The average person in the United States spends around $ 57 a month on the Internet. That is a significant amount of money for using the internet.
Of course, the internet today is far better than dial-up. However, when we talk about reducing monthly costs, we are by your side.
Here are five easy tips to reduce the bill you pay for using the internet.
Reduce the Speed of Your Internet
Maybe you are paying a lot of money for using the internet? You are perhaps paying for greater speed than what you may actually require.
Let’s say you’re spending over $60 a month on a 940 Mbps plan. However, except for security systems and smart TVs, you don’t have much internet usage.
You can probably manage with a download speed of 100 or 50 Mbps.
A simple way to find the minimum download speed you can do is to read this Mbps guide. When you know the speed you require, look for an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that offers low prices in this Mbps range.
Speed | Number of Users | Activity |
5 to 25 Mbps | 1 to 2 | Casual browsing, emails, social media, streaming SD video, streaming music |
25 to 50 Mbps | 1 to 3 | Streaming HD and 4K video, streaming music, gaming, regular work from home |
50 to 100 Mbps | 2 to 4 | Streaming 4K video, gaming, work from home, home security |
100 to 500 Mbps | 2 to 5 | Streaming 4K video, gaming, home office, home security, smart home |
500 to 1000 Mbps | 3 to 5 and beyond | Heavy home office usage, 4K streaming, gaming, home security, smart home |
Purchase a Separate Router and Modem
Most ISPs can rent a modem and router for a small monthly fee. However, additional equipment rental fees will be added immediately. Also, if you plan to stay connected to the Internet for a few more years, it’s cheaper to buy a separate modem and router in the long run. In addition, if you decide to switch providers, you can take it with you.
Avoid renting equipment that is just a modem. If you have one of these, you will need to purchase a router to connect additional computers or devices with a wired internet connection. At this point, it’s probably best to buy a separate modem router combo.
Bundle Your Internet and Television Services
Sure, people say bundles save money, but how much do you save? Bundled Internet and TV will reduce your bill by around $20 a month. In some cases, you may save as much as $40 every month.
When bundling, take a closer look at the additional streaming or TV services that you are still paying for. If you are offered the same channels, networks, or shows as the newly bundled TV service, then don’t sign up for such a bundle. Also, compare the cost of the bundle with the cost of purchasing each service individually.
Compare Prices by Shopping Around
If your contract is about to expire, or if you’re lucky enough not to have one yet, don’t be afraid to look around.
Most ISPs often offer new customers a fairly low introduction price. If you can secure a price freeze guarantee, it would be even better.
Your Monthly Bill Should Be Negotiated
Even if you have just signed up with your internet deals or are in the middle of a two-year contract, you can still look for cheaper rates and contract buyout offers that may be provided by other ISPs.
Check what competing ISPs in your location charge for services offered by your existing ISP. You can use this information later to negotiate a low price. This is especially true if your provider does not offer the promised download speeds and performance.
Summing Up
Some simple steps, such as reducing your download speed, buying a separate modem and router, and making a comparative purchase, can help lower your internet bill. The savings might seem insignificant on a monthly basis. However, they do add up over time.