Here’s what you need to consider when cutting the cable cord in 2025.
What Does It Mean to Cut the Cable Cord?
Before we go any further, I feel like I should be clear on what I mean by cutting the cord. It’s a term people throw around that can have a few different meanings. Cutting the cord refers to canceling your traditional cable service, such as cable or satellite TV, and switching to a live streaming TV service. Like cable TV, these services provide live TV channels. The difference lies in how they provide the content. Cable TV literally works through a wire, while live streaming TV services stream TV channels through the Internet.
Why Do People Decide to Cut the Cable Cord?
There are various reasons, but the primary ones relate to cost and flexibility. Some people find that switching from traditional TV to live streaming TV saves them money. Others like the fact that many live streaming TV services, such as YouTube TV and Sling TV, don’t require long-term contracts. As such, if you don’t like the content you’re getting and are more interested in another service, switch on over. You can always go back to your previous option if it gets a show or sporting event you like.
However, it’s important to note that while many people do save money with these options, it’s not always the case. Many people pay for a cable bundle which includes phone and Internet, and paying for Internet alone might actually end up being more expensive for some folks. Speaking of bundles, you also need to find out if you’re still under contract with your cable provider. These contracts tend to be long-term, and paying to end it early could be another cost that you’re unwilling to front.
Furthermore, live streaming TV can require a lot of data, especially if there’s more than one TV in your household. This means that you might have to pay for an unlimited data plan to get the best experience, which might be more expensive.
Step 1: Get an Indoor Antenna
Before you start calculating how much making the switch is going to cost you, you should take advantage of what’s available for free. Many areas offer free channels, which you can access with an indoor antenna. Some smart TVs come with these pre-installed, but in the case that yours doesn’t, you might have to buy one. Don’t worry, you can find many options that aren’t too expensive.
Once you have the antenna, scan for local channels. In some cases, you might find that you’re out of luck because there are none. On the other hand, you might be pleasantly surprised to have several local channels to choose from. That’ll be important when the time comes to choose a livestreaming TV service.
Step 2: Decide What Channels and Shows You Want to Watch
I used to love the idea of cable. There were so many options! However, as time went on I found out that I only had a handful of hours a day to watch TV, if at all, and that I don’t watch even a third of the channels offered on cable.
As such, it’s important to make a list of the channels and shows you want to watch and would like access to. Many live streaming services have a lot less channels than cable—which is OK if you’re like me and have only 2-3 go-to channels—but if you watch a variety of shows on different networks, you’ll want to select an option that has as many, if not all, of those channels as possible.
In addition, if you already pay for a video on-demand streaming service, such as Netflix or Amazon Prime, you might be able to watch your favorite shows on those, too.
Step 3: Do You Want to DVR Content?
Another thing cable boxes typically include is the option to record, or DVR, your content. It’s important to figure out if you use this option a lot or not at all. Some streaming services provide a set amount of DVR hours to record content, while others offer unlimited hours.
Step 4: Pick a Live TV Streaming Service
Here’s where it can get a little complex. There are dozens of live streaming TV services out there at varying prices. Of course, not all of them offer the same thing. Some of the most popular services include:
- YouTube TV: 100+ channels, NFL games, NBA games, and NFL Sunday Night Ticket
- Sling TV: 34+ channels
- Fubo: 222+ channels of almost every sport imaginable
- DirecTV Stream: 90+ channels also made for sports fans, includes regional sports networks
- Hulu + TV: 95+ channels and access to Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ with ads
If any of these services catch your attention, our guide on the best non-cable TV options goes into detail on their pros and cons.
You can also compliment these services by signing up for a free option, such as Pluto TV or Tubi. Notably, the free options are supported by ads, so you’ll have to sit through those.
Another thing you should consider here is how many TVs there are in your household, as that will affect the price you pay for these streaming services. Some basic plans only let you stream on one screen and require you to pay for to stream on multiple screens.
Step 5: Pick a Streaming Device
Just like with cable TV, which includes that infamous cable box, live streaming TV needs a device to work. This is another area where you’ll find that there are a variety of options from big names like Amazon, Roku, Apple, and Google.
The big thing to ask yourself here is: What do you want the device to do? Do you want it to be as simple and straightforward as possible and just work to watch TV? Or do you want to use it as a smart speaker or to play games?
The best device for you will depend on your answer. However, rest assured that any option from the main players in this sector will do a good job.
Roku Ultra vs. Fire TV Cube: Which Streaming Device Is the Best Fit for You?
Step 6: Do a Trial Run
Before you cancel your cable, it’s best to do a trial run. Buy a streaming device and select a service that you think will suit your needs. While the idea of cutting the cord might sound great, you might hit some bumps in the road. Doing a trial run will let you get used to this new way to watch TV and troubleshoot any issues you might encounter.
Step 7: Cut the Cable Cord
Now, it really is time to cut the cord. If you’re satisfied with your experience, cancel your cable TV and enjoy this new world of live streaming TV. Remember, if you’re unhappy with your channels or content options, you can always cancel the service and try out another. That’s one of the great things about these services.
Images | Shutter Speed | Tech Daily
Related | Google TV vs. Chromecast: Which Streaming Service Is the Best Fit for You?
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