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Are you looking for money-saving cable alternatives to save money on cable and TV?
You are a hard worker and your cable costs are eating you alive.
I mean, cable TV should not cost $200/month.
Am I right?
How can you ACTUALLY save money on cable.
Let me tell you, there are ways to lower your cable expense without sacrificing your entertainment and continue indulging in TV and movies?
Curiousity sparked?
Take a look at these 15 crazy good and money-saving cable TV alternatives that will make your wallet happy.
Finally, Cutting Out the Cable FOR GOOD!
Cable is the main form of entertainment for a lot of families. Definitely mine.
In fact, growing up, I thought I could NEVER go without cable.
I mean, who doesn’t enjoy film and movies?
Everybody right?
Not quite, haha..but still, a TON of people cannot give up their daily soaps, or stop indulging in primetime or their evening dose of reality television.
How can cutting the cable mean you can STILL enjoy those television shows and movies?
How I Saved Money Cutting the Cable
I did it!
A few years ago, I let go of cable.
I had to, to be honest. The cable bill was over $200/month.
It was mindboggling.
I couldn’t believe how it ballooned that high.
My first apartment when I was in college had FREE cable.
I don’t even know if they have apartment complexes like that anymore.
My next apartment cable was $50/month.
It included the standard 77 channels, no extras, and that was that.
Expensive Cable and How it Eats Your Wallet
Cable can cost MUCH more than that today.
Fifty bucks seems like a dream (not anymore, keep reading).
I have been cableless for years now and when I called my internet provider recently to ask some questions, they tried upselling me on a cable/internet package, at a whopping $324.
COME ON!
Now, that did include internet and cable but, sheesh, I pay less than half that now.
Is it worth it?
Absolutely not! Cable will eat your wallet. Don’t let it!
Is it worth it?
Here is how I finally cut the cable!
How I Finally Cut the Cable
Enough was enough and I decided to abandon my cable.
Like I said above, my bill was over $200/month and the cost alone made me sick to my stomach.
My package included all the main channels (around 77 or so), plus some premium channels (like Showtime), along with a couple cable boxes.
I really never explored looking at cableless options.
I thought I would be giving up something to go cableless. Not the case!
I have a true love of television and movies. I did not want to be unhappy, and give up beloved TV just for the sake of saving money.
I mean, I was so serious about it, I considered cutting other costs first, just to make more room in my budget for expensive cable TV.
Maybe you’re like this too.
If you are..
keep reading….
I gave it a try and today, years later, I only spend around $45/month on an alternative cable provider.
Check out these 15 cable TV alternatives.
Money-Saving Cable TV Alternatives
These cable TV alternatives are:
- Convenient
- Compatible with most smart TV’s
- Money-saving
- Easy to get
- Beginner-friendly
What’s Required to Sign-up with A Cable TV Alternative?
These alternative cable TV providers use streaming to deliver TV and movies to your living room, or wherever your TV rests in your home.
So, you will need internet access.
Most do not require special equipment, like a cable box but if equipment is required, it will be disclosed.
The cable alternatives I have personally tried do not require equipment.
The Benefits of Cable TV Alternative?
SOOOO many incredible benefits from:
- Fast streaming television and movies
- On-demand television programming
- DVR
- Rent or own options (for movies)
- Ability upgrade or downgrade with ease
And, a lot of these companies offer a FREE TRIAL, which you will absolutely love.
Test drive the service, see if you like, then commit. Take a look!
1. Netflix
Netflix is one of the most notable streaming television services that you’ve probably already heard of.
Netflix is known for their affordable plans, their huge selection of movies and television shows and the ability to watch on TV, computer, tablet and mobile phone!
They offer a FREE 3-day trial and once you become a paid member, you can get all of this:
- No monthly contract
- Pick your package
- Stream anywhere including mobile tablet, and TV
- Big selection of media available: TV shows, movies, and more
Netflix is a streaming plan that I have personally used. I love how you can create multiple profiles, name them and add an image. Check out more on Netflix here.
2. Hulu
Hulu gives you the power of streaming right at your fingertips. They have super low plans starting at just $6 per month. No joke!
Their middle plan is just $11.99 per month, at the time of this writing.
Hulu is more movie-centric I think. I’ve tried them as well and love them just as much as the other streaming services. Others are more TV-centric and this one, Hulu is definitely more all about movies, while they still have a cool TV programming selection including popular premium channels like Starz and Showtime.
Hulu Originals.
Have you heard of them?
These are Hulu original programming available with Hulu, like the famous Handmaid’s Tale.
If you are a fan of network originals, this will get you excited because they have a HUGE SELECTION of Hulu Originals.
What about Hulu is awesome?
- No hidden fees
- No equipment needed or installation appointments
- Budget-pleasing monthly packages
- Unlimited access to Hulu’s streaming library
- Watch on your favorite devices
- Switch plans and/or cancel anytime
3. Sling TV
Sling is streaming television that lets you pick and choose the cable elements you want, all at affordable pricing.
They call it a la carte television.
