AT&T Internet vs WOW!: Side by Side Comparison

Cut the cord, or stay connected?

Streaming video content vs paying for TV service

AT&T and WOW! both offer TV in addition to Internet and phone service — but the similarities end there. Channels on offer vary from place to place, particularly when it comes to local channels. AT&T often offers TV via a satellite dish separate from your DSL Internet connection, which has pros and cons depending on your area. WOW! generally uses the same coaxial cable that brings your Internet data to provide cable TV.

Data caps are increasingly a concern in some areas.^[1] Consumers should double check that they won’t go over their download limit if they “cut the cord” and rely on over-the-top streaming services like Hulu to deliver their video entertainment. Even with caps as high as a terabyte, high-quality video has been creating bigger and bigger file sizes every year, making those data caps look much more restrictive in the long term.

Understanding fees and “extras”

The fine print isn’t always pretty

The good news: bundling Internet, phone, and TV services from the same provider usually results in a lower overall monthly cost. The bad news: ETFs (early termination fees) and long contract lengths can make the final cost of your broadband service much higher than it looks when you sign up.

To stay safe, always shop with the final monthly cost in mind, no matter how attractive the sign-up bonuses offered are. Students, young professionals, and others who frequently relocate should be especially mindful of what they’ll have to pay to break a contract.

Also be wary of additional fees on your bill, and don’t be shy to call your provider and request explanations for fees you don’t understand. Even a couple extra dollars a month can add up over the years, which is too bad if it’s a fee you can remove with a simple phone call.^[2]