How Shop Like Sam Works
Shop Like Sam is built to make comparing internet and TV providers simple, transparent, and accurate. Here’s how our platform operates—from gathering data to helping you find the right plan for your home.
Our Approach
We combine verified provider data, user-focused design, and up-to-date pricing information to create a single, easy-to-understand comparison experience. Our process emphasizes accuracy, fairness, and clarity so you can make confident decisions without spending hours researching multiple websites.
Step 1: Data Collection
- Verified sources: We collect plan details, availability data, and pricing directly from ISPs, public filings, and regulated databases.
- Address precision: Availability is refined to the ZIP+4 or address level where possible to minimize mismatches.
- Regular updates: Provider catalogs are reviewed and updated on a scheduled basis to ensure accuracy.
Step 2: Plan Normalization
Every provider structures plans differently. Shop Like Sam standardizes these details so you can compare clearly and fairly. Our system normalizes plans based on the following factors:
- Technology type (fiber, cable, DSL, 5G/fixed wireless, satellite)
- Advertised and typical download/upload speeds
- Data caps or unlimited policies
- Equipment fees, contracts, and installation terms
- Introductory vs. standard pricing
Step 3: Availability Mapping
Enter your ZIP code to see providers that serve your area. Our system filters results based on verified coverage, regional availability, and plan eligibility. In most areas, you’ll see both national and local ISPs.
Note: Internet availability can vary by street or building. For the most precise results, confirm address-level service directly with your chosen provider at checkout.
Step 4: Comparison Display
Side-by-Side Format
Plans are displayed in a consistent layout, highlighting speeds, pricing, data limits, and connection type for quick scanning.
Sorting & Filtering
Users can sort by speed, price, or technology type and filter based on preferences like contract-free or unlimited data plans.
Step 5: User Guidance
Alongside plan listings, we include helpful context such as ideal speeds for households, key differences between technologies, and budget-friendly alternatives. This information is editorially reviewed and updated frequently.
Step 6: Provider Connection
- When you select a plan, we connect you directly to the provider or their official sign-up page.
- In some cases, we may facilitate sign-ups through a secure partner form or call to confirm availability.
- Your final agreement, installation, and billing are always handled directly by the provider.
How We Make Money
Shop Like Sam may receive compensation from providers when users sign up after using our site. This helps keep our tools free to use and maintain our team’s research and updates. Compensation never affects how we rank or recommend providers.
Editorial Oversight
Our editorial team reviews every page to ensure accuracy and neutrality. We clearly mark promotional or sponsored offers and maintain strict separation between business and editorial decisions.
Our Technology
- Data-driven search: Matches plans and providers based on your ZIP code or address.
- Standardized catalogs: Ensures every plan is displayed consistently, no matter the provider.
- Continuous monitoring: Tracks plan updates, promos, and regional availability in real time.
Transparency & User Trust
- All pricing and plan details are presented as received from providers.
- We highlight total monthly costs and any common hidden fees.
- We do not sell user data or allow external ad targeting within comparison pages.
Who We Serve
- New movers: Quickly find and schedule reliable service at a new address.
- Families: Identify bundles that balance speed, streaming, and cost.
- Remote workers: Compare upload speeds and connection reliability for video calls.
- Rural residents: Explore satellite or fixed wireless where wired options aren’t yet available.
- Budget shoppers: Discover affordable plans and limited-time promotions.
Why It Matters
The internet has become a daily essential. But finding the right service shouldn’t be complicated or time-consuming. Shop Like Sam was created to simplify that process — saving users time, stress, and money.
Contact & Feedback
Have suggestions or feedback on how we can improve our tools or coverage? Reach our team anytime at support@shoplikesam.com or use the contact form on our website.
Commitment to Accuracy
We update our listings regularly, work directly with providers to verify details, and clearly label any information subject to regional variation or time-sensitive promotions.
Effective Date
This overview was last updated on January 1, 2025. We continue to evolve our technology and partnerships to keep your experience simple, transparent, and trustworthy.