Many cable internet providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, still charge monthly fees for renting wifi equipment. While these providers may include equipment as part of a promotion or bundle it with expensive higher-speed plans, customers often end up paying more in the long run. Equipment fees are one reason why the average American spends $89/mo on home internet.
These hidden costs can add hundreds of dollars to your annual bill. Luckily, with new broadband competition reshaping the market, you have options to avoid these fees and save money.
What Do Cable Internet Companies Charge for Wifi Equipment?
Here’s a breakdown of typical equipment fees from major cable internet providers:
- Xfinity: $14–$25/month for a modem and wifi router. Includes options like xFi Complete, which adds unlimited data but increases costs significantly.
- Spectrum: $10/month for wifi equipment, though modem rental is included in most plans.
- Cox: $13/month for a modem and wifi router.
While these fees may seem small, they quickly add up—costing $120–$300 per year.
The Rise of Customer-Friendly Pricing
The good news is that new fiber and 5G internet providers are transforming the broadband market. Companies like AT&T, Verizon, Frontier, and T-Mobile include equipment in their base pricing, eliminating surprise fees and simplifying billing.
These providers not only save you money but also offer modern equipment designed to maximize wifi performance.
How to Avoid Wifi Equipment Fees
1. Buy Your Own Equipment
If you’re sticking with a cable internet provider that charges extra for equipment, consider purchasing your own gear. Here’s what to look for:
- Cable modem: Ensure it’s compatible with your provider and supports DOCSIS 3.1 for faster speeds and reliability.
- Wifi router: Choose one with Wifi 6 technology for better performance and range.
- Combination device: Integrated modem/router combos are available for around $150, offering convenience and long-term savings.
Owning your equipment can pay for itself in less than a year and save you hundreds of dollars over time.
2. Switch to a Provider That Includes Equipment
Avoid the hassle of buying and maintaining your own gear by switching to a fiber or 5G provider that includes equipment in the plan price. With the majority of Americans now with multiple local internet options, it’s easier than ever to find a better deal.
Use Wifi Shark to:
- Compare providers in your area.
- Find plans with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
Save an average of $500 per year by switching to a customer-friendly provider.
The Bottom Line
Wifi equipment fees are an unnecessary expense in today’s competitive broadband market. While traditional cable companies still charge these fees, new fiber and 5G providers are setting a new standard with no extra charges for equipment.
Whether you choose to purchase your own gear or switch to a provider that includes equipment, you can take control of your internet costs and eliminate these hidden fees.
Visit Wifi Shark today to explore your options, compare plans, and start saving on your internet bill.
