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Cutting The Cord? 5 Alternatives to Cable

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April 21, 2015

Are you getting tired of the high cost of cable? If so, you are not alone. Many people have begun cutting the cord and finding other ways to watch their favorite programs and movies. The reality is that regular cable packages are too expensive and often contain channels that subscribers don’t even need or want. As a result, viewers are turning to alternatives that offer a lower price and more flexibility without the hassle of being under a contract.

Antenna

That’s right, the antenna is making a comeback. Many of us can remember a time when the “rabbit ears” sat atop our television set and required regular readjustment to ensure clear reception. Today’s antennas are advanced enough that some models even offer an HD quality picture. If you are considering this option, this handy antenna guide could make choosing one a lot simpler.

Sling TV

For just $20 a month, Sling TV offers a selection of popular television channels including CNN and the Food Network with the option to add HBO for an additional $15. You will need a device such as the Amazon Fire Stick or Roku Stick but, often, Sling TV features promotions that provide these streaming devices free of charge to customers.

Netflix

Netflix has really been a catalyst for change in terms of television viewing. What began as a somewhat cheesy streaming subscription service has evolved into a force to be reckoned with. Netflix has created some of the best series including House of Cards and Orange is the New Black which has provided major competition for networks such as HBO. Along with its huge collection of films and television shows, it’s hard to beat at just $7.99 a month.

Hulu Plus

Hulu Plus may not have the same reputation for developing acclaimed original television series but it does offer more current selections of programming from major networks than Netflix for the same monthly subscription cost of $7.99. While viewers will not be able to watch their favorite shows live, they are able to see them the day after airing which is much better than the time it takes for shows to make it to Netflix. One downfall is that subscribers still have to watch a few commercials and some shows can only be streamed on a computer.

Amazon Prime Instant Video

If you already have an Amazon Prime account, you have access to Prime Instant Video. The content isn’t as current as Hulu Plus and the selection isn’t as extensive as what is offered by Netflix but it’s included in the $99 annual fee Prime members pay for other services on Amazon so it’s almost free.

Apple TV

The Apple TV device has been around for a while and, to some, it’s in desperate need of an update. Well, it looks like things are about to change. The rumored upgrade will have the ability to control your entire smart home, offer live-TV streaming (with around 25 channels this fall) with a hardware currently selling for a one-time fee $69. There have been hints that a new model will be coming this summer. It’s also been said that the new interface could be controlled by Siri.

It’s becoming more and more obvious that if cable service providers such as Verizon and Comcast wish to remain relevant, they are going to have to make some changes to compete with the growing number of options for cord cutters.

Have you made the switch? If so, how did it go?

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