; provider replaces broken units for free and provides tech support. Upgrades
; requires self-installation and potential activation hurdles. can i buy a cable box instead of renting
: While cable boxes are hard to buy, cable modems (for internet) are widely available for purchase at retailers like Best Buy or Amazon. Buying a Motorola or Arris modem is a highly effective way to save $150+ annually. Off-market TV Boxes - Xfinity Support ; provider replaces broken units for free and
: Major providers like Xfinity state that their proprietary boxes are not intended for retail sale. Buying one from an unverified reseller may result in receiving "unreturned" equipment that the cable company will refuse to activate. Buying a Motorola or Arris modem is a
: Many providers now offer a "box-less" experience through apps on devices you own, such as Roku , Fire Stick , or Apple TV .