How to Ditch Cable and Still Watch Live TV: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’re looking to cut the cord and get rid of cable but still want to watch live TV, there are several options available. One of the most popular and effective ways to do so is by subscribing to a streaming service that offers traditional TV channels. Here are some top choices:

AT&T’s DirecTV Stream: Formerly known as AT&T TV, this service offers various packages that include live TV channels alongside on-demand content. Prices start at $69.99 per month.

FuboTV: For sports fans, FuboTV is a great choice as it has a heavy focus on sports programming. It also offers over 100 live channels in its basic package, and prices start at $64.99 per month.

Hulu + Live TV: In addition to its extensive on-demand library, Hulu also offers live TV channels through its Live TV package. Prices start at $64.99 per month.

Philo: One of the most affordable options on the market, Philo offers a selection of live TV channels for just $25 per month. However, it doesn’t include any sports channels.

Sling TV: This service offers two base packages, each of which include different sets of channels. Prices start at $35 per month for the Sling Orange package and $35 per month for Sling Blue.

YouTube TV: From Google, this service offers over 85 live TV channels as well as a cloud DVR service. Prices start at $64.99 per month.

Overall, there are plenty of options available for those who want to cut the cord but still watch live TV. Each of these services comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to decide which one suits your needs and budget the best.

Consider cord-cutting

Cable TV subscription has been a norm for many households for years. However, with the steady rise of streaming services, many people are now opting to cut the cord and move away from traditional cable TV. Cable bills can be very expensive, and cord-cutting is a great way to save some money in the long run. But how do you go about it?

Explore streaming services

One of the best ways to get rid of cable while still retaining live TV access is by subscribing to streaming services. Thankfully, there are several streaming services available that offer live TV channels similar to traditional pay-TV services, but at a significantly lower cost.

Streaming services for traditional TV channels

AT&T’s DirecTV Stream: DirecTV Stream offers live TV channels, on-demand content, and premium networks such as HBO and Showtime. It has multiple packages, ranging from basic to premium, depending on your needs. One of the benefits of this service is that it offers the option to bundle it with internet services, which is great for a one-stop-shop service. FuboTV focused on sports: FuboTV is a sports-focused streaming service that offers live sports coverage as well as traditional TV channels such as news and entertainment. They offer several package options depending on your needs, and it can be a great option for sports lovers! Hulu + Live TV and Philo: Hulu + Live TV offers access to traditional TV channels and its library of on-demand content. They also offer add-ons such as HBO and Showtime. Philo, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that offers only traditional TV channels without the on-demand content. Sling TV: Sling TV is a cost-effective option for cord-cutters that offers live TV channels, on-demand content, and add-ons to tailor your experience. They offer two main packages with different channels and functionalities, so you can choose which is best for you.

What is AT&T’s DirecTV Stream?

AT&T’s DirecTV Stream provides a wide variety of live TV channels, on-demand content, and premium networks such as HBO and Showtime. The service has multiple packages to suit different needs. DirecTV Stream offers an easy upgrade path from DirecTV satellite services, as well as bundle options with AT&T Internet. It’s a great option for people who want to switch their traditional TV to a streaming service without sacrificing quality.

FuboTV focused on sports

FuboTV is a sports-focused streaming service that offers a wide range of sports channels, including live coverage of football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. FuboTV also offers traditional TV channels such as news and entertainment, making it an excellent all-around option for sports fans who also want access to live TV.

Hulu + Live TV and Philo

Hulu + Live TV offers both traditional TV channels and its vast library of on-demand content. The service includes popular channels like CNN, ESPN, and FX and offers add-ons such as HBO, Showtime, and Starz. Philo, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that provides access to traditional TV channels like A&E, AMC, and the History Channel. Philo does not offer on-demand content or sports channels, making it an ideal choice for those mainly interested in live TV.

Sling TV: A cost-effective option

Sling TV offers two basic packages with different channel combinations, and you can customize them with add-ons of your choice. The service has affordable add-on packages for popular channels like HBO and Showtime, which makes it a cost-effective streaming option. Sling TV offers the option to record shows and movies, and its user-friendly interface is an excellent feature.

Google’s YouTube TV: Is it worth it?

Google’s YouTube TV is a streaming service that offers a wide spectrum of traditional TV channels. In addition to the standard channels, YouTube TV also streamlines sports channels and offers movie and TV show rentals. You can record shows and watch them later with an unlimited DVR. However, YouTube TV is on the more expensive side compared to its competitors. Nevertheless, its overall quality and experience are worth the extra cost if you’re looking for reliability, customization, and a great user interface. In conclusion, it’s possible to ditch cable TV while still being able to watch live TV with these streaming services. Switching to streaming services as an alternative to traditional cable TV is both cost-effective and straightforward. Explore the many options, assess your needs, and choose the right streaming service that’s best for you!