Cheap internet plans and providers

Best cheap internet providers

Compare the cheapest internet plans

We’ve compiled a list of cheap and affordable internet options from our list of best internet providers and others below. Most internet providers will have plans much more expensive than $50/mo., but this starting plan could be a great option if you’re looking for cheap internet – just keep in mind you may be sacrificing speed in some cases. With half of U.S. households paying between $60 and $90 per month, these providers offer some great low-price options. 

To give you an idea of what you’ll be paying, we sorted the plans by total estimated cost, which is the starting monthly price plus equipment costs. We also included a column for speed value, which is how much you’re paying for your speed (cost/Mbps). Optimum and Verizon stand out as having the lowest speed value of the plans we’ve chosen. However, taxes and government fees are not included, as these can vary widely by location. 

The cheap Wi-Fi rates listed are introductory prices for new customers and are likely to increase after the introductory period. Additionally, all plans and pricing will not be available in all areas.

Some of the cheapest internet plans require autopay, paperless billing or subscriptions to mobile services, so check the fine print closely for the requirements on the low monthly price.

Cheapest Wi-Fi plans: under $50/mo.

*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. **Optimum pricing requires autopay, paperless billing and an unlimited mobile plan. ***Spectrum pricing requires Auto Pay. As of 04/04/24.

There are certainly other cheap Wi-Fi services in addition to the ones we’ve listed, such as those from regional providers like Breezeline, Astound and Sparklight. These providers and many other regional internet service providers also offer broadband service starting under $50/mo. but didn’t make our list above because of their limited availability across the U.S. 

What to consider when purchasing cheap internet

Be wary of the fine print when buying a cheap Wi-Fi plan. These plans are often cheap upfront but have steep price hikes after one or two years and many fees. Other things to consider before picking a cheap internet plan:

• Equipment fees
• Installation fees
• Early termination fees
• Data overage fees

Considering all the potential added costs, it may be smart to check out cheap internet plans that have no price increases, like T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet or Verizon 5G Home Internet which has price guarantees.

Lastly, consider value. While a certain plan may be cheap, are you getting your money’s worth? For example, fiber internet offers the most reliable internet connection available, so you’re getting more bang for your buck just by opting for a fiber-optic connection.

What internet speed do you need?

The first step in picking the right internet plan for your household is determining how much speed you need. 200 to 400 Mbps plans can keep a moderately-sized household of internet users smoothly accessing the internet. 

For individual users, less expensive 100 Mbps plans can save you money if you just use the internet to stream a movie now and then, shop online, or check your emails and social media. If you work from home or game, you might need a 200 Mbps plan. 

Remember, smart devices like doorbells, appliances, cameras, etc., take a cut of that speed, too.

Our picks for cheapest internet

• Xfinity – Best cheap plans overall
• Spectrum – Low equipment costs
• Mediacom – Cheapest internet plan
• WOW – Best value plans
• Frontier – Cheapest fiber plans
• Kinetic by Windstream – Runner-up cheapest fiber plans
• Optimum – Low first-year pricing for high speeds
• Verizon Fios – Best for bonuses
• T-Mobile – Simple pricing and no hidden fees

The providers featured below either have exceptionally cheap internet plans, special offers that increase the service’s value, or both. 

For each provider, you’ll find their cheapest plan available, plus the next cheapest internet plan for those who may be looking for a little more speed. We’ve also highlighted special offers or savings for each provider, as well as some things to look out for, such as contract requirements or inescapable equipment fees.  Many providers offer monthly deals on their service, like special perks if you buy a plan or discounted plans for a limited time. 

Keep in mind that all providers and plans listed below are not available in all areas.

Xfinity – Best cheap plans overall

Why we recommend it: Xfinity is one of the largest providers in the country, offering plans in the Northeast, Central, South and West regions of the U.S. across parts of 40 states. Its Connect More Internet plan is also one of the cheapest plans that come with broadband speeds — up to 200 Mbps starting at just $25/mo. While some providers may offer cheaper plans, we find that they do not come with the speeds or data allowance (1.2TB/mo.) that you get with Xfinity Connect Internet.

