest internet equipment fee.
- Spectrum
Spectrum Internet is one of the most competitively priced internet services you can find in the US. Charter Communications takes pride in the budget-friendly internet service that also does not have any data overage fee, contractual compulsions, early termination fees, and has significantly low equipment rental charges.
To put it in perspective, Spectrum router rental costs no more than $5.00/mo. As a subscriber to any of the Spectrum Internet plans, you can get a free internet modem, free anti-virus software, and access to out-of-home Wi-Fi hotspots in various locations. You also get unlimited data with all internet plans, making it the best choice for avid streamers and online gamers. Spectrum internet prices start from $49.99/mo.
| Internet plan | Download/Upload Speeds | Price |
| Spectrum Internet | 200/10 Mbps | $49.99/mo. for 12 months |
| Spectrum Internet® Ultra | 400/20 Mbps | $69.99/mo. for 12 months |
| Spectrum Internet® Gig | 1000/35 Mbps | $109.99/mo. for 12 months |
Offer and speed availability may vary by location.
- AT&T
Whether you are opting for AT&T Fiber internet or DSL, you will get a value-packed service in any case. AT&T Internet is a pocket-friendly alternative that is available in over 21 states, so finding the best internet plan should not be difficult in various areas of the country.
AT&T charges an equipment rental fee of $10/mo., which is a relatively low price compared to the market average.
Some other notable benefits you can get with AT&T internet include nationwide Wi-Fi hotspots access, free email accounts, the AT&T Smart Home Manager app,and free internet security for all AT&T internet plans above 5 Mbps.
| Internet plan | Connection type | Download speeds | Data | Price |
| AT&T Internet 75 | DSL | 75 Mbps | 1 TB | $45.00/mo. |
| AT&T Internet 100 | DSL | 100 Mbps | Unlimited | $45.00/mo. |
| AT&T Fiber 300 | Fiber | 300 Mbps | Unlimited | $35.00/mo. |
| AT&T Fiber 500 | Fiber | 500 Mbps | Unlimited | $45.00/mo. |
| AT&T Fiber 1000 | Fiber | 940 Mbps | Unlimited | $60.00/mo. |
Offer availability may vary by location.
- Suddenlink
Suddenlink can be called a complete communication and entertainment provider with its range of services including internet, phone, and TV. It is the 7th largest provider in the country and is available in over 17 states. Some of its many value-adding perks include automated paperless billing, 1-month free internet service, free HBO Max for a limited time, a $200 Visa gift card, free Wi-Fi Extender, and free professional installation on an online order.
Compared to the market average, Suddenlink charges a decent amount of $10.00/mo. as equipment rental fee with each of its internet plans. Its 1-gigabit plan is also much cheaper than what its competitors have to offer. Here are some of its internet plans that you can enjoy for residential usage:
| Internet plan | Download/Upload Speeds | Price |
| Internet 200 | 200/10 Mbps | $39.99/mo. for 12 months |
| Internet 400 | 400/20 Mbps | $59.99/mo. for 12 months |
| Internet 1 Gig | 940/35 Mbps | $79.99/mo. for 12 months |
Offer availability may vary by location.
Using Your Own Equipment — Is it a Cost-Saving Option?
On average, internet equipment rental from an ISP can cost you $150 a year. Your actual internet plan’s prices can be increased with an overage of $10 every month. Sometimes, ISPs are not entirely transparent about their pricing and there can be some surprises in your first billing months.
Not only the cost of renting equipment, but other factors such as no control over the type and quality of equipment you get, can motivate customers to purchase their own equipment. Many people would prefer spending money one-time, wisely choosing the equipment that is compatible with their internet service.
It is not that difficult to find a compatible modem or router. Usually, providers have a list of approved modems that can be used. If not a list, they specify the technologies and features that are required in a compatible modem or router.
However, there are still many restrictions to using your own equipment. Here are some worth-mentioning pros and cons of using your own equipment with an internet service.
Pros of using your own internet equipment:
- Choose your own equipment
- Save monthly billing hassle
- Self-installation saves money
- Upgrade your equipment any time you wish
Cons of using your own internet equipment:
- Little to no technical assistance from the ISP
- Might need technical knowledge
Summing It Up
The Internet has become a necessity, and everyone needs necessities to be easily accessible and affordable. Your provider may be offering cheap internet plans but charging unjustified high equipment rental fees. If you want to get out of this trouble, make sure to reach out to the aforementioned providers and get your hands on the most affordable packages.