Cutting the cord refers to people who are frustrated with cable and satellite services and costs who cancel their traditional cable or satellite service to receive entertainment options using a different option.

•  Should I switch? There are advantages and disadvantages  of switching from cable TV to streaming.  This lesson will include some pros and cons of switching.

•  Cost:  What am I paying for now?  What am I getting?  What will this cost me?  Will it be less expensive or more?  This lesson will provide a guide that you can follow to see what you currently have and what you are already paying for.

• Your Internet:  None of the calculations include a mandatory data plan.  The amount of data that you purchase must be enough to accommodate the number of users in your home and the amount of data they use to stream.  You need to check with your Internet Service Provider to see what you are using.  This lesson will summarize what is available and will provide tools for you to determine your current plan through your ISP, and the potential need to increase it.

• Your equipment: 

  • • A SmartTV  is ready to go with streaming.  This is because a SmartTV is connected to the Internet and streaming requires an Internet connection.  With a SmartTV, when you turn it on, you can see the different apps.  To view a channel (such as Netflix), you click on the app.  You will have to sign in with your account.  It helps to have your smartphone handy for usernames and passwords.  Some channels will require that you purchase a subscription before viewing, while others are free (with ads). 

    •  If a TV does not have that capability, you will have to purchase a streaming device to view your services.  Examples include Apple TV (for Apple users), Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Chromecast.  These devices are plugged into your TV via the HDMI port.  They become a type of input for your TV (such as your DVD player).  To use, you simply click on the app for the channel (Netflix, Prime video).  If an app is not available, you can purchase it from the App store associated with your streaming device.  There are resources included at the end of the lesson which provide videos on streaming devices and how to use them.

    • If you don’t have a streaming device and you want to use your phone or tablet, you will be “casting” to your TV.  We will discuss in class, but there are also videos in the resources section to assist you.

• Is your signal weak?  Cable boxes provide the signal right into the TV, but without a cable box, you will access the Internet using your modem/router.  If the signal is weak  (you are experiencing buffering and freezing of the screen)  and you have already confirmed that you have adequate speed with the ISP, you may need adjust some things. 

  • • • §  The easiest fix is to move your router/modem closer to the center of the house

      • §  If this does not work, you can try a Wi-Fi extender or a Wi-Fi repeater.  These are not always ideal, because the signal that they provide is not as strong as when leaving the modem.  See the resources section for more information on these.

      • §  If you have an Ethernet port in another part of the home, you can consider a Wi-Fi Access point, which delivers a maximum signal. See resources for information on Wi-Fi access points.

      • §  If none of this works, you can consider installing a mesh network.  You can add this to your modem/router, and it will provide several nodes that will be placed around the home.  They are plugged into a power source, and each node delivers the maximum signal.  See resources for an explanation of Mesh Wi-Fi versus Traditional routers.

      • §  Or you might benefit from a new router.  Routers are constantly changing, improving safety and efficiency.  If your router is over three years old, and you are experiencing problems, you might consider purchasing a new one. See resources for a comparison of routers.

• Other potential costs:  Antenna (if you don’t want to subscribe to a live-TV service), HDMI cables (to attach your notebook or phone to a TV to use services).

  • • If you are not subscribing to a live-TV service and want an antenna that will work for you, you may need some guidance. In resources, you can find information about antennas, finding the right ones and installing.   

Advantages:

·        Cost savings:  Cable TV comes with lots of channels, many of which we don’t watch.  There are also fees and taxes included, making it expensive for many people. Streaming services start at a much lower cost, and you can subscribe only to the services that offer what you want.

·        Flexibility and customization:  While cable TV may require contracts and penalties for early termination, most streaming services are month-to-month.  This allows subscribers to come and go as this wish.

·        On-demand content:  Streaming services offer on-demand, meaning you watch what you want when you want to watch it.

·        Wide range of content:  Streaming services include something for everyone from the mainstream platforms (like Hulu and Netflix) to specific genres like horror, documentaries, and international content. 

·        No equipment rentals:  With streaming services, there are no cable boxes and DVRs to rent or buy.  You can stream from your smart TV.  If you don’t have one, you can stream from your smartphone or device, or you can purchase streaming device like Roku or Amazon Fire Stick.

·        High-quality streaming:  Many services offer high-definition (HD) and even 4K streaming quality, which may be better than you are getting with your cable plan.

