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The best cheap TV providers offer a variety of options at a low cost. In 2025, the lowest-cost legitimate ways to get live “cable-style” TV are streaming bundles such as Frndly TV (from $7.99–$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 (~$81.99) cost more but include most local stations and broader sports coverage. The traditional providers below can still make sense for specific needs — like nationwide satellite coverage, two-year price locks, or flexible contracts — but budget-focused households should start by comparing the streaming options above.
The 5 Best Cheap TV Providers
- DIRECTV – Best for nationwide satellite coverage and live sports
- AT&T TV – Brand retired; see streaming alternatives below
- Verizon Fios – Best no‑contract traditional TV option
- DISH Network – Best for price lock
- Xfinity – Best for flexible contracts and bundling
The Best Cheap TV Providers: Summed Up
| Criteria | DIRECTV | AT&T TV | Verizon Fios TV | DISH TV | Comcast XFINITY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Customer satisfaction | Variety of channels | No-contract option | Price lock | Flexible contracts |
| Contract length | 24 months | 12 months | 24 months (when bundled) | 24 months | No contract; 12 months; 24 months (for Triple Play bundles) |
| States serviced | 50 | 21 | 9 | 50 | 39 |
| Free receiver/DVR | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Installation fee | None | None* | None** | None | $60 |
| Price | Starting at $64.99/month | Starting at $59.99/month | Starting at $50/month | Starting at $59.99/month | Starting at $49.99/month |
| Plans | View plans | View plans | View plans | View plans | View plans |
Data as of November 8, 2025
*Installation fee waived with bundles
** Installation fee waived for online orders
Why We Chose It
Nationwide availability and a robust channel lineup
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 2018 ACSI Telecommunications Report, 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 (ACSI 2023–2024). With 4K‑capable content on supported equipment and advanced whole‑home DVR options, DIRECTV can be a strong fit where satellite service is preferred.
Free installation
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 — but always verify any installation fees or credits for your address at checkout.
Bundling discounts
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.
Points to Consider
Promotional pricing and fees
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‑to‑month live TV streaming alternatives (e.g., Sling, Philo) that do not require long‑term commitments.
Satellite signal reliability
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 — like thunderstorms and blizzards — might interfere with service. However, if you live in an area with temperate weather, you’re less likely to experience interruptions.
Pros
Channel selection
HD DVR included
Save by bundling
Cons
Price increase after 12 months
Channel padding
Why We Chose It
Brand update and cheapest current alternatives
AT&T TV’s and U‑verse TV’s traditional channel packages have been retired or rebranded. If you’re shopping for lower-cost live TV in 2025, consider modern streaming options instead: Sling TV (choose Orange for ESPN or Blue for Fox/NBC in select markets), Philo (broad entertainment without sports/locals), and Frndly TV (ultra‑cheap, family‑focused). For a fuller single‑app bundle with locals and national sports, compare YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV.
Cloud DVR is now standard
Most live TV streaming services include cloud DVR so you can record without renting a cable box. YouTube TV and Philo include unlimited DVR with time‑based retention, while Sling TV includes a smaller DVR allotment unless you add more storage.
Save by bundling smartly
To keep costs down, pair a budget live TV app with an over‑the‑air antenna for local channels. For example, Sling plus an antenna is often cheaper than full bundles like YouTube TV, as long as you don’t need regional sports networks (RSNs).
Month‑to‑month pricing, but expect periodic changes
Streaming services are generally contract‑free and billed monthly, but list prices and channel lineups can change. As a reference point, base prices are about $45 for Sling Orange or Blue, $25 for Philo, ~$72.99 for YouTube TV, and ~$81.99 for Hulu + Live TV before taxes/fees/add‑ons.
Know what’s included (locals and sports)
Cheaper services save money by offering fewer local channels and limited sports. Sling doesn’t include CBS and only carries ABC/Fox/NBC in select markets, while RSNs are typically found on pricier options like Fubo — which may add a Regional Sports Fee in markets where you receive RSNs.
Pros
No-contract option
Two-year price lock for bundles
Custom TV packages
Cons
Router required
Expensive equipment
Why We Chose It
No-contract option
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’re a renter or student and don’t know where you’ll 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.
Two-year price lock for bundles
If you know you’re not moving anytime soon, bundling Fios services can be cost‑effective. In many cases, promotional prices are guaranteed for a defined term when you bundle TV with home phone and/or internet — just verify the length of any price guarantee and what happens after it expires.
Custom TV packages
Most providers’ TV packages are fixed tiers, but Fios has offered mix‑and‑match 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’t use.
Points to Consider
Router required
Because Fios TV travels into the home via fiber-optic cables, you’re required to have a router to receive service. Verizon’s current Fios Router 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‑install is available. Some legacy routers — like the Actiontec MI424WR Rev. 1 and Verizon Fios Quantum Gateway, Model G1100 — may work in certain setups, but always confirm compatibility with Verizon before purchasing.
Expensive equipment
Other than giving you the option to buy your router, a Fios TV plan won’t sell (or provide for free) any equipment. You’ll 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.
