How to Cut the Cord and Still Watch TV

The phrase “cutting the cord” has made quite a buzz in recent years. But what does it really mean? In simple terms, it’s the process of saying goodbye to traditional cable or satellite TV services and instead, embracing internet-based options for watching your favorite content.

Now let’s turn back the clock a little. Decades ago, cable TV was the primary, and often only, source of entertainment for many households. We all remember flipping through channels, hoping to land on something that piqued our interest. However, the advent of the internet and advancements in technology have revolutionized how we consume media.

Today, instead of being limited to the programming choices of cable networks, we have a buffet of entertainment options at our fingertips, thanks to streaming services. From on-demand movies and series on Netflix to live sports events on ESPN+, the digital world has enabled us to customize our TV viewing experience like never before.

This shift from traditional cable TV to internet-based platforms hasn’t happened overnight. It’s been a gradual transition, propelled by viewers’ desire for more control over what they watch, when they watch, and how much they’re willing to pay for it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cutting the cord and still enjoying your TV time to the fullest.

Why Cut the Cord?

There are numerous reasons why many people are opting to cut the cord, but perhaps one of the most compelling is the escalating cost of cable subscriptions. Traditional cable TV services can be expensive, with bills often running into hundreds of dollars per month, especially when you add in premium channels or packages. Cutting the cord could significantly reduce your monthly expenses, allowing you to only pay for the content you actually want to watch.

But it’s not just about cost savings. Cutting the cord also opens up a world of flexibility and variety in terms of content. With cable, you’re limited to the channels in your package and the schedule dictated by the networks. However, online streaming platforms allow you to pick and choose not only what you want to watch, but also when you want to watch it. Whether you’re into movies, sitcoms, documentaries, or foreign dramas, there’s a streaming service out there that caters to your preferences.

Lastly, it’s important to consider the evolving viewing habits of consumers. In today’s on-the-go lifestyle, viewers appreciate the convenience of watching their favorite shows or movies on various devices, be it their smartphone, tablet, or laptop, and not just the TV screen. Streaming platforms cater perfectly to this demand, offering mobile apps and offline viewing options.

Before You Cut the Cord

Before you take the leap and cut the cord, there are a few essential factors to consider.

Firstly, take some time to reflect on your viewing habits and needs. What kind of content do you regularly watch? Do you follow any series that air on specific cable networks? Are live sports or news broadcasts essential to you? Understanding your preferences will guide you in selecting the right streaming services that cater to your interests without leaving you feeling short-changed.

Secondly, evaluate your internet connection and speed. Streaming content requires a robust and fast internet connection. The quality of your viewing experience, whether it’s crystal-clear high definition or frustrating buffering pauses, largely depends on your internet speed. As a rule of thumb, the more devices and the higher the video quality you wish to stream, the faster your internet speed needs to be. So, check your current plan and consider whether it’s up to the task.

Finally, while cutting the cord can offer significant cost savings, it’s important to remember that streaming services aren’t free (unless you’re using ad-supported platforms). Services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ all come with monthly subscription fees. While these are typically less than a standard cable bill, they can add up, especially if you subscribe to multiple platforms. Consider your budget and think about which services you really need.

Best Options for Cutting the Cord

Streaming Services
Live TV Streaming Services
On-Demand Streaming Services
Free Streaming Options
Sports and Specialty Content
Hardware and Devices for Streaming

1. Streaming Services

Jumping into the world of cord-cutting, you’ll quickly realize that streaming services are going to become your new entertainment allies. These platforms are like massive online libraries, brimming with content ready to be explored whenever you fancy. Here’s a quick low-down on some of the most popular ones.

Netflix: Picture this as your friendly neighborhood video store, but supercharged. Netflix boasts an array of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and even original productions that are produced in-house. With a constantly rotating library, there’s no fear of running out of things to watch.
Hulu: Hulu is like the exciting cousin that always brings something new to the table. It offers an expansive on-demand library and has an additional feature, Hulu + Live TV, which keeps you up-to-date with live TV from over 60 top channels, including sports and news.
Amazon Prime Video: Part of the broader Amazon Prime package, Prime Video feels like a big shopping mall filled with a mixed bag of movies, TV shows, and a growing bunch of Prime Originals that are worth checking out.
Disney+: This is like stepping into a treasure trove for fans of Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, and National Geographic. Disney+ opens up a universe of movies and series, not forgetting some exclusive content you won’t find elsewhere.
HBO Max: Think of this as a deluxe buffet. Combining all the goodness of HBO with a whole lot of shows and movies from WarnerMedia, HBO Max has something to cater to just about anyone’s entertainment palate.

