You can save a lot of money by cutting the cable cord, but you’ll need to plan ahead to make the transition as smooth as possible. It’s a good idea to get all of your streaming ducks in a row before calling your cable provider.
Go over your checklist to see which services you’ll need to sign up for and which devices you’ll need to purchase. Install everything on your main TV, disconnect your cable box, and get in the habit of streaming instead. Begin by familiarizing yourself, then move on to assisting other members of your family.
There’s a good chance you’ll hit some speed bumps along the way. Some streaming services have distinct menu systems, different remote controllers for devices, and even the lack of channel numbers and the necessity to use search can be difficult to grasp. However, if you give it time and patient, it will turn out fine.
What’s the best way to unplug my cable box?
Unscrew the coaxial cable from the wall outlet at the back of your cable box. Twist the connection counterclockwise until the cable can be entirely pulled out.
In Canada, how can I get rid of cable?
Even if you get rid of your cable box, you’ll still need a streaming device to make use of your new subscription. Smart TV apps, independent streaming devices like Roku, and even a plain web browser open on your PC, tablet, or smartphone fall under this category.
If you need to buy a streaming gadget, the good news is that they’re not too pricey. For as low as 25 CAD, you can acquire a device capable of streaming popular services like Hulu, Netflix, RiverTV, and others. You may also stream directly from most of your internet-connected gadgets with most services.
What About My DVR?
If you frequently utilize your cable box’s DVR, there are a few Live TV options that include cloud DVR services. They do, however, have some limitations as compared to typical cable DVRs, such as storage limits, show expiration dates, and restrictions on which channels you can record.
However, owing to on-demand streaming, you may not miss your DVR all that much. Many streaming services allow you to watch shows that you’ve already recorded on your DVR whenever you want.
What About the Local Channels?
Adding local networks to your streaming service subscription can be expensive with some streaming services. There is, however, a method around this with a low-cost TV antenna. Your television has an integrated over-the-air tuner into which you can plug an antenna to watch local broadcast networks for free. However, reception varies depending on where you live, and you’ll be limited to live viewing unless you spend more for an antenna DVR.
Is it possible to watch TV without cable?
You’ll need three things to view TV and movies without cable or satellite: An internet connection is required. A device that allows you to stream content. A service that allows you to watch videos online.
What is the procedure for removing a coaxial cable lock?
Removal of a Coaxial Cable Lock
- Tissue paper should be inserted into the space between the coaxial cable and the cable lock.
- Insert the pen cap’s clip into the tissue paper.
- To disengage the cable lock, press hard against the pen cap and turn it counterclockwise.
Is it necessary to turn off the cable box?
Yes, power savings are largely dependent on how long the gadget is turned off. When you’re finished watching TV, always turn off your TV Box to save money.
What tools will I need to sever the cord?
That’s all there is to it. That should hopefully address the question, “What Do I Need to Cut the Cord?” As previously stated, it all depends on which route you want to take: OTA content via an antenna and digital tuner, or streaming services.
A screen, an antenna, and a digital tuner are all you need to get started. You can watch for as long as you like, and it’s completely free. You only need your TV, a solid internet connection, a streaming device, and some apps and services to watch if you want to grow into streaming services.
How do I get standalone internet?
Despite the fact that many ISPs provide lower rates when you bundle with phone or cable, all of these services are also available on their own. If you’re already using a 4G or 5G phone plan for internet but don’t want the phone service, you can convert to a home internet plan, which uses a Wi-Fi router instead of your phone. If portability is vital to you, a dedicated mobile hotspot can be a good option.
How do I get Wi-Fi at home without a cable?
A Wi-Fi router can be used to set up a home Wi-Fi network with any wireless internet package. To accomplish this, simply use an ethernet wire to connect your Wi-Fi router to your modem or receiver. It’s also worth noting that many modems include a built-in Wi-Fi router, so you can probably use the device you got from your internet provider to set up your home Wi-Fi network without purchasing any additional equipment.
Check out our best Wi-Fi router recommendations to learn more about what makes a solid Wi-Fi router.
Can cutting the cord save me money?
Switching to a wireless internet subscription and cutting the cord can often save you money. This is particularly true if your current plan includes additional services that you do not require. Fixed wireless, 4G home internet, and 5G are all comparable to or less expensive than a cable connection.
Before you cut the cable, make sure your new plan can provide you with the speed you require. Although 4G home internet and fixed wireless are frequently less expensive than cable, they do not provide the same speeds. In practically every way, 5G can match or outperform cable, making it a serious challenger to older cable networks.
What alternatives are there to cable?
Fiber and 5G are the best alternatives to cable internet. Fiber has substantially quicker download speeds and upload speeds than cable. 5G speeds are on par with cable and may shortly overtake them. It also comes with the benefit of being wifi. Because 5G and fiber networks are better at handling massive levels of traffic than cable networks, your speeds will not suffer during peak hours.
Can I get satellite internet if I live in a city?
Yes, even if you reside in a city with other possibilities, you can receive satellite internet, though we recommend that you go with another sort of connection. Satellite has a number of drawbacks. Low data limitations make streaming video unfeasible, while high latency makes video chat and online games challenging. It’s also a lot more expensive than other plans with comparable speeds.
Because of these factors, we strongly advise against choosing satellite above any other alternative (including other wireless choices) unless it is your sole option.
Is it possible to watch TV in Canada without having cable?
While most broadcasters no longer employ over-the-air transmission to distribute content, some local channels continue to do so. Simply buy an indoor antenna (there are plenty to choose from) and check out what’s available in your area. Although you won’t receive everything you want or a crystal-clear picture, this is still a viable alternative to cable or satellite television.
Is it less expensive to cut the cord on cable?
You’ll need to determine how much home broadband costs without a TV package. If your monthly package costs $130, you may have to pay $60 for simply internet. By canceling cable TV, you can save an additional $70. That’s a lot of money to save or spend on new streaming subscriptions every month.
Other things to think about when looking for internet-only plans:
- Do you have a contract? If that’s the case, you’ll have to wait it out, renegotiate a new internet-only contract with your cable provider, or pay the early termination fee.
- How quickly do you require a connection? Start with pricing the same speed you have now, but keep in mind that if everyone in your house is streaming more, you may need a higher speed.