·        Access anywhere:  With streaming services, you can watch it everywhere with an internet connection.  They are not tied to a location.  You can sign in at vacation rentals, hotels or other non-home locations to watch.

·        No hidden fees:  Cable will sometimes charge for things like equipment rental, installation and even some types of programming.  Streaming requires just the monthly fee.

·        Multiple users:  With cable, you are tied to one stream, which with streaming services you may be able to access multiple streams.   This means you can be watching one thing; your significant other can be on another device watching something else, and the grandkids can be at a 3rd device watching their shows.  (Some services are cracking down on sharing your account outside of your household though).

Disadvantages:

·        Dependance on the Internet connection:  If your service is slow, unreliable or has data caps, you might experience buffering or low video quality.  You may even have to upgrade your service to accommodate these increased needs.

·        Complexity:  It can be overwhelming to pick and choose those services that you wish to use.  And managing them can also be confusing, which includes signing in with your username and password, understanding how they are being paid (and through what accounts), and navigating the different platforms (streaming devices vs TV).  It might challenge those who are not tech-savvy. 

·        Multiple subscriptions:  Yes, you are cutting that big expense for cable.  But depending on your household and what people like to view, you may find yourself with many options.  If you aren’t careful, the cost for multiple subscriptions might override the savings from cable.

·        Live TV and Sports:  You can purchase packages for live TV and sports.  However, they may be more expensive or have a slight delay.  And not all sports or events may be available on streaming platforms or might require specific subscriptions.  So you need to make sure that your sports lover knows where they will access their favorite team.

·        Local content and news:  While some services may offer local channels, coverage is not universal.  You might have to consider an over-the-air antenna to watch your local TV.

·        Content availability:  The streaming services will often change their content libraries, meaning that they lose shows and movies due to licensing changes. 

·        Ads and additional fees:  More and more, the services are charging more for an ad-free experience.  Or they may offer premium content with more features for additional fees. 

·        Multiple user limitations:  And while a benefit is that multiple users can access the services, there may be a limit to the number of additional streams. 

·        Equipment costs:  Although it would be a one-time fee, if you do not have a smart TV, you will have to have a streaming device to view your content on the TV.

Conclusion:  Before making the decision to cut your cord, it is important to note what you like to watch (channels and sports).  .  This lesson will provide an overview of the streaming services and the add on packages and help you to decide whether this is right for you.

NOTE about costs:  Costs of these services change often.  The worksheets and guides provided in the lesson are the most up to date.  Some of the images below may not reflect new prices.  Always check the website for the most up to date prices.  

Local Cable: Begin by looking at the options that we have in San Digo.  Keep in mind that some of these are not available in all areas.  Below is a chart of what is available in San Diego County.  If you want to sign up, or learn more, go to:  https://cabletv.com/ca/san-diego

In order to make an informed decision, you need to compare apples to apples.  For this, you can take a plan that your currently have, and delete the cost of the Internet from that plan.  What you will find is what you are getting and how much you are paying for that.  

Different packages offera  different selction of channels.  These are channels like AMC, ESPN, History Channel, etc.  

You will have to look at your  own provider to see what you are having.  Below, we will discuss Cox TV as an example.

Cox prices:  The prices below show the cost of each plan when you remove Internet from the service.  You would still pay for the Internet regardless of what you choose.  Internet cost can range depending on the speed and data that you need. ( I pay $77/month for 500 Mbps through Cox, which is sufficient for my needs).  You will need an Internet connection to stream.  Many people will keep the same one that they have used for TV, but it is not required.

Prices for Cox TV  plans

TV starter plan (75 channels, local programming, free HD programming) Cost:  $151/month.

Contour TV Preferred, (140+ unique channels and streaming apps), Cost:  $205/month.

Contour TV Ultimate (250+ channels and both Sports Pack, a movie pack and a variety pack ) Cost:  $242/month

Here is a link to all of the channels offered through Cox Cable Services.

Streaming services are digital platforms that provide access to a vast library of TV shows, movies, and other video content over the internet. These services allow users to stream content on-demand and often without advertisements. Many streaming services require a monthly subscription fee, while some offer a combination of free and premium content.