Now, beyond these big names, there’s also a wealth of specialty streaming services catering to more niche interests.

Sports: Platforms like ESPN+ and DAZN are like your personal sports bars, offering live events, sports-centric documentaries, and exclusive on-demand content for the die-hard sports fan.
Foreign Language: Services like Viki and MHz Choice are like your passports to international content, bringing a mix of TV shows and movies from around the world straight to your living room.
Indie Films and Documentaries: Platforms like MUBI, CuriosityStream, and Kanopy are your go-to indie cinemas and museums, specializing in independent films, timeless classics, thought-provoking documentaries, and educational content.

So, as you can see, cutting the cord certainly doesn’t equate to cutting back on quality entertainment. With the variety of streaming services at your disposal, you might even find yourself diving into genres and shows you’d never considered before!

2. Live TV Streaming Services

One common concern about cutting the cord is the fear of missing out on live television – be it the local news, real-time sports events, or new episodes of popular TV shows. But thanks to live TV streaming services, you don’t have to worry. These platforms are like your traditional cable providers but without the long-term contracts and clunky set-top boxes. Here’s a look at some key players in this domain.

YouTube TV: Like your favorite social media site that always keeps you updated, YouTube TV offers over 85+ live TV channels, including local news and sports. You’ll also get unlimited cloud DVR storage space to record your favorites without worrying about storage limits.
Hulu + Live TV: Think of this as Hulu’s more dynamic sibling. On top of Hulu’s regular on-demand content, you get more than 65 live and on-demand channels, spanning news, sports, and entertainment. Plus, it comes with 50 hours of Cloud DVR storage.
Sling TV: Sling TV is like that customizable meal plan where you choose what you want. It offers two basic packages – Sling Orange and Sling Blue, each with a different channel lineup, and you can add on extra channel packs based on your interests.

Now, it’s important to note that these services come with varying prices, channel lineups, and features. For instance, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offer more comprehensive packages but are pricier, while Sling TV offers a more budget-friendly, customizable option.

Moreover, the channel availability can vary, especially for local stations, so it’s crucial to check what’s available in your area before subscribing. Also, consider the unique features each service offers, like cloud DVR storage or the number of simultaneous streams allowed.

In short, live TV streaming services ensure you can cut the cord without missing out on live content. By comparing their offerings, you can choose a service that best fits your viewing habits and budget.

3. On-Demand Streaming Services

On-demand streaming services are like your personal entertainment concierge, ready to serve up your favorite shows and movies at your convenience, 24/7. These platforms have vast libraries of content that you can access whenever you wish. Let’s dive into some of the most popular on-demand streaming services.

Netflix: Think of Netflix as your entertainment supermarket. It’s got an extensive library of content ranging from TV shows and movies to documentaries and Netflix Originals. Netflix is known for its variety and its investment in producing original content, which spans various genres and languages.
Hulu: Hulu is like your local library that’s continually getting new books. It offers a wide range of on-demand TV shows and movies, including current and past TV series, movies, and Hulu Originals. Hulu stands out for its speed in uploading current TV series episodes shortly after they air on traditional TV.
Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video is like that big department store that seems to have a little bit of everything. Apart from a sizable selection of TV shows, movies, and Prime Originals, your Prime subscription also includes other perks like free two-day shipping on Amazon purchases.
Disney+: Disney+ is like a magic kingdom for fans of Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic. It offers a vast array of content from these franchises, including classics, new releases, and exclusive originals.

In terms of pricing, these services have different tiers, with the cost usually increasing for features like high-definition or 4K streaming and multiple simultaneous streams. Some services like Hulu also offer an ad-free viewing experience for a higher price.

4. Free Streaming Options

Everyone loves a good freebie, and in the world of cord-cutting, there are indeed no-cost options. Free streaming platforms are like those open-air concerts in the park – they might not always feature the biggest names, but they offer plenty of enjoyable content without costing a dime. Let’s look at some of these platforms.

