Cutting Cable TV Alternatives (Complete Guide)

Let's be honest: Wires are ancient. The latest technological trend has replaced the wires with infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi etc. This includes chargers, earbuds sound systems and oddly enough- Television cable networks. This trend is now widely popular as 'Cord Cutting'.

But the big question is: Should you go with the flow and cut the cord? And if you do opt for cutting the cord, are there any alternatives to cutting the cord? To answer your second question- yes, there are plenty of options! And this article is to help you find the best cable tv alternatives.

That's not all. We're also going to help you find the best wireless Speaker/Sound System for your home. Now, let's answer your first question:

Table of Contents

• Is Cord-Cutting for you?
• Best Alternatives to Cable TV
• Antennas
• Streaming Devices
• Streaming Services
• Sounds (speaker and/or surround sound ideas)

Is cord-cutting for you?

The best thing about cord-cutting is that you'll have a multitude of options. A cable network can be costly depending on where you live. So cord-cutting can sometimes save money. However, it's worth noting that sometimes cord-cutting can be equal to more expenditure. You should make a robust budget before taking this decision.

The most crucial thing about cord-cutting is that it requires at least a 25 Mbps internet speed for smooth streaming. Do note that you'll have to sit in front of a black screen if your internet somehow stops working. Also, your favourite programs will be available in the cable alternatives a bit late than they first air. So look out for those spoilers!

If you're okay with all these, cord-cutting is just for you!

(Prices in video may vary with current prices. Prices at product or service website take precedent.)

Video Credit: Business Insider

Best Alternatives to Cable TV

You have a couple of options: choose between an antenna, a streaming box or one or more streaming services. Let's have a proper analysis of your options:

Antennas

A plausible alternative to cable TVs can be HDTV antennas. Antennas are capable of playing live channels. But wait a minute! If you think by antenna we mean those long, ugly-looking tall metal pieces then you're completely wrong. HDTV antennas are slim, stylish and small. Antennas are also the cheapest alternative to cable TV. The upcoming ATSC 3.0 standard of antennas are predicted to cause a revolution in the future.

However, the utility of HDTV antennas depends on your location. You may get as many channels as you want if your location supports that. Otherwise, it's tough luck for you. So don't forget to do your research before switching to antennas. Now, let's take a look at the best TV antennas in the market:

ClearStream Eclipse

The ClearStream Eclipse is one of the best available HDTV antennas in the market. Let's take a look at what it offers:

• Omnidirectional. So you won't have to worry about positioning it correctly to receive a signal.
• It comes in 4 Eclipse models. These cover a range from 35 to 70 miles.
• It's non-adhesive and can be attached to the wall without glue marks.
• One side is white and the other is black  You can also paint over it to be discreet.
• The circular design allows it to detect UHF signals easily.
• It supports the ATSC 3.0 standard.

Winegard Amped Pro

Winegard Amped Pro is a unique, stylish indoor HDTV antenna. It offers:

• A mobile app that's available in IOS and Android phones can control and set the antenna up.
• It broadcasts signals in a wide area: 60 miles.
• It uses a clear circuit technology that boosts signal strength, cuts down on dropouts and removes pixelation.

Mohu Releaf

If you're conscious about the environment then Mohu Releaf is perfect for you. Because it is an eco-friendly HDTV antenna.

• It is the most eco-friendly antenna (the eco-friendly version of Mohu Leaf)  out there: It's made from recycled cardboard where chlorine-free paint is used.
• Made of minimal "MohuGrind" plastic, composed of crushed and recycled boxes.
• Supports ATSC 3.0 standard.
• The two sides are of grey colour.
• The range of Mohu Releaf is 30 miles.
• The built-in pinholes make it easy to hang somewhere in the wall.

Streaming Devices

Another great alternative to cable tv are streaming boxes. If you want to prioritize streaming on your TVs, then a streaming box is a cost-effective option. You can connect streaming boxes to the HDMI of your tv. Many streaming boxes offer a wide range of options. We're also telling you about another alternative...a Smart TV.

Smart TV

Smart TVs are one of the best alternatives to traditional cables because of all the amazing features they have. Smart TVs can come in different prices and brands. The best smart TVs provide all the features that you need:

• Smart TVs can act as a central command centre for all other smart devices of your home: smart lights, smart speakers, calling bells, CCTVs etc.
• Smart TVs consist of different OS based on brands. So you can use it to download apps that will auto-update.
• You can use it for social media streaming. But it might be a bit difficult without keyboards.
• The best Smart TVs support voice commands and have voice assistants like Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant.
• Offers Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, HBO Max etc. apps. There can be discounts on the subscription fees based on brands.
• These support HDR, 4k video, latest Firmwares for added security, Dolby Atmos etc.

Famous brands for Smart TVs are LG, Samsung, Sony.

Apple TV 4k

Where there is technology, there is Apple! Apple has its streaming device: the Apple TV 4k. It's the most expensive of all the options, rightfully so. The features are:

• It uses a Siri enabled touchpad remote.
• It supports 4K UHD resolution, HDR, HDR10, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and 4K content.
• It has AirPlay to play music from iPad or iPhone to the TV.
• It has Apple's streaming service: Apple TV+.
• You'll get 3 months of Apple Arcade free.
• You can support all other streaming services like Netflix, Hulu etc.

Roku Streaming Stick

Roku Streaming stick is known for offering thousands of channels and an excellent user interface. Let's see what else it has

• It supports 4k, HDR, Dolby Atmos, 802.11ac Wi-Fi.
• The remote supports voice commands.
• You can stream from Apple TV+, Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime etc.
• The downside is that it doesn't support Dolby Vision.
• It supports a superb user interface that categorizes all movies and tv series from different streaming platforms.

