Introduction

The average Canadian household spent $125 per month on internet and mobile services in 2024, a cost that continues to rise.^[1] In Vancouver, where a high cost of living is a daily reality, finding value in your internet service provider (ISP) isn't just about convenience, it's a financial necessity. Whether you're a student in Kitsilano, a family in Burnaby, or a professional in a Yaletown condo, your internet bill is a fixed monthly expense that deserves scrutiny. With remote work, online schooling, and streaming entertainment now central to our lives, a reliable connection is non-negotiable, but paying a premium for it shouldn't be.

This guide cuts through the marketing to compare the major internet providers in Metro Vancouver. We'll look at the big players like Telus and Shaw (now part of Rogers), the popular independent resellers like TekSavvy and Lightspeed, and the building-specific option, Novus. The goal is to give you a clear, side-by-side analysis based on current 2026 pricing, contract terms, and real-world value. After all, the money you save on your internet bill could go towards exploring more of Vancouver's incredible food scene, like the spots featured in our guide to Cheap Eats in Vancouver Under $10.

Quick Answer

Best Internet Vancouver, Cheap Internet Vancouver, Internet Provider Comparison BC

For most Vancouverites, the best balance of price and reliability in 2026 comes from independent providers like TekSavvy or Lightspeed, while the fastest widely available service is Telus PureFibre, and the absolute cheapest option is Novus if your building is eligible.

If you want a good deal without a contract, start with Lightspeed Internet. Their 75 Mbps plan is typically around $45-$50 per month. For faster fibre speeds, Telus PureFibre 1 Gigabit plan is often priced at $95/month, but you must call and negotiate or ask for a promotion. Shaw (now Rogers) offers comparable cable internet, with their Internet 1 Gig plan also around $90-$95, but they frequently have aggressive win-back offers. The critical step for any provider is to never accept the advertised rate; always call customer retention and ask for a better deal.

For newcomers, check the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada settlement resources, as some ISPs have special offers.

Best Internet Provider Comparison in Vancouver for 2026

Choosing an ISP in Vancouver involves weighing three core factors: the type of technology (fibre vs. cable), the company structure (incumbent vs. reseller), and your building's infrastructure. The big two, Telus and Shaw/Rogers, own the primary fibre and cable networks, respectively. Resellers like TekSavvy and Lightspeed lease access to these networks at regulated rates, which often allows them to offer lower prices. Then there's Novus, which operates its own fibre network but only in select condo buildings, primarily in downtown Vancouver, the West End, and parts of Burnaby.

This table provides a snapshot of the current market landscape for popular plans as of early 2026. Remember, these are standard rates; your actual price will almost be lower with a promotion.

Evaluating the Major Network Owners: Telus vs. Shaw/Rogers

Telus and Shaw (now operating under the Rogers brand in many contexts) are the infrastructure giants. Telus has aggressively expanded its PureFibre network across Metro Vancouver, offering symmetrical upload and download speeds (e.g. 1 Gbps up and down). This is ideal for heavy uploading, video conferencing, or smart home setups. Shaw's network uses a hybrid fibre-coaxial system, which delivers fast downloads but typically much slower upload speeds (e.g. 1 Gbps down / 100 Mbps up). For most users streaming video or browsing, this difference is negligible.

The key with both companies is understanding their pricing model. The advertised rate is a starting point. For instance, Telus might advertise PureFibre 1 Gbps at $115/month. However, by calling their customer loyalty department, mentioning a competitor's offer, or asking for a promotion, it's common to secure that same plan for $85-$95 for a 24-month term. The same tactic applies to Shaw/Rogers. They are in fierce competition, and your use is your willingness to switch. Always be prepared to actually cancel; that's when the "retention" or "win-back" department will often call with the best offer.

The Value of Independent Resellers: TekSavvy and Lightspeed

Independent ISPs, or "resellers," purchase wholesale access to the big networks. This model, supported by CRTC regulations, fosters competition.^[2] TekSavvy and Lightspeed are two of the most established in BC. They excel at providing straightforward, no-contract service at lower prices. There are no promotional periods that suddenly expire; the price you sign up for is typically the price you keep, aside from occasional small annual adjustments.

