If you want live TV, cancel streaming and get an antenna
Streaming emerged as a cheaper alternative to cable, helping to launch the cord-cutting revolution. Unfortunately, that’s no longer the case as Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and other heavy hitters are raising prices. Tap or click here for a trick to save hundreds of dollars a year on your streaming bills.
Cord cutters have another option besides streaming, and it’s probably one you haven’t thought about in a long time. We’re talking about an antenna. Before you scoff, know that antennas have come a long way since the ones attached to your old TV (though some still retain the rabbit-ear look).
And thanks to DVR, switching to an antenna doesn’t mean you have to miss your favorite shows and movies. Here’s how to get started on your new cord-cutting journey.
Not the antennas you grew up with
Unlike streaming or cable subscriptions, you won’t have to spend more money after buying an antenna. Just pick the one that’s best for you and enjoy. But not all antennas are created equal, and there are three main classes to choose from: unamplified, amplified and outdoor.
Amplified antennas have a more extended range and can grab distant signals, while unamplified antennas have a shorter range.
Outdoor antennas are ideal for remote areas with weak signal strength, but installation is a bigger job and will involve drilling holes in your roof. If you want to know the signal strength of your local channels, visit the FCC’s digital TV reception maps guide and enter your ZIP code.
Let’s go over some of the best antennas for each category.
Attractive indoor antenna — unamplified
Not all antennas are created equal, and the wrong model won’t do you much good. This indoor Mohu Leaf 30 antenna has a 40-mile range and broadcasts ABC, CBS, PBS, NBC and more in HD with 5.1 surround sound.
It comes with a 10-foot coaxial cable so that you can mount it high on your wall or close to a window for better reception. The Leaf 30 is paper-thin and paintable, so it won’t be an eyesore in your house.
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True or false: You need a streaming gadget to cut the cord
Many are fed up with the rising costs of cable and satellite. And the more equipment you have, the more that can go wrong, adding to the inconvenience. It’s no surprise that cord-cutting is gaining momentum.
Your mind may stray to countless available streaming options, but an old method of watching TV is making a comeback. You can throw it way back by purchasing a TV antenna, but it won’t resemble anything like the rabbit ears you may remember. Tap or click here to learn about the differences between indoor and outdoor antennas and which is right for you.