'cord cutting' online streaming
Kennemer, Q. and Cohen, S. (2019). Kill your cable and switch to streaming with our guide to painless cord-cutting. [online] Digital Trends. Available at: https://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/how-to-quit-cable-for-online-streaming-video/ [Accessed 20 Sep. 2019].
(Kennemer and Cohen, 2019)
Research:
Notes:
Web Tv
I would like to further research in the idea of Google, Alexa, and Apple becoming ecosystem
The Good:
You get a choice in the content you want to watch (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019).
The Bad:
Potential for there to become internet traffic; causing less quality streams (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019).
Tv Prime Time may become effected; causing high levels of internet traffic at popular viewing times (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019).
To get access to multiple types of content, you may need multiple streaming services that can add up being as costly as traditional tv (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019).
Live-streamed online tv is not as reliable as cable television (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019).
On-demand services:
Netflix
Hulu
Amazon Prime
YouTube
HBO
ChromeCast
Show Time
Sony Crackle
Disney+
YouTube Tv
Sony Play station Vue
Multiple live Tv streaming services:
Sling Tv
ESPN PLUS
DirectTVNow
YouTube Tv
PlayStation Vue
Convergence:
'the Fire TV Cube still makes a great option as it allows you to slip into the Alexa ecosystem, and it also adds Prime music and video content for Amazon Prime subscribers. '(Kennemer and Cohen, 2019)
'Chromecast, the wildly popular streaming dongle, doesn’t have a remote or on-screen menu, instead of using your smartphone or tablet to “cast” content at your TV'(Kennemer and Cohen, 2019)
'seeing all of the service’s latest shows, including Game of Thrones, Westworld, Silicon Valley, Veep, and more, all at the same time as they appear on the traditional service.' (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019)
-Google ecosystem (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019).
- Alexa ecosystem (Kennemer and Cohen, 2019).
Quotes
Streaming is hotter than ever these days, with on-demand services such as Netflix, Hulu, and a litany of others, along with multiple live TV streaming services such as Sling TV, ESPN Plus, DirecTV Now, YouTube TV and PlayStation Vue, all looking to capitalize on the cord-cutting phenomenon.
The thing about internet-delivered TV is that you need a broadband connection that’s copacetic with the streaming lifestyle. This may seem like a foregone conclusion, but we want to make it clear that if you’re going to bet your precious entertainment future on your network, you had better have a solid hookup. Netflix and other similar streaming video services suggest a minimum downstream speed of 5Mbps for HD streaming, but that simply is not going to hack it for most folks, especially those with families streaming more than one show or movie at a time.
Consider that 5Mbps may get you one HD video stream, but you may experience loading and buffering delays if your network is getting choked up with any other traffic. Of course, if you’re looking to get into the streaming big leagues to access the growing array of 4K Ultra HD streaming content available from Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, and others, you’ll want to kick up your broadband speed to at least 25Mbps. Cable TV doesn’t interrupt your show to buffer, so you don’t want to get unnecessarily frustrated. If you’re only going to be downloading 4K content from sites like FandangoNow or Ultraflix, 10Mbps will probably suffice, but fast and reliable internet is key to a positive streaming experience.
We also recommend testing your internet speed at peak streaming hours (between 6 – 10 p.m. weekdays) to determine if your neighborhood struggles under the strain of heavy traffic. For instance, if you routinely get around 10Mbps downloads during the day, but that figure takes a dive to about 3Mbps around dinner time, you’ll want to call your internet provider to see if anything can be done.
The ClearStream Eclipse has some of the best-rated performance in its class. The antenna is multi-directional, powerful, and surprisingly versatile. The Eclipse comes in four separate versions: 35, 50, 60, and 70-mile variations, so you’ll be able to snag a model that best suits your location. The double-sided adhesive mounting surface is black on one side and white on the other, and it can be painted over so you’ll be able to integrate it into any decor. The circular design of the antenna is unique and provides an advantage in being better at picking up UHF signals (a type of HD TV signal) than most other indoor antennas. Plus, it’s multidirectional, so finding an ideal configuration where the signal is clearest is easy. We like the Leaf Metro because its small profile easily tucks away, without sacrificing much functionality. Though its range is limited to approximately 25 miles, it’s perfect for those living in smaller apartments or rented rooms, especially in urban environments where over-air TV signals are plentiful. To compound the versatility enabled by its tiny size, the antenna comes in either black or white, and you can also paint it to match your interior. Plus, its adhesive coating means it will stick to almost any surface and can be moved to other locations with ease. An included 10-foot coaxial cable allows for a fairly flexible installation.
