Your Live TV Streaming Guide

Your complete guide to switching from cable or satellite TV to streaming

Thinking about moving on from cable but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Nearly half the country has already made the switch from traditional TV (or never even started using it), but many folks hesitate because it is confusing.  

That’s where we’re here to help. We’ll walk you through what streaming is and how you can watch your favorite channels and shows through the internet – without the high costs of cable. It’s a simple, flexible way to enjoy the entertainment you love. Let’s walk through the basics together.  

What is Streaming?

Streaming TV means watching shows, movies, or even live TV over the internet instead of through a cable line or satellite dish. With just a smart TV or a small device like a Roku or Fire TV Stick, you can pull up the channels you already know and love – plus a huge library of movies, documentaries, and original series.  

While many people think of streaming services like Netflix or Prime Video for on-demand series, there are also platforms that offer your local news, sports, and live channels – just like cable, only easier (and cheaper).  

Why So Many People Are Switching

• More Choice 
  No more buying giant channel bundles you don’t actually watch. With streaming, you choose the service – or combination of services – that fits your household best.  
• Lower Cost  
  Streaming services typically cost less than cable, especially since you skip the rental fees for equipment. For many families, that means saving hundreds of dollars every year.  
• Flexibility That Fits Your Life  
  Whether you’re curled up on the couch, traveling with your tablet, or catching the big game on your phone, streaming lets you watch what you want, when you want, wherever you are. 
• No Contracts  
  Most streaming services are month-to-month subscriptions. Want to try something new? Sign up and cancel anytime – no penalties, no hassle. 

Do I Still Need a Cable Box?

Not anymore! With streaming, there’s no bulky equipment or monthly box rentals. All you need is a Smart TV or a small streaming device – like a Roku or Fire TV Stick – and you’ll be set up within minutes.  

Getting Started with a Smart TV 

1. Connect to WiFi  
   Make sure your TV is plugged in and connected to your home internet. Simply look for the settings button on either the TVs remote, or on the screen. 
2. Download Apps 
   Most Smart TVs already come loaded with popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube TV. If the one you need isn’t there, you can easily download it from the TVs app store. 
3. Start Watching  
   Open your app, sign in (we recommend creating your account on your computer or smart device first), and you’re ready to stream your favorite shows and channels!  

Getting Started with a Streaming Device  

1. Pick a Device  
   Unlike cable boxes, streaming devices are a one-time purchase – usually between $40-$60 – with no extra rental fees. 
2. Plug it in  
   Connect your device to power and plug it into an HDMI port on your TV. Then switch your TVs input to that HDMI channel.  
3. Connect to WiFi  
   Follow the simple on-screen instruction to link your device to your home WiFi. If it doesn’t prompt you, navigate to the settings.  
4. Add Your Apps  
   Most devices already include top streaming apps, but you can always head to the app store to grab more – like live TV options, movies, and sports. 
5. Sign In and Stream Away 
   Open your apps, log in with your account details, and you’re ready to go. No waiting, no complicated setup – just instant access to the shows you love.  

Which Streaming Device is Right for Me?

Now that you know how to stream, the next step is picking the right services. With so many choices out there, it can feel overwhelming – but don’t worry. Once you understand the different types of streaming, it’s much easier to find the perfect fit for your family.  

Live TV Streaming

Think of this as your cable replacement. Live TV streaming services give you the channels and broadcasts you’re used to – like news, sports, and your favorite shows – but without the high price tag. 

 

• Content: Same or similar programmers as your cable TV  
• Schedule: Same as your cable TV broadcasts  
• Commercials: You will always have commercials with Live TV because it’s the same thing that’s broadcast on cable.  

If you enjoy flipping through channels or want to keep live events in your lineup, this is the way to go.  

Examples: YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DIRECTV Stream, Fubo, Philo, Frndly TV, and more.  

On-Demand Streaming

This is where you’ll find the endless library of shows and movies you can watch anytime. On-demand services often include original content you can’t get anywhere else – plus a wide variety of classics, documentaries, family favorites, and more. 

 

• Content: Huge libraries of movies and TV shows. 
• Schedule: You’re in control – watch what you want, when you want.  
• Commercials: Some services are ad-free, while others offer lower-cost plans with limited ads.
    

Examples: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and many more. 

 

Exploring Live TV Streaming Options

Here’s the good news: with Live TV streaming, you can still enjoy the channels you love – just without the cable box or extra fees.  

These services vary widely in both price and lineup. Some start as low as $7 a month and go up to about $140, with channel counts ranging anywhere from 30 to more than 200. Many include local broadcast stations – like your hometown ABC, CBS. FOX, and NBC affiliates – along with news, sports, and entertainment. 

 

How Do I Sign Up?

The first step to streaming is making sure you’ve got a strong internet connection. From there, it all happens through an app – just like the ones you use on your smartphone, only now on your TV or streaming device. 

 

Once you’ve chosen the Live TV service that’s right for you, getting set up takes just a few minutes:  

1. Create an Account: Sign up online with your email address and a password you’ll remember  
2. Add Payment Information: Enter your credit card or debit card details to start your subscription  
3. Download the App: Install the app for your chosen service on your Smart TV or streaming device.  
4. Start Watching: Open the app, sign in, and enjoy your favorite shows and movies – no cable box required.