Guide to Streaming

Here's What You Should Know

Some consumers may choose to forgo a traditional television subscription and instead select individual internet-based streaming services in an effort to save money. This trend is continuing to grow as consumers look for ways to avoid the one-size-fits-all options from cable providers, especially now that so many streaming service options are available.

While going all in on streaming gives consumers freedom of choice, there is no single way to become a streaming-only household. Instead, consumers need to learn about the options at hand – from selecting the correct equipment and internet package to choosing the right streaming service to get the channels you need. Even so, the end goal is the same: to save money with streaming. Below, the experts at SmartMove run through all the factors that you need to consider as you begin the journey of discovering if making the move to streaming is right for you!

How to Make the Move to Streaming

Sorting through all the available streaming services advice on the web is a challenge -- what works for one person may not be the appropriate collection of services for everyone. That’s why SmartMove has gathered information about the many essential aspects of streaming services to help you make the best decision possible. What do you need to make the move to streaming only? Start with gathering the correct hardware, finding the right internet package for your streaming needs, and comparing available streaming services to fulfill your watching needs!

Find the right Internet Package for you?

If you’re expecting to stream your television, you’ll need home Internet service along with a wi-fi router to connect all your devices. Recommended speed will differ based on how many devices you plan on connecting at once but experts agree that 25Mbps might be a good starting point. Find the right internet package for cord cutting for you here!

Find the right Streaming Services

You’ll need to replace the content from your traditional cable subscription by selecting a streaming platform. It’s important to do your research on what each streaming service costs as well as what’s included such as the different packages, available channels, DVR storage space, supported devices, and number of devices available. Learn more about the best cord cutting streaming services here!

Find the Equipment You Need

Cord cutting starts with having the right equipment to access your new streaming channels by downloading their apps. If you don’t have a Smart TV, you’ll need to consider buying a Roku Streaming Stick or Amazon’s Fire TV Stick. An antenna is an additional option to broadcast free local channels such as ABC, CNS, NBC, Fox, and PBS. Learn more about the equipment you need to cut the cord here!

What are the Challenges to Streaming Only?

While streaming only has the potential to save money on monthly bills, there are a few challenges that make it more difficult than the traditional Cable Bundle. Some of the more noteworthy challenges include:

Channel Surfing
Channel surfing and instantaneous switching is not the same with streaming services.  While they do include a guide to view live channels, the switch between channels may buffer or be slower than cable.  This isn’t a deal-breaker, but be prepared for your TV viewing habits to shift.

Live Sports and Local News
There are two large issues with watching sports on streaming services.  First, live sports are shown on a significant delay, so you’ll need to beware of spoilers. Secondly, sports availability differs drastically across services, meaning you’ll need to subscribe to a number of services to have complete sports coverage. On the same note, ensuring you get your favorite local news is a challenge for all streaming services. You'll need to review the channel lists for each streaming service provider to see what is available in your area.

Streaming Gaps
As with live sports, it’s a challenge to completely replicate a traditional TV package with streaming options. Unless you purchase a number of different streaming services, you’ll end up with some gaps in channels, meaning you’ll miss out on some of your favorite entertainment.

Increasing Prices
Saving money is one of the main drivers for moving to streaming only, but with prices for individual services continuing to increase, the equation may not add up anymore.

More Bills
With a traditional cable bundle, you have a singular bill to pay and track.  If you choose to shift to streaming services only, prepare to have a number of bills to monitor each month. Streaming only is a more difficult of an undertaking for the disorganized or forgetful.

Will streaming only save me money?

There are arguments for both sides. Some believe that to truly replicate what a traditional cable package offers, you’ll end up paying more per month. Others believe that when done right, making the move to streaming only can easily save money each month. It’s truly up to each individual to do the research and crunch the numbers to see if forgoing a traditional cable bundle is right for you.

How to Stream Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best option for cutting the cord?

There is no one size fit all option for cord cutting that stands out as the “best”. Instead, SmartMove recommends exploring all the options for internet, streaming services, and equipment to find the option that gives you the entertainment you need within your budget.

Do I need internet if I cut the cord?

Yes, internet service is an essential component of cutting the cord. SmartMove recommends a speed of at least 25Mbps for clear streaming, however this speed depends on the number of devices in your household.

What equipment do I need to cut the cord?

To successfully cut the cord, you’ll need an internet connection, a Smart TV or Media Device, and a subscription to one of the many streaming service options.