The Channel Master FLATenna Duo is another highly affordable antenna and performs nearly as well as other models five or six times its price. The FLATenna Duo has a range of 35 miles, and its simple design is also multidirectional. The antenna offers easy attachment to windows or walls — wherever it picks up signals (and fits) best.
You might have a Blu-ray player or smart TV with streaming apps on board, but many of these offer a pretty dismal streaming experience. Newer TVs from Samsung and LG have pretty impressive smart interfaces, and Roku TVs such as TCL’s 6-Series are fantastic for all-in-one streaming. If you own one of these, perfect, otherwise, if you’re going to transition to a full-time streaming entertainment plan you may want a separate device purpose-built for the job.
The Amazon Fire TV has gone through a few iterations now, getting better with each one. Currently, Amazon offers several models, including the top-of-the-line Fire TV Cube. It’s a veritable revolution in streaming boxes, offering simple operation, as well as the ability to control your entire home theater and smart home system with your voice. That includes the ability to turn on and control basic functionality on other devices, including not only your TV but also your A/V receiver and even your cable box thanks to CEC control and IR blasters — all with the power of your own voice. The result earned the Cube a perfect score in our recent review and a place on our TV console.
The ClearStream Eclipse has some of the best-rated performance in its class. The antenna is multi-directional, powerful, and surprisingly versatile. The Eclipse comes in four separate versions: 35, 50, 60, and 70-mile variations, so you’ll be able to snag a model that best suits your location. The double-sided adhesive mounting surface is black on one side and white on the other, and it can be painted over so you’ll be able to integrate it into any decor. The circular design of the antenna is unique and provides an advantage in being better at picking up UHF signals (a type of HD TV signal) than most other indoor antennas. Plus, it’s multidirectional, so finding an ideal configuration where the signal is clearest is easy. We like the Leaf Metro because its small profile easily tucks away, without sacrificing much functionality. Though its range is limited to approximately 25 miles, it’s perfect for those living in smaller apartments or rented rooms, especially in urban environments where over-air TV signals are plentiful. To compound the versatility enabled by its tiny size, the antenna comes in either black or white, and you can also paint it to match your interior. Plus, its adhesive coating means it will stick to almost any surface and can be moved to other locations with ease. An included 10-foot coaxial cable allows for a fairly flexible installation.
The Channel Master FLATenna Duo is another highly affordable antenna and performs nearly as well as other models five or six times its price. The FLATenna Duo has a range of 35 miles, and its simple design is also multidirectional. The antenna offers easy attachment to windows or walls — wherever it picks up signals (and fits) best.
You might have a Blu-ray player or smart TV with streaming apps on board, but many of these offer a pretty dismal streaming experience. Newer TVs from Samsung and LG have pretty impressive smart interfaces, and Roku TVs such as TCL’s 6-Series are fantastic for all-in-one streaming. If you own one of these, perfect, otherwise, if you’re going to transition to a full-time streaming entertainment plan you may want a separate device purpose-built for the job.
The Amazon Fire TV has gone through a few iterations now, getting better with each one. Currently, Amazon offers several models, including the top-of-the-line Fire TV Cube. It’s a veritable revolution in streaming boxes, offering simple operation, as well as the ability to control your entire home theater and smart home system with your voice. That includes the ability to turn on and control basic functionality on other devices, including not only your TV but also your A/V receiver and even your cable box thanks to CEC control and IR blasters — all with the power of your own voice. The result earned the Cube a perfect score in our recent review and a place on our TV console.
Voice control is just part of the package, of course. Like just about every modern streaming device worth its salt, the Amazon Fire TV Cube supports 4K HDR picture (though no Dolby Vision here) and Dolby Atmos, so if you’ve opted into the 4K TV adoption craze, you’re in luck. If you haven’t, you’ll be well-prepped should you choose to make the jump in the future.
If you don’t happen to have a house full of Alexa devices (or any at all), the Fire TV Cube still makes a great option as it allows you to slip into the Alexa ecosystem, and it also adds Prime music and video content for Amazon Prime subscribers. Most importantly, it’s just a great all-around streamer and our current favorite on the market. If a Fire TV is right for you, but you don’t need the Cube’s extras, the Fire TV Stick 4K is an excellent alternative.
While every Roku model has its merits, the best of the bunch for our money is the Roku Streaming Stick+. Offering a speedy processor, 4K, HDR, and Dolby Atmos support, and 802.11ac Wi-Fi, this little stick does everything you want for a crazy-low price. (Note: One feature Roku doesn’t support is Dolby Vision, Dolby’s HDR format, so if your TV is Dolby Vision-ready, you may want to look at the other devices on this list.)
