What is Optimum streaming?
When I first saw the phrase “Optimum Stream,” I assumed that Optimum had launched a new streaming-only TV plan, similar to other telco offerings like Spectrum’s TV Stream plan.
I was wrong—sorta. Optimum Stream actually refers to a streaming device included with new Optimum internet and TV plans, featuring built-in streaming apps, free live channels, and an advanced voice remote.
I’ll go into more detail about what the Optimum Stream device entails, who can get it (and whether you even should), a little below.
I’ll also tell you about Optimum’s own streaming TV plans (not called Optimum Stream)—Entertainment, Extra, and Everything TV—so you can keep your Optimum internet but cut the cord on cable TV. Keep reading for all the deets.
The Optimum Stream box lets you stream free channels
Optimum’s website made it surprisingly difficult to determine precisely what they considered to be an Optimum streaming plan. I assumed it would be straightforward, as many classic telco brands have started to prioritize streaming options over their traditional plans (think Stream with DIRECTV, for example).
However, after some research, I realized that the advertised “Optimum Stream” offering is not a package or plan, but rather a streaming device that comes free with an Optimum Internet/TV subscription. (Don’t worry, current customers, Optimum says you’re eligible for a free Stream, too, just follow the instructions on the official Optimum Stream FAQ.)
Optimum touts many benefits of the Optimum Stream, including a voice-controlled remote and the ability to stream 50+ live news and entertainment channels for free. But the factor that is the biggest plus for me, and one that could make it a more appealing option than similar devices like the Roku, is that the device allows Optimum TV customers to watch their subscribed cable channels within the same interface as their streaming apps, like Netflix or HBO Max.
This easy-to-use interface, which combines cable and streaming, will likely be a big plus for folks, whether older or younger, who value simplicity and convenience and want all their TV-watching options in one place.
Check out Optimum’s main streaming TV plans
| Plan | Price | Channel count | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment TV | $15.00/mo.* | 80+ | View Plans for Optimum |
| Extra TV | $80.00/mo. | 125+ | View Plans for Optimum |
| Everything | $135.00/mo. | 200+ | View Plans for Optimum |
Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *for 6 month term w/ $10/mo. elig. Auto Pay & Paperless Bill. Wired connection. WiFi speeds may vary. Not available in all areas.
After some more digging through obscure FAQs and old press releases, I’ve determined that 1. Optimum does offer some streaming TV packages, and 2. that these plans are primarily available in its East region (NY, NJ, CT).
Entertainment TV is the most widely available of the three, and was the only of these three plans that was available for purchase when I went through a buyflow for an address in Optimum’s West region.
That wide availability, along with its sweet price tag, makes Entertainment TV an easy recommendation if you’re looking for an Optimum streaming TV plan. Throw in top channels like AMC, Food Network, Hallmark, and Nickelodeon, and you’ve got yourself a seriously winning plan that beats out similar offerings like Spectrum TV Stream.
Just be aware that after 6 months, Entertainment TV’s price will double to $30 per month—still super affordable for a live TV streaming service, though, so I can’t complain. For comparison, YouTube TV costs $82.99/mo. for 100+ channels, and DIRECTV’s cheapest streaming plan will run you $84.99/mo. for 90+ channels.
Get more details on these TV plans, plus Optimum’s other cable options, in our detailed Optimum TV review.
Optimum internet plans are required for Optimum streaming
| Plan | Price | Download speeds | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum 300/Fiber Internet 300 | $40.00/mo. | 300 Mbps | View Plan |
| Optimum 500/Fiber Internet 500 | $60.00/mo. | 500 Mbps | View Plan |
| Optimum 1 Gig/Fiber Internet 1 Gig | $70.00/mo. | 1 Gbps | View Plan |
| Fiber Internet 2 Gig | $90.00/mo. | 2 Gbps | View Plan |
| Fiber Internet 5 Gig | $120.00/mo. | 5 Gbps | View Plan |
| Fiber Internet 8 Gig | $280.00/mo. | 8 Gbps | View Plan |
Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Internet: Available in select markets only. No annual contract or cancellation fees.
If you want to switch to the Optimum Stream box and one of the Entertainment, Extra, or Everything TV streaming plans, you’ll need an Optimum Internet subscription.
Optimum’s internet plans aren’t my favorites (read through my colleague Eric’s most recent internet customer satisfaction survey to find out why), but they’re not the worst if that’s what ya got in your area. We especially encourage you to snag Optimum’s fiber plans if they’re available at your residence.
We’ve listed the deets for all of their internet plans in the table above. For more details on these and Optimum’s other bundle options, head over to our dedicated Optimum bundles guide.
Optimum Stream allows for on-demand streaming and more
Check out a few of the other perks that come with your Optimum Stream device.
Optimum Video On Demand offers over 20,000 (!) shows and movies
With every Optimum TV plan, subscribers also get access to Optimum On Demand at no extra charge. This perk allows users to stream live TV and thousands of on-demand shows and movies using the Optimum TV app, which is accessed through the Optimum Stream device.
Want to watch these on-demand shows while you’re out and about? Read below to learn more about Optimum’s app that lets you watch while on the go.
The Optimum TV App lets you stream on the go
The Optimum TV App is a must-have for Optimum customers who want to watch their favorite shows while on the move.
The Optimum TV app enables you to watch live channels, manage and view your DVR recordings, and stream On Demand content from anywhere with an internet connection.
The app is included within your Optimum Stream device for your home television. To watch from your phone or tablet, simply download the Optimum TV app from the Apple App Store or Google Play to get started.
Optimum streaming FAQ
Does Optimum have a streaming package?
Yes, Optimum has three streaming packages:
- Entertainment TV ($15.00/mo., 80+ channels)
- Extra TV ($80.00/mo., 125+ channels)
- Everything TV ($135.00/mo., 200+ channels)
How do I get Optimum Stream?
You can get one Optimum Stream device for free when you subscribe to an Optimum Internet or Internet/TV plan. For current Optimum customers who don’t have an Optimum Stream but would like one, follow the location-dependent instructions on this Optimum FAQ to either log in, call, or visit your local Optimum store to claim your free Optimum Stream device.
How much is Optimum Stream per month?
Your first Optimum Stream streaming device is free for new Optimum internet and/or TV subscribers. Each additional Optimum Stream device costs $12 per month to rent.
