Internet Box Without TV: Guide

The End of All-Inclusive

For years, French internet offers systematically included a TV decoder with dozens of channels. But uses are changing: streaming, replay, smart TV... The traditional decoder is becoming superfluous for many. For more on telecommunications in France, explore our complete guides.

Why This Evolution?

**Rise of Streaming**: Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Canal+ streaming are replacing linear TV
**Widespread Smart TVs**: Modern televisions integrate all applications
**Savings Sought**: Why pay for an unused service?
**Simplicity**: Less equipment, fewer remotes

Available TV-Free Offers

From Traditional Operators

All major operators now offer internet-only offers:

Orange: Livebox Fiber offer without TV, about 5 EUR cheaper than the offer with TV. You retain access to Orange TV via app (computer, tablet, mobile).

SFR: SFR Fiber Power without TV decoder. Savings vary according to promotions. Access possible to SFR TV service via app.

Bouygues Telecom: Bbox Fiber without TV at a reduced rate. B.tv app remains accessible.

Free: Freebox without TV Player. Free allows choosing an offer without the TV box, with a subscription reduction.

Alternative Operators

Some operators have specialized in pure internet offers:

**Sosh** (Orange subsidiary): Offers a TV-free fiber offer at a competitive price, perfect for those who want the essentials.

RED by SFR: No-commitment, no-TV fiber offers, with aggressive prices regularly on promotion.

Advantages of the TV-Free Offer

Financial Savings

Monthly savings vary from 3 to 10 EUR depending on operators. Over a year, that represents 36 to 120 EUR in savings. And you avoid decoder rental fees (often 5 EUR/month).

Less Equipment

One device (the box) instead of two. Fewer cables, less space occupied in the TV cabinet, less electricity consumption.

No TV Commitment

If tomorrow you want to change TV solutions (Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV Stick), you're not tied to a proprietary decoder.

Disadvantages to Consider

No DTT via Box

Without a TV decoder, you don't receive DTT via your internet connection. You'll need:

A classic DTT antenna with decoder built into the TV
Use Molotov TV or channel apps
Accept watching only streaming

Limited Recording

Decoders generally allow program recording. Without a decoder, you'll have to settle for channel replay.

Premium TV Services

Some services like Canal+ may be more advantageous via the operator decoder. Check combined offers before choosing.

Alternatives to the Operator Decoder

Multimedia Boxes

Apple TV 4K: Excellent for the Apple ecosystem. Access to all streaming apps, optimal video quality.

NVIDIA Shield: The most powerful, also ideal for gaming and advanced functions.

Fire TV Stick: Amazon offers affordable solutions (30-60 EUR) with access to all apps.

Chromecast: Google's solution, economical and practical for casting from a phone.

Smart TVs

Recent televisions directly integrate apps: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Molotov, myCanal, France.tv, Arte... No need for external box.

Molotov TV

This free app (with paid options) gives access to over 35 live and replay channels. It works on all devices: TV, computer, tablet, mobile.

Should You Switch to a TV-Free Offer?

Yes, if you:

Mainly use Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video or other streaming services
Have a recent Smart TV with all apps
Want to reduce monthly expenses
Watch little or no linear television
Hate accumulating equipment

No, if you:

Watch a lot of traditional TV (news, entertainment, live sports)
Appreciate decoder functions (recording, pause live)
Have an old TV without built-in apps
Benefit from attractive bundled offers (internet + TV + mobile)

How to Change Offers

With Your Current Operator

Contact customer service to request an offer change. The modification can generally be done without fees if you stay with the same operator.

You'll need to return the TV decoder (or face billing). Some operators offer to pick it up, others request shipment by parcel.

By Switching Operators

If you switch operators, take advantage of the entry offer without TV. Fiber has no termination fees under the Chatel law (maximum 10-day notice for no-commitment offers).

Conclusion

Internet offers without TV respond to a real demand: paying only for what you use. If your TV consumption mainly goes through streaming, it's an economical and practical option.

Before switching, assess your actual uses and available alternatives (Smart TV, apps, external boxes). The 5 to 10 EUR monthly savings may seem modest, but over several years, it adds up.

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes. Offers and prices change regularly. Consult operator websites for current conditions.