Why You’re About to Break Up with Cable
Congratulations! You’re about to embark on a journey of financial freedom, personal choice, and the sweet satisfaction of telling your cable company, “It’s not me, it’s you.” Cutting the cord means ditching traditional cable or satellite TV in favor of streaming services, antennas, and other modern alternatives.
Maybe you’re tired of paying an arm, a leg, and a second mortgage for channels you don’t watch. Maybe you’ve had one too many arguments with customer service reps who “totally understand your frustration” but somehow can’t lower your bill. Or maybe you just realized that in the age of the internet, you don’t actually need to pay a fortune for decent entertainment.
Whatever brought you here, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the benefits (hello, savings!), the challenges (buffering: the new waiting in line), and how to make sure you still get all the shows, sports, and local news you love—without selling your soul to a cable company.
Ready? Let’s get started.
What Is Cord Cutting and Why Do People Do It?
Cord cutting is the act of canceling traditional cable or satellite TV in favor of internet-based streaming services, antennas, and other alternative ways to watch your favorite shows, sports, and news.
A Brief History of Cord Cutting
Once upon a time, cable was the king of home entertainment. In the ’80s and ’90s, families gathered around gigantic TVs with wood paneling, flipping through 57 channels (with nothing on). Then came the 2000s, when prices soared, channel bundles got out of control, and streaming services like Netflix showed us that watching what we wanted, when we wanted, was actually possible.
People started asking: Why am I paying for 200 channels when I only watch five? Enter cord cutting—a movement fueled by the desire to save money, avoid contracts, and gain control over what we actually watch.
Why People Cut the Cord
- Cost Savings – Cable bills can run over $100–$200 a month, while streaming services often cost a fraction of that.
- Flexibility – No contracts! Subscribe and cancel whenever you want.
- More Choice, Less Fluff – Pick the services with the content you actually watch.
- No More Annoying Fees – No equipment rental, broadcast fees, or hidden charges.
But before you start dreaming about all the money you’ll save, let’s talk about the drawbacks. Because, yes, there are some.
But before you start dreaming about all the money you’ll save, let’s talk about the drawbacks. Because, yes, there are some.
The Downsides of Cutting the Cord
The Downsides of Cutting the Cord
Cord cutting isn’t all rainbows and unlimited binge-watching. There are some challenges you should be prepared for.
1. Streaming Services Add Up
Yes, cutting cable can save you money—if you’re disciplined. But if you subscribe to Netflix ($15.49+ per month), Hulu ($7.99+ per month), Disney+ ($7.99+ per month), HBO Max ($15.99 per month), Paramount+ ($5.99+ per month), and every other service under the sun, you might find yourself paying just as much as you did before.
2. No Single Service Replaces Cable
Want live sports, local news, and a wide selection of shows? You’ll likely need a mix of services—and that can get complicated.
3. Internet is King (and It’s Not Always Cheap)
Streaming requires a solid internet connection, which may mean upgrading your plan. The average cost of high-speed internet varies by provider and region, but expect to pay $50–$100 per month for a connection that can handle streaming.
4. Learning Curve
With cable, you just turn on the TV and flip channels. With streaming, you need to navigate multiple apps and platforms. Not rocket science, but still a shift.
So, what about those all-important local channels? Let’s talk about that next.
Local Channels – Can You Still Get Them?
One of the biggest concerns for potential cord-cutters is losing access to local news and live events. But don’t worry—you have options!
Option 1: A Digital Antenna
Good old-fashioned antennas are still around, and they’re better than ever. A decent indoor antenna can pick up local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and PBS stations in HD—for free! Just make sure you’re in range. Cost: $20–$100 depending on the model.
Option 2: Live TV Streaming Services
Services like YouTube TV ($72.99/month), Hulu + Live TV ($76.99/month), and DirecTV Stream ($79.99+/month) offer local channels. But they come at a price.
Option 3: Network Apps
Many major networks (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX) offer free apps that let you stream recent episodes and some live content. However, more and more these apps require you to log in with the name of a cable or satellite provider.
Now that we’ve covered local channels, let’s talk about the must-haves for cord cutting.
The Essentials for Cord Cutting Success
The Essentials for Cord Cutting Success
1. Fast and Reliable Internet
Streaming requires good internet. Aim for at least:
- 10 Mbps per stream for HD
- 25 Mbps per stream for 4K
The average monthly cost of high-speed internet is $50–$100 depending on your provider and location.
