DirecTV/Clear internet or stick with Time Warner Cable??

[niclodn]

So, I'm getting ready to move into a new apartment AND my current "deal" with Time Warner Cable is up. Currently we have digital cable, 3 DVR's, HBO and internet with TWC -- price will be $198/mo I got a brochure for "Clear" internet in the mail yesterday -- would have to buy the modem (approx. $85), but monthly fees would only be $35/mo for the same speed as TWC. With DirecTV, we could get Choice Xtra, whole home DVR service and HBO for about $55/mo for the first 3 months, $70/mo for the next 9 and $99/mo for the last year (2 yr. commitment). Of course, we'd also have upfront fees of $99 for the 3rd receiver box and $50 to the apartment complex, but free install and shipping. From a purely financial POV, it's a no brainer. But since I've never had anything other than cable, I'm a bit nervous about switching. Clear has been around in this area for a few years and seems to have decent reviews, but I don't know anyone personally who has it and can vouch for the service. And I've heard good and bad about DirecTV. I would definately miss my HBO On Demand, but the whole home DVR feature would be fantastic and I'd love to have NFL Sunday Ticket! It's the 2 year commitment that worries me. What if the reception is crappy??

So, I'm basically looking to my DIS friends to help me decide Whaddya think?

 

[scrapquitler]

I don't personally know anything about Time Warner or Clear...but I did hear Clark Howard talking about Clear on his radio show last night. He seemed to be recommending it, but told the caller NOT to sign a contract with Clear....only use them if you can get a good deal with a contract (something about they might want you to sign a two year contract)
Maybe he has some more information on his website www.clarkhoward.com

 

[RachaelA]

We just got the TWC price increase a couple months ago and my head nearly exploded.

Have you looked at AT&T? We can't get it in our area (we are in a rural area), but I had it in college and it was a lot cheaper. If you can get AT&T, I would go for that.

TWC now has whole house DVR. We are switching to it at 8am tomorrow morning. Its $179ish. It also comes with an even higher speed internet (and digital phone which I know a lot of people don't care about).

We priced out satellite, but in the end chose to stay with TWC and pay a bit more because I didn't want to deal with satellite going out. We live in a wooded area plus my family has had bad luck with satellite (even though I know most people have no problems at all).

 

[niclodn]

scrapquilter -- Thanks for the info! I would have to sign a 2-year contract to get the $35 price. I'll be sure to the check out the other info first!

RachaelA -- Unfortunately, TWC is the only option here other than DirecTV/Dish Network. I did not know they had the whole home DVR, so will definately be checking that out! Thanks!