Frankly, we don't think so because you’ll probably get a better deal with another provider. Sparklight offers just two plans, bucking the low-, middle-, and high-tier norm among TV providers. Economy Cable delivers just 20 basic channels, most of which you could get for free with an HD antenna. Standard Cable delivers around 100 channels, which is slightly lower than most middle-tier plans. You can add 27 more channels with a Digital Value Pack for about $16 per month, but you’ll still pay more per channel (90 cents) than almost any other TV provider. Even Cox, which has a reputation for high prices, comes in at around 70 cents per channel.
But here’s the real kicker: neither of these packages includes DVR or video on demand. You must add Sparklight’s TV Plus (which isn’t a standalone plan, despite the name) for another $12 per month.
Disclaimer: Availability and pricing are subject to location. Conditions apply.
Sparklight also offers internet and home phone service. Bundling TV with internet could save you around $5 per month (yeehaw). However, don’t bother adding a home phone unless you’re willing to spend big for the convenience. Sparklight’s Standard phone service is so expensive ($50 per month, compared to around $10-$30 for similar features elsewhere) that $32–$47 in savings looks more impressive than it is.
Sparklight includes an Amazon Firestick ($49 value) to help you get connected when you add Sparklight TV Plus ($12 per month) to a Standard plan. Setup will cost you more than most providers, from $30 (self-installation) to $90 (professional installation). You can use your own modem and router if you use Sparklight internet. But if you have only Sparklight TV, you’ll need to rent a Sparklight TV modem ($10.50 per month). Sparklight won’t buy you out of your old contract, but you won’t have to sign another one, so that’s nice.
Because Sparklight doesn’t have contracts, there are no early termination fees. But you’ll have to call in to cancel since you can’t do it online. But the real bad news is, if you want to hit the easy button when returning equipment, it’ll cost you $45 for a technician to come collect it. Alternatively, you can drop it off in person. There’s no mail-in option. (Seriously, Sparklight?)