I initially threw out any consideration for CenturyLink, because I assumed that I would be required to have a phone line, for which I didn't need. Comcast offered the Double Play option with Internet and TV, which was fine, because we've completely abandoned the need of a land line. Other options, such as my previous provider Air Pipe were completely out of the question because the cost was typically double and the connection speeds were dismal. It's funny to consider a 1Mbps connection speed dismal these days. Additionally, other wireless providers such as Clear Wire, AT&T, and Verizon, though have impressive speeds, weren't the direction I was interested in pursuing.
Challenges with Comcast
I had initially called and arranged service with Comcast without the consideration of CenturyLink because of the perceived phone line requirement, but my first three attempts all fell through. The first contact I had made, I was put on hold for nearly close to 30 minutes while the representative determined why she couldn't figure out what city my zip code was in. Unfortunately, at about the 30 minute mark the connection was lost, as if I reached a max hold time.My second attempt ran into the same zip code fiasco, but the representative was able to get around the issue rather quickly. When she was describing the services, I was more informed that digital doesn't really mean HD. If I wanted HD content, I was going to have to pick up a heftier TV service plan, premier that is. The problem with that is, I don't watch a lot of TV, and like the Netflix ability to stream a show at your convenience. With that, I decided, I'd go with it and provided my information, and upon sign-up the representative stated I would be receiving a post card with my installation date within a few days.
About a week and a half later, no notice had arrived and I started thinking that maybe this is a sign that I should look elsewhere for broadband service. I contacted Comcast again, and the representative stated, that she'd never heard of them sending out a card with installation dates. Amazed by this, I still considered them as an option, but a new concern had arisen. The current incentive program for new customers requires a 2 year agreement, but the pricing is only locked in for 1 year. I don't like that option as a customer, even though they specify what the increases typically are. If you're going to want me to specify an agreement, I want that price for the entire term. With this new discrepancy, I decided again, to pass on Comcast.
CenturyLink Options
After another week or so, I checked out the CenturyLink site, and found that they had a broadband plan that didn't require a phone line in order to establish service. This was a great find for me, being that we have mobile phones, and have been without a traditional telephone for about 5 years now. I chatted with the representative on the website was able to get all of the details regarding the services and costs. I opted not to start service via the chat, even with the additional $50 closer card that was being offered.On the morning of Black Friday, I was walking through the local mall, and saw a CenturyLink booth and talked to the sales representative about the service and what other options that may exist for me. I thought more about my desire for media content when the rep shared that Hulu Plus is a great option for augmenting Netflix, and the price is very reasonable.
I ended up going with the CenturyLink service, obtaining a 20Mbps connection at $40 per month with a guaranteed price for 12 months, and no term agreements. This is 50% less than what I was paying for a 1Mbps wireless connection just a couple months ago. Additionally, it was recommended to talk with their loyalty group to negotiate a new price at the end of 12 months, which I can see being a hassle, but the price after 12 months, is not that drastic of a variance.
