If you\u2019re among the more than 80 percent of households who still subscribes to cable, you may be getting sick of shelling out an average $100 per month for the service. Today it\u2019s easier than ever to cut the cord and still access the content you enjoy.<\/p>\n
First, you\u2019ll need to get an antenna ($10-20), which will allow you to receive a free, high-definition signal so that you can watch live TV via the broadcast networks.<\/p>\n
Then, unless you have an internet-connected TV, you\u2019ll also need to purchase a device that allows you to access streaming. There are several to select at a variety of price points, but we like the Roku 2, the Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV. The right device for you will depend on your budget, its compatibility with your television, and whether it supports your preferred streaming services.<\/p>\n
Read on for a rundown of popular streaming services, so that you can decide which will best serve your viewing habits. If you\u2019re a heavy TV watcher, you may have to combine more than one service, but you\u2019ll still likely end up spending less than you would on a cable subscription.<\/p>\n
Netflix<\/strong> ($8.99\/month) Amazon Prime<\/strong> (free with Prime membership, $99\/year)
\nPros:<\/em> Netflix has gained a (well-deserved) great reputation for cutting-edge original series, like Orange is The New Black and House of Cards. It\u2019s also got a strong selection of current TV series (usually about a season behind the broadcast) and older movies.
\nCons:<\/em> Movie buffs may find older gems, but the selection of new movies is sparse.<\/p>\n
\nPros:<\/em> A good content selection and has some original programming and a decent-though limited\u2014movie selection. It also offers members access to its streaming music service. If you\u2019re a Prime member anyway for the perks like free two-day delivery, this is great added value.
\nCons:<\/em> You may have to pay extra for first-run movies, and it\u2019s available on fewer devices than Netflix.<\/p>\n