It used to be that the only way to get cable was through a cable company or satellite dish. Now, as long as you have access to high-speed Internet service, you can stream movies, TV shows, and sports right to your TV. Many people choose this option in addition to their cable subscription. But can you completely replace the cable?
First of all, it depends on the type of TV you have. Any new digital TV can be connected directly to your laptop with the correct cables. You can then stream movies, music, TV, whatever you want, from your computer to your TV. Some newer TVs come with certain built-in apps, like Netflix and Pandora.
If you have an older TV that doesn’t have a digital input and output, then there are other devices you can use to stream to your TV. Roku is a little black box that exists only to stream to TVs. It has a simple interface and you can stream a variety of TV shows, movies, and sports channels. Gaming consoles, like Xbox, also give you the ability to stream certain online apps on your TV.
As for the price, there are two things you should keep in mind. First, how much will it cost to get your computer ready for streaming. This will be the cost of the cables for a digital TV or a Roku or game console for your old TV. In some cases it may be a matter of a few dollars, but in others it may cost hundreds. Remember that some streaming devices, like game consoles, will provide more entertainment than just TV.
Next, you need to consider the current price. Netflix isn’t free, and Hulu only offers certain shows for free before you need to upgrade to Hulu Plus. If you subscribe to multiple streaming services, they may end up costing more than your cable subscription. However, please note that these streaming options give you the opportunity to watch shows at any time after they air. Although, in most cases, you cannot see them live.
Finally, think about how convenient it will be for you to stream directly to your TV. For example, if you plan to stream from your laptop to your TV, this will mean that every time you want to watch something on TV, you won’t be able to use your laptop. A person who normally multitasks and wants to chat with friends online while watching TV will not get the most benefit from this.
The truth is that while high-speed Internet service gives us access to these streaming options, they’re not always the best way to replace cable altogether. On the other hand, someone who is only interested in a few TV shows or channels may find it a much more affordable option. The bottom line is that it’s up to you to assess your personal needs, installation costs, and the monthly fees you’ll end up paying.