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Top 18 Cable Tv Substitutes To Consider In 2023

Traditional cable is not on the list of services that help you save money. There are several alternatives that offer better value. Many people feel like they are paying for channels they don’t use when they pay for a monthly cable bill, even if they enjoy watching television, as the cost often seems extreme compared to the value and many feel like they are paying for channels they don’t even use. There are several ways to access content at a lower cost and without paying for channels you don’t want. What cable TV alternatives are cheaper? There is an economical way to access a variety of content without the hefty price tag of a cable subscription.

A general disdain for overpriced basic cable television services has spurred a new market of options and features that function as alternatives to cable TV and satellite TV. More flexibility, convenience, and cost savings are provided by these alternatives to cable TV and satellite TV. The cable tv cancellation rate was 15% in 2020 and 27% in 2021, according to a recent Forbes study. The cable tv cancellation rate is expected to rise in the future. The majority of viewing time is devoted to streaming services as opposed to traditional TV. Many people prefer streaming services to watch television.

There are so many options that it can be hard to choose. It’s important to research and get feedback from people who have used the product before you make a decision. It is not just about the channels anymore. Other features that have a big influence are options such as parental controls, how many devices can stream at the same time, and whether there is video conferencing. When choosing a streaming service, it is important to consider all these features.

To be considered a great alternative to cable and satellite TV, the service needs to be affordable and offer a reasonable amount of programming. The service should have an app or streaming device that allows users to watch their favorite shows on any device with internet access. There are quite a few options that meet those criteria. It can be difficult to choose the right laptop for your needs, with so many options. I have included live TV streaming services as well as those that offer on-demand content. If you prefer to watch TV as it airs or have more control over when you watch, this will allow you to choose the best service for you.

Best Alternatives to Cable TV

Here are 18 cable tv alternatives you can sign up for today:

  1. Philo: Best Overall
  2. Hulu
  3. fuboTV
  4. Paramount+
  5. Peacock
  6. Netflix
  7. YouTube TV
  8. Sling TV
  9. Disney Plus
  10. Apple TV+
  11. ESPN+
  12. Amazon Prime Video
  13. Local Networks with an Antenna
  14. Television Channels Online
  15. YouTube Premium
  16. Premium Channel Online Subscriptions
  17. DirecTV
  18. The Local Library

1. Philo

SERVICE: Philo
PRICE: $25
CHANNELS: 64
TRIAL: 7-day

It was a relative newcomer to the video streaming scene when it launched its nationwide service. Since its launch, Philo has grown in popularity among viewers who like its combination of entertainment and lifestyle content. One of the cheapest cable TV alternatives is offered by Philo, with a monthly subscription rate of $25 for 64 channels. You can try out the service for 7 days before committing to a full month. If you want to get news channels or sports channels, you will want to look at other options. If you’re looking for a streaming service that has a wide variety of news and sports channels, you might want to look at other options.

Up to ten different accounts can be created with Philo, which allows you to stream three devices at the same time. You can access over 60,000 titles on demand. There is a free 7-day trial to test the waters. You can cancel the service at any time with no penalty. You can get affordable add-ons such as Reelz and Sony Movies for $3/mo, the EPIX package for $6/mo, or the Starz package for $9/mo. You can get access to hundreds of movies and TV shows with these add-ons.

The standard channels Philo offers include:

  • A&E
  • AMC
  • BBC America
  • Comedy Central
  • Discovery Channel
  • Food Network
  • Hallmark Channel
  • HGTV
  • Lifetime
  • MTV
  • Nickelodeon
  • And many more! There are so many things to do in this wonderful city.

2. Hulu

SERVICE: Hulu
PRICE: $6 – $65
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content Basic Service; 75+ Live
TRIAL: 30-day for basic; 7-day for Live TV

One of the best ways to watch TV is on a streaming service.

Not only is there original Hulu content (The Handmaid’s You can watch shows from local channels and some cable networks after they air on this platform. The latest TV shows and movies from major streaming services can be found on this platform. They have live TV options. There’s something for everyone with an extensive selection of channels, including many sports and premium movie channels.

