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19 Alternatives to Cable TV [2023]

For most of our lives, cable TV has been the go-to option for television entertainment, but with the rise of streaming services and online-based competitors, many people are cutting the cord and opting for alternatives to traditional cable TV. Thanks to the internet, there is a wide range of options for viewer to watch their favorite TV shows and movies without paying for cable.

Currently, there are many alternatives to cable TV, from streaming services like Netflix and Hulu to live TV options like Sling and YouTube. One thing is for sure; cable TV is increasingly becoming obsolete.

The alternatives to cable and satellite TV are more reasonably priced and provide a good amount of content and a high-quality viewing experience for a fraction of the price.

Many factors need to be considered before cutting a cable subscription, including such factors as video conferencing, parental controls, DVR capacity, and the number of simultaneous streams before deciding if cable television alternatives are preferable.

Whether you’re looking to save money or simply want more control and customization, our list includes alternatives with live TV and on-demand streaming services.

Hulu

the handmaid's tale on Hulu
Photo Credit: Hulu
  • FREE TRIAL: 30 days, basic; 7 days, Live TV
  • CHANNELS: 75+ Live Channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers, Microsoft Xbox
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 1 to 2, +$10 for unlimited screens (under the same home WiFi) to stream Live TV on unlimited devices at home.
  • PRICE (monthly): Hulu On-Demand: $8 (ads) to $15 (no ads); Hulu On-Demand + Hulu Live-TV and Disney+: $70 (ads) to $83 (no ads)

Hulu is one of the most popular streaming services and a more affordable alternative to satellite and cable television. This service can combine many of the offerings of traditional live cable tv with premium on-demand services and original content.

If you are considering only one subscription, Hulu may be able to fit the bill – combining regional cable providers, local broadcast channels, and streaming. Additionally, there are premium subscription add-ons available:

  • HBO Max: $15/month
  • Cinemax: $10/month
  • Showtime: $11/month
  • Starz: $9/month
  • ESPN+: $10/month
  • Disney+: $2/month

Each of Hulu’s membership options includes access to two streaming devices, up to six profiles, and all Hulu Originals. Additionally, Hulu offers a $10 add-on for unlimited streaming of Live TV within the home (under one WiFi network).

With Hulu, you can save any Hulu content to your device, and no ads interrupt you while watching your favorite show. Hulu offers parental controls by letting you make a unique profile only for your children. You can opportunistically structure PIN protection for added security.

Sling TV

sling tv
Photo Credit: Sling TV
  • FREE TRIAL: 3 days
  • CHANNELS: 30+ channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 1 to 4, depending on the subscription
  • PRICE (monthly): $35 – $45

Sling TV is a terrific alternative for those wishing to want the cost of cable TV because it functions more like traditional cable or satellite television. Sling TV provides three options (two essentially, and the third is a mix of the first two).

For $40, you can purchase the Orange package, which includes 31 live channels, including Disney, ESPN, and HGTV. Its schedule is focused on family and college athletics. With this package, one gadget can stream content.

The Blue package from Sling TV costs $40 and offers 41 channels. It also has additional entertainment and news channels such as Fox and NBC.

The last package, the Orange and Blue package, a mix of the first two packages, costs $55 each month and comes with 47 channels. The number of streaming devices is initially determined by whether the channels are from the Blue or Orange package. In certain metropolitan cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, San Jose, and Philadelphia, there is a +$5 surcharge for subscription packages.

Sling TV also includes 50 hours of DVR storage in each bundle. Also, remember that you may have to combine HD antennae with a Sling TV subscription to enjoy local channels like local sports and news outside your channel lineup. Some other add-ons let you slightly tailor your service, including Showtime. It’s worth looking into Sling TV because it’s likely the closest equivalent to a flat-fee television subscription.

Additionally, Sling provides the Sling Watch Party (Similar to a Netflix Watch Party). With this, you can video chat with three family members or friends while watching live TV. There are extra offers to choose from below:

  • Customers of Sling TV, both new and old, can subscribe to SHOWTIME at $10 / month, which includes eight distinct channels.
  • Besides many MLB Network, NBA TV, ESPNews, NHL Network, and numerous other collegiate stations, Sports Extra provides 14 channels for $11 per month.
  • If you sign up for Sling and prepay for a month, you’ll receive a Chromecast with Google TV.

