Does Optimum charge for router?

You may come across Optimum Internet in your search for an Internet Service Provider in your area. A cable-based company, they rank highly in speed and quality of service.

Optimum Internet is a worthwhile choice if you like steady pricing, fast speeds, and flexible options when using an internet plan. They have various customer-friendly options that you will not find in most ISPs, and you will enjoy using their service if it is available in your region.

The good news is that their routers are free, with the only charges applying to renting the modem (at $9.99 per month) and the internet plan you choose, which we will review in this article. For a subscriber requiring internet connections, they will give you a speed ranging from 60 to 400 Mbps, free access to their Wi-Fi hotspots, email, a free router, and a leased modem.

Optimum Internet price plans

Even though the service is limited to select regions, it is still worth considering if it is available. Aside from the free installation, free router, and low internet charges, Optimum also offer telephone and cable TV packages – allowing you to bundle and save more money.

If you are only interested in the internet plans, the packages will depend on the speed levels you prefer, as we show in the table below:

As the table shows, the options are not as varied as other Wi-Fi providers, but they will offer a sweet spot if you love streaming content or gaming.

An interesting aspect that sets Optimum Internet apart from the competition is the Price for Life guarantee. It will only apply if you remain in good standing, although the fee you pay to get 400 Mbps is comparatively high when contrasting it to other ISPs. The Optimum 300 plan is fairly priced as well.

From a general standpoint, the overall prices of Optimum packages are competitive, even though you will get better deals for some plans.

Optimum Internet fees

No contracts

Contracts are likely the most annoying aspect of joining a subscription, but there is some good news for Optimum users – contracts are absent here.

Thanks to the Price for Life guarantee, you automatically win if you do not enjoy the idea of being tied down to one ISP, such as a renter or college student.

Equipment

For each month, Optimum will charge you $10 to rent their DOCSIS modem and smart router, though this price only applies to the modem. You can also opt to use their router-modem combo (wireless gateway) at the same monthly price.

Additionally, they also give you an option to use their Wi-Fi extenders, each going for $3 per month. This is good if you want to extend your internet connection to a wider area or to rooms that have obstacles blocking the Wi-Fi signal.

Other equipment fees

• Wi-Fi extender: $3 per month
• Wireless gateway: $10 per month
• Smart router and DOCSIS modem: $10 per month
• Additional modem: $49.95 (per modem, one-time fee)

Combining all these fees makes you realize that the $10 monthly rental fee is more expensive over a longer time (like one year) compared to buying a modem and using it with the Optimum Internet service. If you plan on buying a modem separately, ensure it is compatible with their service.

A list of compatible modems is below:

Is the Optimum Internet service worth it?

The service offers you many hidden gems, including the no-contract packages and unlimited data. However, is it a great choice? Looking at the pros and cons might answer that.

Pros

• Most plans come with a Price for Life guarantee
• No contracts
• Router is free and general charges are low
• No data caps

Cons

• They are only available in select regions
• Limited choice of packages
• 400 Mbps plan is expensive

Conclusion

Depending on your location, you can get excellent internet packages from Optimum Internet. They offer speeds that cater to high-bandwidth users and casual browsers, so they are worth your consideration if they are available in your area.

FAQs

Does the Optimum price include the router?

No, as the router is free. You will lease the modem, and Optimum provides the speeds you pay for.

Can I use my router with Optimum?

Yes, you can, as long as it is a certified DOCSIS 3.0 modem. However, it is always best to stick with a Netgear or Arris router, as there is better customer support for them and many people have bought them.