All of the packages allow for two streaming devices, up to six user profiles, and access to all the shows. All Hulu packages come with no hidden fees or contracts. You can download any Hulu content onto your own device. You don’t have to be connected to the internet to watch your favorite shows and movies offline.

Setting up a separate profile for your children is a way to offer parental controls. You can easily monitor and control what your children watch. You can also set up a Extra security can be achieved with PIN protection. Adding PIN protection for added security will further secure your account.

You can choose what features or channels you want to pay for with the best part being that they have options for every budget. You can tailor your subscription to fit your exact needs. You can save on other streaming apps with the bundle options available with Hulu. The bundle options are designed to give you the best entertainment experience at a fraction of the cost.

Basic No Ads Disney Bundle Hulu + Live TV
ad-supported
on-demand content
ad-free
on-demand content
ad-supported
on-demand content
+ Disney Plus
+ ESPN+ (live sports)
65+ live channels
ad-supported
on-demand content
$7 $13 $14 $70

Students can get a deal on Hulu at $1.99/mo. Access to the entire streaming library is included in the deal.

3. fuboTV

SERVICE: fuboTV
PRICE: $70 – $100
CHANNELS: 125 – 210
FREE TRIAL: 7-day

fuboTV is a cord-cutting option that provides access to 164 channels in their “Elite” plan starting at $79.99 per month. Major sports, entertainment, and local channels are included. You can access all of these channels from anywhere in the world. There are additional add-ons available for the more premium options. The add-ons can be purchased individually or bundled together for savings.

Here are the different package options for fuboTV:

  • Pro Quarterly: $70/mo for 125 channels, 1,000 hours of Cloud DVR, Unlimited screens
  • Elite Quarterly: $80/mo for 176 channels, fubo Extra (39 more channels), News Plus (12 extra channels), 1,000 hours of Cloud DVR, Unlimited screens
  • Ultimate Quarterly: $100/mo for 210 channels, fubo Extra (39 more channels), News Plus (12 extra channels), SHOWTIME® live + on demand, NFL Redzone, 1000 hours of Cloud DVR, Unlimited screens at once
  • Latino Quarterly costs $33/mo for 43 channels, 250 hours of Cloud DVR, and 2 screens at once. Latino Quarterly is the perfect way to stay connected to Latin culture, with a selection of channels that provide entertainment for the whole family. There is no free trial with this package. It’s a good value for the features in the package.

fuboTV does not offer any parental controls, which is an obvious omission. If that ever changes, we will keep this updated. Stay up to date on the situation by checking back regularly. You can cancel your fuboTV contract at any time. A 7-day free trial is offered by fuboTV.

fuboTV is a streaming service with no contracts or hidden fees. fuboTV offers access to thousands of movies, shows, and live sports.

4. Paramount+

SERVICE: Paramount+
PRICE: $10/mo or $100/yr for No Ads
CHANNELS: Huge library of on-demand shows + live stream of local CBS stations
FREE TRIAL: 7-day

Paramount+ is a CBS All Access was replaced by a TV streaming service. Paramount+ has a wide range of content from classic TV shows and blockbuster movies to live sports and original programming. CBS, MTV, BET, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and the Paramount Pictures movie studio can be streamed for only $50 per year on the ad-supported Essential Plan. Anyone looking to access a wide selection of content at an affordable price will find this value exceptional.

All advertisements are removed from Paramount+’s membership, which is $10 for a premium membership. Access to exclusive content and discounts on select merchandise are included in this premium membership. Since Paramount is a relatively new live streaming service, there may be changes in their offerings and pricing in the near future. This is a great option for less than $10 per month. It’s cheap to access hundreds of channels.

The Showtime bundle packages have discounted pricing from Paramount+. This is a great time to take advantage of the savings offered by Paramount+. Essential Plan + Showtime for $12/mo or $120/yr or Premium Plan + You have to pay for 15 or $150 per year. For an affordable price, you can get access to all of your favorite shows and movies with Showtime.

