Do you want to watch TV without cable or satellite? Are you tired of the high cost and limited flexibility of traditional cable or satellite TV? You’re not alone! Many people are cutting the cord and turning to more affordable and flexible streaming options. If you want to join the cord-cutting revolution and still watch your favourite TV shows and movies, sports channels, and live TV, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ditch cable or satellite and still enjoy great entertainment.
Guide: How to Watch TV without Cable or Satellite?
Why Cut the Cord?
Cutting the cord means cancelling your cable or satellite TV service and opting for streaming services instead. Here are a few reasons why people are making the switch:
1. Cost Savings:
Cable TV packages can be expensive, often exceeding $100 per month. Streaming services offer a more affordable alternative, with many options available for $50 or less.
2. Flexibility:
With streaming, you can choose and pay for only the channels and services you watch. No more paying for a bunch of channels you never use.
3. No Contracts:
Streaming services typically don’t require long-term contracts. You can cancel anytime without penalty.
4. Accessibility:
Watch your favourite shows and movies anytime, anywhere, on multiple devices.
What You Need to Get Started?
Before you can start enjoying TV without cable or satellite, you’ll need a few essentials:
1. Internet Connection:
A reliable internet connection is crucial for streaming. A speed of at least 25 Mbps is recommended for HD streaming on multiple devices.
2. Streaming Device:
You’ll need a device to stream content to your TV. Popular options include Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, and smart TVs with built-in streaming apps.
3. Streaming Services:
Subscribe to streaming services that offer the content you love. We’ll dive into the details of these services below.
Choosing a Streaming Device
To watch TV without cable or satellite, you’ll need a streaming device. Here are some popular options:
Amazon Fire TV Stick
The Fire TV Stick plugs into your TV’s HDMI port and allows you to stream from various services. It includes Alexa voice control, making it easy to find and play your favourite shows.
Roku
Roku offers several models, from the affordable Roku Express to the feature-rich Roku Ultra. Roku devices are known for their user-friendly interface and extensive channel options.
Apple TV
Apple TV is ideal for households already invested in the Apple ecosystem. It supports a wide range of streaming services and offers access to the iTunes store for movies and TV shows.
Google Chromecast
Chromecast lets you stream content from your smartphone, tablet, or computer to your TV. It’s a budget-friendly option, especially if you prefer using your mobile devices as a remote.
Smart TVs
Many modern TVs come with built-in streaming apps, eliminating the need for an external device. Check if your TV has apps for your preferred streaming services.
Popular Streaming Services
Now that you have a streaming device, it’s time to choose your streaming services. Here are some of the top options:
Netflix
Netflix is a must-have for its vast library of TV shows, movies, and original content. Plans start at $9 per month, and you can watch on multiple devices simultaneously.
Hulu
Hulu offers a mix of current TV shows, movies, and original content. For $6 per month, you get access to recent episodes of popular TV shows, usually the day after they air. Hulu also offers a no-commercial plan for $12 per month.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is included with an Amazon Prime membership ($12.99 per month or $119 per year). It offers a wide range of TV shows, movies, and original content. You can also rent or buy additional movies and shows.
Disney+
Disney+ is perfect for fans of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. It costs $6.99 per month and offers a bundle with Hulu and ESPN+ for $12.99 per month.
HBO Max
HBO Max provides access to HBO’s extensive library of movies, TV shows, and original series for $15 per month.
Live TV Streaming Services
If you want to watch live TV, including sports and news, you’ll need a live TV streaming service. Here are some top choices:
YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers over 85 channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and popular cable channels like ESPN, NFL Network, and regional sports networks. It costs $49.99 per month and includes unlimited cloud DVR storage.
Sling TV
Sling TV is a flexible option with two main packages: Sling Orange and Sling Blue, each costing $30 per month. Sling Orange includes channels like ESPN and CNN, while Sling Blue offers FOX, NBC, and regional sports networks. You can combine both packages for $45 per month.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV combines Hulu’s streaming library with live TV channels. For $54.99 per month, you get access to live sports, news, and entertainment channels, along with 50 hours of cloud DVR storage.
FuboTV
FuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service that offers over 100 channels, including FS1, FS2, NFL Network, Golf Channel, and regional sports networks. It costs $55 per month and includes 30 hours of cloud DVR storage.
Sports Fans: How to Watch Live Sports
For sports enthusiasts, watching live games is a top priority. Here’s how to catch your favourite sports without cable:
NFL Sunday Ticket
NFL Sunday Ticket is available through DirecTV, but you can also get it as a standalone streaming service in some areas. It offers access to all out-of-market NFL games on Sundays.
ESPN+
ESPN+ is a great addition for sports fans. For $5.99 per month, you get access to live sports, including MLB, NHL, UFC, and more.
Regional Sports Networks
Many live TV streaming services, like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, offer regional sports networks so you can watch local sports teams.
Using an Antenna for Free Local Channels
For free access to local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, consider using an HD antenna. This allows you to watch local news, sports, and network TV without any monthly fees. Indoor antennas are easy to install and can pick up signals from nearby broadcast towers.
Streaming Service List and Costs
Here’s a quick summary of popular streaming services and their costs:
- Netflix: $9 – $16/month
- Hulu: $6 – $12/month
- Amazon Prime Video: $12.99/month or $119/year
- Disney+: $6.99/month or $12.99/month bundled with Hulu and ESPN+
- HBO Max: $15/month
- YouTube TV: $49.99/month
- Sling TV: $30/month (Sling Orange or Sling Blue), $45/month (both)
- Hulu + Live TV: $54.99/month
- FuboTV: $55/month
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Switching from cable or satellite to streaming can be a big change. Here are some tips to make the transition smoother:
Test Different Services:
Take advantage of free trials to see which services best meet your needs.
Use Multiple Services:
Combine different streaming services to get all the content you want.
Check Your Internet Plan:
Ensure your Internet plan can handle streaming. Consider upgrading if needed.
Optimize Your Wi-Fi:
Place your router in a central location, and consider using a Wi-Fi extender if you experience weak signals in certain areas.
Set Up Profiles:
Many streaming services allow you to create multiple profiles, so everyone in your household can have their own personalized experience.
Conclusion
Cutting the cord and moving to streaming services can save you money and provide more flexibility and control over your TV viewing experience. With the right combination of streaming devices and services, you can enjoy your favourite TV shows, movies, sports channels, and live TV without the need for expensive cable or satellite TV packages. Happy streaming!
