NOW TV vs Philo: A Budget-Conscious Cord Cutter's Dilemma

We're cord cutters, and we have some problems. Good problems, but problems. For example, with so many streaming options, finding the right fit can be tricky. Today, we're diving deep into two popular budget-friendly services: NOW TV and Philo. Both offer a "skinny bundle" of channels at a fraction of the cost of traditional cable, but which one comes out on top?

Channel Showdown: What You Get

NOW TV (40+ channels): This Xfinity service offers a decent variety, including entertainment, some news (BBC News, The Weather Channel), and sports (limited ESPN, MotorTrend). A key perk is the inclusion of Peacock Premium at no extra cost, giving you next-day access to NBC shows, Peacock Originals, and live sports. You'll also find channels like Hallmark Channel, HGTV, and Magnolia Network, which aren't always available on free services.

Philo (70+ channels): Philo boasts a wider selection of channels, heavily focused on entertainment and lifestyle. You'll find a strong lineup from A&E Networks (A&E, History, Lifetime) and AMC Networks (AMC, BBC America). However, Philo lacks news and sports channels entirely.

Price Point: Wallet-Friendly Options

NOW TV: Starts at $20/month, making it a very affordable option, especially with Peacock Premium included.

Philo: Costs $28/month, so it's a bit pricier than NOW TV, but still significantly cheaper than most live TV streaming services.

Device Compatibility: Where NOW TV Falters

NOW TV: This is where NOW TV has a major drawback. It's primarily designed for Xfinity users and is limited to Xfinity Flex, X1 cable boxes, web browsers, and select Samsung TVs. No Roku or Apple TV support here.

Philo: Philo wins on accessibility, with apps for Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chromecast, and more.

DVR: Recording Your Favorites

NOW TV: Includes DVR functionality in all its plans.

Philo: Offers unlimited DVR storage, so you can record as much as you want without worrying about space.

The Verdict: It Depends on Your Needs

Choose NOW TV if:

• You're on a tight budget and want the most value for your money.
• Peacock Premium's content and live sports are a priority.
• You primarily use Xfinity devices or a web browser for streaming.

Choose Philo if:

• You want a wider selection of entertainment channels.
• Device compatibility is crucial (especially if you use Roku or Apple TV).
• You need unlimited DVR storage.

Beyond the Basics

Remember to check the detailed channel lineups on the NOW TV and Philo websites to make sure they include your must-have channels. Consider your viewing habits and device preferences before making your final decision. My Streaming Life has involved both. I prefer Philo, despite it's slightly higher price. If content is king then it's Philo. If device availability is crucial, it's Philo. For me, it's Philo. But you may find NOW TV works for you and saves you some money.