5. Peacock

SERVICE: Peacock
PRICE: $0-$10
CHANNELS: 50 channels + On-demand content
TRIAL: None

NBC launched a streaming platform in 2020. There is a wide selection of movies and TV shows. It has three tiers: Free, Premium, and Plus.

A lot of current and old shows and movies from studios like Universal and Dreamworks can be found in the free version. You can get started with streaming with the free version. New episodes of NBC shows can be watched a week after they air.

The premium plan unlocks more on-demand content. The free version lets you watch the first 5 seasons of The Office, while Peacock Plus unlocks the whole series and bonus content. You can watch movies and other popular shows with Peacock Plus. It gives you access to all of the platform’s live sports events, as well as next-day viewing of the current NBC and Bravo series. There is an extensive library of classic TV shows and hit movies on the platform.

You can watch content without ads and download some titles for offline viewing with the Plus plan. Access to the library of original content is included.

6. Netflix

SERVICE: Netflix
PRICE: $10 – $20
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: None

Netflix has a breadth of original content that even outshines its non-original offerings, winning 44 Emmys this year with hit shows like The Crown and The Queen’s Gambit. Recent hit series like em>Squid Game/em> and em>You/em> have been talked about. The success of these two shows has led to a resurgence in popular culture. Over the last year, the company has increased its spending on original content by 40%. Some of the most critically acclaimed content in recent memory has been created with this increased spending, with many of its shows and films earning multiple Academy Award nominations.

There is a lot of great features with the great content. It has a wide selection of movies and TV shows. It is both affordable and accessible. It’s a great solution for anyone looking to get started with technology. Depending on the plan you choose, you can watch up to four simultaneous streams on any internet-connected device. It is possible to download movies and shows to watch offline. You can download your favorite shows and watch them offline. It’s useful for people who travel frequently and need to watch shows while on the go.

There are three pricing plans to choose from, starting at $9.99 a month for the Basic Plan, $15.49 for the Standard Plan, and $19.99 for the Premium Plan. The Standard Plan has two simultaneous streams. Access to thousands of hours of on-demand content is included. Ultra HD and up to four simultaneous streams are included in the Premium Plan. The Premium Plan has access to exclusive content not found in the other plans. It’s a bonus that every option is commercial-free. It’s even more attractive because no subscription fees are required. You can create multiple viewer profiles on a signal account, which will allow you to separate each household member’s list and recommendations from everyone else. Everyone in the household can find something to watch and enjoy, even if they don’t like it.

For most people, this is an additional streaming service on top of a more traditional alternative such as YouTube TV or Sling TV. If you enjoy your favorite shows and movies without having to worry about live TV or sports, then you’re in the right place.

7. YouTube TV

SERVICE: YouTube TV
PRICE: $65
CHANNELS: 85+ broadcast and cable network channels
FREE TRIAL: 2 weeks

You can watch live and local sports, news, and shows from 85+ channels on YouTube TV. You can watch your favorite shows and movies on-demand on YouTube TV. The service was one of the best alternatives to cable TV. It is an ideal entertainment option for all types of viewers, as it offers a variety of content, ranging from live TV channels to on-demand movies and TV shows. The NFL, NBA, and MLB networks are available on YouTube TV. NCAA sports and international sports leagues can be seen on YouTube TV.

You can have three concurrent watching sessions with YouTube TV, it’s available anywhere you go, on any device. There is a wide variety of content to choose from. If you have multiple TVs in the family or multiple devices in use at the same time, this is perfect. It’s easy to share streaming services. It’s perfect for family sharing. It’s perfect for any occasion because it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

One feature that stands out for YouTube TV is the unlimited Cloud storage for 9 months. This feature is useful for people who enjoy binge-watching shows and movies. You can fill that library with as many shows as you want. You can invite your friends to join you at the library. There are categories in the Library that make it easy to find your favorite shows and movies. The Library has educational content for all ages.

