Cable bills are growing to out-of-control prices. Bills for watching your favorite TV shows and networks are on the rise. The Federal Communications Commission noted a nearly 6% increase last year alone. Stop throwing your cash in the trash and learn how to cut cable that expensive bill here…
The trend of cutting the cable cord and the corresponding drain on your wallet is growing and, thanks to basic economics of supply and demand, there are a growing list of options. When I quit cable three years ago, it wasn’t easy but keeping nearly $170 a month made such a difference in my budget, I NEVER looked back.
Step 1
You begin with the getting a device that will support streaming services. You have several choices:
- *HD Smart TV – If your TV is already internet ready through wifi connect – you should already have opportunities to begin streaming channels.
OR
- *Streaming boxes – Streaming boxes hook into your HDTV and connect you to the net so you can stream movies and shows. There are several popular choices:
Roku – These devices come in small boxes or sticks you hookup to your TV via HDMI or composite cables. Once connected you can upload channels. (More on that in the next step.) It’s arguably one of the easiest to use and offers cheaper “sticks” that take up less space. Newer boxes, like the Roku 3 offers games and access to and over 2,000 entertainment channels including Amazon Instant Video and Vudu. Each Roku device also offers a super-helpful search feature to help you find what you need insanely easily. Roku users also get exclusive access to HBO Now. (More on that in the next step, too.)
Apple TV – It’s a small box, about the size of the average Joe’s palm. Like the Roku, it plugs into your TV and streams programming via channels you pick or subscriber to along with anything that’s on your iOS device or Mac on your HDTV with AirPlay. This device is preferred for MAC users or those with movies, music, and programming purchased via iTunes or stored in the iCloud. You can also use your iPad or iPhone to control the TV along with the remote it comes with by setting up the device with the Bluetooth on your device. The downside is that, at time of this publication, Apple TV only has around 50 channels – which doesn’t include Amazon Instant Video or Sling TV. However, you can also “push” your music, photos, and video to your Apple TV.
Amazon Fire – This is a slightly newer option that is great for those who love games featuring over 300 options. Of course, you get access to your Amazon entertainment. A new update will also let users traveling with the device connect to hotel wifi for on-the-go streaming. The key for that will be finding a hotel with speeds fast enough to support streaming. Fire also doesn’t offer as many channels as the Roku. Amazon Fire will also let you search content, but it’s not nearly as comprehensive as Roku’s feature. Many also have a distaste for the pushy interface that only displays Amazon content, making it difficult to find content Amazon may not offer or charge you for when you might be able to find it included in your subscription channels like Netflix.
Chromecast – Designed by Google, this tiny stick is one the smallest and cheapest options. However, it comes with limitations like no remote or TV interface users can easily navigate. You have to have a smartphone or tablet to be able to use the device. The big apps like Netflix is offered, but the catalog noticeably lacks Amazon Instant, Vimeo, and Spotify. The channel and game limitations are what tends to hold users back from this device.
Video Game Consoles – Select XBox devices can also upload select channels, including Netflix.
Overall – Roku 3 is best pick for the general crowd. It’s speed is equal to, if not better than Amazon Fire’s. It offers some gaming, but doesn’t rival’s Fire’s games choices, but it’s still better than Apple TV’s game options.
Step 2
Get an antenna. You can watch what we loving call “The Farmer Five” networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, and FOX for free after you hook up an antenna. Make sure you get what you need depending on your home/TV situation. My tip, go to a store with a knowledgeable staff and explain your situation. Is your home in a cozy wooded area? Do storms often sweep through your state? Is your home surrounded by large buildings? Every situation is better. A general internet search for antennas will also result in tips or suggestions, too. Once you have picked out the antenna, do a price comparison and shop online for the best prices. The better contenders will require you to hook it up on your roof, so do you research.
Step 3
Choose your channels. Now that you have a streaming device, you can pick your channels. They work like apps on your smartphones. You have thousands of choices depending on which device you chose. Some channels are free, some require a monthly subscription, and others are free if you have a cable subscription.
Lets start with the biggest streaming channels…
Netflix – This subscription service has one of the largest libraries of movies and TV shows. Love ‘The Walking Dead’ or favorite blockbuster movies old and new? This service has both. Netflix also boasts exclusive self-produced shows like ‘House of Cards’ and ‘Orange Is the New Black.’ For around $8 a month, you get unlimited access to all the shows and programs in Netflix’s expansive library. The downside to Netflix is how slowly new shows appear. For example, most popular programs that are currently producing new shows are a season behind. For example, ‘The Walking Dead’ season 5 just finished, but you wont see it until the week or two before season 6 begins. However, you can binge-watch other series in their entirety like ‘Friends’. Netflix also offers a superior movie collection.
Hulu Plus – Another subscription service similar to Netflix but, comparatively, is slightly limited on programming. However, if the service has your favorite shows, you will be able to stay up on the latest episodes that usually appear on the channel within a day. If you can’t manage an antenna for free programming, you’ll find most TV shows from ABC, Fox, NBC, Comedy Central, MTV, The CW here.
Amazon Instant Video – Android users will find this feature-friendly. If you have an Amazon Prime subscription, you’ll get free shipping on purchases and access to some free content. If your kids are Spongebob Square Pants fans, you get some free episodes. Typically, the first 2-3 seasons are free, but more current shows will cost extra. Plus, Amazon Instant Video is a one-time early fee versus Netflix and Hulu’s monthly charges that allow you to quit anytime.
Sling TV – This is the new app/channel in town that is changing the game. Sports fans who miss ESPN, or ‘Walking Dead’ fans who must see the latest episode as it airs can get their fix with channel. It’s a growing app that will currently cost you $20 a month, but offers live streaming of channels like: ESPN, ESPN2, AMC, TNT, TBS, CNN, A&E, Lifetime, History, Food Network, HGTV, Travel Channel, Cartoon Network/Adult Swim, Disney Channel, ABC Family, IFC, H2, El Rey Network, Maker, Galavision, A&E, History, Lifetime, and H2. The channel is a subsidiary of Dish Network, but its own separate service. At this moment, only Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, and Xbox One offer this channel. It’s currently making improvements and additions quickly, so keep your eye on it as it grows.
HBO GO and HBO Now – HBO offers two different options for streaming. HBO GO is supplemental if you have an HBO subscription from a cable or satellite provider. It will allow you to stream to your devices including your tablets and smartphones. HBO Now is for those who don’t have a cable or satellite provider. It’s an a la carte option you can add for a monthly fee.
Devices will offer channels with free programming, too. Your best way to navigate through the jungle of options is to make a list of can’t-miss shows. Find them on the various channels and decide which subscription has the most shows or movies you want to watch and then begin your subscriptions.
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