The way we consume television has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Gone are the days of relying on traditional cable or satellite TV for our entertainment needs. With the rise of internet-based TV services, it’s now possible to access a wide range of channels and content without the need for a physical connection. In this article, we’ll explore the various options available for getting TV through the internet and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the switch.
Understanding Internet-Based TV Services
Internet-based TV services, also known as streaming services, use the internet to deliver television content to your device. These services can be accessed through a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices such as Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV.
There are several types of internet-based TV services available, including:
- Live TV streaming services: These services provide live access to TV channels, allowing you to watch your favorite shows and events in real-time. Examples of live TV streaming services include Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Hulu with Live TV.
- On-demand streaming services: These services provide access to a library of TV shows and movies that can be streamed on-demand. Examples of on-demand streaming services include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
- TV network apps: Many TV networks now offer their own apps, which provide access to their content through the internet. Examples of TV network apps include the ABC app, the CBS app, and the NBC app.
Benefits of Getting TV Through the Internet
There are several benefits to getting TV through the internet, including:
- Cost savings: Internet-based TV services are often cheaper than traditional cable or satellite TV, with many services offering free trials or low-cost subscription options.
- Increased flexibility: Internet-based TV services can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to watch TV on-the-go.
- Personalization: Many internet-based TV services offer personalized recommendations, allowing you to discover new shows and movies based on your viewing habits.
- No contracts: Internet-based TV services often don’t require contracts, making it easy to cancel or change your subscription at any time.
How to Get TV Through the Internet
Getting TV through the internet is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Choose an Internet-Based TV Service
The first step is to choose an internet-based TV service that meets your needs. Consider the types of channels and content you want to access, as well as the cost and any additional features you may need.
Some popular internet-based TV services include:
- Sling TV: A live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including ESPN, CNN, and HGTV.
- YouTube TV: A live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news.
- Hulu with Live TV: A live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news, as well as access to Hulu’s on-demand library.
Step 2: Check Your Internet Speed
To ensure a smooth viewing experience, you’ll need a fast and reliable internet connection. A minimum internet speed of 25 Mbps is recommended for streaming TV, although faster speeds may be required for higher-quality streams.
You can check your internet speed using an online speed test tool, such as Speedtest.net. If your internet speed is too slow, you may need to upgrade your internet plan or consider using a different internet service provider.
Step 3: Choose a Device
You’ll need a device to access your internet-based TV service. Popular options include:
- Smartphones and tablets: Many internet-based TV services offer mobile apps, allowing you to watch TV on-the-go.
- Smart TVs: Many smart TVs come with built-in internet-based TV services, such as Netflix and Hulu.
- Streaming devices: Devices such as Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV can be used to access internet-based TV services on your TV.
Step 4: Set Up Your Device
Once you’ve chosen a device, you’ll need to set it up to access your internet-based TV service. This typically involves downloading and installing the service’s app, and then signing in with your account credentials.
Step 5: Start Watching
Once you’ve set up your device, you can start watching TV through the internet. Simply navigate to the app, select the channel or show you want to watch, and press play.
Popular Internet-Based TV Services
Here are some popular internet-based TV services:
- Sling TV: A live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including ESPN, CNN, and HGTV. Sling TV starts at $25 per month.
- YouTube TV: A live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news. YouTube TV starts at $50 per month.
- Hulu with Live TV: A live TV streaming service that offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news, as well as access to Hulu’s on-demand library. Hulu with Live TV starts at $54.99 per month.
- Netflix: An on-demand streaming service that offers a wide range of TV shows and movies. Netflix starts at $8.99 per month.
- Amazon Prime Video: An on-demand streaming service that offers a wide range of TV shows and movies, including exclusive Amazon Original content. Amazon Prime Video starts at $8.99 per month.
Conclusion
Getting TV through the internet is a convenient and cost-effective way to access a wide range of channels and content. With a fast and reliable internet connection, a device, and an internet-based TV service, you can start watching TV through the internet today. Whether you’re looking for live TV, on-demand content, or a combination of both, there’s an internet-based TV service that’s right for you.
| Service | Price | Channels | On-Demand Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sling TV | $25 per month | 30+ channels | No |
| YouTube TV | $50 per month | 70+ channels | No |
| Hulu with Live TV | $54.99 per month | 60+ channels | Yes |
| Netflix | $8.99 per month | No | Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | $8.99 per month | No | Yes |
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can start enjoying TV through the internet today. Whether you’re a cord-cutter or just looking for a more convenient way to watch TV, internet-based TV services offer a range of benefits and options to suit your needs.