The channel guide is similar to basic cable. The channel guide makes it easy for viewers to find their favorite shows. The channel guide has the ability to custom-sort the listings so that your favorite channels are grouped at the top of the listings. If you have specific channels that you watch frequently, this is helpful.

The preview streaming of each channel in the channel guide is a cool feature that I love. You can pick up where you left off in a show even if you switch channels. You can start from the beginning of the program on some devices. You can watch the program whenever you want.

There are no hidden costs with YouTube TV. There is an easy, transparent billing process for YouTube TV. You can easily cut the cord and save money on cable. Replacing your expensive cable package with streaming services will allow you to watch your favorite shows without the high cost.

8. Sling TV

SERVICE: Sling TV
PRICE: $35
CHANNELS: 30+ or 50+
TRIAL: 3 days

It’s a great option for people who want to cut the cord on cable or satellite television. It offers a wide range of channels for an affordable price, so it can be a great solution for those who want to save money on their monthly entertainment costs. They offer three options, two of which are combinations of the first two.

  • The Orange package has 31 live channels, including popular ones like Disney. Thousands of on-demand movies and shows are included. College sports and families are the focus of its lineup. A variety of shows, movies, and specials appeal to a wide range of viewers. The package only allows one device to stream. If you need to stream on multiple devices at once, you’ll need to purchase an additional package.
  • The Blue package from Sling TV has 41 channels and is $35, but it doesn’t include the sports channel. The Blue package is a great option for those who want to keep up with the latest news without breaking the bank. You can use three devices for streaming. You can enjoy your favorite shows and movies on multiple devices at the same time.
  • The above packages are combined into the Orange and Blue package. It costs $50 per month and includes 47 channels. Premium movie channels are included in the subscription at no extra cost. If the channels are from the Orange or Blue package, the number of allowed streaming devices will depend on that. You can stream on multiple devices at the same time if you have both packages.

50 hours of DVR storage is included in each package. To watch local news and sports, you will need to pair an HD antenna with your Sling TV subscription. You won’t have to pay for an additional streaming service if you do this.

The ability to personalize your service is one of the add-ons. The closest thing to an la carte television service is Sling TV. If you’re looking for a unique and personalized viewing experience, Sling TV is the right choice.

The Sling Watch Party is for people who are familiar with that platform. No matter where you are in the world, you can watch shows and movies with your friends and family. You can watch live TV while video chatting with up to three friends or family members. You can keep up with your favorite shows and stay connected to people you care about at the same time.

Additional Offers to Choose From:

  • SHOWTIME is available for $10 per month to new and existing Sling TV customers.
  • NBA TV, NHL Network, MLB Network, ESPNews, and many other collegiate channels are available for $11/mo on Sports Extra. Sports Extra is a great way to stay up to date on all of your favorite teams.
  • Get a When you sign up for Sling and pay for 1 month, you’ll be able to use Chromecast with Google TV.

9. Disney Plus

SERVICE: Disney Plus
PRICE: $7.99/mo or $79.99/yr
CHANNELS: On-demand content
TRIAL: None

Disney Plus gives you access to a lot of Disney and 20th Century Fox titles. The original series The Mandalorian and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series can be streamed. The classics from the Disney vault and Disney Channel are included. Disney’s streaming library has recently released movies and episodes.

Sports fans can save money if they bundle Disney Plus with the other channels. You can access all of your favorite shows, movies, and news in one place. There is no access to live content in the app that is called ESPN+. There are a lot of exclusive events and shows that can’t be found anywhere else.

Disney Plus lets you download any show or movie to watch on the go. You can watch your favorite shows and movies in stunning detail with Disney Plus’ high-quality streaming feature. You can keep up to 10 devices and get unlimited downloads on them. You can watch on 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 It’s perfect for people who want to watch multiple shows at the same time.

More than 300 of Disney Plus’s titles are available in 4k and high definition. Disney Plus is an excellent choice for viewers who want to enjoy their favorite shows and movies in high quality without any interruption. Both platforms are free of charge. Users can take advantage of these features without paying a fee.

