Can TV Streaming Replace Cable?

Think about this. Ten years ago, almost everyone you knew probably had cable. But now, streaming has become second nature. It’s no surprise then that traditional TV subscriptions are on the decline. In the U.S., for example, pay TV dropped from 88% in 2010 to just 64% today. And as of mid-2023, around 27% of Americans and Canadians were planning to cancel their cable within the next six months.

With Netflix, Disney+, and other platforms making things so easy, is it time to say goodbye to cable once and for all and switch to TV streaming altogether?

Potential Reasons Why People Are Switching to TV Streaming
Since there are a lot of people who are switching to TV streaming, we have tried to pinpoint the potential reasons a big portion of the population has been choosing streaming over cable. While they’re not a solid indicator that these streaming services can fully replace cable TV, they do show why many viewers find streaming more convenient and enjoyable.

1. TV streaming allows you to watch anytime you want.
With streaming, you don’t have to wait for a show to come on at a specific time, like with regular TV. You can watch it whenever you want. Morning, afternoon, or even late at night. You can even pause, rewind, or skip parts you don’t like. The flexibility it offers is actually the biggest reason so many people are cutting the cord and switching to streaming.

2. You can watch on any device.
You don’t need to be in front of a TV to enjoy your favorite shows anymore. Streaming works on phones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs. That means you can watch at home, on a trip, or even while waiting somewhere. But when you’re streaming outside your home, you will need a capable mobile internet if you don’t have access to WiFi. So if your current mobile plan isn’t up to the task, it’s worth looking into better services like Boost deals, for example.

3. It’s generally cheaper than cable.
Cable TV can cost a lot of money every month, and you might end up paying for channels you never watch. Some streaming platforms are very affordable, and others let you pay monthly without a long contract. So like if you want to cancel your service for a month, you can do so without paying cancellation fees or dealing with penalties. This can save you a lot of money, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

4. It offers a variety of content.
Streaming services have way more choices than regular TV. You can watch cartoons, dramas, comedies, documentaries, and movies from other countries that aren’t on local channels. This is your ideal option if your household has different tastes. Also, there are streaming services that offer live TV channels, so if you’re interested in news or sports or any other live channels, you don’t have to give that up. You get the best of both worlds without paying for more.

So, Can TV Streaming Replace Cable?
It depends on what you need. Streaming is flexible, has lots of shows and movies, and can be cheaper, which makes it a good choice for many people. But cable still has some advantages, like local channels, live sports, and sometimes more reliable service without needing the internet. You just need to assess your specific needs and determine the right service for your home entertainment.

The Bottom Line
Streaming has changed the way we watch TV, which gives people more choices, flexibility, and often lower costs. The best approach is to think about what matters most to you and pick the service that fits your needs. Either way, today’s viewers have more options than ever to enjoy their favorite entertainment.