What is cord-cutting and how does it work?
Cord-cutting refers to the practice of canceling traditional pay television services, such as cable or satellite TV, and instead relying on internet-based streaming services to access TV content. This can include live TV, on-demand movies and shows, and original content from various streaming platforms. Cord-cutting allows users to customize their viewing experience and often save money compared to traditional TV services.
To get started with cord-cutting, you’ll need a stable internet connection and a device to stream content on, such as a smart TV, computer, or mobile device. You can then choose from a variety of streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, or Sling TV, to access the content you want to watch. Many streaming services offer free trials or low-cost subscriptions, making it easy to try out cord-cutting and see if it’s right for you.
What are the benefits of cord-cutting?
One of the main benefits of cord-cutting is cost savings. Traditional pay TV services can be expensive, with monthly bills often exceeding $100. In contrast, streaming services typically offer lower monthly fees, and some services, such as Tubi or Pluto TV, are even free. Cord-cutting also allows users to customize their viewing experience, choosing only the channels and content they want to watch.
Another benefit of cord-cutting is the flexibility it offers. With streaming services, you can watch content on your own schedule, pausing and rewinding as needed. You can also access content on multiple devices, making it easy to watch TV on the go. Additionally, cord-cutting allows users to avoid contracts and cancellation fees, giving them more control over their viewing experience.
What are the different types of streaming services available?
There are several types of streaming services available, each offering a unique set of features and content. Live TV streaming services, such as Sling TV or YouTube TV, offer live access to TV channels, including sports and news. On-demand streaming services, such as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, offer a library of movies and shows that can be streamed at any time.
There are also niche streaming services, such as Crunchyroll or Funimation, which specialize in specific types of content, such as anime or documentaries. Additionally, some streaming services, such as Hulu or CBS All Access, offer a combination of live TV and on-demand content. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a streaming service that meets your viewing needs.
Do I need a smart TV to cut the cord?
No, you don’t necessarily need a smart TV to cut the cord. While smart TVs can make it easy to access streaming services, you can also use other devices to stream content. For example, you can use a streaming device, such as a Roku or Chromecast, to connect your TV to the internet and access streaming services.
You can also use a computer or mobile device to stream content, either by connecting it to your TV with an HDMI cable or by using a wireless streaming device. Additionally, many streaming services offer apps for gaming consoles, such as Xbox or PlayStation, making it easy to access content on your TV without a smart TV.
Can I still watch live sports and news if I cut the cord?
Yes, you can still watch live sports and news if you cut the cord. Many streaming services, such as Sling TV or YouTube TV, offer live access to sports and news channels. You can also use a digital antenna to receive over-the-air broadcasts of local sports and news.
Additionally, some streaming services, such as ESPN+ or NFL Sunday Ticket, offer live access to sports content. You can also use a streaming service, such as Hulu or CBS All Access, to watch live news and sports. While the options may be limited compared to traditional pay TV, there are still many ways to access live sports and news without a cable subscription.
How do I choose the right streaming services for me?
To choose the right streaming services for you, consider what type of content you want to watch. If you’re interested in live TV, look for services that offer live access to channels. If you prefer on-demand content, consider services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video. You should also consider the cost of each service and whether it fits within your budget.
You can also read reviews and compare features to find the best streaming services for your needs. Many streaming services offer free trials, so you can try out a service before committing to a subscription. Additionally, you can use online tools, such as streaming service comparison charts, to help you make an informed decision.
Can I use multiple streaming services at the same time?
Yes, you can use multiple streaming services at the same time. In fact, many cord-cutters use a combination of services to access the content they want to watch. For example, you might use Netflix for movies and TV shows, Hulu for live TV, and Amazon Prime Video for original content.
Using multiple streaming services can give you access to a wider range of content and allow you to customize your viewing experience. However, it’s worth considering the cost of each service and whether using multiple services will fit within your budget. You should also consider the complexity of using multiple services and whether it will be easy to navigate between them.