 There are two main types of streaming services:

1. Streaming on-demand:  Stand alone apps which do not need a streaming service.  You will go directly to the app to access content. Examples:  Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu

2. Cable Replacement services:  These are services which will replace your Cable TV.  They offer live programming.  Each will offer different channels.  Understanding which channels are included will help you to make your decision.  Examples:  Sling TV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV

A stand-alone streaming service is a subscription-based service that offers streaming content without requiring a cable or satellite TV subscription. It is a service that allows users to access movies, TV shows, and other content directly over the internet, without the need for a traditional cable TV or satellite subscription. These services offer a variety of content, including original programming, movies, and TV shows, and can be accessed on a variety of devices, including smart TVs, computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Amazon Prime:  If you have an Amazon Prime membership ($139/year or $14.99/month), you have access to Amazon Prime Video. If you do not want ads in your videos, you will be charged $2.99/mo.   If you do not have a membership, you can purchase a plan for $8.99/mo (with ads) or $12.99 without ads. 

Hulu (7.99 or 14.99 with no ads):  Hulu’s streaming library of movies and TV with limited commercials.  A bundle will give you 3 options (Hulu, Disney Plus and ESPN).  We will talk about Hulu + Live TV later in the lesson.  You can also add-on to your subscription at an additional cost for certain movie channels including Max, Cinemax, Paramount+ and Starz.

Paramount+:  ($5.99/mo basic or $11.99 no ads including Showtime):  Paramount Plus offers shows from channels like CBS, Comedy Central, Paramount Network and more. 

 Apple TV+ Apple TV+ is a subscription service with Apple originals, other movies and more.  It is $9.99 a month.  If you like soccer,  you can purchase an MLS Season Pass for $14.99/mo or $12.99 month if you have an Apple TV+ subscription. There are two ways to view your Apple TV content:

o   Apple TV streaming device:  For those without a Smart TV who wish to view their Apple content, they can purchase an Apple TV device ($129 - $149) which can be used  to stream content from Apple, as well as other providers like  Amazon Prime, ESPN, Hulu, Netflix and more. 

o   Apple TV app:  A free app/service that is a hub for content from various streaming services including Apple TV plus.  It comes preloaded on most Smart TVs or can be installed.  If you have the Apple TV app on your Smart TV, you do not need to purchase a streaming device.

·        Disney Plus: (9.99/mo with ads to $24.99 with no ads) Disney plus is a streaming service that collects of Disney’s franchises into one family friendly service. The various plans can be very confusing, choosing from Basic, number of services, and more.  When visiting the website (https://www.disneyplus.com/) you will see an option to choose Disney+, Duo (with Hulu) or Trio (with Hulu and ESPN).  Within each is the ability to choose basic (with ads) or premium (no ads).  Below, we are viewing the trio options.  

Peacock (Free with ads and limited options, $5.99/mo with ads to $11.99 a month no ads)

YouTube Premium ($11.99/month):  YouTube ad free and offline.  Includes downloads and YouTube Music premium for music without ads 

Cable replacement services are streaming services that provide users with access to live TV channels and other content, like traditional cable or satellite TV. These services are often called "skinny bundles" because they offer a smaller selection of channels than traditional cable or satellite TV packages. Cable replacement services usually require a monthly subscription fee and can be accessed on various devices, including TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers. Cable replacement services have become popular in recent years as an alternative to traditional cable or satellite TV due to their flexibility and affordability.

 Sling TV : Sling is one of the services designed to take the place of your existing cable subscription.  Your options include Sling Orange, Sling Blue and Sling Orange and Blue.  Different options include different content packages, but plans offer live TV, sports and specialty stations.  Plans start at $40/mo for one or $55/mo for both. Below are two charts, each summarizing which channels are available on each color.  Note that there are 24 channels included in both plans, so you want to see which exclusive channels are offered for each.  Both services offer 50 hours of DVR storage.  The Orange plan only allows streaming on one device at a time, while the Blue plan allows streaming on three devices at a time.  The prices shown are for the one month trial.  

Note:  Some of these prices have changed.  Consult the website for the most up to date charges as well as what may be included with the package. 

 Hulu with Live TV  ($76.99/mo with ads to $89.99 mo for no ads) Unlimited access to Hulu streaming library (with limited commercials) and full seasons of series, hit movies and more.  Stream 50+ top Live and On Demand TV channels including sports, news and entertainment.  Unlimited DVR (up to 9 months) and bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+(with ads).  For an additional fee, you can choose add options like unlimited screens, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, Entertainment, Spanish and Sport.  These are in addition to the $76.99/month fee.  Here is a link to all of the channels offered through Hulu+ Live TV.  Hulu+ also offers local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox).  Below, you can view some of the add ons offered as well as a list of all channels.  For more information, visit this resource on TV Guide.  