Netflix

Netflix Stranger Things
Photo Credit: Netflix
  • FREE TRIAL: None
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 1 – 4 (depending on the plan)
  • PRICE (monthly): $7 (ads, 720p resolution) – $10 (no ads, 720p res) – $15.50 (HD res) – $20 (4K res)

No list of cable alternatives could be complete with the streaming subscription juggernaut – Netflix. Netflix recently updated its subscription packages to include a lower cost, with ads offering. Some don’t consider Netflix a standalone cable alternative because they don’t offer any live TV, just streaming of On-Demand content.

With a plethora of successful original shows, Netflix offers a depth of original programming that surpasses its non-original offerings, garnering 44 Emmy awards in 2022 alone. Netflix has increased its investment in original shows by 40% in the last year, and the results are visible throughout the awards circuit.

Many fantastic features complement Netflix’s excellent content. It is extremely accessible and reasonably priced. Almost any internet-connected device can access Netflix, and depending on your subscription, you can watch up to four streams at once. You can also download your favorite series and watch them later.

Netflix supports up to four concurrent streams and Ultra HD on the Premium Plan. At their new basic with ads package, expect streaming at 720p resolution.

Additionally, you can set up many viewer accounts on a signal subscription to isolate the lists and recommendations of each household member from those of the others.

For most people, Netflix is a primary streaming platform; however, it does not provide standalone live TV or sports.

Philo

philo app and service
Photo Credit: Philo
  • FREE TRIAL: 7 days
  • CHANNELS: 60+ Live Channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $25

Since Philo launched its statewide subscription service in 2017, it is still a new player in the media streaming industry. Philo, which incurs $25 per month for over 60 stations, is among the most cost-effective subscription options.

Philo only features a few news shows and sports channels, so you should look at other options if those are essential for you. You can create up to 10 different accounts on Philo and stream on three devices simultaneously.

Philo provides a 7-day trial and unlimited DVR. It also offers affordable add-ons like Sony Movies and Reelz if you enjoy viewing movies. The EPIX package costs $3 per month or $6 per month. The popular channels that can be found on Philo include:

  • MTV
  • Hallmark Channel
  • Comedy Central
  • AMC
  • BBC America
  • Discovery Channel
  • Food Network
  • Nickelodeon
  • HGTV
  • A&E
  • Lifetime

Paramount+

paramont plus
Photo Credit: Canva
  • FREE TRIAL: 7 days
  • CHANNELS: 100+ channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $5 (ads) – $10 (no ads)

CBS All Access was replaced with the TV streaming platform named Paramount+ in March 2021. You can access 100+ channels under the Viacom CBS network, including CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, VH1, BET, Comedy Central, Paramount Network, and the Paramount Pictures film studio, for just $50 annually with the ad-supported Essential plan.

For sports fans, Viacom CBS includes events such as NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League, Men’s March Madness college basketball, and CBS Sports HQ.

Paramount+ offers a premium subscription that eliminates all ads for $10. Since Paramount remains a young live-streaming service platform, its options and costs may change soon. This fantastic option costs under $10 per month compared to basic cable.

The Showtime Bundle plans are also available at a discounted price through Paramount+, either $12/monthly with ads or $15/monthly without ads.

Peacock

peacock yellowstone
Photo Credit: Peacock
  • FREE TRIAL: None
  • CHANNELS: 50+ channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $5 (ads) – $10 (no ads)

NBC’s streaming service Peacock debuted in 2020, and it has three levels: Plus, Premium, and Free. In the free version, you can watch many new and classic movies and shows from giants like Dreamworks and Universal, which offer access to 50 stations.

The $4.99 monthly premium subscription grants access to additional on-demand material. For instance, the Peacock Plus subscription unlocks all ten seasons of a series like The Office, whereas the free version gives you access to the first 5.

You can also access all live sporting events and the latest Bravo and NBC programs the following day. With the $9.99 monthly plus subscription, you can watch content without commercials and download selected movies for offline viewing.

FuboTV

fubo tv service
Photo Credit: Canva
  • FREE TRIAL: 7 days
  • CHANNELS: 149+ Live Channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3 anywhere, 10 screens (under the same home WiFi)
  • PRICE (monthly): $75 (149 channels) – $95 (220 channels)

FuboTV is a fine option if you are looking to replace your cable with most of the popular live tv stations. One of the popular premium add-ons includes Showtime+, Starz+, and MGM+ for $20 per month.

