Adi Marcovich
  • By: Adi Marcovich
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  • Image via StockSnap/Pixabay

Although many recent startups in the Twin Cities are life-sciences oriented, these business rely on technology and have contributed to a small but growing tech scene in Minneapolis. Serving residents and businesses are a variety of TV and internet companies, so whether you’re browsing the web or watching the upcoming Minnesota Twins game, you’ll have your pick of provider .

  • Almost 85% of Minneapolis residents have an option for 100 Mbps or higher internet speeds. [1]
  • 17 providers in Minneapolis offer fiber optic service – the gold standard of internet connections. [2]
  • Minneapolis came in second place in a ranking of Midwest startup cities. [3]

Top 3 providers: Best Internet, Best TV, Best Bundle

Top Internet Provider

CenturyLink

Top TV Provider

DirecTV

Top Bundle Provider

CenturyLink

Best Internet: Centurylink

With speeds of up to 1000 Mbps, the best internet provider in Minneapolis by far is Centurylink. US Internet also offers comparable speeds, but only covers a small portion of the city. Outside of these two options, the top speed is only 250 Mbps from Xfinity. If having the fastest connection is important to you, Centurylink is the clear choice.

Best TV: DirecTV

DirecTV serves most of the nation due to their utilization of satellite technology rather than a cable network. In addition to being widespread, it’s also one of the best providers available. With hundreds of HD channels, top-quality TiVo equipment, and prices that are often far lower than traditional cable companies, it’s the best choice for TV only service in Minneapolis. If you’re a sports fan, make sure you check out their exclusive access to NFL Sunday Ticket for comprehensive coverage of the Vikings.

Best Bundle: DirecTV + Centurylink

The collaboration between DirecTV and Centurylink provides the top bundle deal in the city. Although you won’t be getting the same speeds as with Centurylink’s 1000 Mbps fiber connection, you’ll still enjoy high-speed internet and access to DirecTV’s extensive channel lineup. The city’s best internet and TV combine for the best bundle in Minneapolis.

What is the Cheapest Internet Provider in Minneapolis?

Cheap Internet options in Minneapolis.
Image via StockSnap/Pixabay
The least expensive option for internet service in Minneapolis is a 15 Mbps DSL plan from TDS. However, for roughly $5 more you can buy a 50 Mbps connection with US Internet. The difference between 15 and 50 Mbps is definitely noticeable, so I recommend springing for the better plan if it all possible.

If internet access seems to expensive, take a look at everyoneon.org for resources on low-income internet subsidies. Additionally, you can head on down to your local library for a free way to get online.

What is the Cheapest TV Provider in Minneapolis?

It’s not often that the best TV option is also the cheapest, but as mentioned above DirecTV offers quality service for prices low prices. The least expensive way to get a few channels is usually going to be with a traditional TV antenna, but for those of us looking for more, DirecTV offers over 150 channels for around $35. Competitors Dish and Xfinity just can’t keep up with a smaller selection and a price tag of around $50.

Where can I watch Pac-12 Networks in Minneapolis?

Pac-12 Networks providers in MinneapolisRegional networks includedHD channels
CenturyLinkArizona, Bay Area, Los Angeles, Mountain, Oregon, WashingtonYes
Dish NetworkNo
Fubo TVArizona, Bay Area, Los Angeles, Mountain, Oregon, WashingtonNo
Sling TVArizona, Bay Area, Los Angeles, Mountain, Oregon, WashingtonNo
Xfinity/ComcastYes

Minneapolis Tech and Startup Scene

Although Minneapolis falls behind tech hotspots like Silicon Valley and New York, it’s starting to see some quick growth. The recent expansion of two startup accelerators, Techstars Retail and Gener8tor Minneapolis, also provide financial and logistical support for entrepreneurs, increasing the city’s attractiveness for would-be business owners.

As one of the highest-educated cities in the U.S., Minneapolis is home to some talented professionals accomplishing some pretty impressive things.

WhenIWork

WhenIWork provides a clean and simple tool for managers to keep track of hourly employees. Scheduling can be hectic, and this startup provides a user-friendly and inexpensive solution for business owners.

Zipnosis

As mentioned above, Minneapolis’ tech industry is largely focused around the life sciences and healthcare. Zipnosis provides a convenient and secure online tool that fosters communication between patients and doctors – especially in a telemedicine capacity.

Field Nation

Field Nation has seen great success as a Minneapolis startup by providing a convenient online tool to match construction and maintenance projects with capable contractors.

TV, Culture, and Fun Facts About Minneapolis, Minnesota

  • Minneapolis is home to the 3rd largest theater market in the United States. [4]
  • Minneapolis was one of the first cities in the US to use wireless internet. [4]
  • The city is known for having the best parks in the country, with over 5,000 acres of dedicated land. [4]

References and Footnotes

  1. https://broadbandnow.com/minnesota/minneapolis ↩
  2. https://findbroadband.com/minnesota/minneapolis ↩
  3. https://www.americaninno.com/minne/minneapolis-ranks-second-in-midwest-startup-cities-rankings-a-vc-explains-why/ ↩
  4. https://www.movoto.com/guide/minneapolis-mn/minneapolis-facts/ ↩
  5. https://www.movoto.com/guide/minneapolis-mn/minneapolis-facts/ ↩
  6. https://www.movoto.com/guide/minneapolis-mn/minneapolis-facts/ ↩

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