Cable TV vs streaming services: How cable networks can survive in the streaming TV era
Amanda Morgan
November 13, 2024
As streaming platforms like NetFlix, Hulu, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video and Sling TV become more popular, you might be wondering where that leaves your cable subscription.
It's true that cable is having a tough time keeping up with these video streaming services but that doesn't mean that they're done for. In fact, some are actually thriving in this new generation of TV.
In this article, we're taking a look at what on-demand streaming means for the cable consumer and how you can have the best of both worlds. So if your a subscriber who wants to hold onto their cable (and sports channels) but are struggling to deny the allure of Disney Plus, keep reading because we have a solution!
What is cable TV and how does it work?
Cable TV is a type of subscription television service that delivers channels to your TV through a cable connection. cable networks are typically bundled together and delivered to your home through a cable provider, such as Comcast, Spectrum, or Cox.
Cable vs streaming: What does cord-cutting mean?
Cord-cutting refers to the act of cancelling your cable TV subscription in favor of cheaper or more convenient alternatives, like streaming services.
Why are people cutting the cord?
There are many reasons why people tend to ditch traditional services and cut the cord. Convenience, cost, lack of hard-to-get-out-of contracts are a few reasons.
What are the benefits of cable TV?
Cable TV has a few advantages over other types of TV services. For one, it's widely available in most areas across the United States. And because cable TV is delivered through a physical cable connection, it's generally more reliable than other types of TV services (such as satellite or streaming). Cable TV also offers a variety of channels, so you can find something to watch no matter what your interests are.
What are the disadvantages of cable TV?
Cable TV does have some disadvantages. For one, it's more expensive than other types of TV services. And because cable TV requires a physical cable connection, you're limited to the channels that are available in your area. Additionally, cable TV can be susceptible to weather conditions and other interruptions.
What is streaming TV?
Streaming TV is a type of television service that delivers channels over the internet. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Sling TV offer a variety of channels and allow you to watch shows and movies whenever you want.
What are the benefits of streaming TV?
There are a number of benefits to streaming TV. The most common benefit is cost. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Sling TV are typically much cheaper than cable TV packages. Other benefits include convenience (you can watch shows and movies whenever you want), better selection (streaming services offer a wider variety of content), and improved picture quality (streaming services now offer 4K HDR content).
What are the disadvantages of streaming TV?
There are a few disadvantages to streaming TV. One disadvantage is that you need a strong internet connection to stream content. Another disadvantage is that not all channels are available on all streaming services. And finally, some people prefer the cable TV experience because it feels more traditional.
How can traditional cable networks survive in the streaming service era?
Despite the challenges, there are still a number of cable networks that are doing quite well. ESPN, for example, is one of the most popular cable networks and it continues to grow in popularity. Other cable networks like USA Network, TNT, and TBS are also doing quite well.
One reason why these cable networks are doing well is that they offer a mix of live programming and on-demand content. This allows viewers to watch their favorite shows when they want to, which is a big selling point for cable TV.
Another reason why cable networks are doing well is that they're starting to offer their own streaming services. ESPN+, for example, is a streaming service that offers live and on-demand sports programming. And HBO NOW is a streaming service that offers access to all of HBO's popular shows and movies.
So while cable TV is slowly becoming obsolete, there are still a number of cable networks that are doing quite well. By offering a mix of live and on-demand content, as well as their own streaming services, these cable networks are able to survive in the age of streaming TV.
Why you should bundle your internet and cable TV
When it comes to cable TV and streaming services, many people are opting for the latter. This is understandable, as streaming services offer a number of advantages over cable TV. They're cheaper, more convenient, and offer a better selection of content.
However, there are still some people who prefer cable TV over streaming services. This is often because they like the traditional cable TV experience, or they think that streaming services are not as reliable.
If you're in the market for a new TV service, then you should consider bundling your internet and cable TV. By bundling your services, you can get the best of both worlds: the convenience and affordability of streaming services, combined with the traditional cable TV experience.
Bundling your services can also save you money. In many cases, you can get a discount on your cable TV and internet bill by bundling your services together. This is because cable companies want to keep you as a customer, and they know that the best way to do that is by offering a good deal on multiple services.
So if you're torn between cable TV and streaming services, then consider bundling your internet and cable TV. You'll get the best of both worlds, and you'll save money in the process.
Channel selection: How does streaming stand up to cable?
One of the biggest advantages of cable TV is that it offers a wide variety of channels. This means that there's something for everyone to watch, whether you're into sports, news, or movies.
Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu also offer a wide variety of content, but it's important to keep in mind that not all channels are available on all streaming services. So if you're looking for a specific channel, then you'll need to check which streaming service offers it.
Picture and video quality: Does streaming have an edge over cable?
When it comes to picture quality, cable TV and streaming services are now on equal footing. Both cable and streaming services offer HD content, and many streaming services now offer 4K HDR content. So if you're looking for the best possible picture quality, then you'll be happy with either cable or streaming.
Price: How do cable and streaming stack up?
Cable TV is typically more expensive than streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. This is because cable companies need to pay for the infrastructure to deliver their content.
However, there are a few ways to get cheap cable. One way is to bundle your internet and cable TV, which can often save you money. Another way is to sign up for a cable TV package that includes discounts for new customers.
So if you're looking for the cheapest option, then streaming is usually the better choice. But if you're willing to pay a little extra, then cable TV can offer a better selection of channels and a more traditional TV experience.
Cable or satellite: Which is better in the streaming era?
Cable and satellite are two of the most popular TV services in the world. But with the rise of streaming services, many people are wondering if cable or satellite is still the best option.
There are a few key differences between cable and satellite TV. Cable TV is delivered through a network of cables, while satellite TV is broadcasted via satellite. Cable TV is typically cheaper than satellite TV, but satellite TV offers a better selection of channels.
Find the television solution with HomeLinkd
There is sadly no clear winner. Cable TV and streaming services both have their pros and cons. Cable TV is typically more expensive, but it offers a better selection of channels. Streaming services are cheaper, but they don't always offer the same selection of channels.
If you're trying to decide between cable and streaming, then consider bundling your internet and cable TV. This can often save you money, and it will give you the best of both worlds: the convenience of streaming, combined with the traditional cable TV experience.
If you're looking for a solution that has all your favourite channels, doesn't buffer and works on your device or platform of choice, HomeLinkd is here to help. We give you the latest information on the leading cable and internet brands, what's trending on TV platforms, internet speeds and more!
So if you're looking to switch your provider, let us make it effortless.
Written by:
Amanda Morgan
Hey, I’m Amanda! A big fan of sunny days, good coffee, and making life easier for you. When I’m not exploring how technology can improve our everyday lives, I’m all about finding simple ways to explain those benefits to you. I love chatting about how a smart home setup can make your mornings smoother or how the right internet plan can change your streaming experience. Life’s complicated enough—your tech shouldn’t be!
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