Why Cut the Cord?
Cable and satellite TV packages have become increasingly expensive, often charging for hundreds of channels most viewers never watch. Cord cutting — the practice of canceling traditional pay TV in favor of internet-based streaming — can significantly reduce your monthly entertainment bill while giving you more control over what you watch and when.
Step 1: Audit What You Actually Watch
Before canceling anything, spend two weeks tracking which channels and shows you actually watch. You might discover you primarily use only a handful of channels. This list will guide your streaming service choices.
Ask yourself:
- Do I watch live sports? If so, which leagues?
- Do I watch local news or live events?
- Which specific shows am I unwilling to give up?
- Do I need cable for any family members with specific preferences?
Step 2: Check Your Internet Connection
Streaming relies entirely on your internet connection. Without cable TV, you'll be putting more demand on your broadband. Ensure you have:
- At least 25 Mbps for a single 4K stream
- 50–100 Mbps for households with multiple simultaneous streams
- An unlimited data plan (streaming uses significant data — around 3GB/hour for HD)
Step 3: Get a TV Antenna for Free Local Channels
One of the most overlooked cord-cutting tools is a simple digital TV antenna. For a one-time cost of $20–$50, you can receive free over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts of local ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, and PBS affiliates in HD. This covers local news, sports, and major network shows without any subscription.
Step 4: Choose Your Streaming Services
Based on your watching habits from Step 1, build your streaming stack:
| Need | Recommended Service(s) |
|---|---|
| General entertainment | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video |
| Live TV replacement | Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV |
| Sports | ESPN+, Peacock, Paramount+ |
| Family & kids | Disney+ |
| Prestige/HBO content | Max |
| Free option | Tubi, Pluto TV, Peacock Free |
Step 5: Get a Streaming Device
If your TV isn't a smart TV, you'll need a streaming device. Popular options include:
- Roku Streaming Stick – Affordable, easy to use, massive app library
- Amazon Fire TV Stick – Great if you use Amazon ecosystem
- Apple TV 4K – Best for Apple users; premium build quality
- Google Chromecast with Google TV – Excellent interface and Google integration
Step 6: Cancel Your Cable Subscription
Call your cable provider and request a cancellation. Be prepared for:
- Retention offers (they'll likely offer discounts to keep you)
- Early termination fees if you're under contract — factor these into your savings calculation
- A request to return equipment like cable boxes and remotes
How Much Can You Save?
The average cable TV bill exceeds $100/month. A well-chosen streaming stack typically costs $40–$70/month, depending on the services you choose. That's a potential saving of $400–$700 per year — and you gain the flexibility to adjust your services month to month.
Final Thoughts
Cord cutting isn't about deprivation — it's about spending your entertainment budget on what you actually watch. Start lean, add services as needed, and don't be afraid to cancel and resubscribe based on what's airing. The flexibility is the point.