Overview of Cord Cutting: Say Goodbye to Cable
It’s no secret that cable TV has become an expensive luxury that many people can no longer afford. And let’s be honest, who wants to pay for channels they never watch? With the rise of streaming services, it’s now possible to watch your favorite shows and channels without the burden of cable. Cord cutting refers to the process of canceling your cable subscription and opting for alternative streaming services as a way to save money without sacrificing entertainment and channels you love. While it seems intimidating at first, it’s a relatively easy process that can be done in a matter of minutes. To get started with cord cutting, all you need is a stable internet connection and a streaming device such as a smart TV, a computer, or a streaming stick. Once you have everything set up, you can choose from a variety of streaming services that offer traditional TV channels at a fraction of the cost of cable TV.Streaming Services Offering Traditional TV Channels
There are numerous streaming services available that offer traditional TV channels, but not all of them are created equal. The most popular ones include AT&T’s DirecTV Stream, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Philo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. Each service has its own set of pros and cons, so here’s a breakdown of what each one offers.AT&T’s DirecTV Stream: Is It the Right Choice for You?
DirecTV Stream is a cable-replacement service that allows you to stream live TV channels, on-demand content, and DVR recordings. It offers a variety of channel packages that range from $69.99 to $139.99 per month. The basic package includes over 65 channels, while the premium package offers over 140 channels. One of the main advantages of DirecTV Stream is that it includes popular channels like HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax, which makes it a great choice for movie and TV show enthusiasts. However, it might not be the best option for those looking for lower-cost plans. Key points:- Offers a variety of channel packages.
- Includes premium channels like HBO and Showtime.
- Might not be the best option for lower-cost plans.
FuboTV: The Perfect Choice for Sports Lovers
FuboTV is a streaming service that specializes in sports programming. It offers a variety of sports channels, including ESPN and the NFL Network, as well as entertainment channels like FX and National Geographic. FuboTV packages range from $64.99 to $84.99 per month. One of the advantages of FuboTV is that it offers a cloud DVR feature that allows you to record your favorite shows and watch them later. Plus, it offers a multi-view feature that allows you to watch up to four channels simultaneously on one screen. Key points:- Specializes in sports programming.
- Offers a variety of entertainment channels.
- Includes a cloud DVR feature and multi-view feature.
Hulu + Live TV: What Channels Does It Offer?
Hulu + Live TV offers a unique blend of traditional channels and on-demand content from Hulu. It includes over 75 channels, including ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox, as well as popular cable networks like CNN, ESPN, and TBS. Hulu + Live TV packages range from $64.99 to $70.99 per month. One of the advantages of Hulu + Live TV is that it includes access to the full Hulu library, which includes original programming, movies, and TV show seasons. Plus, you can create up to six user profiles for your family members. Key points:- Offers a unique blend of traditional channels and on-demand content.
- Includes over 75 channels, including major networks and popular cable networks.
- Includes access to the full Hulu library and multiple user profiles.
Philo: The Most Affordable Streaming Service
Philo is a budget-friendly streaming service that offers over 60 channels for just $25 per month. It includes popular channels like AMC, Nickelodeon, and Animal Planet, as well as entertainment channels like Comedy Central and MTV. Philo does not include sports or news channels, which might be a deal-breaker for some users. One of the advantages of Philo is that it offers unlimited cloud DVR storage and allows you to stream on up to three devices simultaneously. Philo also offers a seven-day free trial period, which allows you to test it out before committing to a subscription. Key points:- Offers over 60 channels for just $25 per month.
- Includes popular channels like AMC and Comedy Central.
- Offers unlimited cloud DVR storage and allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously.
Sling TV: The Best Package for Customization
Sling TV is a streaming service that offers a variety of channel packages that allow you to customize your subscription to fit your needs and budget. Its base packages include Sling Orange and Sling Blue, which offer over 30 channels each for $35 per month. You can also combine both packages for $50 per month. One of the advantages of Sling TV is that it offers a variety of add-ons, including premium channels like Epix and Starz, as well as extra channel packs like Kids and Comedy. Sling TV also includes a cloud DVR feature and allows you to stream on up to three devices simultaneously. Key points:- Offers a variety of channel packages to customize your subscription.
- Includes a variety of add-ons and extra channel packs.
- Includes a cloud DVR feature and allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously.
YouTube TV: The Pros and Cons of Google’s Streaming Service
YouTube TV is a streaming service that offers over 85 channels, including major networks like ABC, CBS, and NBC, as well as popular cable networks like CNN, ESPN, and FX. YouTube TV packages cost $64.99 per month and offer unlimited cloud DVR storage. One of the advantages of YouTube TV is that it offers a user-friendly interface and allows you to create up to six user profiles. However, it does not offer as much customization as some of the other streaming services on this list, and it does not currently support some popular devices like Amazon Fire TV. Key points:- Offers over 85 channels, including major networks and popular cable networks.
- Offers unlimited cloud DVR storage and allows you to create up to six user profiles.
- Does not offer as much customization and does not support some popular devices.