2. A Streaming Device
You’ll need a way to access streaming services on your TV. Options include:
- Roku – Easy to use, affordable. Cost: $30–$100
- Amazon Fire Stick – Great if you like Alexa. Cost: $40–$90
- Apple TV – Premium option with a slick interface. Cost: $129–$179
- Smart TVs – Many have streaming apps built-in, but higher-end models can be pricey.
3. Know Your Must-Have Content
Before you cancel cable, make sure your favorite shows, sports, or networks are available on a streaming service.
4. You Don’t Need a TV!
Not interested in buying a streaming device? You can watch everything on a smartphone, tablet, or laptop using apps from streaming services.
Now, let’s talk about the biggest streaming services and what they offer.
The Top Streaming Services
Netflix
Programming: Netflix is the granddaddy of streaming, boasting a vast library that ranges from gripping originals like “Stranger Things” to feel-good rom-coms and documentaries about eccentric tiger enthusiasts.
Cost: Plans start at $8 per month.
Amazon Prime Video
Programming: Beyond free two-day shipping and questionable fashion recommendations, Amazon Prime offers a treasure trove of content, including critically acclaimed series like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and a rotating selection of blockbuster movies.
Cost: Included with an Amazon Prime membership at $14.99/month.
Hulu
Programming: Hulu serves up a hearty mix of current TV episodes (available the day after airing), original series like “The Handmaid’s Tale,” and a robust library of films. It’s like having a DVR that doesn’t judge you for binge-watching reality TV.
Cost: Subscriptions start at $10 per month.
Disney+
Programming: If you’ve ever wanted to relive your childhood or introduce classics to a new generation, Disney+ is your go-to. From animated favorites and Pixar gems to the Marvel universe and a galaxy far, far away, it’s all here.
Cost: Plans start at $9.99 per month for ad-supported access.
Max
Programming: Combining the best of HBO with a smorgasbord of additional content, Max offers everything from “Game of Thrones” to “Friends,” plus a selection of movies and original programming. It’s like the buffet of streaming services—minus the sneeze guard.
Cost: Subscriptions start at $10 per month.
Apple TV+
Programming: Apple’s foray into streaming includes original series like “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “Shrinking,” among others.
Cost: $9.99 per month after a seven-day free trial.
Pluto TV
Programming: For those who miss the good old days of channel surfing, Pluto TV offers over 425 channels, including classic TV shows, movies, news, and even a 24/7 “Baywatch” channel. It’s free, so you can save your pennies for that fancy avocado toast.
Cost: Free (with ads).
Crunchyroll
Programming: Anime aficionados, rejoice! Crunchyroll boasts the largest anime library, including exclusives and original productions. Whether you’re into giant robots, ninja adventures, or high school romances, they’ve got you covered.
Cost: Premium plans start at $8 per month.
YouTube TV
Programming: For those who can’t quite cut the cord, YouTube TV offers over 100 live channels, unlimited DVR recording space, and is available on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, streaming devices, and smart TVs.
Cost: Higher price point, reflecting its extensive channel offerings.
Sling TV
Programming: Sling TV offers a customizable channel lineup with plans ranging from 32 to 46 channels and includes 50 hours of free DVR storage.
Cost: More affordable option but with a smaller channel library and limited DVR storage.
In the end, choosing a streaming service is like picking an ice cream flavor—there’s something for everyone, and sometimes you just have to try a few scoops before finding your favorite.
Next up, let’s talk about the niche services.
Niche Streaming Services & Add-Ons
Sometimes you need a little extra. Here are some add-ons worth considering:
- BritBox & Acorn TV – For fans of British TV and mysteries.
- ESPN+ – Extra sports content, but not a full replacement for ESPN.
- Shudder – Horror fans, this one’s for you.
- Paramount+ & Peacock – Home to CBS and NBC shows, plus original content.
Finally, let’s talk about putting it all together on a budget.
Cord Cutting on a Budget – Recommendations
Keep in mind that these fees are in addition to paying for high-speed Internet Service
Budget-Friendly ($0–$20/month)
- Digital antenna + free services (Pluto TV, Tubi, Crackle)
- One cheap streaming service like Netflix Basic or Hulu ($8–$10)
Mid-Range ($20–$60/month)
- Mix of two to three services (e.g., Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max)
- Maybe add an antenna or Peacock for live TV
Premium ($60+ per month)
- YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV
- A mix of premium services like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+
Cutting the cord can be a game-changer—but it’s all about finding the right balance. Whether you’re going all-in on streaming or just trying to lower your bill, there’s a setup that works for you.