Tubi: Tubi is like a thrift store for movies and TV shows. It offers thousands of titles from every genre – all free! You’ll find everything from reality TV to classic movies and some hidden gems.
Crackle: Owned by Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, Crackle is akin to a free art gallery that also hosts some unique exhibits. It provides a mix of TV shows, movies, and original content – all without a subscription fee.
Pluto TV: Pluto TV is your free ticket to a world of entertainment. It offers hundreds of live TV channels and on-demand movies and TV shows. It’s like flipping through a cable TV guide, but free.
Peacock Free: From the house of NBCUniversal, Peacock Free is like a grand buffet where you can sample some dishes at no cost. It offers thousands of hours of movies, TV shows, sports, news, and more.

Now, it’s important to note that while these services are free, they come with their own limitations, the most common being ads. Much like traditional broadcast TV, these platforms typically include commercial breaks during the content. The range of content can also be more limited compared to paid services, and newer, popular titles may not be available.

5. Sports and Specialty Content

For those with a passion for specific genres or interests, there are streaming platforms tailored to suit your tastes. Think of them as your favorite special-interest club or hobby group. They provide a space for you to delve into the content you love most.

Sports-Specific Platforms:

For the sports fanatics who can’t miss a game, services like ESPN+ and DAZN are akin to having season tickets to all your favorite sports.

ESPN+ is like your all-access pass to the sports world. It offers live sports, exclusive originals, and an extensive on-demand library. Additionally, it includes premium articles and fantasy tools from ESPN’s website.
DAZN, often referred to as the ‘Netflix of sports,’ provides a wide range of live and on-demand sports content. It’s like having a front-row seat at a variety of sporting events, from boxing and football to motorsports and baseball.

Other Specialty Platforms:

For those who love diving deep into specific genres, platforms like CuriosityStream and Shudder are perfect.

CuriosityStream is like your personal interactive science and history museum. It specializes in high-quality documentaries covering a multitude of topics, from the wonders of nature to technological advancements.
Shudder is like a haunted house that’s open year-round, catering specifically to fans of horror, thriller, and suspense genres. It offers a mix of movies, TV shows, and original content guaranteed to give you chills.

These specialty platforms typically require separate subscriptions, but they provide a wealth of specific content that you may not find on more general streaming services. If you have a deep love for sports, documentaries, horror, or any other specific genre, these platforms can be a worthwhile addition to your cord-cutting toolkit.

6. Hardware and Devices for Streaming

Once you’ve decided on your streaming services, the next question is: how will you actually watch them? The hardware you use can have a significant impact on your streaming experience. Think of these devices as your new remote control – they’re your primary tool for navigating this brave new world of TV. Let’s dive into some of the most common options.

Smart TVs:

Smart TVs are like your traditional television but with a brain upgrade. They connect to the internet, allowing you to access all your streaming services directly on the TV itself. Brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony all offer their own versions of Smart TVs. However, the available apps can vary by brand, so it’s crucial to check if your preferred streaming services are supported.

Streaming Devices:

These are like magical keys that unlock the world of streaming on any TV with an HDMI port. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Roku: Roku devices are like the Swiss Army knives of streaming. They support virtually every streaming service, have an easy-to-use interface, and come in various models to fit different needs and budgets.
Amazon Fire Stick: The Fire Stick is like your personal Amazon-powered entertainment guide. It’s great for heavy Amazon Prime Video users and also supports a wide variety of other streaming apps.
Google Chromecast: Chromecast is like having a little Google assistant for your TV. It allows you to cast content from your phone or computer to your TV screen. With the latest models, you can also use it as a standalone streaming device.
Apple TV: Apple TV is like the sleek, high-tech spaceship of streaming devices. It supports many streaming apps, integrates well with other Apple devices, and offers its own content through Apple TV+.

Gaming Consoles:

Devices like PlayStation and Xbox aren’t just for gaming – they’re like secret double agents that also function as powerful streaming devices. Both consoles support a variety of popular streaming apps, making them a great choice if you’re a gamer looking to streamline your entertainment setup.

Each of these devices has its pros and cons. Smart TVs offer simplicity with fewer devices and remotes, but their app offerings can be limited. Streaming devices are versatile and often more regularly updated with new features and apps. However, they do require switching inputs and juggling remotes. Gaming consoles can be an efficient two-in-one solution but are the most expensive if you’re not already a gamer.

