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What is Verizon Fios TV Test Drive? We’ll take a look at this expansive TV option that includes channels based on what you like and a free trial, so you can try it risk-free.
Verizon has decided to offer this highly customizable TV plan to provide customers the option to stream without lag or buffering.
What Is Verizon Fios TV Test Drive?
Verizon is known for being one of the best fiber optic internet service providers, but they also offer TV and phone services using the same system. So, what is Verizon Fios TV Test Drive, and what does it have to offer consumers?
- A base package with a high channel count
- TV options customized explicitly to individual viewers
- Several different packages to choose from for TV service only
- Decent bundling options at lower prices than competitors
Get Verizon Fios TV Test Drive
The custom TV option using Verizon’s Fios TV Test Drive costs around $65 per month compared to Comcast’s closest plan at $105 per month.
DIRECTV has the closest comparable plan that comes in with a similar number of channels at $60 per month but almost no customization.
The unfortunate part here is that if you are looking for a lower-cost package than their Custom TV option there isn’t one available. The next closest plan is Fios TV Local, which has around fifteen channels and restricted to channels found in your area.
If you want a plan with fewer channels and lower prices, you can look at competitors like Comcast or DIRECTV, but these options will come with contracts and fees that may fluctuate over time.
Verizon Fios TV Test Drive comes with its share of fees, but it makes up for those somewhat with their bundles of services that are competitively priced and thoughtfully paired.
Based on the services you want to subscribe to, you’ll want to pay special attention to the fees when comparing Verizon prices to those of the competition, as that is where the most significant differences arise.
How Does Fios TV Test Drive Work?
To get Verizon’s Fios TV Test Drive, you’ll need to have a connection to their fiber network, and this may not be available in all areas. If you can connect to their network, though, you’ll get the option of signing up for some of the fastest internet speeds available plus reliable phone and TV service.
Verizon’s Fios TV Test Drive doesn’t come with any contracts at all, which simplifies your subscription to their service and allows you some flexibility when it comes to your internet, TV, and phone provider.
Other companies like Comcast and DIRECTV require one year or two-year contracts for most of their services, and customers are penalized through a monthly fee if they cancel early.
This arrangement locks users into a service that might not suit their needs months down the road and also leaves them vulnerable to rate changes and fluctuating fees that are out of their control.
Other services also don’t offer any type of customization based on the things that you like to watch as Verizon does for its customers. If you choose custom TV, you can get a slightly different rate than the general package, and also get personalized recommendations.
These recommendations can help you find more content that is closely related to your interests while also ensuring that new content you might be interested in is brought to your attention quickly.
These personalized options will also help you save time as you won’t be channel surfing as often trying to find some show that looks good.
Taking A Test Drive
Verizon offers a trial period for their Fios TV that is very generous, and they call this “Test Drive.” This program allows potential viewers a trial period of sixty days to explore over 425 channels on their TV before having to decide whether or not they want to continue the service.
During this trial period, the Verizon software will analyze what you watch and when to determine the best TV package to suit your needs. Using this analysis, Verizon claims that it’s better able to help its customers save money on their TV packages by assisting them with finding the most useful package.
If you’re squeamish about Verizon tracking what you watch and when then the Fios TV Test Drive service may not be right for you as data collection is integral to the customization.
The data that Verizon collects as you watch different shows is necessary for the company to recommend a package for you, but you also have the option of selecting a package yourself.
It’s unclear if you can skip the trial period this way, but most viewers are pleased to receive two months of free service as part of the trial.
Extra Fees
One significant factor to consider as we explore the question “What is Verizon Fios TV Test Drive?” is the fees charged for this service. The fees can change slightly from month to month, and there is also hardware- related fees.
Verizon offers a 2-year price guarantee for some of its plans, but not all plans qualify for this protection. There are also some monetary incentives provided, like a $250 Visa gift card that some consumers insist makes up for the fees they paid in the first year of using Verizon’s Fios TV.
Other fees you should expect to see include:
- Broadcast fee
- Cable CARD fee
- Digital Adaptor fee
- DVR Service fee
- HD Set-top box
- Multi-room DVR service
- Router charge
This list is a lot of expenses to consider even if you’re only looking to get one TV hooked up. If you factor in installation costs that could add another $100 to $150 depending on your needs.
Final Thoughts: Is Fios TV Test Drive Worth It?
Verizon’s Fios TV is a premium TV option with prices that you would expect for this type of service.If you’re looking for customized TV packages, the ability to bundle services, and lots of channels, Fios TV is a good option.
Some of the packages available are priced competitively with other companies, but it’s essential to look at the fees if you’re looking for the cheapest option available.
Also, keep in mind that this service requires that you connect to Verizon’s fiber-optic network, which might not be available in all areas. Those factors aside, the trial period offered is generous, and the added incentives like a Visa gift card are also something to consider.