While every Roku model has its merits, the best of the bunch for our money is the Roku Streaming Stick+. Offering a speedy processor, 4K, HDR, and Dolby Atmos support, and 802.11ac Wi-Fi, this little stick does everything you want for a crazy-low price. (Note: One feature Roku doesn’t support is Dolby Vision, Dolby’s HDR format, so if your TV is Dolby Vision-ready, you may want to look at the other devices on this list.)
With thousands of available “channels,” Roku’s platform connects to virtually every major streaming service online. More importantly, the interface is very intuitive; you can quickly search for content across providers by actor, series, or movie titles, or the specific genre you’re looking for. The Roku interface will even tell you which services offer what you want for free, and which will charge for it.
Apple’s most recent version of its streaming box, the Apple TV 4K, has it all: 4K UHD resolution, HDR (both HDR10 and Dolby Vision), Dolby Atmos, and 4K content. The Apple TV 4K uses an intuitive touchpad remote, which is designed to operate more like an iPhone, and it can even be used as a gaming remote. The system is also faster than previous models, and the inclusion of 4K makes it a viable alternative to the other options on this list for Apple users. Apple TV boxes come with the Apple TV app, an interface that’s been designed expressly for cord cutters. You can subscribe to and access dozens of paid streaming services from within the app, and soon it will be Apple’s home turf for its Apple TV+ subscription video service.
Apple’s most recent version of its streaming box, the Apple TV 4K, has it all: 4K UHD resolution, HDR (both HDR10 and Dolby Vision), Dolby Atmos, and 4K content. The Apple TV 4K uses an intuitive touchpad remote, which is designed to operate more like an iPhone, and it can even be used as a gaming remote. The system is also faster than previous models, and the inclusion of 4K makes it a viable alternative to the other options on this list for Apple users. Apple TV boxes come with the Apple TV app, an interface that’s been designed expressly for cord cutters. You can subscribe to and access dozens of paid streaming services from within the app, and soon it will be Apple’s home turf for its Apple TV+ subscription video service.
Chromecast, the wildly popular streaming dongle, doesn’t have a remote or on-screen menu, instead of using your smartphone or tablet to “cast” content at your TV. The latest version, the Chromecast Ultra, takes everything handy about earlier models but adds 4K resolution as well as HDR, with both Dolby Vision and HDR10 supported. That said, much like the Fire TV’s relationship with Alexa, the Chromecast is probably going to be the ideal choice for Android users or those deeply ingrained into the Google ecosystem — especially Google Home.
to 4K content with HDR, and Dolby Atmos. Netflix’s catalog offers full TV series from other networks (past seasons only), scores of movies both licensed and produced in-house, and hit original series like Stranger Things, The House on Haunted Hill, and so many more, all of which come commercial-free.
to 4K content with HDR, and Dolby Atmos. Netflix’s catalog offers full TV series from other networks (past seasons only), scores of movies both licensed and produced in-house, and hit original series like Stranger Things, The House on Haunted Hill, and so many more, all of which come commercial-free.
at reduced prices with a Prime account, along with a good selection of streaming content available in both 4K and HDR. Many of its newer titles are available in Dolby Vision and HDR10+, and even more offer Dolby Atmos support. The company also offers video on demand, of course, allowing you to rent or buy newer movies and TV shows. Finally, Amazon , Hulu is best loved for its selection of current seasons of popular TV shows, most of which show up on the site soon after their original air date. For those who want to have their cake and eat it, Hulu also offers a luxurious, commercial-free way to stream its growing catalog of original shows, network content. It will cost you $6 more a month, but we think it’s well worth it if you’re leaving behind the bonds (and ads) of cable.
Hulu also now offers live TV streaming TV
HBO Now’s $15/month price point makes it among the most expensive on-demand service here, but that comes with the benefit of seeing all of the service’s latest shows, including Game of Thrones, Westworld, Silicon Valley, Veep, and more, all at the same time as they appear on the traditional service. Add to that a cascade of past classics, from Sopranos to Deadwood, newer movie releases, popular weekly shows like Real Time with Bill Maher, and This Week Tonight with John Oliver, and virtually everything on the network anytime on demand. It’s worth noting that some live TV streaming services, like DirecTV Now, offer HBO as part of existing packages, or at a discount (see Web TV section, below).
CBS’s premium network has its own streaming service, called simply (and confusingly) Showtime. As the name suggests, you’ll get virtually all the benefits of being a subscriber of Showtime’s cable version for $11 per month, and the service has also made deals to bundle with both Hulu and Amazon Prime at a reduced cost.
