Budget friendly streaming services are rapidly reducing cable TV’s market share in the TV entertainment market! And for many good reasons. Cable TV’s best days, when it was the best option for watching TV, are in the rearview mirror. Gee, I wonder why? High costs top the list. Subscriptions for cable have been increasing dramatically over the last several years. My own cable bill is at $210.00 a month. What do I get for my $210.00, oh about 80 to 90 channels I will never ever watch. I can move over to a pretty good streaming service for less than half that much.

Cable TV’s flexibility is an issue, there is little or none. Most cable companies give you three or four packages to choose from, leaving you stuck with those aforementioned 80 to 90 channels I will never ever watch. Streaming services tend to be more flexible than cable. Many have one tier and the additional sports package or the additional entertainment package to add on. YouTube TV has, what a lot of people want to see, an ala-carte add on system. They have the sports package add on and then they offer several channels individually for a price per channel. Still, it remains, that overall, streaming services have considerable flexibility over cable. Or if you don’t see all the channels, you want with one streaming service, consider adding a second streaming service. Even with two streaming services you are going to be spending less than cable.

And what about customer service, or rather, the lack of it. The complaints keep piling up on cable companies. Whether it be you being on hold forever and ever only to be told, “we will take care of your problem.” And then, nothing! Your picture quality is still bad, or the service is out. Many people have simply had enough of the poor service. Opting for streaming services, which generally offer better support, seems like a no-brainer.

So, the decline of cable TV isn’t surprising. People are seeking value and flexibility, both of which streaming services offer in spades. Cable has become the more expensive and less convenient choice. it is no wonder it was reported that 1.6 million cable subscribers canceled their service in the second quarter of 2024 alone.

The Rise of Cord-Cutting

Switching to internet-based TV streaming services is becoming the norm. Cord-cutting is all about moving away from traditional cable services to modern, internet-based streaming options. It’s a game-changer, opening up a world of possibilities without the hefty bill.

So, what’s making people cut the cord? Streaming services are not just cheaper; they offer unprecedented flexibility. You choose what you want to watch, when you want to watch it, without being tied down to rigid packages. This shift is evident in the growing number of people making the move every year.

The cost savings are significant. A typical cable subscription can easily set you back around $100 a month. In contrast, streaming services start as low as $7.99. The math is simple, streaming saves you money.

It’s not just about cost. Streaming platforms offer diverse content libraries that you can customize. If something isn’t working for you, switching to another service is easy and hassle-free. You’re not locked into long-term contracts, so your viewing choices are as flexible as your budget.

According to recent trends, more and more people are opting for streaming services over cable. It’s clear that cord-cutting is not just a fad—it’s here to stay. This movement isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about getting better value and a more tailored viewing experience. So, if you haven’t made the switch yet, it might be time to consider it.

Advantages of Streaming Services

Streaming services offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional cable TV. Prices for streaming platforms are generally much lower, making it easier on your wallet. It’s a straightforward trade-off: more content for less cash.

One of the best perks of streaming services is the freedom of choice. Unlike cable, you’re not stuck with a pre-decided set of channels. You have the liberty to choose specific channels and tailor your subscriptions to fit your interests. Oh, sure there are going to be channels on all streaming services that you will never watch, but nowhere near the amount you have with cable.

No contracts are another big win. Most streaming services offer month-to-month plans. If you’re not happy, you can simply cancel without any penalties. It’s the flexibility we all need in today’s fast-paced world.

Access to on-demand content takes the cake. Streaming platforms are packed with extensive libraries of movies, TV shows, and original content. Anytime you want to watch something, it’s there for you, ready to go. You’re in control of your viewing schedule, not the other way around.

Streaming services are changing the game, offering a perfect blend of affordability, variety, and convenience. They provide an unmatched level of control over what you watch and how you watch it. If you’re tired of the limitations that come with cable, consider exploring the world of streaming.

Challenges of Streaming Services

Deciding on a streaming service can feel a bit overwhelming. There are plenty of options out there, each with its own perks and pitfalls. It becomes a quest for finding the one that satisfies all your wants and desires.

Local channels can be a sticking point. While streaming services generally offer a wide array of content, access to local channels can be limited. This might be a deal-breaker if you rely heavily on local news and sports. But, of course, you can install a twenty to thirty foot antenna to not only get your local channels, but also a bevy of sub channels that are now available.

Internet dependency is another challenge. Unlike cable, streaming services require a solid internet connection. If your internet is spotty, it can seriously mess with your viewing experience. A reliable internet service is a must for smooth streaming.

Hidden costs can sneak up on you. Some streaming platforms charge extra for premium features or certain channels. It’s essential to read the fine print and know exactly what you’re signing up for. Being aware of these potential fees helps you avoid surprises on your bill.

So, while streaming has numerous benefits, it’s not without its challenges. From choosing the right service to ensuring you have the necessary internet setup, there are several factors to consider. But, with a bit of research and planning, you can navigate these challenges and enjoy all the advantages streaming has to offer.

Overview of Top Budget-Friendly Streaming Services

Sling TV starts at $40 per month. Offers a versatile mix of sports, news, and entertainment channels. Add-ons available for extra channels. Great for budget-conscious viewers wanting diverse content.

Apple TV+ starts at $9.99 per month. Features exclusive, high-quality original content. Ideal for Apple enthusiasts and fans of original programming. You can bundle with other Apple services, such as Apple Arcade, Apple Music, Apple Fitness + and Apple News +.

Disney Plus along with Hulu starts at $9.99 per month. Or add ESPN+ for a total of $14.99. Boasts a vast library from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and more. Perfect for families and Disney fans.

Hulu Live starts at $76.99 for live TV. Combines live TV with Hulu’s substantial on-demand library. Best for viewers seeking a blend of live sports, news, and entertainment.

Fubo TV begins at $74.99 per month. Focuses heavily on live sports but includes a variety of general entertainment. Tailored for sports enthusiasts.

Philo is priced at $28 per month for 75 live channels and over 80 on demand channels. Concentrates on entertainment, documentaries, and lifestyle shows. Great for those who aren’t into sports or need local channels. To me, Philo is the best bargain in tv entertainment!

DirecTV ranges from $79.99 to $180.99 per month. Provides a broad range of channels, making it a comprehensive option if you’re looking for a wide variety.

In Conclusion

Dropping cable and adding a live streaming service, or two along with a couple of on demand streaming services can be what you have been looking for. The combinations of services to pick and choose from are great in number. But be careful not to overdo it!

As always, if you have any questions or comments for me, leave them below and I will get back to you. I hope this helps you with your tv entertainment choices.

All the best,

Mark Piper

Mark@bethmark.com