Did you know that 59% of Americans have already cut the cord? If you’re tired of paying that overpriced cable bill yourself, you should ditch it for good and go the streaming-only route.
But with so many streaming options to choose from, how do you know which ones are right for you?
In this article, we’ll give you a user-friendly cord cutting guide that will help you understand all of your streaming options. We’ll talk about on-demand streaming, live TV streaming, and even tell you where you can go to watch shows and movies for free.
Now then, let’s get started.
Tips for Cutting the Cord
Before you cancel your cable subscription and sign up for streaming video services, there are a few tips that you need to know first. After all, the last thing you want to do is end up overpaying for streaming platforms, wasting just as much money as you currently do on cable.
Our advice? Write down what channels and shows you consider to be must-haves. That way you can make sure that you only pay for services (and channels) that you’re actually going to watch.
Also, perform a speed test on your WiFi to make sure that it’s fast enough for streaming. If it’s not, budget in upgrading your WiFi plan, as a speed of at least 13 Mbps is required for a smooth streaming experience.
On-Demand Streaming Options
If you don’t need to have access to live TV channels, on-demand streaming is all you’re going to be investing in. Knowing which options are right for you can be tricky, so we’ve broken down the 4 biggest on-demand streaming websites for you below.
- Netflix
If you’re looking to spend less than 15 bucks on streaming services, go ahead and sign up for Netflix and call it a day. When it comes to quality, and the number of options to choose from, Netflix is simply impossible to beat.
Netflix has movies and TV shows from the past, as well as new and original content that is exclusive to their subscribers. It’s the best value on this list and a must-have for anyone who is cutting the cord.
- HBO Max
Are you a big fan of all of the classic HBO shows? If so, signing up for HBO Max might not be a bad idea.
We’ll be honest. The fact that HBO Max and Netflix are so close in price isn’t ideal, as HBO Max doesn’t have the library that Netflix does currently. The HBO Max interface leaves a lot to be desired, too, although that should be upgraded over time.
But if you love HBO shows or the DC Universe, HBO Max is worth considering.
- Disney+
It goes without saying, but if you’re a big fan of any of the major properties that Disney owns, then you’re going to want to get a Disney+ membership.
The good news? Disney+ is fairly priced, has tons of great classic content, and a few new and original shows and movies, too. If you love all things Disney, go ahead and sign up for a free trial today and give it a shot.
- Amazon Video
Do you already have an Amazon Prime membership? If yes, then you have access to Amazon’s on-demand streaming service, Amazon Video.
Amazon Video checks all of the right boxes. And because you can get so much out of a Prime membership, it’s worth considering for that fact alone.
Live TV Steaming Options
Of course, if you need access to live TV channels, only having a subscription to a streaming service like Netflix isn’t going to get the job done. Thankfully, there are tons of awesome live TV streaming options available to you, too.
The best part? You can sign up and cancel your membership to any of the streaming services we’ve mentioned on this list at any time. That includes the live TV streaming service options, too. There are no contracts involved, which is a huge plus.
Below we’ve broken down the top 4 live TV streaming services. That way you can decide which option is best for you.
The Big 3 (Hulu, Sling TV, and YouTube TV)
If you’re looking for a live TV streaming option, consider going with any of the big 3 choices available: Hulu, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. All three services are comparable in price, features, and the number of channels that you’ll have access to.
With all three services, you’ll be able to pick channel packages that best fit your viewing habits. That’s why we recommend that you jot down your favorite channels and shows, so you can make sure you pick the right plan for you.
Philo TV
While Philo TV doesn’t compare well to any of the big 3 live TV streaming services, it’s only 20 bucks, which is a fair price for what they’re offering. You’ll get access to over 60 channels for that 20-dollar price tag, which is more than enough for most casual TV viewers.
If you’re looking for a free live TV option or some Putlocker alternatives, consider going with Pluto TV. They have tons of free, live TV channels, as well as a solid on-demand library. It’s 100% free, too, which makes the decision to at least try it out a no brainer.
Need More Help Creating a Cord Cutting Guide?
Now that you have this cord cutting guide and know all of your cord cutting options, you’re ready to cancel your cable subscription for good! Just make sure that you’re only paying for channels and services that you plan on using, as the costs of streaming subscriptions can add up quickly.
Looking for more advice on how you can save money? Check back with our blog often for more frugal tips and tricks!