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TV & STREAMING
Should I Cut the Cable Cord?
7:00 Minute Read
7:00 Minute Read
There is a buzz about “cutting the cable cord” these days, usually in favor of paying for multiple streaming services and “faux cable” alternatives like YouTube TV or Roku live TV. But is cutting the cord really worth it? What are the pros and cons of cutting the cord? And is it actually more affordable – or just more complicated?
The answers to these questions are not always a simple “yes” or “no.” Before making the switch, consider some important factors: connection quality, cost and which shows, events and channels matter most to you. Let’s break it down.
Get more of your favorite entertainment with Spectrum TV.
“Cutting the cord” means cancelling traditional cable TV. You might replace cable by subscribing to a handful of video streaming services, like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu or use “faux cable” alternatives that allow you to watch live TV, such as YouTube TV and Sling TV.
However, cutting the cord isn’t the best choice for everyone. More apps does not always mean more savings or convenience. Many cord cutters quickly find they’re managing too many logins, rising monthly bills and inconsistent streaming quality. That’s why many cord cutters are reconsidering their decision or looking for a hybrid solution.
If you are planning to rely on streaming only, you’ll need home Internet that is up for the job. Multiple users streaming at once? Gaming, video calls, 4K content? For households with multiple people who regularly use the Internet at once, you’ll need faster speeds and possibly an upgraded plan.
Netflix recommends a minimum of 5 Mbps to stream HD video and 25 Mbps for Ultra-High Definition. For households with multiple users, a plan with 150 Mbps or more is recommended.
Live TV events and local news can be tricky for cord cutters. While the ability to get local channels from streaming services has recently improved, it’s still difficult to get all your regional coverage from a single provider.
Many streaming services offer local channels on demand, but that means you’ll have to wait at least a day to watch the news or live events.
With Spectrum TV®, you don’t have to compromise. Whether you’re watching breaking local news, weather or national events, you get live access – no waiting.
Watching sports on streaming services can be a challenge. Many cord-cutting households must subscribe to multiple apps to watch the teams they love, but even then, coverage isn’t always complete.
With Spectrum TV, you get access to live and On Demand sports on ESPN, ESPN2 and Fox Sports 1, local channels and more. Want more? Add Spectrum Sports View for just $10/mo to get pro, college, minor league sports and more. And whether you’re on the go or at home, you can stream for free using the Spectrum TV App or Xumo streaming box included with your plan at no extra cost.
A common reason for cutting the cord is the cost of cable. The average U.S. cable TV bill is around $217/month, or over $2,600 annually.
That’s expensive, but many of these costs include bundled services, premium channels and equipment. Plans like Spectrum TV start at a much lower monthly rate.
Streaming platforms can seem inexpensive individually, but they add up fast.
· Netflix - $17.99/mo (ad-free)
· Hulu - $9.99/mo (with ads)
· DUO (Hulu/Disney+) - $10.99 Disney Bundle (ad supported)
· TRIO (Hulu/Disney+/ESPN+) - $12.99
· Apple TV+ - $9.99/mo
· Amazon Prime - $14.99/mo
· HBO Max - $16. 99/mo (ad-free)
· YouTube TV - $82.99/mo
Total: Over $100/month, before fees or Internet upgrades.
And if you need faster Internet to support simultaneous streaming, that’s another cost. On the other hand, Spectrum TV customers can stream for free using the Spectrum TV App or Xumo streaming box – no juggling subscription, devices, or add-ons.
Instead of choosing between cable or streaming, why not have both?
With Spectrum TV, you get live cable channels and the ability to stream on any screen. Use the Spectrum TV App or you Xumo streaming box to access your favorite shows and On demand content across iOS Android, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, XBOX and Samsung Smart TV. Plus, Spectrum TV Select plans include top streaming apps at no extra cost, including HBO Max With Ads, Disney+ Basic, Peacock Premium, Paramount+ Essentials, ViX Premium with Ads and AMC+ with Ads. Additional plans include even more.
With Spectrum Internet®, you get a fast, reliable connection for the whole household, whether you’re streaming, gaming or working from home.
Cutting cable cords may seem like a way to save but it often means trading reliability for hassle. Between app switching, hidden fees, and inconsistent streaming, many find themselves paying more for less.
With Spectrum TV, you don’t have to choose. You can get streaming apps included, the channels you love and enjoy dependable Internet all in one – the most affordable solution without having to cut the cord.