I prefer contracts because Spectrum continues to increase its prices several times per year, for different and sometimes the same reasons. At least with contracts, you'll definitely know what you'll be paying for the length of your contract. Not having a contract helps them more than the consumer. When I bring this to their representative's attention there's never a response. I've even asked for a contract, but you know the answer. Other than that, they have good customer service, so overall, in my opinion, they're decent.