Javascript required
Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer
Home / What Channels Do You Get With Spectrum Basic Cable

What Channels Do You Get With Spectrum Basic Cable

Why choose Spectrum TV?

Spectrum TV service shares availability with Spectrum internet, covering more than a third of U.S. households across 41 states. It's true "cable" TV, in that it uses coaxial cables to deliver service, as opposed to a satellite or fiber optic network. Spectrum offers three main TV packages, which may seem low, but that's right on par with other cable TV providers such as Xfinity and Cox.

What we like

  • The basics are there and then some – You'll find all the top networks, plus premium networks, sports packages and international channels to be available with Spectrum.

  • Streaming with Spectrum mobile app – The Spectrum TV App gives you access to thousands of on demand shows and your full channel lineup at home and on the go.

  • Spanish packages available – Three additional packages focused on Spanish-language entertainment are available.

Things to consider

  • Unimpressive DVR – Expect recording conflicts with Spectrum's DVR, which allows for only two simultaneous recordings.

  • No 4K capability – Spectrum TV does not have live or streaming/on demand 4K programming.

  • Fees can run up your bill – After the Broadcast fee, DVR fee and charges for each TV box you need, monthly costs for Spectrum TV will add up.

Expert tip: Spectrum is best for those looking for standard cable TV

If you're looking for a standard cable TV service, Spectrum may be for you. It delivers all the essential channels and includes HD at no extra cost. If, however, you're in search of a more unique viewing experience, with a state-of-the-art TV box and lots of features, Spectrum TV is likely to underwhelm.

Spectrum TV packages and pricing

See the Spectrum TV packages and prices for your home and entertainment needs in the table below.

Spectrum logo

Shop Spectrum cable TV plans

Spectrum offers high-speed internet, customizable TV packages and unlimited nationwide calling.

Spectrum logo displayed on a tablet

Spectrum TV channel lineup

Spectrum gives you three TV package options: Spectrum Select, Spectrum Silver and Spectrum Gold. You'll find the Spectrum Select package offers the most basic channel lineup. The Spectrum Silver package is a mid-tier TV package, but unlike many mid-tier packages from other providers, it comes with premium networks HBO® and SHOWTIME® at no extra cost. Spectrum's largest TV package, Spectrum Gold, features the most robust lineup and is stacked with premium networks, out-of-market regional sports channels and more. Check out what the Spectrum channel guide might look like varying on your package selection below.

Which Spectrum TV package is best for you?

Select package channels

Best for: Casual viewers who enjoy local networks, sports, entertainment and lifestyle programs.

Channel guide with notable channels: Disney, ESPN, Freeform, HGTV, SundanceTV, TBS, TNT and USA

Silver package channels

Best for: Moderate viewers who enjoy local, sports and entertainment networks along with a handful of premium channels.

Channel guide with notable channels: HBO Max®,  SHOWTIME®, MLB Network, NBA TV, NFL Network and Olympic Channel

Gold package channels

Best for: Avid viewers who like a little bit of everything including local, sports, entertainment, lifestyle and premium networks.

Channel guide with notable channels: HBO®, SHOWTIME®, CINEMAX, STARZ®, STARZ ENCORE®, TMC, Boomerang, NHL Network,  NFL RedZone and Willow TV

Expert tip: Consider Spectrum add-on packs

Spectrum cable packages come with a variety of entertainment, but if you want more of a specific genre, such as sports or Spanish-language channels, consider Spectrum add-on packs.

Channels included in all Spectrum TV packages

Free HD channels: Picture resolution up to 1080p is included at no extra cost. HD channels include all major news networks, Disney, ESPN, HGTV, Hallmark Channel, Lifetime, NBC Sports Network and others.

On-demand shows: Spectrum advertises "thousands" of available on-demand titles, but the actual number will vary by package.

Mobile streaming: The Spectrum Stream TV App is available on iOS and Android devices for free and lets you stream live and on-demand content.

Should you choose Spectrum TV?

Spectrum TV is a solid choice for most people, especially if you're already subscribing to Spectrum internet service. Its bundles start at just $89.98.mo., which is one of the cheaper TV and internet combinations you'll find. Spectrum also carries most regional sports networks, and in many areas, it's the only way you'll be able to watch your local MLB, NBA and NHL team's games.

Spectrum TV equipment and fees

Whichever Spectrum TV package you choose, it will also come with its share of fees.

  • Broadcast fee: $12.95-$17.99/mo. All packages come with a Broadcast fee, which will vary depending on your package. Expect to pay $17.99 for your broadband fee unless you have the TV Stream or TV Choice plan. With those two plans you will only have to pay $12.95. This fee seems a bit unfair, but you can expect a similar fee from virtually any traditional TV provider.
  • HD TV box fee: $8.99/mo. per device. You'll need a Spectrum HD TV receiver for every TV you want service on, and each one will add to your bill.
  • DVR fee: $4.99/mo. for one device, $9.99/mo. for two or more. It's a relatively small price to pay for DVR service, but you'll have to schedule recordings strategically as you can only record two shows at once. You do have the option to pass on the DVR service, however, making this fee the only one you can avoid.
  • Installation fee: $9.99 for self-install, $49.99 for professional install. The fee for the self-installation covers the cable-modem that you need. Self-install is fairly simple, so if you're up for it and it's available, go that route to save $40 off the upfront costs.
  • Price increase after promo period: After 12 months with Spectrum, your promo period will end and your Spectrum bill will increase up to $35/mo. You can expect for your TV bill to increase by $25/mo. and if you have a phone bill, that will increase by $10/mo.
  • Late payment fee: $8.95 per late payment. However, this fee is not applied until 30 days after your original payment date, which is a fairly generous grace period.