How to Choose the Right Streaming Service for You

Choosing the right streaming service can feel a bit like standing in front of a buffet table loaded with tantalizing dishes. There’s so much to choose from, and it all looks delicious. But just as you’d fill your plate based on your taste preferences and appetite, choosing the right streaming service depends on your viewing habits, budget, and desired features. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice.

Step 1: Understanding Your Viewing Preferences and Content Needs

This step is like knowing whether you’re in the mood for sushi or pizza. What kind of content do you enjoy? Are you a sitcom junkie, a die-hard sports fan, or a documentary enthusiast? Do you crave the latest shows, or are you content with a library of classics? Different platforms have different strengths, so consider your preferences carefully.

Step 2: Comparing Costs of Different Streaming Services

Next, think about your budget. This is similar to considering how much you’re willing to spend on dinner. Costs for streaming services can vary widely, from free platforms to premium subscriptions. Remember to factor in the cost of your internet service, as it’s a crucial part of the cord-cutting equation.

Step 3: Evaluating the User Experience and Additional Features

This step is like considering whether you prefer a quiet, intimate cafe or a bustling, vibrant bar. Each streaming platform offers a different user experience, from the ease of navigation to the ability to create multiple profiles. Additional features such as offline viewing, the number of simultaneous streams, and the quality of the stream (HD, 4K) can also influence your decision.

Step 4: Considering the Need for Live TV and Local Channels

Finally, don’t forget about live TV and local channels. If you can’t live without real-time news, sports, or local programming, you’ll want to consider live TV streaming services or even an over-the-air antenna.

Choosing the right streaming service ultimately comes down to understanding your needs and doing your research. Remember, the beauty of cord-cutting is that it’s flexible. You can try different services, adjust your subscriptions as your needs change, and truly tailor your TV experience to your tastes.

Potential Challenges and Solutions for Online Streaming

The journey to cutting the cord is mostly smooth, but like any adventure, it can come with a few bumps in the road. These challenges can range from technical hiccups to content restrictions, but fear not – for every problem, there’s a solution. Let’s explore some common challenges and how you can tackle them.

Troubleshooting Common Technical Issues

Just like dealing with a flat tire, there are a few technical issues you might encounter. These could include problems with streaming quality, buffering, app crashes, or device connectivity. But don’t worry – most of these issues can be fixed by basic troubleshooting steps. These include checking your internet speed, ensuring your device’s software is up to date, restarting your device, or reinstalling the problematic app. If problems persist, you can usually find help in the support section of your streaming service’s website or by reaching out to their customer service.

Handling Blackouts and Restrictions on Certain Content

Sometimes, you might find that a particular show or sports event is unavailable or “blacked out” in your area. This is like when your favorite band doesn’t include your city on their tour. These blackouts are usually due to licensing or contractual agreements. While frustrating, you can often work around them by using a VPN to change your apparent location or by subscribing to a service that offers the blacked-out content in your region.

Options for Watching Content When Traveling or Out of Your Home Network

So, what happens when you want to watch your shows while you’re on vacation or away from home? This can be like trying to find a good meal in an unfamiliar city. Many streaming services offer an option to download content for offline viewing. Others allow you to stream anywhere in your home country, although content might vary if you’re traveling internationally due to licensing restrictions. It’s always a good idea to check the policies of your specific streaming services before you pack your bags.

While these challenges can seem daunting, they’re usually quite manageable with a bit of patience and know-how. And remember, the freedom and flexibility of cord-cutting often outweigh these minor roadblocks.

Conclusion

As we conclude this cord-cutting guide, let’s take a moment to reflect on the journey. Cutting the cord is a bit like swapping out your old, reliable sedan for a shiny, new electric car. It might seem daunting at first, but once you understand the benefits and how to make the transition, you’ll likely find that it’s an exciting and liberating change.

Cutting the cord allows you to break free from the constraints of traditional cable TV. It gives you control over what you watch, when you watch it, and how much you pay for it. You can enjoy a diverse buffet of content, from your favorite TV shows and movies to live sports and specialty content, all tailored to your personal preferences.

Remember, your TV viewing experience should be as unique as you are. Don’t be afraid to mix and match services, try out different devices, and keep tweaking your setup until it’s just right. The beauty of the streaming world is its flexibility and its capacity to adapt to your needs.