There are essential sports, entertainment, and local channels here for individuals seeking more expensive options, such as SHOWTIME, STARZ, and regional sports packages, with additional add-ons provided. fuboTV package choices are listed below:

  • Pro Quarterly: It offers 125 stations, 1,000 hrs of cloud DVR storage, and unlimited displays for $70 per month.
  • Elite Quarterly: It offers $80 a month for 176 stations, Fubo Extra (39 additional stations), News Plus (12 additional stations), 1,000 hrs on Cloud DVR, and unlimited screens.
  • Ultimate Quarterly package: It includes NFL Redzone on demand, News Plus (12 additional stations), Fubo Extra (39 additional channels), 1000 hrs of Cloud DVR, and Unlimited screens concurrently are included, which costs $100 per month.
  • Latino Quarterly: It offers $33 per month for 43 stations, 250 hrs of cloud DVR storage, and two simultaneous displays. This package has no free trial period and requires $99 to be paid in advance every three months.

With FuboTV, there aren’t any commitments, and you can opt-out at any time. You can try out fuboTV if you’ve been seeking a cable TV alternative without commitments or any hidden costs.

YouTube TV

youtube tv
Photo Credit: YouTube
  • FREE TRIAL: 14 days
  • CHANNELS: 100+ channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $65

You can watch live and localized sports, news, and programs on YouTube TV from more than 85 networks, including major broadcast networks such as CBS, CNBC, TNT, FOX, ESPN, NBC, ABC, and HGTV.

When this service first debuted in 2017, it immediately rose to the top of the cable television alternatives list. It also offers the MLB, NBA, and NFL networks for sports fans. Starting in the 2023-2024 season, NFL Sunday Ticket will become a premium add-on service for YouTube TV.

You can watch three shows at once on YouTube TV, which is accessible anywhere on almost any device. This is ideal if your family uses many TVs or multiple gadgets simultaneously.

The limitless Cloud DVR capacity for nine months is an aspect that used to set YouTube TV apart from its rivals. YouTube used to stand alone in offering unlimited DVR storage; however, this is now a feature offered by rivals such as HULU and DirecTV Stream.

You can put on as many performances and events in its library as you like, and find your preferred TV series and movies can be found in the library under categories including shows, Movies, and Sports.

Like basic cable, YouTube TV features a channel guide as well. The wonderful thing about this program guide is that you can customize your results so that your preferred channels are displayed at the forefront of the lists in the order you choose.

The channel guide’s preview stream of every channel is another exceptional feature worthy of adoration because it lets you see what will play as you browse it. You can even play the live broadcast or rewind the early part of videos on some gadgets.

With YouTube TV, no additional costs apply. Many households will find they can save $500 per year or more by subscribing to Youtube TV and eliminating their cable subscription.

Disney+

disney plus
Photo Credit: Disney
  • FREE TRIAL: None
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers, Microsoft Xbox,
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 4
  • PRICE (monthly): $8

Most National Geographic, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, Disney, and some 20th Century Fox films are available via Disney Plus. This comprises all the timeless Disney Channel original films and television shows.

Sports lovers can save money by combining Disney Plus with ESPN+ and Hulu for $14 a month. Remember that ESPN+ is a standalone app and does not offer access to ESPN2’s live programming.

Any TV or movie on Disney Plus can be downloaded and watched on the go. As long as your subscription is active, you can retain up to 10 devices and receive limitless downloads. You can simultaneously watch on up to four displays.

Approximately 300 Disney Plus releases are available in 4K, UHD, and HDR, and all channels are ad-free. Both are free, although some providers charge for such additional features.

HBO MAX

hbo max characters
Photo Credit: WarnerMedia
  • FREE TRIAL: Sample episodes
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers, Microsoft Xbox
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE: $10 (ads) – $16 (no ads)

HBO Max offers a vast selection of TV shows, movies, and documentaries from various networks and studios, as well as original content. Much of HBO’s exclusive original content can only be seen with an HBO subscription, including popular series such as White Lotus, Game of Thrones, Succession, and Westworld.

HBO used to be under the AT&T umbrella but was spun out in 2022 and now lies under parent company WarnerMedia. The two subscription options are simple – with or without ads, both allowing simultaneous streaming on up to three devices.