Expert tip: Expect to pay an additional $30/mo.

If you are wondering how much these fees can add up to, here is an example. Starting pricing for the Spectrum TV Silver package is $7 4.99 /mo., but that is just for the channels. By the time you add in extra costs such as broadcast and regional sports fees, equipment rental and DVR service, your actual bill is likely to be well over $100/mo.

Stream live and On Demand with the Spectrum TV App

The Spectrum TV App takes your favorite shows, movies and sports from the TV to any screen.

What is the Spectrum TV App?

The Spectrum TV App allows Spectrum subscribers to watch live TV and On Demand, control DVR and alter settings like parental controls. Choose from over 40,000 titles and watch from any internet-connected device.

Which devices support the Spectrum TV App?

The Spectrum TV App works on Apple iOS, Android and Amazon Kindle devices, as well as Roku players, Xbox and Samsung Smart TVs that are 2012 edition or newer. If you want to watch on your computer, use the same username and password for the Spectrum TV App to log into Spectrum's online TV viewing site.

How does Spectrum TV On Demand work?

Using the Spectrum TV app or Spectrum's On Demand online library, you can watch On Demand movies, live TV shows and other featured entertainment. You can view available titles by logging in using your Spectrum username and password.

Spectrum TV add-on channels and packages

Spectrum cable packages come with a variety of entertainment, but if you want more of a specific genre, such as sports or Spanish-language channels, consider Spectrum add-on packs.

  • Premium networks

    HBO® and SHOWTIME® are included with the Silver and Gold packages, but you can add them to the Select package for an added fee. Cinemax® and STARZ® are also available as add-on packs. Plans start at $4.99/mo.

    A family watching TV

  • Sports packs

    The Spectrum Sports Pack includes NFL Network, Redzone Channel and Golf Channel. You can also add major pro sports packs, such as MLB Extra Innings, NBA League Pass and NHL Center Ice. Plans start at $5.00/mo.

    Three people watching TV

  • International channels

    Spectrum TV offers a Spanish-language base package, Mi Plan Latino TV, with 75+ Spanish channels, or you can add the Latino View pack. Hindi and Punjabi international packs are also available. Plans start at $4.99/mo.

    Man using his cell phone while on a train

Expert tip: Sometimes a package upgrade is more cost-effective than add-ons

If you need two or more add-on packs to get all the channels you want, your best option may be to upgrade to a better package. For example, if you chose Spectrum TV Select then added HBO Max® and SHOWTIME®, the starting cost would come to $74.99. For the same price, you could choose the Spectrum TV Silver package, which includes HBO Max® and SHOWTIME®, plus NFL Network, MLB Network, Science Channel and many others not included with Spectrum TV Select.

Compare Spectrum TV to other top TV packages

Depending on which TV service providers are available near you, you may be wondering how Spectrum compares to competitors. Select a competing provider to see starting prices, channel lineups and more.

*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. As of 05/03/21.

For more details on how Spectrum TV compares to other providers near you, check out some deep dives from our experts:

Spectrum TV customer satisfaction ratings

Spectrum ranked in line with most other cable TV providers for customer satisfaction in 2020, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) and J.D. Power.

The ACSI gave Spectrum TV an overall score of 64/100, one of the higher cable providers, but falling just short of Xfinity and DIRECTV (both scored 66/100). J.D. Power was also somewhat critical of Spectrum, assigning it the second-lowest score of any TV provider.

Spectrum TV FAQs

Can you get Spectrum TV without internet service?

Yes. You can get Spectrum TV without an internet plan. Spectrum provides traditional, standalone cable TV plans that you can buy without buying Spectrum internet. However, Spectrum streaming services, including TV Choice and TV Stream are only available when paired with Spectrum internet service.

Does Spectrum TV have 4K?

Right now, Spectrum TV service doesn't have channels using Ultra HD 4K TV programming. However, Spectrum offers free HD programming in 1080p, so customers with HDTV can enjoy high-quality Spectrum HD entertainment.

What is Spectrum's cheapest TV package?

Spectrum TV Essentials is a streaming package with 60+ live TV channels starting at $14.99/mo. This package must be bundled with Spectrum Internet. The cheapest standalone TV package is Spectrum TV Select, which starts at $44.99/mo.* for 125+ channels.

Can I save additional money with Spectrum?

One way to save on Spectrum TV service is to limit the number of HD boxes you use and pass on the DVR service. Each HD box costs $7.99/mo., so reducing the number of connected TVs could instantly reduce your bill. Additionally, DVR service can cost up to $9.99/mo., so electing to not have the service could save you some money.

Bundling is also a popular way to save money on TV and internet services, but Spectrum bundle discounts are lower than you'll find with many other cable providers.

What are the basic channels on Spectrum?

Basic channels on Spectrum include your local networks — ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC — as well as other public access or government channels, including C-SPAN, the CW, HSN, MeTV, PBC and QVC.

Was this page helpful?

We're glad! Tell us what helped most on this page.

Was this page helpful?

The page didn't have what I was looking for.

This page is incorrect or outdated.

This page didn't help me choose a product or service.

Other (please specify):

Thanks for your feedback!

Your insight helps, and we'll do our best to improve your experience.

Ari Howard Ari Howard

Written by:

Ari Howard

Associate Writer, Broadband & Wireless Content

Ari is an Associate Writer for the Allconnect team, focusing on broadband and wireless news, as well as broadband and TV provider deals. She recently graduated from Davidson College with a bachelor's degree in… Read more

Robin Layton Robin Layton

Edited by:

Robin Layton

Editor, Broadband Content

Read bio

What Channels Do You Get With Spectrum Basic Cable

Source: https://www.allconnect.com/providers/spectrum/tv