5 On Your Side: A cable company cell phone plan could save you money
"Cable companies lease wireless capacity from major carriers and use WiFi whenever possible to provide service, and that saves consumers money," said Octavio Blanco with Consumer Reports.
Posted — Updated“I was paying Verizon about $170 a month,” said JD Mathewson.
He was looking to cut expenses when he got an email from Spectrum touting cell service.
After comparing it to his plan, he switched.
Mathewson is among the estimated 5 million people who now get their cell phone service from a cable or broadband company.
“Cable companies lease wireless capacity from major carriers and use WiFi whenever possible to provide service, and that saves consumers money,” said Octavio Blanco with Consumer Reports.
In response to the competition, CTIA, which represents the wireless industry, says "the wireless industry has a long history of intense competition.”
If you already get internet from Spectrum or Xfinity or any service offered by Altice’s Optimum or Suddenlink brands, adding a cell phone plan to the bundle could lower your mobile bill.
“All three companies offer one phone line with unlimited talk, text, and data for just $45 a month,” said Blanco.
They also offer flexibility.
You can get customized data plans for each family member.
CR says there are a few drawbacks to consider.
- Your service could be slow if network traffic is high.
- Fees and taxes may not be included in advertised rates.
- Automatic monthly payments may be required.
For JD, the savings add up.
“I’m saving about $50 a month on my cell phone bill,” he said.
CR says if money’s tight, bundling could help you afford cell service and broadband at home.
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