Optimum Cost & Plans – A Comprehensive Review

Optimum by Altice is a leading service provider in the U.S. offering internet, cable TV, and home phone services in 21 states. This provider is one of the top choices of people due to the reliable and good features it offers, not to mention, the affordable Optimum plans that spice up the deal However, like all other providers, Optimum does have a few additional costs that are easy to lose track of. In this article, we delve into details of all the hidden and extra Optimum costs that come as part of your monthly bill.

Optimum Internet – A Look at the Hidden Costs

One of the most popular things about Optimum plans is the low prices you get to enjoy with them. If you want to choose Optimum Internet for your digital needs, it is best to be aware of all the additional costs that come with this provider, even though they are not very different from what other providers usually charge for their services.

You also get to enjoy several other perks and benefits with Optimum, like FREE and modern equipment included with all plans, multi-gig speed tiers, and unlimited data, and all of it comes with no contracts. However, a few other little Optimum costs may be contributing towards your bill. Here is a look at them.

Optimum Wi-Fi Equipment:

Even though it is usually included in the plan, the Optimum Wi-Fi Gateway device may not always be part of the package. While this is rarely so, it might be the case in areas with little Optimum coverage. In such cases, you would be liable to pay a rental fee for the Optimum Wi-Fi Gateway device. It comes up to only $12/mo. when it is not included so it is not too much.

If required, you can also add an Optimum Wi-Fi extender for about $3/mo. for each. In most areas, this too, comes included in your plan if recommended by a registered technician.

Network Enhancement Fee:

This fee allows Optimum to invest in its infrastructure and improve its services and offerings. While you might not always understand this charge, this enhancement allows you to experience better internet speeds and greater bandwidth over time.

Optimum Installation Fee:

This is the installation fee that you have to pay, no matter what internet plan you get. In some areas, Optimum may offer to waive this fee but it does depend on active promotions from the provider. In most areas, this one-time charge still applies and you can get professional installation done for under $100.

Late Internet Bill Payment:

You have a fixed time each month within which you have to pay the Optimum bill. Late payments would be submitted with a charge of $10.

Optimum Internet – Plans & Prices

The best thing about Optimum is that it offers multiple Optimum Internet plans with different speeds that are available for almost all kinds of users. This is courtesy of the large and varied network that Optimum boasts – with service types ranging from Hybrid-fiber coaxial to pure Fiber in select areas.

You can pick a plan depending on your requirements and needs, and you can choose something for light use with casual browsing. Multi-gig speeds ranging from 2 Gbps to 8 Gbps are also available in select areas for more demanding activities such as professional gaming and streaming.

Let us take a look at all the Optimum packages that come with Optimum internet service. There is a promotional period of 12 to 24 months during which you can enjoy discounted internet plans, after which the regular rate applies. To learn more, reach out to Optimum customer service at 844-520-8978.

Although the price hike of Optimum internet cost may seem a little much at first, it is consistent with the industry standards, once the promo period ends. Not only do you get the discounted price for a long time with the current 2-year price lock but you also continue to enjoy all the perks you get with the service. This includes unlimited data, free internet equipment, fast internet speeds, and no contracts – which is the perfect way to end your arrangement if you no longer enjoy it.

Pros and Cons of Getting Optimum Internet

If you are not sure about choosing Optimum as your internet provider then we are here to help you through the process. Below are all the pros and cons of using Optimum Internet that can give you a clear idea of how the provider functions.

Optimum TV Hidden Costs

Optimum cable TV also has some additional costs that might stump you when you receive your monthly bill. Before we discuss all the details about the Optimum TV packages, here is a look at all the extra costs that you can find on your Optimum bill. You can learn about these additional details by contacting Optimum customer service.

DVR and Cloud DVR:

If you want a standard DVR on your cable box, you can get it from Optimum for $12.95 per month. If you are more of someone who requires cloud DVR services, you can choose what tier of service you want to get – with prices ranging from $9.99/mo. to $21.99/mo.

TV Broadcast & Regional Sports Network Fee:

The TV Broadcast fee is the one that you pay to watch broadcast networks. It is $9.99/mo. The regional sports network fee is paid to access all the local sports networks that you want – all for $10.47/mo.

Optimum cable box and TV box:

You can choose between the Optimum cable box or TV box depending on what kind of experience you need. Both are priced differently and you can get either.

Optimum One:

Optimum One is an advanced piece of technology with an in-built router and TV box that gets you the best TV experience possible. You can enjoy it for $24/mo., and get all your entertainment in one place.

Optimum TV Packages & Prices

Optimum TV packages offer a complete entertainment solution to different kinds of viewers. With an amazing range of over 420 channels, a great TV experience powered by inspired technology, and a cost-effective service, especially during the promo period, along with good customer support, Optimum TV is a top choice for many. Below are the Optimum plans that you can get for your home:

Optimum TV packages are quite affordable in most areas where it is available, especially during the promo period. You get to enjoy a price lock with Optimum plans for a certain time period, which, as aforementioned can vary. Once the promo period ends, you get a piece hike as is with all other providers in the industry. This may sound frustrating but considering all the additional features and the remarkable channel count and line-up offered by Optimum makes it worth your while.

Pros and Cons of Optimum TV

Optimum TV is a solid option for those who like to have a good variety of entertainment – including live TV, movies, TV shows, and following ongoing sports seasons. Here is a little table that covers the main pros and cons of Optimum TV.

Optimum Cost Compared To Other Providers

Optimum is one of the best internet service providers in the U.S. Depending on where you live, you might have access to some other options at your address such as Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and more. Each of these providers have slightly different pricing, but the general features and offerings remain somewhat similar. Here is a table comparing some of the basics Optimum plans with offerings and features of popular internet providers so you can compare and choose what is best for your home.

At the End…

One thing that can be a deal breaker for some customers is the idea of hidden Optimum costs. And while the provider does come with a few charges here and there that may be deemed ‘extra’, it’s usually not the case. Whether it is the price hike at the end of the promo period, or the taxes and additional fees, none of it is too different from what the other providers in the industry charge.

The Optimum internet bill identifies all the costs and charges and lists them there so you can take a look. There is nothing hidden about it – and considering all the value Optimum plans offer you, it is worth the money.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does Optimum Internet cost?

Optimum internet plans are available in multiple speed tiers ranging from 300 Mbps - 1 Gbps in most areas. There is also limited availability of 2 Gig and 8 Gig plans. The prices of these plans start from $40 and go up to $80 per month. However, for the exact pricing in your area, it is best to contact Optimum customer service at 844-520-8978 for more information.

Why has my bill gone up?

The reasons behind the increased bills may be network enhancement, speed upgrades by the provider, price hikes, or equipment cost. In such cases, it is best to reach out to your provider for more details about the matter. Or you can learn how to save money on your internet bill!

How much is Optimum Internet?

Optimum internet costs can vary quite a bit depending on the speed tier and plan you have. In most areas, you can enjoy Optimum internet speeds ranging from 300 Mbps to 1 Gbps, with prices between $40/mo. to $80/mo. To check Optimum availability and prices in your area, call 844-520-8978 today.

What is the cheapest Optimum package?

The cheapest Optimum package is Optimum 300 which offers an internet speed of 300 Mbps and is priced at $40/mo. For low-income families, Optimum does offer the the Affordable Connectivity Program , which can get you a credit of $30/mo. towards internet services. To learn more, call our experts at 844-520-8978.