Cable has been the default for decades. Here is how IPTV compares on the things that matter.
Price
- Cable: often $100+ a month after box rental, fees and the end of promo pricing.
- IPTV USA: from $12 a month, or about $5–$7 a month on a 12-month plan.
Channels
Cable packages are tiered: the channels you want are often in the most expensive one. IPTV plans include the full lineup plus international packages.
Equipment
Cable requires rented boxes for each TV. IPTV works on devices you already own.
Contracts
Cable often needs a one- or two-year contract with early-termination fees. IPTV is prepaid with no contract.
Installation
Cable may need a technician. IPTV is activated in minutes.
Where cable still wins
Cable does not depend on your internet connection, so it can be steadier on slow broadband. With 25 Mbps or more, that advantage disappears for most homes.
The real savings
For a typical household, switching saves more than $1,000 a year. See IPTV cost in the USA.