Internet Box Without TV: Guide

A no-TV internet plan in France in 2026 typically saves 3-10 EUR per month versus an all-inclusive offer. All four major operators (Orange via Sosh, SFR via RED, Bouygues via B&You, Free) propose internet-only plans. This option suits subscribers who watch via streaming, smart TVs, or external boxes (Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV). DTT remains accessible via classic antenna or replay apps.

> **Key takeaways**

> - No-TV internet plans save 3-10 EUR per month compared to all-inclusive offers.

> - All major operators offer internet-only fiber plans in 2026.

> - Alternatives to operator decoders include smart TVs, Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV Stick, and Molotov TV.

> - DTT (TNT) remains accessible via classic antenna or free streaming apps.

> - Under Chatel law you have a 14-day withdrawal right; no-commitment fiber plans require only 10 days' notice.

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). The DGCCRF supervises these commercial conditions, and your subscription rights are protected by Service-Public.fr.

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.

Official Sources

ARCEP - Fixed Internet Subscriptions - Telecommunications regulator
DGCCRF - Consumer Protection - Commercial practices supervisor
Service-Public.fr - Internet Subscriber Rights - Official consumer rights

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I save with a no-TV internet plan in 2026?

Typically 3 to 10 EUR per month, or 36 to 120 EUR per year, depending on operator. You also avoid decoder rental fees (around 5 EUR per month) and reduce electricity consumption.

Can I still watch TV channels without a decoder?

Yes. You can use a classic DTT (TNT) antenna connected to your TV, free streaming apps like Molotov TV or France.tv, channel apps on smart TVs, or external devices (Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV Stick).

Do internet-only plans include lower internet speeds?

No. Internet speed (typically 1 Gbps or more on fiber) is identical with or without the TV decoder. Only the TV service is removed.

Will I lose my Canal+ subscription without a decoder?

No. Canal+ is now available via myCanal (app on smart TV, mobile, computer, Apple TV, etc.). You retain access regardless of your internet plan, though some bundled offers via decoders may be more advantageous.

Can I switch to an internet-only plan with my current operator?

Yes, contact customer service. Modification is generally free if you stay with the same operator. You will need to return the TV decoder to avoid billing.

What are the best alternatives to an operator TV decoder?

Smart TVs with built-in apps (Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Molotov), Apple TV 4K, Chromecast, Fire TV Stick, NVIDIA Shield, or Roku. Choice depends on existing devices and ecosystem.

This article is informational and may be subject to regulatory updates. Offers and prices change regularly. Consult operator websites and DGCCRF for current conditions.