7 Essential Tips for Cord-Cutters

Cord-cutting. It's a phrase that's become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people ditch their expensive cable subscriptions in favor of streaming services. And for good reason! Cord-cutting can lead to significant cost savings, greater flexibility in what you watch, and more control over your entertainment experience. As someone who's been a cord-cutter since early 2011 (over 14 years now!), and streamed some content for three years before that, I've seen firsthand the evolution and benefits of cord-cutting.

If you're considering joining the ranks of cord-cutters, or maybe you're just starting out on your streaming journey, here are 7 essential tips to help you make the most of it:

1. Do Your Research

Before you dive headfirst into the world of streaming, it's crucial to do your research. Take some time to assess your viewing needs and preferences. What channels and shows are must-haves for you? Are you a sports fanatic, a movie buff, or a news junkie? Once you have a clear picture of your viewing habits, you can start exploring the various streaming services available.

There's a whole universe of streaming services out there, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Max – the list goes on and on. Take advantage of free trials to test drive different services and see which ones best fit your needs. And don't forget about the role of streaming devices. Roku, Google TV, Apple TV, Fire TV – these devices can enhance your streaming experience, but more on that later!

2. Get an Antenna

One of the best things about cord-cutting is the ability to access free, over-the-air local channels with an antenna. I've been using an AirTV Anywhere device with a large outdoor antenna for years, and it's been a game-changer. It allows me to watch all my local channels, including those from the nearby Savannah TV market.

There are different types of antennas available, so you'll want to choose one that's right for your location and the channels you want to receive. And you can even integrate your antenna with your streaming device or service for a more seamless viewing experience.

3. Consider a Streaming Device

While many smart TVs have built-in streaming capabilities, a dedicated streaming device can often provide a better overall experience. Roku, Google TV, Apple TV, and Fire TV are some of the most popular options, each with its own unique features and interface. I've used them all extensively, and I currently have Google TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV devices connected to my TVs. Google TV is my current platform of choice, although I used Roku for many years.

Streaming devices offer a variety of benefits, including access to a wider range of streaming services, voice control, user-friendly interfaces, and seamless integration with other smart home devices.

4. Be Prepared for Change

Cutting the cord is a big change, and it might take some time to adjust to a new way of watching TV. Be open to experimenting with different streaming services and devices to find what works best for you. The beauty of cord-cutting is the flexibility and control it offers. You're no longer tied to a rigid cable schedule or limited channel selection. You're in the driver's seat!

5. Try Free Trials Strategically

Free trials are a fantastic way to explore different streaming services without committing to a subscription. We'll delve deeper into strategies for maximizing free trials in a later post, but for now, just remember that they're your friend! And don't do too many at the same time!

6. Take Advantage of Bundled Services

Many companies offer bundled services that include streaming options. For example, my Walmart Plus subscription includes Paramount Plus, and my Internet service comes with Peacock TV. These bundled services can be a great way to get more value for your money, so be sure to explore any options you might already have access to.

7. Don't Oversubscribe

It's easy to get carried away with all the amazing streaming services available, but it's important to avoid oversubscribing. Start with a few essential services that meet your core viewing needs, and then gradually add more if necessary. You can also consider "churning" services, which means subscribing for a month or two, binge-watching the shows you want, and then canceling and moving on to another service. We'll discuss this strategy in more detail in a future deep dive.

So, there you have it – 7 essential tips to help you navigate the exciting world of cord-cutting. Embrace the freedom, flexibility, and cost savings that come with streaming, and enjoy the journey!

Are any of these tips particularly intriguing to you? Are there any topics you'd like me to explore in more depth in a future deep dive? Let me know in the comments below!

My Streaming Life is all about finding the best ways to enjoy streaming content, and I'm confident that these tips will help you make the most of your cord-cutting experience.