Cut the Cord: Your Ultimate Guide to Streaming TV
As technology continues to advance, streaming has become the primary method for most people to watch their favorite TV shows, movies, live events and more. In fact, it’s estimated that by 2024, nearly 650 million people worldwide will have cut the cord from cable and satellite television services. With so many options available, including weekly releases of new movies and shows, cutting the cord has never been easier. In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know to cut the cord and start enjoying streaming television services.
Why Should You Consider Cutting the Cord?
Cutting the cord from traditional cable and satellite television services has many benefits. Here are just a few:
– Cost: One of the most significant advantages of cutting the cord is saving money. Traditional cable and satellite services can cost anywhere from $50-$200 per month, but most streaming subscriptions are significantly cheaper, with prices as low as $6.99 per month.
– Flexibility: With streaming services, you can watch shows on your own time. Most streaming subscriptions allow you to stream content on multiple devices at once, so you can watch on your phone, tablet or computer wherever you are.
– No Bundling: Cutting the cord means you don’t have to bundle your internet to get access to live TV. This allows you to pick and choose what you want to watch, which can save you hundreds of dollars per year.
– Easy Access: Streaming services are available on most devices including smart TVs, gaming consoles, streaming devices, smartphones, and tablets. This means you don’t have to go out and purchase any additional equipment to start watching.
How to Cut the Cord
Ready to cut the cord? Here’s what you need to do:
1. Choose Your Streaming Service
There are many streaming services available, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney Plus, Apple TV+, and more. Each service has its unique offerings, so it’s important to choose one that offers the content you and your family are most interested in. In addition, some services offer live TV options, which is a great feature for those who watch sports or live events.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
Streaming services require a strong internet connection. Make sure your internet is fast enough to handle streaming. Most streaming services require at least 5-10 Mbps for streaming, and 25 Mbps if you’re streaming in 4K resolution.
3. Choose Your Devices
Once you’ve chosen your streaming service, you’ll need to make sure your devices are compatible. Most streaming services are available on all major devices including smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku or the Amazon Fire Stick, gaming consoles, and mobile phones.
4. Cancel Your Traditional Cable or Satellite Service
Once you have set up your streaming service and devices, it’s time to cancel your traditional cable or satellite service. Be sure to check your contract to see if there are any early termination fees. In addition, you’ll need to return any equipment they have provided to avoid any additional fees.
5. Enjoy Your Streaming TV
Now that you’ve cut the cord, it’s time to start enjoying your streaming TV. Choose from hundreds of shows and movies, and have the flexibility to watch what you want, when you want.
FAQs
Q. Can I watch live TV with streaming services?
A. Yes, most streaming services offer live TV options, including sports and live events.
Q. Can I still use my DVR with streaming services?
A. Some streaming services offer cloud-based DVR options, while others do not. Check with your provider to see what options are available.
Q. Can I still watch local programming with streaming services?
A. Yes, most streaming services offer access to local channels, while some services offer live TV options for local programming.
Q. Will I still need an antenna to watch TV?
A. An antenna may be necessary to watch local channels, but some streaming services offer access to local channels without needing an antenna.
Q. Can I watch streaming TV when I’m offline?
A. No, streaming TV requires a strong and consistent internet connection.
Best Practices, Tips, and Tricks
– Make sure your internet connection is strong and fast enough to handle streaming.
– Take advantage of free trial periods to test out different streaming services before making a long-term commitment.
– Consider subscribing to a few streaming services to have access to a wide variety of shows and movies.
– Purchase a streaming device or smart TV to simplify your streaming experience.
– Check with your internet provider to ensure you have a plan that can support your streaming needs.
– Keep an eye out for deals and special offers to save money on your streaming subscriptions.
– Don’t forget to cancel your traditional cable or satellite service to avoid any additional fees.