What else to consider with Xfinity internet:

• Use your own equipment: Xfinity allows customers to use their own compatible equipment and save $14/mo. or more on fees.
• Free Xfinity Flex device: All Xfinity internet plans come with a free Flex streaming device. 
• Lower pricing with term agreement: While not required on all Xfinity plans, signing a one or two-year term agreement will often get new customers the lowest internet price.

What to look out for: Though you have the option to use your own equipment, Xfinity’s equipment fee is marginally higher than most providers at $14/mo. or a potentially bill-doubling $25 for premium Wi-Fi service.

View more Xfinity internet plans

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Spectrum – Low equipment costs

Why we recommend it: Spectrum has some of the lowest equipment fees of any provider. Your modem is included at no extra cost and router rental is only $5/mo. And if you choose Spectrum Internet Gig, your router is also included. You can bundle for additional savings or go with one of Spectrum’s internet-only options. Spectrum is available in 41 states.

Offer details

Additional savings on Spectrum internet

• Contract buyout offer: Spectrum offers up to $500 to help you out of your contract with your current provider.
• No contracts, no data caps: You won’t have to deal with unexpected fees for going over a data cap or an early termination fee for changing your service. Spectrum is also a no-contract provider.

What to look out for: Spectrum’s contract buyout* offer is a nice perk, but you have to sign up for a qualifying internet and TV bundle to get it. You can also expect your bill to go up by $25/mo. in year two.

*To qualify for the Contract Buyout Program, a customer must order and install a combination of qualifying Video and Internet and/or Voice services; offers not available in all areas. Spectrum’s Mobile Services are not eligible for the buyout program. Offer available to qualifying customers only who have no outstanding obligations to Charter. Payment amount will be determined by the Early Termination Fee on the final bill from the previous provider, not to exceed $500. For Contract Buyout qualifications, go to ${https://www.spectrum.com/buyout|spectrum.com/buyout}.

View more Spectrum internet plans

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Mediacom – Cheapest plan

Why we recommend it: Mediacom’s Access Internet 100 plan is one of the best values you’ll find anywhere, starting at just $19.99/mo. Even after the $10/mo. price increase in year two, it’s still one of the cheapest plans available. That said, it has a data cap of just 300GB, so heavy streamers or gamers may want to upgrade to a plan with more data. Mediacom offers service across 22 states, mainly in the Midwest.

What else to consider with Mediacom internet:

• Low data caps: Mediacom’s cheapest internet plan only comes with 300GB of data. The average monthly internet usage for a U.S. household is over 500GB in 2023, so if there will be multiple people connecting at once, you should probably upgrade to the Internet 300 plan, which gets you 1,500GB of data per month.
• Waived installation fees: Mediacom usually charges a $109.99 installation fee, but it’s waiving it right now for online orders. But you’ll still have to pay a $10 activation fee.
• Price increases in second year: The cheapest plan goes up by $10/mo. in year two, while every other plan increases by $30/mo.

What to look out for: Mediacom charges $10/mo. for equipment rental. That’s about the middle of the pack, but you can also buy your own Mediacom-compatible modem to save money in the long run.

View more Mediacom internet plans

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WOW! – Best valued plans

Why we recommend it: WOW! offers great value with its internet plans, both cable and fiber. It’s cheapest cable plan is $30.00/mo. for 300 Mbps, a much cheaper price than many of its competitors for the same speed tier. WOW! also offers fiber internet, which inherently has great value due to the quality of the internet connection. WOW! internet has no data caps, contracts and even includes equipment with its plans. WOW! has limited availability, providing service to nine states in the Midwest and South.

What else to consider with WOW! internet:

• Price lock: For an extra $5/mo., you can have your WOW! internet price guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi extenders available: For an extra $9.99/mo., you can add WOW!’s Whole-Home WiFi system to your plan. This helps spread your internet connection to every corner of your house.

What to look out for: Watch out for slow upload speeds and added Whole Home Wi-Fi fees.

View more WOW! internet plans

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Looking for expert tips on shopping for cheap internet?

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Special internet savings

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Frontier – Cheapest fiber plans

Why we recommend it: Frontier offers some of the best value fiber plans available with its 500 Mbps plan priced at just $44.99/mo. Equipment fees and unlimited data are also included with Frontier’s pricing, so you don’t have to worry about hidden fees inflating your bill. Some Frontier plans require a one-year contract, meaning you’ll have to pay early termination fees if you want to cancel service. Most plans increase after the first year and three years. Frontier’s service footprint spans across the Midwestern, Southern and Western regions of the country. 

