Deciding whether or not to cut the cord on cable TV will boil down to your reason for cutting out cable TV, your alternatives, and the relative cost of cable TV to the internet and live streaming options. If your goal is to focus solely on only specific shows and programs, cutting the cord is worth it.
What to Consider Before Cutting the Cord on Cable
If your goal is to save cost, you have to select a suitable alternative to cable TV that won’t cost as much as your monthly cable subscription.
A direct switch from cable TV to live streaming platforms might not save cost, so these are a few things to put in place before you pull the plug on cable Tv:
- Get an HD antenna
– If you’re still interested in watching live TV, an HD antenna is the next best option to cable.
– You can still have access to local broadcast channels for news and sports.
– However, keep it in mind that your location and proximity to the broadcast location will determine which channel selection you get.
– HD antennas are inexpensive, though, and you can save cost.
- Streaming devices and services
– Select the best streaming service to suit your needs. This will largely depend on the kind of content you want.
– You also need to consider getting a smart TV to stream on your TV directly.
– Streaming devices like set-top boxes are an excellent alternative for those without a smart TV that want to switch to streaming services.
– Try out free streaming apps or services like Locast to still access NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, and others 100% free.
– Select a long-term streaming option that gives you access to the widest variety of content and maybe one other streaming service you can commit to for the short term.
- Consider cable TV alternative
– These cable TV alternatives give you access to virtual channels and live TV services while saving annual contract costs.
– The cheaper options might not offer as many channels, so you need to select the best and most affordable option for the kind of content you need.
- Your level of dedication to sports
– You might save more with cable TV if you’re deeply invested in sports.
– If your interest is limited to a few sports, a streaming sports service is an excellent option.
- If your interest is specific to premium channels, you can easily subscribe to popular premium channels like HBO max without dealing with third parties, saving the cost on other content you don’t need.
How to Choose a LiveTV Streaming Service
The live TV streaming options available in the US include:
YouTube TVAT&T TV NowHulu with Live TVSling TVFubo TVPhiloAT&T Watch TV
Each of these live TV options has different channel line-ups, so to select a service, consider the following:
– Select the option with your favorite channels. You can use a channel finder service like suppose. tv to carry out your research
– Compare the various features in each streaming service to know the most suitable option to go for. What kind of features should you look out for?
Does the service allow you to stream outside your home?
Do they provide an option to skip ads?
What are the options for recording streams?
What is the video quality like?
How many devices can stream at a time?
These features will let you determine which option is best for your needs and those in your household.
Conclusion
Although many people have opted to cut the cord on cable in favor of internet TV and live streaming options, it’s still essential to evaluate your decisions before doing so and choose the cheaper and more convenient option afterward.
Is streaming now cheaper than cable?
Although streaming platforms were cheaper when they were relatively new, the prices keep rising steadily and may soon meet up with the cost of cable TV
Do people still watch cable TV?
Several people opt for streaming platforms, although the cable is still a popular choice for older individuals. A good number still use both platforms.
Does cord-cutting save more money than cable?
This largely depends on streaming choices and subscriptions after cutting the cord on cable. You need an evaluation to determine if you’re saving money.
Do I need a cable for a smart TV?
Smart TVs have access to the internet, so online streaming is possible, and you don’t need to use cable.