HBO Now’s $15/month price point makes it among the most expensive on-demand service here, but that comes with the benefit of seeing all of the service’s latest shows, including Game of Thrones, Westworld, Silicon Valley, Veep, and more, all at the same time as they appear on the traditional service. Add to that a cascade of past classics, from Sopranos to Deadwood, newer movie releases, popular weekly shows like Real Time with Bill Maher, and This Week Tonight with John Oliver, and virtually everything on the network anytime on demand. It’s worth noting that some live TV streaming services, like DirecTV Now, offer HBO as part of existing packages, or at a discount (see Web TV section, below).
CBS’s premium network has its own streaming service, called simply (and confusingly) Showtime. As the name suggests, you’ll get virtually all the benefits of being a subscriber of Showtime’s cable version for $11 per month, and the service has also made deals to bundle with both Hulu and Amazon Prime at a reduced cost.
An on-demand version of much of CBS’s network programming is also offered on CBS All Access, which will run you $6 per month and includes the acclaimed series Star Trek: Discovery.
There are also lesser-known services to consider, such as ESPN+ and Sony Crackle, as well as the highly anticipated Disney+, which will lead off with a live-action Star Wars series produced by Jon Favreau, The Mandalorian, among multiple Marvel Cinematic Universe spinoffs. That’s just the start, too. We’re also anticipating AT&T’s new service with content from Warner Bros. and HBO, Apple’s new service coming this fall, a new service from NBCUniversal slated for 2020, and more. We’ll be monitoring these new options and updating our list as they come online and compete for your dollars.
It’s important to note, however, that the more you spread out your selection, the closer you’ll come to matching (or greatly exceeding) that dastardly cable bill every month. If you’re looking to save real bucks, you’ll probably need to choose two or three of our highlighted services to stay on budget.
Web TV — You get to pick your poison, not have it spoon-fed to you.
Web TV — You get to pick your poison, not have it spoon-fed to you.
Apart from the basic packages, add-on packs like Sports Extra, News Extra, Kids Extra, and other bundles can be added on top. There’s even a respectable selection of movies for rent in HD for $4 each. While the picture may not be quite as reliable as cable or satellite TV (often dependent upon your device), Sling TV is affordable and easy to use, and the reliability has improved remarkably since launch.
Sony’s PlayStation Vue service has moved from its PlayStation bonds to include Chromecast, Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV support.
It’s a no-brainer that the largest video platform in history would build its own live TV streaming service. Like Hulu’s service, YouTube TV offers a single channel package. You’ll get 70-plus channels with a $50 monthly subscription — including sports channels you’d normally have to pay much more for on other services — with the option of supplementing with a small handful of premium add-ons. On top of the TV content, you’ll also get access to all of YouTube’s premium content, which includes YouTube-produced series from popular creators and celebrities. The availability of local affiliates of the big four broadcasters (CBS, ABC, NBC, and Fox) varies by location, but the YouTube TV service is available in all U.S. markets.
It’s a no-brainer that the largest video platform in history would build its own live TV streaming service. Like Hulu’s service, YouTube TV offers a single channel package. You’ll get 70-plus channels with a $50 monthly subscription — including sports channels you’d normally have to pay much more for on other services — with the option of supplementing with a small handful of premium add-ons. On top of the TV content, you’ll also get access to all of YouTube’s premium content, which includes YouTube-produced series from popular creators and celebrities. The availability of local affiliates of the big four broadcasters (CBS, ABC, NBC, and Fox) varies by location, but the YouTube TV service is available in all U.S. markets.
Quitting cable is like dealing with any other kind of lifestyle change: At first, it may be awkward, perhaps even frustrating, but once you’ve grown accustomed to it, it feels natural. No, you won’t be doing much mindless channel surfing anymore, but there’s something satisfying about being more deliberate about your entertainment choices. You get to pick your poison, not have it spoon-fed to you.
While live TV streaming services feel a little more like cable than Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, the cord-cutting experience is very different from what you’re used to, and you should expect an adjustment period. One thing you might find, at least for live TV streaming, is that your feed comes in a bit delayed compared to cable and over-the-air setups. It can be a real downer if you’re trying to watch live events over voice chat with someone who has a cable line. You’ll also feel helpless the first time your internet cuts out at home as reaching for the cable remote to pass time is no longer an option.
When it comes to cord-cutting, the choice is really what it’s all about (because it isn’t really about monstrous savings). With the modern piecemeal delivery method, you can build your entertainment empire as you see fit, choosing from all or none of our suggestions. Once you get the hang of it, there are even more options to choose from, with new selections popping up all the time. So, if you’re tired of being pushed around by cable or satellite companies, and want to make your own way, follow our lead and cut the cord. We did, and we never looked back.
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