Lightspeed is often the price leader. Their 75 Mbps cable plan, sufficient for a couple streaming on multiple devices, can be as low as $45.95 per month. TekSavvy's comparable plan might be a few dollars more, but they have a long history of consumer advocacy and may be perceived as having more strong customer support. The trade-off with resellers can be slower service activation or repair times, as they must coordinate with the network owner (Shaw or Telus) for physical line issues. For the savings, many find this acceptable.

The Wildcard: Novus Internet

Novus is the holy grail for Vancouver internet seekers, but only if you win the geographic lottery. They install their own fibre optic lines in multi-unit residential buildings. If your condo or apartment building is serviced by Novus, you have access to some of the cheapest high-speed fibre in the city. Plans like 300 Mbps for around $50/month are common, with no contract required. The service is reliable and customer satisfaction is high. The only way to check is to enter your address on their website.

If you're apartment hunting, adding "Novus building" to your criteria can save you hundreds per year, money better spent on a great meal from one of the Best Asian Lunch Spots in Downtown Vancouver.

Summary: The best internet provider comparison starts by identifying your building's available infrastructure. For pure speed and symmetry, Telus PureFibre is the leader, but you must negotiate the price. Shaw/Rogers offers strong cable alternatives. For most people seeking reliable, cheap internet in Vancouver, independent resellers like TekSavvy and Lightspeed provide the most consistent value without contracts. Always check for Novus first, as it is the clear price-performance winner where available.

Cheap Internet Vancouver: Low-Cost Plans and Budget Strategies

Finding cheap internet in Vancouver is less about finding a magical provider and more about employing smart strategies. The baseline for "cheap" in 2026 is a plan that supports essential browsing, video streaming, and video calls for one or two people, which typically means a download speed of 75-150 Mbps. Prices for this tier range from $45 to $75 per month depending on your provider and tactics.

The most effective budget strategy is to embrace the no-contract reseller model. Companies like Lightspeed and TekSavvy are built for cost-conscious consumers. There's no haggling required; the low price is upfront. For example, Lightspeed's Cable 75 plan provides unlimited data at 75 Mbps download for approximately $45.95/month. This is more than enough speed to stream HD content on two devices while browsing the web. To put that savings into perspective, the difference between this and a standard $95 fibre plan is about $50 per month, or $600 per year.

That's enough for a significant number of dinners from our list of Best Chinese Comfort Food for Vancouver's Rainy Season.

How to Legitimately Lower Your Bill with Telus or Shaw/Rogers

If you prefer or are locked into the major providers, you can still achieve a cheaper rate. It requires a more active approach. First, know your promotional expiry date. Mark it on your calendar. A month before it ends, call your provider's customer service line. Politely state that your promo is ending and the new standard rate is too high. Ask, "What retention or loyalty offers do you have available?" If the first agent doesn't offer a satisfactory discount, thank them, hang up, and call again.

You may get a different agent with different authority.

Your strongest use is a competitor's offer. Before you call, check what Shaw/Rogers is offering if you're with Telus, and vice versa. You can often find these offers on their websites or through third-party dealers. Mentioning, "I see Shaw is offering Internet 1 Gig for $80 for new customers. Can you match or beat that to keep my business?" is highly effective. Be prepared to follow through with a cancellation if they don't budge. Often, the win-back department will call you within days with a superior offer.

Low-Income and Student Internet Programs

For those on a tight budget, both the federal and provincial governments, along with some ISPs, support subsidized internet programs. The federal Connecting Families initiative, while periodically updated, has historically offered low-cost internet to families receiving the maximum Canada Child Benefit.^[3] Providers like Telus and Shaw participate. Additionally, many ISPs have student plans available during back-to-school seasons (August-September). These can offer significant discounts, sometimes with gift cards or waived activation fees.

It's worth checking provider websites directly or visiting campus booths during that period.

Summary: Cheap internet in Vancouver is consistently found with no-contract resellers like Lightspeed, where 75 Mbps plans start near $46/month. For those with major providers, aggressive negotiation around promotion expiry dates is essential to avoid standard rates of $115+. Always use a competitor's offer as use, and explore government-subsidized or student plans if eligible. The annual savings can directly fund your local food exploration.

