Internet Providers That Make It Easy to Switch
Saying goodbye to your old internet provider might be simpler than you think.
- Several major providers offer contract buyouts to incentivize you to switch by paying fees imposed by your previous ISP.
- Many ISPs offer promotions for new customers that you can take advantage of when switching but offers change periodically.
- Common fees when switching internet providers include early termination and equipment fees.
Switching internet providers isn’t the most exciting task. With cancellation fees, equipment returns, and early termination fees (ETFs), it can be a frustrating experience. To make the process easier, several providers offer incentives for customers switching to their services. If you’re looking for a hassle-free switch, check out some of the internet providers that take the stress out of switching.
Overview of Switching Internet Providers
- The Benefits of Switching Internet Providers
- The Cost of Switching Internet Providers
- ISPs That Are Easy to Switch to
The Benefits of Switching Internet Providers
Whether you’re moving or unhappy with your current provider, it can be frustrating to switch internet providers. You’ll be happy to know that some of these experiences can actually be a blessing in disguise. While there are some fees you may need to pay before switching, there are benefits that could offset those costs.
- You could snag a speed upgrade for a good deal. If a different provider can offer you the same (or faster) speeds for the same price as your current bill, it may be worth taking the jump. These kinds of deals may not always be available, so it’s worth scoping them out early.
- You could get better perks elsewhere. Switching internet providers opens up the opportunity to snag some savings through special promotions like bundle discounts and free service add-ons. You may even get additional benefits like better customer service.
The Cost of Switching Providers
Switching to a different provider comes at a price, in most cases. Specific fees depend on the internet service provider (ISP) and your contract terms, but common fees include:
- Early Termination Fees (ETFs): ETFs are what you pay when you break your service contract before the end date. As a result, the fees tend to sneak up on you. Some providers have started to combat the issue by offering service on a month-to-month basis, with no service contract needed and no ETFs.
- Equipment Rental Fees: Renting a modem and router from ISPs is common, and providers want their equipment back after you terminate your service. It’s up to you to return it to them. If you don’t return the equipment in a timely fashion, the ISP may charge you a late or non-return equipment fee.
ISPs That Are Easy to Switch to
A popular strategy to attract new customers is contract buyouts, which is a win-win for you and your ISP. There are a few other ways that ISPs make switching a breeze. Let’s take a look at some of the major providers that are the easiest to switch to.
AT&T Fiber
Known for its lightning-fast fiber speeds, AT&T Fiber offers download speeds up to 5 Gbps, which is incentive enough to switch providers if it’s available. AT&T Fiber does offer reimbursement for cancellation fees from your previous provider, including ETFs. However, if you had bundled services with your previous provider, those fees aren’t covered and the provider doesn’t specify a limit to how much in fees they reimburse for. To sweeten the deal, certain fiber plans come with Visa reward cards valued at up to $150. If internet-protocol broadband or fixed wireless connections better fit your needs, AT&T Internet has plans with no required contracts.
Spectrum Internet®
Spectrum Internet® is a cable internet provider that makes switching as painless as possible. As an incentive, Spectrum offers new customers up to $500 to pay ETFs from their previous internet contract. The best part? As a new Spectrum customer, you don’t even need to sign a contract when you sign up for internet service, meaning you can switch to other providers at any point without fear of getting hit with ETFs.
Verizon Fios
With ultra-fast fiber-optic internet plans delivering download speeds up to 2 Gbps, it makes sense that Verizon Fios would offer new customers up to $500 in bill credit to help cover ETFs from their previous provider. Be careful if you’re switching from Verizon Fios, though — the company may charge up to $350 in ETF if you cancel your contract. Also, expect an equipment fee tacked on to your bill if you don’t use your own modem and router.
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
Similar to Spectrum and Verizon, T-Mobile 5G Home Internet offers new users up to a $750 reimbursement for termination fees. It also doesn’t require contracts with its plans, eliminating ETFs for its customers should they switch away from T-Mobile. The cherry on top is its affordability, since T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet plans start at $20 per month.
Xfinity
Xfinity offers a plethora of cable internet services, from download speeds up to 2 Gbps to home phone and cable TV service. Unfortunately, those services don’t include reimbursement for ETFs. That said, Xfinity customers can at least relax knowing they won’t be saddled with fees when they switch since Xfinity internet plans don’t require a service contract.
Google Fiber
Customers looking to switch to Google Fiber can expect several perks. Besides offering contract-free plans (and therefore no ETFs), Google Fiber provides unlimited data and doesn’t charge for equipment or installation. With download speeds up to 8 Gbps, this is an incredible offer worth considering — provided it’s available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Switching Internet Providers
Which ISP has the best easy-to-switch policy?
The ISP with the best easy-to-switch policy varies on a case-by-case basis. Customers switching from a contracted plan might enjoy Spectrum, Verizon Fios, or T-Mobile 5G Internet since they all offer up to $500 to cover ETFs. AT&T Fiber also has a contract buyout policy but doesn’t state how much they’re willing to cover in canceled fees from your previous provider.
Are contract-free providers better than providers with contracts?
Both types have their benefits and drawbacks. Contracted plans have a fixed-price guarantee within a specific timeframe, but you’re locked into that contract and won’t be able to switch providers unless you’re willing to pay the ETF. Contract-free plans are paid monthly and you’ll be able to switch providers free of charge. However, in some cases, you might miss out on perks available only for contract plans.
What are other ways that ISPs can encourage new customers to switch to their services?
The most popular method of encouraging customers to switch is to cover the costs of ETFs. However, ISPs can create promotions or deals that specifically cater to customers looking to switch. Providers like AT&T Fiber and Optimum by Altice, for example, offer Visa gift cards for customers who switch to their services.
Can I change internet provider whenever I want?
You can change your internet provider whenever you want, but you may have to pay a fee. If your ISP doesn’t require contracts or you signed up for a no-contract plan, you can switch without being charged. However, if you are locked into a contract with your ISP and you want to switch before your contract is up, you’ll be subject to early termination fees (ETFs).
Do you lose internet when switching providers?
When switching internet providers, you may find yourself without service in the interim if you don’t plan properly. If you work from home or simply don’t want to go without internet, plan out a schedule carefully. Don’t terminate your current internet before your new provider has been set up. You can schedule a final date for your current internet to avoid a break in service.