You can pick various packages like:
- Lifestyle Extras
- Sports package
- Kids package
- And more!
It’s easy to plug and play, upgrading or downgrading and making adjustments to your television package whenever you’d like.
They offer an AMAZING discount for the first month. Currently it’s 40% off!
Access to a ton of different programming and channels like:
- News
- Reality television
- Cooking
- Dramas
- Primetime
Peaked your interest?
Sling is one of the companies I have personally tried. We had a great experience with them and still use them today!
We started with them with a 30 day trial that came with a TV purchase we made over the holidays.
Learn more about Sling.
4. DirectTV Now
Many may not know about the streaming services available with DirectTV Now. Get your shows and movies on demand, anytime, anywhere.
Enjoy DirectTV’s:
- No equipment required
- No contracts
- Unlimited
- Affordable monthly packages
Pricing falls in the $50/mo range and you can definitely save money on cable costs with DirectTV Now.
5. YouTube TV
Did you know that YouTube as YouTube TV?
You get your choice of live television from over 70 networks, no cable required!
- No cable box required
- Personalized DVR
- No storage limits
- Live sports, news, and shows from 70+ channels
- Affordable monthly subscription
- 6 household member limit
The price?
Just $49.99/month. Learn more about YouTube TV.
6. Philo
Philo TV is up next.
I recently gave them a try.
I was searching on my Amazon Fire Stick for a cartoon for my son and they had it available, but on Philo. So I did a trial. It was neat because it’s all synced through your cell phone, which is different, but I liked it.
They have some movies and shows I couldn’t find on other streaming services.
Super affordable pricing at around $20/month, which you will totally love.
Philo will include:
- Your selection of 58 channels
- Live and on-demand TV
- Unlimited recording
- Watch anywhere on all your devices (like TV, tablet, etc.)
Check them out to see what else they have in store!
7. Playstation Vue
The most extraordinary streaming live TV experience, according to Playstation Vue. Get local news, live sports and TV channels you love on your favorite compatible devices.
They offer 4 competitive packages: Access, Core, Elite and Ultra, ranging from $44.99 to $79.99 per month.
Here are some of the features included:
- Cloud DVR
- 5 simultaneous streams
- Multi-view capabilities
- Channel favoriting
- Access TV anywhere
- Compatible with many devices including Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and more.
Sound interesting?
Learn more about Playstation Vue.
8. FuboTV
Fubo TV is all about live TV and sports without cable.
You can gain access to tons of your favorites in movies and television, with over 100 channels and on-demand options at a low monthly subscription.
They offer an awesome 7-day FREE trial plus, all this…
- Cloud DVR included free
- 3-Day Replay for games and more
- Family share, for more streams for more people
Learn more on FuboTV here.
9. Amazon Prime Video
My sister and I were just talking about Prime Video recently.
She was saying how she didn’t watch the movies and TV shows as often as she’d like, and I am the total opposite. It’s a part of my Amazon Prime membership so I take advantage of ALL the movie and film options.
Not to mention, my son can find endless TV shows to watch, like the ones you see above in the screenshot..
- Dino Dano
- Wishenpoof
- Pete the Cat
- And, more!
I love the Amazon Original Kids series they offer. He is in love with several of the series. It’s great.
If you’re an Amazon Prime member then you have access to Prime Video as a part of your membership!
I watch it on my TV (I have a Smart TV) but you can also watch on your cell phone or tablet.
If you don’t have Amazon Prime and wanna watch this on it’s own, without a Prime membership, it is only $9/month.
There is a huge selection of options in their video library and you even have the option to rent or buy certain movies or series, with just a few clicks.
Check out more on Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming TV for Film Afficionados
Do you love anime or in love with certain TV networks?
If so, these next TV streaming options are totally for you.
Find your favorites from our lineup below.
10. CONTV
If you have a love of classic cartoons and/or anime, CONTV is what you are looking for. Perfect for Comic-con members.
What’s Included:
- Free and paid versions available
- Affordable monthly options for paid members
- Compatible with iOS, Android, Xbox, and Roku
Access to your favorite classics like: Popeye, Digimon, Sonic, Mario Bros. and more.
Check out CONTV to review.
11. Crunchyroll
My sis and Dad are both Crunchyroll members and my husband is considering joining as well!
You can get unlimited access to anime and manga films. If you love anime, this is the streaming subscription service you want.
The perks?
- Ad-free programming
- FREE 14-day trial
- Mega library of tons of movies and shows
- Simulcasts from Japan
- Affordable plans starting at around $8/month
Take a look at Crunchyroll to learn more!
12. HBO Now
If you’re an HBO lover like me, you’ll be in heaven.
Your favorites like Game of Thrones and Chernobyl are available at your fingertips. Tons of shows and movies at an affordable monthly rate. Unlimited access with your membership.
You get HBO now from the HBO website or subscription providers like Hulu or Amazon Prime. Also available through internet providers like Liberty, or whoever your internet provider may be.
Enjoy a FREE 7-day trial and pay around $15/month after that.