10. Apple TV+

SERVICE: Apple TV+
PRICE: $5 per month
CHANNELS: On-demand content
FREE TRIAL: 7 days

Hit shows like Ted Lasso and Schmigadoon can be found on Apple TV+. Its library of original content is growing quickly, making it an attractive option for streaming media. There isn’t a deep legacy of shows and movies to choose from, but the library of original content is being built up and is getting rave reviews. In the future, the selection of original content will expand and provide a more enjoyable experience for viewers.

The Apple TV streaming device and the Apple TV app are not the same as Apple TV+. Apple TV+ has a free 7-day trial and is available in 4K. Downloads last for 30 days and you can watch 6 screens at the same time. You can watch a lot of content in a short period of time.

If you bought an Apple device within the last 3 months, you will receive a free year of access to Apple TV+. There is a chance to take advantage of a free year of access to Apple TV+. It is also offered as part of bundle plans such as Apple One which includes Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, iCloud+, Apple News+ and Apple Fitness+ are available for $14.99/mo. Users can stay informed and in shape with Apple News+ and Apple Fitness+. Apple music subscribers on a student plan get free access to Apple TV+. Students can now watch a variety of movies and TV shows on Apple TV at no extra cost.

11. ESPN+

SERVICE: ESPN+
PRICE: $7 (bundled options may add to price)

Do you only have cable TV for sports? You may be missing out on some of the best programming. For only $6.99 per month, you can stream thousands of live sports, commentary shows, and ESPN+ originals. It’s a great value for sports fans who want to watch their favorite teams play.

Need more? I can give more information if needed. You can bundle with Disney Plus for only $13 a month. There is a wide selection of movies, shows, and live sports in one place. For many, this is the dream of the cord-cutter, offering access to a wide range of shows for a fraction of what a typical cable company or satellite service provider charges. The popularity of streaming services has gone up in recent years.

Save with a yearly plan and you will get a savings of over 15%. Signing up for our two-year plan will save you even more money.

UFC pay-per-view can be tacked on at a deep discount for new and existing subscribers. Some providers offer packages that include access to UFC pay-per-view events and discounted subscription fees.

12. Amazon Prime Video

SERVICE: Amazon Prime Video
PRICE: $9
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: 30-day

You already have access to Amazon Prime Video if you have an Amazon Prime membership. You can find a lot of movies and TV shows on Prime Video. Amazon Video used to be a stand-alone service, but now it is bundled with their full membership offering. Other benefits include free shipping, exclusive deals, and more.

Similar to other streaming service giants, you have access to a huge library of content. The subscription cost is very reasonable. If something isn’t on Prime but is available through Amazon, you may be able to rent it, including single tv show episodes or even full channel options. There’s a lot of movies, tv shows and other content that can be streamed instantly, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great device. The Amazon Fire TV Stick allows users to easily access a variety of streaming services, providing an easy way to watch movies and TV shows. You can log into multiple apps from the device menu if you use the Amazon Fire TV Stick as your main streaming console. You can stream from the Amazon Fire TV Stick in minutes.

13. Local Networks with an Antenna

SERVICE: Antenna
PRICE: $0 (after hardware purchase)
CHANNELS: Varies
FREE TRIAL: None

If you want to scale back completely, consider an antenna. Without paying for a cable subscription, an antenna is a great way to access TV channels.

HDTV antennas are fairly affordable (this one on Amazon has great reviews, a 130-mile range, and is less than $30) and much less intrusive than the rabbit ears of yore. Thanks to digital television signals, the picture quality can be outstanding.

With an antenna, you can potentially pick up any local broadcast stations, such as:

  • ABC
  • CBS
  • NBC
  • FOX
  • CW

More for nothing. It’s an amazing deal that you can’t pass up, you get quality items at a fraction of the cost.