HBO Max also allows limited downloads for select movies and TV shows to be watched offline. Additionally, 4K Ultra HD streaming is included in all subscription packages.

Apple TV+

apple tv plus featurning MLB baseball
Photo Credit: Apple
  • FREE TRIAL: 7 days
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers, Microsoft Xbox,
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $7

With popular programs like Schmigadoon and Ted Lasso, Apple TV+ has become quite popular for just $7/month! Since this service is still in its early stages, there are few established series and films to select from. However, the library of unique content is growing and receiving excellent reviews.

This should not be confused with the Apple TV streaming player or app, as Apple TV+ is a standalone streaming service. This cable TV alternative + is free, ad-free, and in 4K resolution. Six displays can be viewed simultaneously, and downloads are valid for 30 days.

If you recently purchased a new Apple device, you most likely received a free year of Apple TV+ subscription. It is also included in subscription packages such as Apple One, which costs $14.99 per month and includes Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, Apple News+, iCloud+, Apple TV+, and Apple Music.

ESPN+

espn plus
Photo Credit: Disney
  • FREE TRIAL: 30 days
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers, Microsoft Xbox, COX, Facebook Portal
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $10

ESPN+ offers an independent service that allows you to watch thousands of live sporting events, commentary programs, and ESPN+ originals for just $10 per month.

However, being under the Disney franchise, there is an incentive to bundle packages together with Disney Plus and Hulu Plus at more competitive discounts. ESPN Plus provides access to a large selection of ESPN sports and original shows, including their signature 30 for 30, for much less than a traditional cable or satellite provider would charge.

You can save money by purchasing a full year’s plan for $100. Additionally, there are possibilities for individuals who want to add UFC pay-per-view at quite a significant discount for both new and current members.

Ultimately ESPN can work as a standalone substitute if you only watch sporting events syndicated by ESPN network, such as NHL, XFL, PGA Golf, MLB, tennis, some college sports conferences, and soccer matches.

Amazon Prime Video

amazon prime video ad
Photo Credit: Amazon
  • FREE TRIAL: 30 days
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $9 – $15

Previously available as a standalone service, Amazon Prime Video is now only available as part of their complete membership package, which separately costs $12.99 per month. Like other major streaming service providers, you can access a vast collection of material and Amazon original shows and movies.

In addition, if something you’re interested in is available via Amazon but not Prime, you can rent it. This involves individual TV series episodes and even entire channel options. The Amazon Fire TV Stick is another excellent product from Amazon. You can log in to numerous apps from within the Amazon Fire TV Stick and use it as your primary streaming device.

Vidgo

couple watching tv
Photo Credit: Canva
  • FREE TRIAL: 7 days
  • CHANNELS: 110+ Live Channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): $65 (110 channels) – $100 (190+ channels)

A Vidgo subscription can give users access to over 100 well-known cable and broadcast channels. For $20 per month, you can upgrade to a package with 150+ channels & cloud DVR storage. You can also stream videos from your tv, phone, or tablet on-demand or live.

If you’re tired of paying a large monthly cable bill, cutting the cord and signing up for Vidgo is a more cost-effective option in 2023. This video streaming service is one of the most recent options for consumers wishing to ditch cable permanently.

Customers can now pay $99.95 monthly for a subscription dubbed Vidgo Ultimate that includes both Vidgo’s Spanish and English channel offers as of this new year.

Discovery+

discovery featured networks
Photo Credit: Discovery
  • FREE TRIAL: 7 days
  • CHANNELS: 26+ Live Channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers, Microsoft Xbox
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 4
  • PRICE (monthly): $5 (ads) – $7 (no ads)

Consider a Discovery+ subscription if you enjoy reality TV, wildlife documentaries, gourmet shows, & true-crime shows. A sizable collection of programs from all the main Discovery networks is available on the on-demand streaming platform. You can subscribe for $5 per month with advertisements or $7 per month with no ads.

All the top Animal Planet, Food Network, Discovery, HGTV, and TLC programming can be easily accessed through Discovery+. Additionally, the service offers many fresh, original programming that is exclusive to it. Over 2,500 series and 55,000 episodes are available to subscribers.

