When you’re apartment hunting, cable and internet may seem like a foregone conclusion. But are the available options right for you?
Some landlords and property management companies offer a basic Time Warner Cable package as part of the rent, while others allow residents to pay separately for the internet.
Choosing an Internet Plan for Your Apartment
If you’re on the lookout for an internet plan for your apartment, here are some factors to consider:
- What’s your internet usage?
- What are the download speeds like in your area?
- How many people will share the connection?
How Do You Know What Speed You Need?
It’s a great question to ask yourself. It all depends on how you use the internet. If you download a lot of content or watch streaming videos and play online games, you’ll want to opt for faster speeds. Also, keep in mind that your downloads might not be as fast if multiple people share the connection.
Choose an Internet Service Provider (ISP) with higher speed options so that everyone can enjoy fast downloads and streaming TV at once.
Streaming Videos
The average high-definition video requires around 5 Mbps of bandwidth. Most streaming services recommend at least 25 Mbps for 4K Ultra HD quality video. If multiple people in your household stream videos or play online games at once, you’ll need even more bandwidth.
Uploading Large Files
Documents, spreadsheets, and presentations don’t demand much bandwidth (around 1 Mbps), but sending large files like pictures or videos requires more speed — somewhere between 10-25 Mbps should do the trick.
Choosing a Cable Provider for Your Apartment
Cable TV is a subscription-based service that allows you to watch hundreds of channels. You can watch live TV, sports, news, blockbuster movies, and more. Cable TV generally requires a set-top box or cable modem to receive the signal.
So what’s the difference between regular TV and cable?
Regular TV uses an antenna to pull signals broadcast over the air by local stations. To get cable, you need to subscribe to a service provider. Most cities have multiple providers, so you may be able to choose from more than one option.
What does it cost?
Costs will be vary depending on your provider and location. A basic package can be as low as $30 per month but may cost more than $100 per month for premium packages with hundreds of channels and added perks. If you’re looking for internet only, prices can start around $45 per month and go up from there based on speed and other features.
How do you install it?
A professional installer can help you set up cable TV and internet in your home or apartment. These services typically include installation at no additional cost, so you won’t have to deal with getting everything hooked up without help.
What you should do if you’re not satisfied with the provider
If you’re not happy with your apartment’s internet or TV provider, you need to consider other alternatives. First, check the lease to see if the service is included in your rent. If so, you should subscribe to other providers being offered.
If the service is not included, check with your apartment management office about the policy they have on the matter. Hopefully, you find your way around the unnecessary complications and then use the following steps to decide which provider is best for you:
Find What’s Right for You
Determine what type of service each provider offers; examine factors like speed and cost.
Area Availability
Even though one company may be better than another overall, it might not have adequate coverage in your place. Make sure that whoever you decide to go with has a range in your neighborhood and building.
Compare Providers
Compare plans and pricing. Some companies combine services into special packages that offer lower prices than paying separately. For example, Spectrum deals offer incredible bundles at the right prices.
Happy Renting!
We hope our guide helps you make an informed decision.