Pros
Two-year price lock
Smart HD DVR included
Soaring customer satisfaction rating
Cons
Costly additional equipment
Expensive entry-level package
Satellite signal reliability
Why We Chose It
Two-year price lock
It’s business as usual for TV providers to raise prices after the first year, but DISH TV’s 24-month contract is known for its two‑year price guarantee, helping you budget with fewer surprises over the life of your agreement.
Smart HD DVR included
DISH offers Hopper DVR options with voice remotes and whole‑home 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.
Transparent pricing and service reputation
While overall subscription TV satisfaction trails many other consumer services in recent ACSI reporting (ACSI 2023–2024), DISH is often cited by customers for its straightforward two‑year pricing and channel variety. As with any provider, weigh total cost, channels, and equipment needs for your household.
Points to Consider
Additional equipment can be costly
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’s pretty common for TV providers to charge for extra equipment, so you should always factor in how many DVRs and receivers you’ll need when comparison shopping.
Expensive entry-level package
Even with a two‑year price guarantee, entry‑level satellite TV packages are often pricier than skinny streaming bundles. Over two years, you may pay a similar or higher total versus cheaper month‑to‑month streaming options if you don’t need locals or RSNs.
Satellite signal reliability
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’s 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.
Pros
Flexible contracts
Variety of bundles
Convenient installation
Cons
Prices and plans vary widely by location
Low customer satisfaction rating
Why We Chose It
Flexible contracts
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‑contract plans and 12‑ or 24‑month terms. Term contracts can lower your introductory rate, but if you might move soon, a month‑to‑month option helps you avoid early termination fees.
Variety of bundles
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.
Convenient installation
Many TV providers now offer self‑install 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.
Points to Consider
Prices and plans vary widely by location
It’s not unusual for companies to offer different plans or raise rates based on location, but XFINITY’s rates and packages vary more than its competitors’. This can make it difficult to get an accurate price range for its TV packages. Its contract options also change depending on location — some cities only offer a single contract term.
Customer satisfaction context
Subscription TV remains among the lowest‑rated consumer services in recent ACSI telecom reporting (ACSI 2023–2024). Historical reports like the 2019-2020 ACSI Telecommunications Report provide prior‑year context; your experience will depend on your local market, plan, and equipment.
Guide to Cheap TV Providers
How to choose a cheap TV provider
Consider additional fees and expenses
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‑free with fewer add‑ons, but you should still factor in premium channel packs and, for sports‑centric services, possible RSN fees (for example, Fubo’s Regional Sports Fee in some markets).
- Equipment rental: 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 — for example, YouTube TV and Philo include unlimited DVR with time‑based retention.
- Installation: Professional cable installation commonly runs about $60–$100 when not waived; many providers offer low‑cost self‑install. As a reference, Spectrum lists $59.99 for professional install and $24.99 for self‑install activation (source), and Cox offers $0 Easy Connect self‑install with professional install typically up to about $100 (source).
- Late payments: 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’s late‑fee amount and timing.
- Broadcast TV: 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.
- Regional sports: RSNs typically sit behind pricier plans or separate fees. For example, Fubo may add a Regional Sports Fee in markets that receive RSNs.
- Premium channels: Access to premium networks like HBO, STARZ and SHOWTIME usually costs extra. Some providers include limited‑time promos, after which standard rates apply.
- Additional TV service: 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.
Check for rate increases
Many providers advertise introductory pricing that changes after a promotional period. Streaming services are month‑to‑month but also raise list prices from time to time. As a benchmark, base pricing is currently about $45 for Sling, $25 for Philo, ~$72.99 for YouTube TV, and ~$81.99 for Hulu + Live TV (before taxes/fees/add‑ons). Always confirm your final price at checkout.
Look for deals
Cable and streaming companies compete aggressively for new customers. Look for time‑limited promos (free trials, discounted introductory months, or premium channel trials). If you don’t need locals or RSNs, choosing a skinny bundle like Philo or Sling can keep your ongoing costs lower.
Decide which channels you need
Start with a must‑have list: Do you need ESPN? Local broadcast channels? Regional sports networks? If you don’t need sports or locals, Philo usually covers entertainment at the lowest cost. If you need ESPN but not RSNs, Sling Orange is the cheapest path. If you want a single app with most locals and national sports, compare full bundles like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV.
How We Chose the Best Cheap TV Providers
Availability
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’t require a cable box. To make this review helpful to the most readers, we focused on options with broad availability and simple setup.
Price
The price written in foot-tall gold letters on promotional material is likely not the price you’ll 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 — e.g., Frndly TV, Philo, Sling, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV — and noted fees such as Fubo’s Regional Sports Fee that affect the all‑in cost.
Value
A TV package may be cheap, but if it doesn’t include the channels you want, is it worth any money at all? We compared lineups and features to ensure entry‑level plans still deliver meaningful value. We gave credit to services that include unlimited cloud DVR (e.g., YouTube TV, Philo) and highlighted trade‑offs around locals and sports (e.g., Sling’s limited locals and Fubo’s RSN fees).
Cheap TV Providers FAQs
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