When television was first introduced, it essentially offered three to five channels. In the current scenario, we have hundreds of channels to choose from. In earlier times, cable TV was the only mode of television viewing, but today, the Internet allows us to stream almost any content from any location, at any time.
With ever-increasing cable and dish service prices, many have started to reconsider the necessity of these services. However, fear of missing out on favorite shows is usually holding people back from disconnecting the cable entirely. If this resonates with you, here are six strategies to eliminate your cable service without sacrificing your beloved shows.
1. NETWORK WEBSITES
The luxury of watching TV shows in real-time is diminishing. Daily routines and demanding work schedules rarely permit time for live viewing. Realizing this fact, most TV networks have made episodes available for free on their official websites. Networks including ABC, NBC, CBS, TBS, and TLC offer recent episodes of popular shows for no charge. However, remember not all network websites are free; few might require a cable or dish password to gain access. Anyway, for many, this is a feasible free alternative to enjoy favorite shows without a cable connection.
2. ALTERNATIVES TO CABLE
If you’re uncomfortable missing live shows or channels, consider alternatives to cable. Subscription-based services like DirectTV Now, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Playstation Vue, work similar to cable. These services not only stream but also allow live viewing of favorite channels like TBS, Nickelodeon, VH1, USA, and many more. Additionally, Playstation Vue also works as a DVR, offering the option to record episodes. Spectrum is another service to look into, offering cable TV options and 24/7 customer service. Still, if you want to retain channels like HBO or TCM, it might not save you much compared to keeping the cable.
3. STREAMING DEVICES
Devices like Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Roku let you stream content of Netflix, Hulu, HBO Now, Youtube, and Amazon Video. These devices also facilitate live streaming of TV shows and sports on channels like AMC, ESPN, Fox, HGTV, and more with a simple subscription to DirectTV Now. Roku and Fire Stick, besides allowing streaming through various apps also provide free content on major network sites.
4. STREAMING SERVICES
There’s a vast array of online streaming services you can subscribe to, including Netflix and Hulu. For a modest monthly fee, ranging from $8 to $12, these services offer access to a huge catalogue of shows, documentaries, and films, with no restrictions. Amazon Prime is another promising option, providing access to shows, Amazon original content, and popular films for $99 per year. Streamlined subscriptions are also available for networks like HBO and Starz.
5. HD ANTENNA
The modernized counterparts of old rabbit ear antennas, HD antennas, are excellent cable alternatives. For those living in suburban or urban areas, an HD antenna can provide access to major networks and channels like CW and PBS for free. Try the HD antenna before completely disengaging from cable to assure good reception.
6. INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS
Sometimes some shows or seasons may not be available on subscriptions or streaming services. In such scenarios, there are innovative ways to watch them without cable. For example, iTunes offers season passes for the upcoming seasons of favorite shows. Also, never underestimate the power of a library card. Libraries have surprisingly extensive collections of TV shows that can be accessed for free. These can be a great alternative if there’s a show you can’t find otherwise.
Gone were the times when cable and dish services were indispensable. Although they might still offer some exclusive shows and features you might like, the expense is often not justified. Thankfully, with the availability of streaming services, devices, and network websites, there are countless ways to watch all your favorite content without the high expense of cable.
Have you given up on cable service? If yes, can you share your experience and the advantages and disadvantages? How much have you saved?