If you have a favorite show you don’t want to miss and live outside of a major city, you may want to check to make sure you have a reasonable signal before making the switch. To make sure your favorite shows are included on the new service, it’s a good idea to research the channels available. If you want to know which HD antenna is best for your home, you may need to try at least a couple of them. It is possible to find the best reception with different antennas and settings.

You don’t need internet service if you use an antenna as a cable TV alternative. When compared to cable TV, antennas are an incredibly cost-effective option. You can keep up with network news and shows for free if you cut the cord completely. You can find out which streaming services offer the shows and networks you want to watch with a little research.

14. Television Channels Online

SERVICE: CBS All Access
PRICE: $6
CHANNELS: 1
FREE TRIAL: 7-day

Most major television networks post recently aired tv show episodes on their websites. It is possible for viewers to catch up on a show they missed or watch their favorite episode again.

Each episode may only be available for a short time, and you may have to wait for a week or so after it originally airs on television, but it does give you the ability to watch without an additional cost. If you miss any of the details, you can watch the episode multiple times.

Don’t be afraid to look at cable channels when exploring your options. Do your homework to find the best deal for the channels you want. ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox are obvious places to start, but many cable channels also have online content. Don’t forget to check out the other streaming services.

Comedy Central has some of its content up for free online. Many independent shows and movies can be found on streaming services. Some shows aren’t available without a subscription, and you might not have access to recent shows. It’s important to consider how you want to access your favourite shows and movies.

You can download the network’s app onto your television if you have a smart TV. You can use the app to access the network’s content and watch it on your TV. It’s a great alternative to cable and satellite TV because you can watch the show on your biggest screen without a subscription. You don’t have to worry about missing the show because you can watch it whenever you want.

The apps are usually free. Some apps may require a purchase or subscription in order to access their features. Some networks offer paid subscription options to access certain shows. If you’re not looking for specific shows, it’s worth checking out these services because they provide exclusive content that can’t be found anywhere else.

Depending on how many shows you watch, the cost is potentially reasonable. Quality entertainment can be considered an investment if you subscribe to streaming services. CBS All Access is available for as little as $5.99 per month, which is not bad compared to the cost of cable.

15. YouTube Premium

SERVICE: YouTube Premium
PRICE: $12
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content Premium
FREE TRIAL: 30-day for Premium

The home of everything from viral videos to how-to guides to unique content from a plethora of creators, YouTube is the quintessential destination for free video-based entertainment. From new music videos to classic films, YouTube is the ultimate source for on-demand video content.

It isn’t just home videos shared by someone you’ve never met; there’s professional-quality programming in nearly every genre.

There is a paid subscription option for YouTube. exclusive access to ad-free videos, original content, and additional features such as background play are offered by YouTube Premium. It has original series and movies, as well as a newer streaming service. There is a wide selection of music for subscribers to choose from. Background Play allows you to listen to the audio of YouTube while you use other apps. If you want to listen to music while multitasking, this feature is helpful. It’s possible to picture-in-picture with Android. You can watch a video on the top portion of your screen while simultaneously using other apps in the bottom portion.

You can watch videos on your phone while offline with the premium service. With the premium service, you have access to an extensive library of videos from YouTube, so you can watch whatever you want whenever you want.

Similar to other video streaming companies, the price for YouTube Premium is around $12. For most users, YouTube Premium is an excellent value.

16. Premium Channel Online Subscriptions

SERVICE: Premium Channel Online Subscriptions
PRICE: $9 – $15
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: Varies

It wasn’t long ago that you had to subscribe to a cable package to watch the shows. These networks have their own streaming services which are more affordable.

Premium channels can be found with their own online streaming services for between $9 and $15 a month.

It may be the only cable alternative for certain original series and movies that are close to their original air date. If you’re a fan of Friends and other original series and movies that aren’t available on other streaming services, then HBO Max is your best option.

17. DirecTV Stream

SERVICE: DirecTV Stream
PRICE: $75 – $95
CHANNELS: 45 – 125
FREE TRIAL: None

DirecTV Stream gives you 65+ channels, Live TV, over 40,000 on-demand titles, and 20 hours of DVR storage. It comes with a 7-day free trial, so you can try it out before committing.