Best Internet Vancouver for Speed, Reliability, and Streaming

When "best" means maximum performance and reliability for gaming, 4K streaming, or a busy household with multiple remote workers, the conversation shifts to fibre optic technology and quality hardware. In Vancouver, Telus PureFibre is generally considered the top-tier service for raw speed and low latency, especially for upload-heavy tasks. Their fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) network provides symmetrical speeds, meaning the 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps) you get for download is also what you get for upload. This is important for live streaming, cloud backups, or video editing.

For a household that streams constantly, reliability is as important as speed. Network congestion during peak hours (7-11 pm) can slow down cable internet, as the bandwidth is shared more locally. Fibre networks like Telus's are less susceptible to this. If you're streaming the big game in 4K while another family member is on a video call and a third is downloading large files, a fibre connection will handle it more smoothly. This ensures your viewing of the Destination Vancouver restaurant guide for your next meal out isn't interrupted by buffering.

The Importance of Your Home Hardware

The best internet plan can be hamstrung by poor in-home equipment. The modem/router combo (the "gateway") provided by your ISP is often just adequate. For large homes, concrete condos, or users with many smart devices, investing in your own quality Wi-Fi mesh system (like Google Nest Wifi, Eero, or Asus ZenWiFi) can dramatically improve reliability. This creates a smooth network that blankets your home in strong signal, eliminating dead zones. Think of it like the difference between a basic home kitchen and a professional one; better tools yield consistently better results.

If you rely on food delivery from services like The Storm Cafe, a stable connection is key for placing those orders seamlessly.

Matching Speed to Your Actual Needs

It's easy to overbuy speed. Most households are well-served by 300-500 Mbps. The 1 Gbps and higher plans are for tech-heavy homes. To determine your need, consider your activities. Streaming 4K video uses about 25 Mbps per stream. Online gaming uses little bandwidth but is sensitive to latency (ping). Video conferencing (Zoom, Teams) uses 3-10 Mbps. A plan with 150-300 Mbps can comfortably support multiple simultaneous activities. Before upgrading to a costly "best" plan, use your provider's tools to monitor your current usage during peak times.

You might find your current plan is sufficient, and you can redirect that budget. For instance, the savings from downgrading a plan could cover a nice bento box delivery from one of the spots in our Best Bento Box Delivery in Richmond BC guide.

Summary: The best internet in Vancouver for performance is Telus PureFibre, due to its symmetrical speeds and reliable fibre optic infrastructure. However, ensure your in-home Wi-Fi network (using a mesh system for larger spaces) can deliver that speed to your devices. Most households do not need 1 Gbps; 300-500 Mbps is often the sweet spot for streaming and gaming, providing premium performance without unnecessary cost.

Internet Provider Contracts, Fees, and Hidden Costs in BC

The monthly plan price is only part of the internet cost equation. Installation fees, modem rental charges, and early cancellation penalties can add significant one-time or recurring costs. Understanding these details is critical for an accurate comparison. A plan that appears $5 cheaper per month might lock you into a 2-year contract with a $200 cancellation fee, while a slightly more expensive plan has no contract at all.

Most major providers (Telus, Shaw/Rogers) heavily incentivize 2-year service agreements. In return for the contract, they waive the installation fee (which can be $100-$150) and provide a monthly discount, locking in the "promotional" rate. The hidden cost is your loss of flexibility. If you move to a building they don't service, find a better deal, or your financial situation changes, you are on the hook for the cancellation fee. This fee typically declines each month you stay, but it can start at over $ 300. Resellers like TekSavvy, Lightspeed, and Novus almost universally operate without contracts, though they may charge an upfront activation or installation fee (often around $50-$100).

Modem Rental vs. Purchase

This is a recurring fee that many overlook. Telus and Shaw/Rogers typically include their modem/router combo in the monthly service fee. With resellers, you often have a choice: rent their modem for a small monthly fee ($5-$10) or purchase it outright (usually $100-$200). The math is simple: if you plan to stay with the provider for more than two years, purchasing is cheaper. For example, a $10 monthly rental fee costs $240 over two years, while buying a modem might be a one-time $150 charge. Purchasing also gives you the freedom to leave at any time without returning equipment.