There are two subscriptions available on Discovery+, including an infomercial one for $5 per month and an ad-free alternative for $7 per month. The program also provides a discount code, which reduces the monthly ad-supported cost to $3. The accompanying channels’ programming can be found in the Discovery+ catalog:

  • Discovery Investigation
  • Lifetime
  • A&E
  • History Channel
  • Food Network
  • Animal Planet
  • OWN
  • HGTV
  • TLC
  • Discovery Channel
  • CNN originals

YouTube Premium

You Tube Premium Lite
Photo Credit: YouTube
  • FREE TRIAL: 30 days
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 2
  • PRICE (monthly): $12

YouTube is the go-to site for free video entertainment since it is the hub of everything, ranging from comedy sketches to how-to tutorials to original content from various creators. Additionally, there is professional-caliber programming in almost every genre, so it’s more than personal videos posted by people you have yet to meet.

YouTube Premium is completely separate from YouTube TV, but YouTube Premium allows you to access everything on YouTube ad-free. This includes ad-free YouTube TV if you separately subscribe to that service; if you don’t have YouTube TV separately, you still won’t have access to those channels.

In terms of content, a YouTube Premium subscription alone will give you access to YouTube Originals. YouTube premium comprises original television shows, motion pictures, and YouTube Music Premium, a more recent music streaming platform. Additionally, this cable TV alternative offers background play, which lets you listen to sounds while using other programs.

You can download numerous videos with a premium subscription to watch them offline on your smartphone. YouTube Premium costs about $12 and competes with other online video providers.

Vudu

vudu tv
Photo Credit: Vudu
  • FREE TRIAL: None
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE (monthly): Pay Per View

Fandango currently owns Vudu, a digital video-on-demand platform. For more than ten years, it has offered a convenient way to rent digital movies and television shows from the comfort of one’s own home.

Vudu may be a cost-effective option for households that rarely watch tv and only want to pay once or twice per month for a movie or show. Vudu does also offer some free content with ads, which rotates its catalog frequently.

In 2016, the Vudu app received a crackle-like free streaming service with ads. Whether you pay for or view free content, Vudu stands out from competitors with its current streaming catalog.

Each week, new shows and new archive titles from throughout the history of cinema are added for purchase and renting. Additionally, Vudu provides access to flicks before they are available on other distribution channels.

Blockbuster movies aren’t the only movies available; several smaller independent films are also available. Those who love independent film and live a long way from a theater will love Vudu’s “Still in Theaters.”

DirecTV Stream

directv stream
Photo Credit: DirecTV
  • FREE TRIAL: None
  • CHANNELS: 75+ channels & On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android, Mac + Windows Computers
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 3
  • PRICE: $75 – $95

With DirecTV Stream, formerly known as AT&T TV Now, and originally called DirecTV Now, you get over 65 channels, Live TV, 40,000+ on-demand selections, and 20 hours of DVR storage. You can purchase unlimited DVR storage for $10 more each month, but only stores for 90 days.

The service is a substitute for satellite television and costs around $70 to $95, depending on your bundle.

The overall number of channels you have access to ranges from 75 to 130, along with some premium channels such as HBO, putting this one of the biggest bundles that most nearly resembles real cable.

DirecTV Stream doesn’t really stand out in any major way against competitors, but it’s an acceptable option for local and regional channels.

Local Library

man streaming content at library
Photo Credit: Pexels
  • FREE TRIAL: Free
  • CHANNELS: Only On-Demand
  • SUPPORTED DEVICES: Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku
  • SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: 1
  • PRICE: $0

Several local libraries have DVDs of movies, TV shows, and Blu-ray players. However, beware of apps that allow free movie and television show streaming when linked to a local library account.

Borrowing and streaming are free if you qualify for a library card. Hoopla is software that can be installed on a streaming device such as a Fire TV, iPhone, Roku, Apple TV, iPad, or Android. After you create an account and link your library card, you can stream any available TV episodes and movies for free.

Overdrive is another program that provides video content through your local library. The only limitations are that there are few options. Unlike a cable subscription, these apps do not provide live TV stations. This is especially true for TV shows and movies. However, it is preferable when this occurs when there is no cost.

FAQs Regarding Alternatives to Cable TV for 2023

Do you need the web to take advantage of the top cable tv alternatives?

Yes, you need the web to take advantage of the top cable TV alternatives, as they require an internet connection. Only two options exist for eliminating cable and viewing TV shows and movies: using an HDTV antenna or visiting your local library.

