What is a cable bundle?A cable bundle is an integration of TV, phone and internet service into one service package. This is an option offered by most popular cable companies, such as Verizon and Comcast.
The Pros and Cons
All cable bundles have their pros and cons. The right bundle could potentially save money, effort and time; The wrong bundle might be more trouble than it’s worth. Whether or not it’s a worthy investment usually depends on how satisfied a customer is with his or her current arrangement. Changing e-mail addresses, phone numbers and channel line-ups can seem like too much of a hassle when a customer is content with the service he or she already has. However, the possibility of savings and the convenience of paying a single bill just might be too beneficial of an opportunity to pass up.
All cable bundles have their pros and cons. The right bundle could potentially save money, effort and time; The wrong bundle might be more trouble than it’s worth. Whether or not it’s a worthy investment usually depends on how satisfied a customer is with his or her current arrangement. Changing e-mail addresses, phone numbers and channel line-ups can seem like too much of a hassle when a customer is content with the service he or she already has. However, the possibility of savings and the convenience of paying a single bill just might be too beneficial of an opportunity to pass up.
What to Consider
When choosing a cable bundle, the most prevalent concerns often regard the cost of service. Along with monthly subscription fees, there are also equipment, installation and activation fees to consider. Not all customers will encounter extraneous fees but when so, it is possible in most cases to negotiate to have the fees waived, as well as to have subscription prices reduced. Most providers employ Customer Retention Specialists whose responsibility is to ensure customer satisfaction by responding to requests and addressing concerns so that customers will subscribe and stay loyal to the company. Also, promotional deals are almost always offered as incentive to sign up and are therefore available to new customers only. The purpose of these promotions is to distract from the normal rate that will begin once the promotional period ends, so it is wise to stay aware of exactly what this rate is.
When choosing a cable bundle, the most prevalent concerns often regard the cost of service. Along with monthly subscription fees, there are also equipment, installation and activation fees to consider. Not all customers will encounter extraneous fees but when so, it is possible in most cases to negotiate to have the fees waived, as well as to have subscription prices reduced. Most providers employ Customer Retention Specialists whose responsibility is to ensure customer satisfaction by responding to requests and addressing concerns so that customers will subscribe and stay loyal to the company. Also, promotional deals are almost always offered as incentive to sign up and are therefore available to new customers only. The purpose of these promotions is to distract from the normal rate that will begin once the promotional period ends, so it is wise to stay aware of exactly what this rate is.
The Possibilities
While some smaller, regional cable companies may have bundling options of their own, it’s difficult to cover them all with much detail. Verizon and Comcast are the most notorious with the general public. Comcast’s Xfinity bundles, known as ‘Triple Plays’, start at $89.00 per month. At this lowest level of service, Comcast offers 80 channels, not including individual subscriptions to premium channels, internet speeds of up to 20mbps and unlimited national calling. For $189.00 per month customers can receive access to 200 channels, up to 50mbps internet speeds and unlimited national calling.
While some smaller, regional cable companies may have bundling options of their own, it’s difficult to cover them all with much detail. Verizon and Comcast are the most notorious with the general public. Comcast’s Xfinity bundles, known as ‘Triple Plays’, start at $89.00 per month. At this lowest level of service, Comcast offers 80 channels, not including individual subscriptions to premium channels, internet speeds of up to 20mbps and unlimited national calling. For $189.00 per month customers can receive access to 200 channels, up to 50mbps internet speeds and unlimited national calling.
Verizon’s cable bundles start at $64.99 per month. The least expensive level of service includes 205 channels, internet speeds of up to 1mbps and unlimited regional calling. The most expensive are Verizon’s FiOS bundles, costing up to $119.99 per month for 290 channels, up to 50mbps internet speeds and unlimited national calling. Verizon’s web site indicates that the specified prices are guaranteed for one year.
It seems clear that Verizon is the optimal choice if TV is the most important element, whereas Comcast’s strengths lie in phone and internet service. Both companies offer a multitude of other services at additional costs and both companies’ promotional deals vary based on how and where a customer signs up. Ultimately, the decision depends on the individual customer as well as the customers area.
Author’s Bio: Daniel Davis, with his articles is a highly popular author. His articles cater to those who need information on phone internet. He often refers to Phonetvinternet.com for detailed info.