Roku Streaming Stick is very popular because of offering everything you need at a very low price.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

Amazon has its own streaming device. It's also becoming increasingly popular. The features are:

• It supports Ultra HD 4K HDR along with Dolby Vision and HDR10.
• It has Amazon Alexa as voice support and voice command options.
• It has a good interface for quick Wi-fi streaming and navigation.
• It has its OS which doesn't have Apple and Google services.
• It supports HBO Go, HBO Max, Hulu, Netflix, Sling TV, Twitch.

Chromecast with Google TV

Of course, it would be strange if Google didn't have one of its streaming devices, right? Let's read the features:

• It supports 4k, HDR with Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos.
• Has a very responsive and stylish UI.
• Integrated Google assistant.
• Easy to set up as you can easily access your files by logging in to an existing Google account.
• Supports Netflix, HBO go, Amazon Prime etc.

Streaming Services

The advent of streaming services has redefined television entertainment. People can now easily watch entire seasons in one sitting. Due to its immense popularity, several streaming services are present. Let's decide on what are the best options for you:

Netflix

Well, this is the obvious one on the list. Netflix has reached immense popularity and is the first choice of most viewers. Netflix has over 15,000 titles. Some of them are originals. Hit originals like Stranger Things, The Umbrella Academy, The Witcher etc. have pushed Netflix to the top.

Netflix has several plans: 

• $10 per month for a basic plan: one streaming device. No HD or UHD content.
• $14 per month for a standard plan: up to 2 simultaneous streams. Has HD content.
• $17 per month for a premium plan: up to 4 simultaneous streams. Has 4k content with HDR.

Hulu

Hulu is notable for its wide range of popular tv shows and documentaries that are available only a few hours after they're first aired. You can also have add-ons like STARZ, showtime, Cinemax, HBO to Hulu in discounts. 

They have 3 plans:

• The free plan: You'll get Hulu for free. But your screen time will be repetitively interrupted by commercials.
• $12 monthly: You'll get access to Hulu in a commercial-free, luxurious way.
• $65 Hulu+Live TV: You'll get access to 65 live tv channels while having all the Hulu VODs commercial-free.

Disney+

Even though Disney+ is a relatively new addition to the Streaming services, it's not behind in the competition at all. Disney+ is a heaven for all the Disney lovers out there. It has all the Disney movies including ones from Pixar. It also has exclusive shows like WandaVision and The Mandalorian. It stores about 7000 episodes of TV shows and over 500 movie titles including the whole Marvel Cinematic World and Star Wars Galaxy. There are also programs available in  4K Ultra HD with HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos.

Disney+ is available in two plans:

• Monthly plan and 
• Yearly plan.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime is mostly popular for its gigantic storehouse of movies and TV series. It stores 18,405 movies and 1,981 TV shows including the hit originals invincibles, The Boys, Jack Ryan, Hanna. Amazon Prime is now trying to outcompete Netflix. They're also offering Showtime and STARZ subscriptions at reduced prices with a Prime account. Many of the titles support 4K HDR format including Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.

Amazon Prime offers a membership fee of $12 per month. Prime Video is a $9 monthly subscription. But you'll get the whole package for a $119 yearly membership fee including Prime's two days shipping policy.

Apple TV+

Apple TV+ is one of the most reasonable streaming services out there. Apple TV+ is a bit different to that of other streaming services. It only shows original TV shows and movies. Popular shows include Central Park, Home Before Dark, The Snoopy Show and Golden Globe-winning Ted Lasso. 

Apple is available only at a monthly subscription fee of $5. But you'll get one year free if you buy any Apple device.

Sounds (speaker and/or surround sound ideas)

The trend of going wireless has also touched the realm of speakers. As technology advanced, televisions started getting thinner. This caused the TVs to lose their capability of producing loud and clear sound.

This is where Wireless Speakers come into the picture. Also, what's the point of entertainment if you can't have clear and smooth audibility? So the best option for you is to opt for a wireless sound system.

Also note that all the latest devices (TVs, streaming boxes) support the Ultra HD Dolby Atmos and DTSX format. So we're mentioning all the devices that support this:

Sonos Beam- Smart TV Sound Bar

The Sonos Beam is very popular despite being pricey. Being only 25.6 inches, the Sonos Beam can easily fit anywhere you want it to. Other features include:

• It can be easily connected to wi-fi and set up using the Sonos App.
• It can be used for Movies, podcasts, Music from TVs, mobile phones etc.
• It has Amazon Alexa as voice support. It can be controlled by remote or voice commands.
• It produces crystal clear, HD sound.

JBL Bar 5.1 Ultra HD Sound Bar

JBL Bar 5.1 is unique because of how it's built. The features are:

• It has two separable speakers. Those are battery powered and have 10 hours of runtime. It takes 3 hours to charge. They are always charged when connected to the main system.
• The speakers can be placed anywhere you want depending on the range. This gives us a home theatre system.
• It has a thrilling bass from a 10-inch subwoofer.
• It supports Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic 2 along with DTS..
• It supports wireless music streaming from any device through Bluetooth.

Final Thoughts

Cord-cutting can be a crucial decision to make. But it definitely isn't that hard to make, especially when you have all these options and alternatives right in front of you.

With the impressive development of technology, it's safe to say that all the wires will soon vanish. Streaming boxes and services will keep getting better and you'll have a wider range of options.

However, the ultimate decision is with you.

Don't just jump in on the trend if you want to save money and you calculate your cable connection to be less costly than that of the alternatives. But if you're looking for multidimensional options, get on the bus, a hectic adventure is awaiting you!