Satellite television is priced about the same as the service, but it is a no-contract alternative. Satellite TV has a few extra features that it doesn’t have, but it offers the same quality of programming. You get unlimited DVR storage with an extra $10 per month. You won’t have to worry about missing your favorite shows again with unlimited DVR storage. There is a promotion for the first three months. Don’t miss out on the chance to try HBO Max for free.

It’s one of the largest offerings that mimics genuine cable with access to between 65 and 130 channels. It’s an ideal option for those who like to watch what they want when they want, because you’ll also get access to a range of on-demand titles. There are parental controls available. The parental controls can be used to limit access to certain content and ensure that only age-appropriate material is being viewed on the DirecTV Stream.

18. Your Local Library

The price is $0 and the free trial is yes! It’s absolutely free to sign up for our free trial and access all the on-demand content at your local library. Libraries are FREE!

Many libraries have movies and television shows on DVD. A variety of video games can be borrowed from most libraries. When connected to your local library account, there are apps that offer free streaming of TV shows and movies. You don’t have to pay for a subscription to enjoy all your favorite movies and TV shows on these apps.

If you have a library card, borrowing and streaming is free. Thousands of books, movies, music, and more can be accessed with a library card.

Hoopla is an app that can be downloaded on a streaming device such as an iPhone, iPad, Android, Fire TV, Roku, or Apple TV. TV shows and movies are free once you connect your library card. If you have an internet connection, you can access content from anywhere.

Overdrive is another app for streaming videos available from your local library.

Your selection may be limited. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in-store, you should consider researching online. Live TV channels are not offered by these apps. They have a variety of on-demand and streaming services. They can be used for series TV and movies. There is a wide variety of content that can be accessed from virtually any device, which is why streaming services are the go-to source for entertainment.

It is not as painful when the cost is $0. It’s important to understand the terms and conditions of any purchase before committing to it.

Quick Summary: Best Cable TV Alternatives

Service: Cost / month Channels Free Trial
Philo $25 60+ 7 days
Hulu $7 – $70 60+ Live 30-day (basic), 7 days (live)
Paramount Plus $10 100+ 7 days
fuboTV $65 – $100 125 – 210+ 7 days
Peacock $0 – $10 50+ None
Netflix $10 – $20 On-demand content 30 days
YouTube TV $65 85+ 2 weeks
Sling TV $35 32 or 50 3 days
Disney Plus $7.99 On-demand content None
Apple TV+ $5 On-demand content 7 days
ESPN+ $7 100+ None
Amazon Prime Video $12.99 On-demand content 30 days
Local Networks with an Antenna None Varies locally None
Television Channels Online Varies Varies weekly None
YouTube Premium $12 On-demand content 30 days
Premium Channel Online Subscriptions $9 – $15 On-demand content Varies
DirecTV Stream $65 – $135 45 – 125+ 7 days
The Local Library Free On-demand content Free

Cord Cutting FAQs

Before getting rid of your cable TV subscription, you might be wondering about some of these common questions…

Do you need the internet to abuse the best alternatives to cable?

You need the internet to use TV alternatives other than cable and satellite. Without the internet, these TV alternatives would be hard to find. If you head to your library or use an HDTV antenna, you can watch movies and television shows while cutting the cord.

However, there are free and cheap internet options available, and you can save a ton by ditching your television service subscription to a TV streaming service. You should be aware that cable and satellite companies will try and convince you to commit to multiple services when all you want is streaming TV. If you’re only interested in streaming TV, you don’t have to commit to a bundle of services.

If you have to sign a contract, remember that the promo or introductory prices will go up when the initial period ends, so think long and hard about the consequences. If you don’t read the terms of the contract carefully, you won’t understand what you’re agreeing to and when the prices will increase.

What is the least expensive way to watch TV?

