How the calculator works
A promo price is only part of the story. Internet, TV, phone and hosting offers often start low, then move to a regular price after a few months. Add setup or activation fees, and the cheapest-looking offer isn't always the cheapest one.
For each offer, enter:
- Promo price per month and how many months it lasts.
- Regular price per month after the promo ends.
- One-time fees, such as installation, activation or equipment.
Then set how many months you'll keep the service (24 by default). The same period applies to both offers, so the comparison is fair.
The formula
Total = promo price × promo months (never more than your period) + regular price × the months left after the promo + one-time fees. The average per month is the total divided by your number of months. The calculator shows both totals, which offer is cheaper and by how much.
A worked example
Over 24 months, with example numbers (not real offers):
| Offer A | Offer B | |
|---|---|---|
| Promo | $40 a month for 6 months | $55 a month for 12 months |
| Regular price after | $85 a month | $70 a month |
| One-time fees | $0 | $50 |
| Total over 24 months | $1,770 | $1,550 |
| Average per month | $73.75 | $64.58 |
Offer A looks $15 cheaper on the first bill, but Offer B costs $220 less over two years. The longer promo and the lower regular price more than make up for the $50 fee.
How to use the result
- Use a realistic period. If there's a contract term, use it. If not, use how long you really expect to stay.
- Find the regular price. It's usually in the offer details or the fine print. If you can't find it, ask before you sign.
- Include every one-time fee, and check for fees to return equipment or cancel early.
- Compare the same service. Speeds, data, channels or features should match, or the cheaper offer may simply be a smaller one.
Results are planning estimates, not quotes. Taxes are not included, and prices and promotions change, so confirm the details with the provider. Browse all our calculators for bundles, phone financing and more.
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