There are many free and low-cost internet options available, and switching to a TV streaming platform will save you significant money. Just be cautious, as satellite and cable providers can tout their packages to entice you to sign up for multiple services when you only want to stream TV.

What is the cheapest way to watch television?

The cheapest way to watch TV is through your local library, which is entirely free for taxpayers. A digitized antenna is free after the cost of installation; the streaming platforms on this page after that vary in price.

Which cable TV alternative is the best?

The best streaming platform is the one that most closely matches your viewing preferences. It’s entirely up to you! However, we have attempted to present our top picks for the best overall sports, quality, and original content below.

Hulu is the best all-around streaming service, so we chose it. Despite initially appearing to be more expensive, it provides a remarkably comparable experience to cable television.

FuboTV and YouTube TV are formidable competitors. We appreciate YouTube TV’s unlimited Cloud DVR, which is used to keep many films and series in order. Furthermore, Fubo TV lacks parental control capabilities, whereas YouTube has limited parental control options (Restricted Mode on browsers).

Which live tv streaming services are the best?

YouTube TV is your best option if you wish to watch live television without subscribing to a cable TV package. You can watch live and localized news, sports, and programs on YouTube TV from over 85 networks, including FOX, NBC, TNT, CNBC, ESPN, HGTV, ABC, and CBS.

Does cable TV have a future?

Cable TV does not exactly have a future, as the cable industry is in decline. The percentage of American households with cable TV subscriptions decreased from about 47% in 2019 to 42% in 2022, based on a study by Statista. Considering everything, this tendency will probably continue for some time.

How can I receive TV signals devoid of a cable or antenna?

Beyond a live TV streaming platform like Live TV, Sling TV, Hulu +, or YouTube TV, you can get cable content. No cable contract is necessary. You could use an Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, or a smart TV to watch content on a TV rather than a computer or smartphone.

Which app offers free TV?

You can access the top free streaming movie and TV service! Watch hundreds of live TV stations and thousands of free streaming movies and TV series. Pluto TV provides more than 50 Spanish-language channels, including sports, telenovelas, crime, reality TV, and more. 100% of Pluto TV is free.

What distinguishes streaming media from cable?

Regarding choices, streaming TV truly shines: There is only one brand of live TV available through cable or satellite services, with other add-ons available. However, when it comes to streaming, there’s a wide variety for you to pick from.

Is streaming or cable more affordable?

Streaming is still less expensive. Live TV online is the next-best option if you wish to enjoy cable TV without the costs and commitments. These services may provide a tv guide, a DVR, and most cable-related channels you’re accustomed to.

Conclusion

Cable TV is no longer the only game in town when it comes to television. As the world changes, so do the ways people consume entertainment. In the past, many people were tied to cable TV packages that gave a set number of channels for a specific price.

There are now a variety of alternatives that offer better value, better quality, and more flexibility. With so many options available, there’s no need to pay for expensive cable TV in 2023. However, it’s critical to remember that every alternative to cable TV has drawbacks. Either the price is prohibitively high (as with fuboTV or YouTube TV), the number of channels is limited, or there are no live TV alternatives (like Netflix). Since every household has different viewing preferences, the best cable TV substitute is a package you create. You can subscribe to several cable alternatives and still pay less each month because they are all reasonably priced.

Josh Dudick

Josh is a financial expert with over 15 years of experience on Wall Street as a senior market strategist and trader. His career has spanned from working on the New York Stock Exchange floor to investment management and portfolio trading at Citibank, Chicago Trading Company, and Flow Traders.

Josh graduated from Cornell University with a degree from the Dyson School of Applied Economics & Management at the SC Johnson College of Business. He has held multiple professional licenses during his career, including FINRA Series 3, 7, 24, 55, Nasdaq OMX, Xetra & Eurex (German), and SIX (Swiss) trading licenses. Josh served as a senior trader and strategist, business partner, and head of futures in his former roles on Wall Street.

Josh's work and authoritative advice have appeared in major publications like Nasdaq, Forbes, The Sun, Yahoo! Finance, CBS News, Fortune, The Street, MSN Money, and Go Banking Rates. Josh currently holds areas of expertise in investing, wealth management, capital markets, taxes, real estate, cryptocurrencies, and personal finance.

Josh currently runs a wealth management business and investment firm. Additionally, he is the founder and CEO of Top Dollar, where he teaches others how to build 6-figure passive income with smart money strategies that he uses professionally.