If you’re a taxpayer, your local library is the least expensive way to watch TV. A variety of books, magazines, and other materials are available for free loan at the library. After the cost of hardware installation, a digital antenna is free. With no monthly fees, a digital antenna can provide high-quality picture and sound. The streaming services on this list are inexpensive after that. It is possible to find a streaming service that fits within your budget. Depending on the sports season and what shows you are watching, you can mix and match subscriptions to keep costs down. You can save even more money by taking advantage of the free trials on some streaming services.

What is the best streaming service?

The one that suits you the most is the best streaming service. Before choosing a streaming service, it’s important to do your research to make sure you’re getting the best value. Only you can figure that out! You can determine what the right path is for your life. But, we’ve done our best to give you our recommendations based on the best overall, best for sports, value, and original content below:

  • We chose YouTube TV as the best streaming service. Acustomizable channel guide, 85+ channels that provide broad coverage of channels to cover news, sports, shows, and movies, and an unlimited Cloud DVR for 9 months are all included in the price. It has easy access to popular streaming services like Amazon Prime Video.
  • fuboTV is a strong challenger to YouTube TV and has slightly more channels but I enjoy the unlimited Cloud DVR from YouTube TV which I use to keep lots of shows and movies in my queue. I like the ability to personalize my fuboTV profile so I can get notifications when games are available to watch. Also, while YouTube’s parental controls are limited (Restricted Mode on browsers), There are no features for parental controls in Fubo TV. If parents have access to Fubo TV, they need to keep an eye on their children’s viewing habits.
  • Despite a recent price hike to $25, Philo still offers great value, but if you are a fan of news and sports, you will want to look elsewhere. If you are looking for a basic streaming package with great entertainment and lifestyle channels, Philo is an excellent option.
  • Fubo TV is the best streaming option for Sports because of its breadth of sports channels which include all 4 major sports networks and other common sports channels but also features many of its sports in 4k as part of its base packages. The fee for this feature is charged by other streaming services.
  • The best original content on the internet includes shows like Emily in Paris and Squid Game. There is something for everyone with the variety of original content on offer. Most of the most streamed shows are from Netflix. It’s clear that the way we consume television and movies has changed thanks to the work of Netflix. Apple TV+ is starting to turn heads with its amazing original content.

Which streaming service is best for live TV?

If you want to watch live TV without paying for a cable package, you should go to YouTube TV. It’s a great option for anyone looking for an alternative to traditional cable TV because it has an excellent selection of live channels at an affordable price. You can watch live and local sports, news, and shows from 85+ channels on YouTube TV. The ability to watch from multiple devices at the same time is also offered by YouTube TV. You will have access to all of the best streamers on YouTube.

How do I get rid of cable?

You can cut the cord by calling your service provider and asking to cancel your cable. cable providers are very motivated to keep their customers. Customer retention is a major goal for most cable providers. Extra channels, low discounts, and tempting perks are what they will try to convince you to stay. Don’t forget to read the fine print before making a decision. Just say no and stay strong. Don’t let anyone else make you do something you don’t want to do.

Signing up for the best alternative for your lifestyle is just a matter of doing your research. It is a good idea to read the fine print before committing to a decision. The decision should be helped by the list above.

What are the worst cable TV alternatives?

All cable TV alternatives have some type of downside. Before committing to a cable TV alternative, you should always consider the pros and cons of each option. Either the pricing is too high or it has limited channels or no live TV options. It’s important to understand the limitations of each streaming service before making a decision. A custom-built package by you is the best Cable TV alternative. Everyone in your family will get the shows they love if you choose a package tailored to your needs. The good news is that you can subscribe to a few of the cable alternatives and still pay less per month. It is possible to enjoy a variety of content without breaking the bank.

Don’t subscribe to all of them. It’s easy to find free online courses, but remember that some are more reliable than others. The reason most people are ditching cable is to save money, so getting hooked on too many new streaming services may actually worsen your monthly finances.

Good luck! Take advantage of the free trials. If you want to make an informed decision about what works best for you, try as many different services as you can.

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