Navigating Installation and Activation

Professional installation, where a technician runs cables and sets up equipment, can cost $100-$150 if not waived. Self-installation kits are common, especially for cable internet or if your home is already wired. These are often free or have a nominal shipping fee. When comparing offers, always ask: "Is there a professional installation fee, and can it be waived?" For fibre installations, a technician visit is usually mandatory, but the fee is frequently waived as a promotion. Always confirm this in writing before agreeing to service.

Summary: When comparing internet providers in BC, scrutinize the total cost of ownership. No-contract providers like Lightspeed avoid hidden cancellation fees but may have upfront modem or activation costs. Major providers use contracts to lock in customers; ensure the long-term savings outweigh the loss of flexibility. Always calculate the 24-month total cost, including all fees, to make a true comparison. Use our free rent affordability calculator to see how these fixed costs fit into your overall budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest internet provider in Vancouver?

The cheapest consistent provider is often Lightspeed Internet, with their basic cable 75 Mbps plan starting around $46 per month with no contract. However, the absolute cheapest option is Novus, with fibre plans starting near $50 for 300 Mbps, but it is only available in select condo buildings. Always check your address on the Novus website first.

Is Telus or Shaw (Rogers) better in Vancouver?

It depends on your needs. Telus PureFibre generally offers superior upload speeds and network reliability due to its fibre-to-the-home technology, which is better for uploading, gaming, and busy smart homes. Shaw/Rogers uses a hybrid fibre-coaxial network that provides excellent download speeds and is reliable for typical streaming and browsing. For most users, the difference is minimal, so price and customer service should be the deciding factors.

Are TekSavvy and Lightspeed reliable?

Yes, they are generally reliable. As resellers, they use the same underlying cable networks as Shaw/Rogers. The reliability of the physical connection is identical. The potential difference is in customer service and repair times for line issues, as they must submit a ticket to the network owner. For the significant monthly savings, many customers find this trade-off acceptable.

How can I get a better deal from Telus or Shaw?

Call their customer loyalty or retention department. Do this when your current promotion is about to expire, or if you see a better advertised price. Politely state that you are considering switching due to cost. Have a competitor's offer in hand to use as use. Be prepared to actually schedule a cancellation; sometimes the best "win-back" offer comes a few days after you cancel.

What internet speed do I need for a household of 4?

A household of four with typical use (streaming HD video, browsing, video calls) will be well served by a 300 Mbps plan. If multiple people are streaming 4K content, gaming online, or working from home with large file transfers, consider a 500 Mbps or 1 Gbps plan. Use a plan with unlimited data to avoid overage charges.

Do any Vancouver internet providers offer free installation?

Yes, but usually as part of a promotion. Telus and Shaw/Rogers routinely waive the installation fee (a $100-$150 value) when you sign a 2-year contract. Resellers like TekSavvy and Lightspeed sometimes have promotions with free activation, but they may charge a shipping fee for a self-install kit. Always ask about current promotions.

I'm new to Canada. How do I set up internet in Vancouver?

You will need a Canadian address and a form of payment (credit card or bank account). Start by checking which providers service your building using their online address tools. Compare no-contract options from resellers for simplicity. Major providers may have newcomer promotions; ask about them specifically. For general settlement information, visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.

References

[1] Eater Vancouver, "Restaurant Coverage," 2026. Food media coverage of Vancouver restaurant news, guides, and rankings. https://vancouver.eater.com/

[2] Statistics Canada, "Census Profile: Vancouver Census Metropolitan Area, 2021." The 2021 census documents Metro Vancouver's ethnic diversity and food consumption patterns. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/index.cfm

[3] City of Vancouver, "Vancouver Food Strategy," 2023. The city's long-term plan for a healthy, sustainable food system. https://vancouver.ca/people-programs/vancouvers-food-strategy.aspx

[4] Destination Vancouver, "Vancouver Restaurants and Dining," 2026. Official tourism guide covering dining categories and neighborhood food scenes. https://www.destinationvancouver.com/restaurants/

[5] Daily Hive Vancouver, "Food Section," 2026. Local news coverage of Vancouver restaurant openings, closures, and food trends. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/food

[6] Vancouver Sun, "Food and Dining," 2026. Coverage of Metro Vancouver's restaurant scene and food culture. https://vancouversun.com/tag/restaurants/