Get Rid Of The Box, But Keep Your Shows: TV Without Cable Or Satellite

Most Americans have at least one television in their home, and the average family has more than 2. Considering these facts, it must be a very affordable to watch tv. But is it? If you have cable or satellite, you may not think so. Fortunately, there are other options and advantages to getting rid of your cable or satellite television provider. Here are a few things to think about.

With Satellite, You Get What You Pay For

Many satellite providers tout low monthly prices, but those prices only get you a few channels. Sure, you could pay less than $30 a month for satellite, but you will only get a few channels, and those may not be the ones that you want to watch. Chances are, if you are looking for certain channels, such as sports or movies, you may end up paying a lot closer to $100 a month.

Cable Prices Aren't Any Better

Like satellite, cable companies have a similar tactic. They may advertise lower prices, but the average American still ends up paying somewhere around $64 for expanded basic cable (not the very basic, but the next step up), and that does not even include taxes and fees. After a while, the cost really adds up.

Internet Streaming is an Alternative

With these prices, it is no wonder that many people are looking to other options for television services, and many companies are rising to the challenge. Over the last few years, there have been many companies offering internet streaming of television shows for anywhere between a one-time fee of $50-100 to less than $10 a month. These companies are making it easier than ever to avoid the cable or satellite bill altogether. 

Streaming has its Advantages

Aside from the more affordable monthly service charges, internet streaming allows you to watch shows from start to finish without commercial interruptions, and also allows to to pay only for services or channels that you want. For example, if you are a sports fan, there are now options for streaming just ESPN or other sports networks. Streaming also allows you to watch shows on your own time schedule and not be at the mercy of a DVR or a cable time slot.

Filling in the Gaps

However, no system is perfect. Common complaints about internet streaming are that you may not be able to get all of the most current shows right away, or that your particular streaming company does not have particular shows. That is fixable, though. With all of the money that you will save over the cable or satellite company, you will be able to afford a boxed set of you favorite series. You can even find a discount on TV series on DVD. Not only will you never miss an episode again, but you will be able to enjoy your shows any time you want.

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