Many people jump to "cut the cord" because they think it will save them money in the long run. While canceling your cable may save you some money, there are still important factors before you should make a final decision. In this guide, we give you some of the reasons why keeping your cable may be a better choice.
Availability of Shows
Just three years ago, Netflix had over 8,000 shows and movies in its catalog. By 2016, that number decreased by 31% to just over 5,500, with the biggest drop being the number of movies available. It is noteworthy to point out that Netflix increased its new member subscription price by $1 in 2014 despite the drop in available streaming options.
Cable providers have faced this issue head-on by offering free premium channel trials and on-demand programs included with your package. The limitations of streaming services may not be worth the perceived savings of cutting the cord completely.
Program Schedule Conflicts
Have you ever avoided social media after missing a crucial episode of your favorite show over the fear of ruining the plot? This is a regular occurrence for you if you just use streaming channels. They do not have the advantage of airing programs at the same time as cable stations. With live TV, you can enjoy all your favorite shows as soon as they come on without your friends spoiling the best parts.
Less Options for Sports Fans
Streaming customers do have some options to watch sports, but not nearly as much as a cable provider would offer. Sling TV and PlayStation Vue offer customers a couple of sports channels like ESPN and Fox Sports, but this does not compare to top cable providers like Comcast, Dish Network, and DirecTV. When you choose the Choice Package or above through DirecTV, you receive NFL Sunday Ticket 2017 absolutely free. You can also add other sports packages for monthly payments, which give you access to out-of-market games and other game stats.
Investing in a streaming device
Unless you purchase a streaming device, you are stuck watching your programs on either your laptop or mobile phone. In order to watch Netflix, Hulu, or any other streaming channel, you must purchase a streaming device. These cost anywhere from $30-$100 upfront, depending on the quality of streaming you want to watch. If something breaks, you are stuck paying for another device unless you purchased an additional warranty.
Does your internet provider have data caps?
In order to watch content from streaming channels, you must have a reliable internet connection and enough data each month. Even if you have a plan with 50 GB of data, that only allows for 25 hours of HD streaming, not considering your other internet activities.
Managing multiple subscriptions
You have to make sure your payment method is up-to-date for each streaming account, or else your subscription will be canceled. When you choose a cable provider, you can easily bundle cable and internet services together for one convenient bill each month. Also, providers often offer monthly savings of up to $30 when you choose to bundle your services.
FAQ
What is the cheapest way to cut the cord?
If you are looking for a cheap alternative to TV services, the cheapest ones are free! You can try using Local Now, Pluto TV, and Xumo. There are other options that come at a small cost like Sling, Philo, and Frndly TV.
What equipment do I need to cut the cord?
All you will need for equipment is a high-speed internet connection, a streaming device, and streaming channels.
Is cutting the cord worth it?
Cutting the cord can save you money monthly and provide more freedom to pay for the TV programs you watch.
Is it cheaper to have cable or streaming?
Streaming is still (usually) cheaper, but live TV streaming is the next best thing if you want to have the cable TV experience without the contracts and fees that come with it. These services can offer a program guide, DVR, and most of the familiar channels you're used to with cable.
Is Roku better than cable?
The average US household spends $51 to $100 monthly on cable or TV connection options. If you decide to go all-in with free streaming channels, like The Roku Channel and Tubi, you could save $1300+ annually. According to a recent survey, most Roku users save an average of $70 monthly over cable.
What is the best free TV streaming service with local channels?
YouTube TV is the live streaming service that offers the most local channels, thanks to its inclusion of PBS and PBS Kids. Other options are Hulu + Live TV and FuboTV which also stream most local channels in several markets.