What else to consider with Frontier internet:

• No data caps: Browse, stream and game without having to monitor your data usage.
• No contracts: Frontier does not require a contract, so you don’t have to worry about early termination fees should you move or need to change your plan.

What to look out for: Frontier includes the equipment rental cost in the plan price, which means there’s no option to save by using your own equipment.

View more Frontier internet plans

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Kinetic by Windstream – Runner-up cheapest fiber plans

Why we recommend it: Windstream’s 500 Mbps fiber plan is $39.99/mo. the same as Frontier’s 500 Mbps plan. Its 1 Gig fiber plan is also competitively priced at $69.99/mo. which is why it’s our runner-up for cheapest fiber plans. Frontier still has the cheapest fiber plans overall, but Windstrream’s first two plans align with the most affordable fiber pricing out there, and they also offer speeds up to 8,000 Mbps in certain areas.

What else to consider with Windstream internet:

• No data caps: Windstream’s plans have no data caps, so you don’t need to worry about extra fees.
• Low equipment price: Windstream’s equipment rental is only $9.99/mo., lower than many other providers.

View more Windsream internet plans

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Optimum – Low first-year pricing for high speeds

Why we recommend it: If you’re looking for a low-cost internet plan but don’t want to sacrifice on speed, consider Optimum. Their lowest-priced plan comes with up to 300 Mbps starting at $30.00/mo. Remember that these prices are only available when you elect autopay and paperless billing, along with having one of Optimum’s unlimited mobile plans. Optimum’s availability footprint currently provides service to 21 states and has been expanding Northeast and South. 

What else to consider with Optimum internet:

• Low equipment fees, option to use your own: The Altice Gateway device will add $10/mo. to your bill, or you can use your own equipment and save on the monthly costs.
• No data caps: Surprise overage fees won’t pop up on your monthly bill.

What to look out for: Optimum internet plans come with a steep price increase after one year of service. Expect to pay $75 to $95 more each month in the second year.

View more Optimum internet plans

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Verizon Fios – Best for bonuses

Why we recommend it: Verizon’s low-cost fiber internet service is an excellent value with speeds up to 200 Mbps starting at just $49.99/mo. Verizon Fios internet plans come with a one-, two- or three-year price guarantee depending on the plan you choose. After the introductory period, standard rates apply. Price increases vary by plan. Verizon has availability spanning areas in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the country.

What else to consider with Verizon Fios internet:

• Equipment included with Gigabit Connection: Like AT&T, Verizon includes your equipment rental at no extra cost when you choose their gigabit plan.
• Bonus offers: New customers are often rewarded with more than affordable internet, with promotional offers including free streaming service subscriptions, gift cards and more running frequently.

What to look out for: With no contracts and no hidden fees, there isn’t much you have to worry about with Verizon Fios, though some may find their $15 equipment rental fee a touch on the high side.

View more Verizon Fios internet plans

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CenturyLink – No rate increases on most plans

Why we recommend it: CenturyLink has some of the most customer-friendly pricing in the business. The only charges you can expect to add on to the sticker price are for modem rentals ($15/mo.) and installation ($99 one-time fee, free self-install may be available). CenturyLink provides service in 16 states.

What else to consider with CenturyLink internet:

• No data overage fees: There are no added fees for going over your monthly data allowance of 1TB.
• Use your own equipment option: Consider purchasing your own CenturyLink-compatible modem to save on monthly equipment rental costs.

What to look out for: CenturyLink is somewhat limited when it comes to plan options, with usually only one or two available depending on where you live. If you have access to CenturyLink’s fiber plans, the speeds you get are the best available. But there is no option to downgrade to a lower speed for a cheaper price.

View more CenturyLink internet plans

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T-Mobile – Simplistic pricing and no hidden fees

Why we recommend it: T-Mobile is one of the most widely available 5G providers with coverage across parts of the entire country. T-Mobile currently serves 98% of the U.S. Prices start at $40/mo. if you bundle with a mobile phone plan.

