Know more
Why pay more for cable?
So, what is the cheapest way to watch TV without cable in 2024? Let us explore the best options!
In today’s world, paying hefty cable bills does not make sense when there are plenty of affordable, even free, alternatives to watch TV. As cable prices continue to skyrocket, more people are cutting the cord and seeking cost-effective ways to still enjoy quality entertainment. Whether you are a sports fan, binge-watcher, or news junkie, there is a cheap TV option for you.
Best budget-friendly streaming options
The key to saving money while still getting great content is switching to affordable streaming services. Here is a look at the top streaming options that will help you ditch cable without sacrificing your favorite shows.
Free streaming services
Free streaming platforms are the most cost-effective way to watch TV. While these services might not give you access to every blockbuster show, they offer a solid variety of movies, TV series, and even live TV.
- Pluto TV: Pluto TV is completely free and features a lineup of live channels as well as on-demand shows and movies. You can stream everything from sports to news to kids’ shows.
- Tubi: Another great free service, Tubi, offers a massive library of content with genres for everyone—comedy, drama, action, you name it.
- Crackle: Crackle provides free movies and TV shows, including some original content, all without any subscription fees.
These free services can be watched through smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices, making them easily accessible for anyone looking to cut costs.
Affordable subscription services
If you are willing to pay a small monthly fee, some subscription services are significantly cheaper than cable but still offer a wide range of content. Here are some of the most budget-friendly options:
- Hulu (With Ads): At just $7.99 per month, Hulu provides access to current TV episodes, original shows, and a wide variety of movies. It is a steal for anyone looking to stay updated with popular shows without paying a fortune.
- Netflix Basic Plan: Starting at $6.99 per month, Netflix’s basic plan allows you to stream your favourite series and movies. Although it limits you to one device at a time, it is perfect for individuals or small households.
- Disney+: For $7.99 a month, you get access to Disney’s massive content library, including Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic shows and movies—an excellent option for families with children.
Switching to one of these affordable services can easily save you hundreds of dollars a year compared to cable.
Use a digital antenna for free local channels
Remember the days of antennas? Well, they are making a comeback! A digital antenna allows you to access local channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX without any subscription costs. These channels often air live sports, local news, and network TV shows—all for free once you have purchased the antenna.
You can pick up a good-quality antenna for around $30 to $60. The great thing about antennas is that there are no monthly fees, just plug it in, scan for channels, and start watching!
Affordable Streaming Devices
To enhance your viewing experience, streaming devices are a must-have, especially if your TV does not have built-in streaming capabilities. Luckily, these devices are inexpensive and easy to use:
- Amazon Fire Stick: Starting at $29.99, the Fire Stick is an affordable way to turn your regular TV into a smart TV, offering access to a variety of streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
- Roku: With Roku, you can get a device for as low as $29.99, giving you access to free and paid streaming services.
- Google Chromecast: This device, priced at $30, allows you to stream directly from your phone to your TV, making it a convenient and affordable option.
These devices enable you to access free and paid streaming services directly on your television without the need for cable.
Maximizing your savings
Cutting the cord does not just free you from expensive bills—it also opens up opportunities to maximize your savings in other areas. Here is how:
- Mix and Match Free and Paid Services: To get the most bang for your buck, combine a couple of free streaming services with a low-cost subscription. For example, you could pair Pluto TV and Crackle with Hulu’s affordable plan to enjoy both live TV and on-demand content.
- Use Trial Periods: Most streaming services offer free trials. Use these to your advantage by trying out different platforms to see which ones offer the content you enjoy most without committing to monthly payments right away.
- Cancel Subscriptions You Do not Use: Many of us tend to subscribe to services we barely watch. Be honest with yourself—if you are not using a platform, cancel it to save more money.
How much can you save by cutting cable?
The average American pays around $100 to $200 per month for cable. By switching to a mix of free streaming services and a low-cost subscription plan, you could easily bring your monthly costs down to $20-$30.
This means you could be saving up to $2,000 a year—money that could go towards travel, paying off debts, or simply adding to your savings. Cutting the cord is a smart, budget-friendly decision that will not leave you missing out on your favorite content.
The future of TV is affordable
The future of TV is finally here, and it is affordable! This article provides a solution to the question in 2024, What is the cheapest way to watch TV without cable for free in the USA? You no longer have to spend hundreds of dollars on cable just to enjoy your favourite shows and movies. Imagine having access to endless entertainment without those painful monthly bills. Free streaming platforms, budget-friendly subscription services, and simple digital antennas have completely changed the game. Now, you have the freedom to choose what you want to watch when you want to watch it, without feeling trapped by overpriced cable packages.
By cutting the cord, you’re not just saving money, you are taking control. Picture yourself saving hundreds, even thousands, of dollars a year while still enjoying high-quality TV, sports, movies, and more. It feels empowering, doesn’t it? You deserve this freedom. Why pay more when all the entertainment you love is available at a fraction of the cost? The future is bright, and it’s time to embrace a smarter, more affordable way to enjoy TV. Switch today, and start experiencing entertainment on your terms!