Other Premium Channel providers like Showtime and Cinemax offer the same.
13. Hallmark Movies NOW
My mom was a huge fan of Hallmark movies.
Something about them, just reels you in.
From mysteries, to love stories and romantic comedies, you will love the channel lineup here.
- Hallmark Movies & Mysteries
- Hallmark Hall of Fame
- Hollywood Favorites
What you get?
- Commercial-free, unlimited access
- New films added often
- Access to TV and movies anytime, anywhere
Watch uninterrupted, commercial free movies and films on Chromecast, Roku, Android TV, and other devices through the Hallmark Movies NOW app.
Affordably priced, starting at $4.99/month, after the 7-day FREE trial. Learn more about Hallmark Movies NOW.
FREE TV
Did you know you can watch TV and movies, totally free? If you want to whittle your cable bill down to nothing, take a look at these money-saving alternatives:
14. Library
Do you know about your local library? It’s an amazing place to get FREE TV shows and movies.
Many folks don’t know this but with your library card, you can check out movies. Some libraries even have an online system where you can watch TV and movies online. Make sure to look at your local library to see what options they have available.
15. YouTube
YouTube, not YouTube TV is a place with an endless amount of media to stay entertained for hours.
You can watch lifestyle vlogs, DIY tutorials, and all kinds of TV for free. I call it TV but it’s real people like you and me, that are making free videos for filming.
My favorites to watch on YouTube?
- A day in the life videos
- Vlogs
- Mukbangs
- ASMR
A day in the life videos are just super interesting to me. These are like..a day in the life as a nurse, a day in the life as a flight attendant, a day in the life as a digital marketer, etc. It’s really interesting to get a behind the scenes, insider look at other professions and what the day-to-day looks like for other careers.
Vlogs are like watching reality TV. They are super entertaining and you will find that the creators do challenges, pranks and all kind of stuff to really keep their audience happy. There are a ton of these and some of the recent ones I’ve watched were:
- I’m ordering what the person in front of me ordering
- I’m ordering every cheesecake at Cheesecake Factory
- I’m pretending I fainted to see what my partner does
- I’m pranking my partner that I’m cheating on them
There is really a huge array of different vlogs you can find and some of the channels have hundreds of videos on them so you will be entertained forever.
Mukbangs are where you watch people eat food. Like, they will get every drink at Starbucks and sample them, telling you their favorites and what they think. Or, they will cook crab legs and corn, sit, eat and chat with the camera.
It makes you feel a real connection to the YouTuber and it’s somewhat satisfying to watch other people eat, imagining what the food tastes like or just the interaction. If you haven’t seen mukbangs, they are super popular.
Lastly ASMR, which is growing like wildfire.
ASMR is the tingling feeling you may get when you watch someone brush another person’s hair, or eat ice or eat food or watch another person get a massage. There are a ton of different “triggers” and there is no shortage of supply of ASMR videos on YouTube.
YouTube is free. You can watch an unlimited number of videos from your TV, phone, computer or tablet so enjoy!
Please follow our YouTube channel
15. Library
Your local library is a great resource for free television and movies. A lot of people forget that you can borrow movies and TV series from your local library in-person or even online. Don’t miss out on this amazing resource.
How to Save Money Cutting The Cable
What did you think of these 15 streaming TV/movie options? There are a ton of ways to get affordable TV and film.
If you just aren’t ready to make that move, what can you do to lower your cable bill?
- Downgrade services
- Switch providers
- Try negotiation for a lower price
Downgrading Services
This means you will be cutting back on the services you have in your cable plan for the purposes of saving money.
This could include:
- Reducing the number of channels you have
- Removing premium channels
- Removing DVR
- Cutting back on the number of cable boxes you have
- Cutting back on the number of on-demand rent or own purchases you make
Switching Providers
Switching providers can be a big move but it could be very worth it.
Here is how you entertain this:
First, call around some competitors.
Did you know that it costs far more to gain a new customer than it does to keep an existing customer?
So when cable providers get a call from prospective customers, they pull out all the bells and whistles to reel them in.
This could include perks like:
- Gift card
- Discounted rate
- Free equipment
- Other freebies
These perks can add up to hundreds of dollars so they can make the change worth it, alone.
Once you get quotes from competitors, if they beat what your current provider is offering, use that as leverage to negotiate!
Negotiation
Did you know that you can negotiate with your utility providers?
Including your cable provider!
I have had success with this and in fact, my success rate has been 100% with my former cable provider.
Call your cable company and ask for a lower rate.
As I said earlier, it’s a lot more expensive to gain a new customer than keep a current one, so they are willing to do whatever they can, to keep you and your business in house.
Use this to your advantage to get discounts, new customer perks and more.
Final Word
Whoo, there you go!
I hope you’ve gained from this, that there are options for helping you lower your cable cost. With these 15 cable TV alternatives, you have plenty to choose from to help you cut your cable without having to sacrifice entertainment.
Have you tried a cable TV alternative?
Let us know what you thought, down below!