Spectrum's newest and cheapest plan, TV Stream is a solid option overall. As you probably guessed from the name, it's a streaming plan that's transmitted over the internet (requires a Spectrum internet bundle). It also doesn't need a TV box and can be watched from anywhere (traditional TV, mobile device, while on the road, etc). TV Stream includes 85 general-interest channels for $39 .99 /mo. As with all other Spectrum plans, there's no contract involved and you cancel anytime. Let's dig into all the details.
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TV Stream has 65 less channels than Spectrum's largest plan, Select. Though that's quite a few, it's still a well-rounded package. When it comes to movies, it includes classics such as AMC, IFC, TCM, Paramount and more. Music lovers will dig the fact that Stream has: CMT, MTV, MTV Live, VH1, etc. Other quality channels include: Animal Planet, CNN, Cartoon Network and truTV.
On the flip side, there are a couple downsides. First, there's almost no sports coverage. Secondly, TV Stream has no local channels. If you want 'em, you'll need an HD antenna or other source for local programming. However, lack of sports and locals are big reasons why this plan is priced so low.
PERFECT FOR: folks that bundle with Spectrum internet and don't need sports or locals.
Check out all the channels available below:
As of today , get TV Stream at the lowest price available below, with the most savings over the phone.
TV Stream Deal Expires: soonSome providers don't disclose all your applicable monthly and one-time fees (or make them super difficult to find). Good news is Spectrum is up-front with all their charges. With TV Stream and the lack of sports and local channels, your fees are kept to an absolute minimum. In fact, your only monthly fee outside of the plan's monthly charge is tax. That's it. On average, tax goes for about $1.50/mo (depending on your local gov't regulations).
Last note about local channels. Not having them in this plan saves you $25.75/mo. For a lot of subscribers, that's a worthwhile trade-off.
Part of the process of getting a Spectrum TV plan involves paying a one-time activation fee. It's unavoidable and the very last step before enabling the service. Currently, that fee goes for $30 and will show up on your first bill.
As discussed above, a Spectrum internet plan is required to get TV Stream. In other words, if you don't select an internet plan first, Spectrum's site won't offer TV Stream as a TV option. Spectrum has internet plans that range from 300 Mpbs to 1 Gbps. To sweeten the deal, when you first sign-up, you'll often qualify for a Visa gift card bonus or similar. Currently, they're offering a $100 Visa Reward card for signing up with any plan.
Compiling all the numbers above, here's a sample bill of TV Stream bundled with the Spectrum Internet 300 plan.
Installation activation feeSo, you'll take home a net of $70 after you redeem the gift card and get your service activated.
Dig hollywood or indie flicks? As with other cable providers, you can tack-on a variety of premium movie plans. The options range from the max app (with HBO channels) to the full set of Starz channels. They're all streaming-based plans so they work perfectly with TV Stream.
In contrast, while Spectrum has other add-on channel packs (for sports and general programming), they're not an option as part of TV Stream. If you access to those other channel packs, consider upgrading to the Select plan.
Back to the premium movies, here's a quick look at what you can get:
It's basically a streaming device like Apple TV or Roku and will eventually replace all of Spectrum's set-top receivers. It has a program guide that's customized to Spectrum's services so there shouldn't be a learning curve associated with it (Roku's can sometimes be difficult to use for new customers). Additionally, the voice remote is full-featured and has a similar layout to previous Spectrum remotes. so, again, there should be no issue getting used to it. In fact, it has a bunch of new features to help you find and discover programming easier and faster. Just about everyone that uses the Xumo seem to prefer it over older receivers and guides. and we tend to agree.
Cost-wise, the Xumo is also cheaper. It's actually free for your first months, then $5/mo until you payoff the receiver in full ($60 total so 12 months of payments).
One of the only downsides of the Xumo is that it doesn't have a full app library. So, while you can add most popular apps, you're limited to the current scope of the library.
What's the minimum speed required for TV Stream?
Generally, a minimum of 3 Mbps is recommended to avoid buffering or pixelation. Spectrum's first internet plan gives you 300 Mbps so unless you're dealing with a modem or technical issue, speed should never be an issue.
Do I need to get the Xumo or any other receiver?
No. With all of Spectrum's TV plans, you have the option of watching it on any device you already own that lets you install the Spectrum app (smart TV, tablet, smartphone, etc). Get the Xumo or similar device if you want more viewing options.
Can I get Disney+ for free with TV Stream?
No. TV Stream doesn't qualify you for the current Disney+ promo. Only the larger TV Select plans get you free access to Disney+