YouTube TV: $72.99 a month and up, good for sports (multiple stations from ESPN, CBS Sports and Fox Sports).  Includes live TV, NFL, NBA and MLB networks, PBS and more.  Also includes unlimited DVR feature, which you can record as much as you want, and keep for up to nine months.  One account includes 3 devices streaming at once and six accounts per household.  Premium channel, sports and 4K quality available as add ons. 

Below, you can access the different plan options and the channels available on YouTubeTV.  Click on the down arrow to view.

DIRECTV STREAM is a live TV streaming service that can serve as a cable replacement, similar to YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. It offers a wide range of channels, including local channels, national networks, regional sports networks, and premium channels. The service provides unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing users to record and save their favorite shows and movies for up to nine months. It does not require contracts, and users can choose from various packages tailored to their viewing preferences, making it a flexible option for those looking to replace traditional cable 

Additional scenarios include:

·        Families of 3-4 People:  Add 5-10 Mbps for each additional person, adjust streaming video and gaming speeds accordingly.

·        Households with Smart Home Devices: Smart speakers, thermostats, and video doorbells typically require minimal bandwidth, but if you have multiple smart devices, allocate an additional 5-10 Mbps.

·        4K TV Streaming: For smooth 4K streaming, aim for at least 50-100 Mbps.

·        Upload Speeds: Video calls and file uploads benefit from higher upload speeds. It is a good rule to have at least 20 Mbps for uploads.

Do you need more information?   Here are some resources to help you arrive at your final decision.  

·        HighSpeedInternet:  This link takes you to the options available in San Diego.  You will have to enter your address to see if the plan is available.

·        BroadBandNow: Broadband Now is a website dedicated to Internet Providers and additional resources.  In addition to ISP options, it also includes the following tools:

o   Bandwidth calculator (how much speed you need)

o   What is your current speed? (your current speed, may vary)

o   Best Wi-Fi routers (might be a little biased)

o   Guide to bundling versus streaming

·        Antennas

o   Best Digital TV Antennas for 2024 (PC Mag)

o   Find what is available for you  based on your Zip code (FCC)

o   Best antenna for your area (Antenna Secure)

o   Video: Steps for connecting your antenna and channels (RCA)

·        Routers and Extenders

o   Guide to the best wireless routers (Consumer Reports)

o   Mesh Wi-Fi versus traditional routers (PCWorld)

o   What is a Wi-Fi Range extender (Linksys)

o   What is an Access Point (Linksys)

o   Video:  What is the difference between a modem and a router?

·        Using your streaming devices

o   Introduction to streaming devices (Century Link)

o   Video:  How to add a streaming device to your TV (Best Buy)

o   Video:  How to set up a Chromecast to your TV

o   Video:  How to connect a Smart TV to the Internet (Gary explains)

o   Video:  How to stream your laptop to your TV

Bonus:  Free movies

Everything up to here has included cost.  But you can find free content online.  Here is a sampling of some of the movie streaming sites that you can use.  They might have commercials, and you might want to look at their privacy statement (on the website) to make sure that they are not tracking your data.  But these are free to use and offer a nice alternative to packages.  Here are some possibilities:

·        YouTube: Some public domain movies, and some sites host full movies via YouTube.

·        Crackle:  Popular, award-winning TV, movies and originals.

·        Vudu: Free movies with limited commercials (click on Free tab).  Also includes movies you can rent ($4.99 and up).

·        Top Documentary Films  Nice selection of documentaries of all lengths

·        Tubi TV (https://tubitv.com) A free (and legal) site which offers free movies and TV with ads.  Also features Live TV and Tubi Kids.

·        Popcorn Flix (https://www.popcornflix.com) Free  movies and TV.

·        Crackle (https://www.sonycrackle.com/) Owned by Sony pictures

·        Free Movies Cinema ( https://www.freemoviescinema.com/), provides more independent movie choices

·        Pluto TV (https://corporate.pluto.tv/)

·        Classic Cinema (https://classiccinemaonline.com/) So classic, it includes silent films and serials! 

 How to cancel subscriptions, unsubscribe from apps and more.  This very useful document tells it all! 

From Consumer reports: Best free streaming services

FAST (free, ad sponsored streaming television) sites on the Verge website.

From Tom's Guide:  Best free streaming in March