What else to consider with T-mobile internet:

• No contracts: You can cancel anytime.
• No data caps: You won’t have to worry about getting charged for going over your data limit.

What to look out for: With T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet service, your connection will largely depend on your proximity to a T-Mobile tower, and its speeds can be more inconsistent than fiber or cable internet.

View more about T-Mobile internet plans

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Other cheap internet options

Take some time to look at all the plans offered by your chosen ISP. Sometimes, the cheapest plan isn’t the best value. Providers like AT&T offers much faster speeds for about $20 more a month and Windstream’s 300 and 500 Mbps plans are the same price at $39.99/mo. The difference in speed from 300 to 500 Mbps can allow you to run smart home apps, along with having multiple users online simultaneously gaming and streaming.

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Tips for saving on internet

Regardless of your internet plan, there are ways to save money over a year. If you have a data cap, regulate your usage to ensure you don’t get hit with overage charges. You may be able to downgrade your speed if you have more than you need. There are often equipment rental fees for modems or routers, so if you purchase your own, it could pay for itself after a year or two.

There are several ways to save money annually on internet

If you combined all of these options, you could potentially save $500 to nearly $2,000 a year.

Switch providers – Other cheap internet service providers in your area may have more affordable rates or better offers. Ensure you aren’t contracted with your current provider to avoid early termination fees.
Potential savings: $200-$800/yr.

Watch your data usage – Providers with data caps typically charge a fee for going over. Avoid the overage fee by monitoring your data usage.
Potential savings: $120-$600/mo.

Downgrade your plan – You’ll probably have to sacrifice some of your speed, but downgrading your plan can lower your monthly rate.
Potential savings: $120-$360/mo.

Use your own equipment – Not all providers permit using your own compatible equipment, but those who do may waive the rental fee.
Potential savings: $60-$180/mo.

Use our Savings Calculator to get an idea of the yearly savings you could get by switching providers. If you’re interested in downgrading your plan to a lower speed, refer to our Speed Recommendation Tool to see if a lower speed will still accommodate your needs.

Learn more about internet deals and special offers

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Low-cost assistance programs for cheap Wi-Fi

Cox and Mediacom: Cox and Mediacom both offer the Connect2Compete program, which is an affordable internet service for low-income households with students. Starting at $9.95/mo. for speeds up to 25 Mbps, this cheap internet-only service also comes with Wi-Fi, making it a cheap Wi-Fi option for students.

CenturyLink: CenturyLink’s Internet Basics and Xfinity’s Internet Essentials are excellent inexpensive internet options for seniors or anyone eligible for public assistance programs. Both plans start at just $9.95/mo. and provide a basic connection ideal for checking email and browsing the web.

AT&T: AT&T offers the Access program in conjunction with the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program. If you qualify for that program, you can apply for AT&T Access for free installation, in-home Wi-Fi, no annual contract and no deposit. The service would cost $30/mo or less based on the maximum speed available, up to 100 Mbps. 

WOW!: WOW! offers Internet For Education on their Internet Select 50 plan. Qualifying households can receive 30 Mbps of download capability, modem and self-installation kit at $9.95/mo.

Spectrum: Spectrum offers eligible applicants the Spectrum Internet Assist program with speeds up to 30 Mbps and no data caps for $14.99/mo. To qualify, a member of your household must be a recipient of either the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the NSLP, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Optimum: Optimum offers the Altice Advantage program, which provides qualifying families up to 30 Mbps for $14.99/mo. To be eligible, a household must include a K-12 or college student who needs access to the internet, someone receiving SSI or veterans receiving public assistance. 

Federal programs can provide affordable internet

Lifeline is a government program that grants qualifying applicants $9.25/mo. to go toward their internet or phone bill. Unfortunately, it won’t get you free internet, but it can make internet service more affordable.

View our low-income internet guide for more information. Some organizations, providers and nonprofits also provide free internet options worth checking out.

A note from our experts on cheap internet

If your perfect plan is the cheapest available, you’re in the right place. Keep in mind, however, that the cheapest plan may not offer the speeds you need. 

Like a cheap cable TV package that doesn’t have your favorite channels, cheap Wi-Fi may not give you the best experience and end up being more a waste of money than a saver. We’re here to help you find the right internet plan, cheapest or otherwise.

Cheap internet FAQs

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