Think cable TV is a thing of the past? Gen-Z is rediscovering the joys of free TV and realizing that cutting the cord might not have saved them money after all.
Free stuff you get with your cable subscription
Here at Komando HQ, we’ve written a lot of guides about cutting the cord. Here’s a five-step plan you can follow to ditch cable and start streaming. But sticking to cable has its upsides.
In fact, some cable packages include free streaming subscriptions, which means you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Unfortunately, it can be time-consuming to research all the cable TV perks out there.
Good news: We did the heavy lifting for you. We found some of the most significant advantages of cable, from technical benefits like better reception to fun extra features like apps and web services. Bookmark this page so you can share it with the next person who tells you to cut the cord.
1. Cheap or free Wi-Fi
If you’re looking for ways to save on your internet connection, you may qualify for low-income internet options. There are a few good resources, like the Lifeline program or the Affordable Connectivity Program. Or you can turn to your cable TV subscription.
That’s right: One way to keep more dollars in your pocket is by double-dipping with a package deal. Some companies offer internet service as well as TV and streaming services. For example, here are a few Xfinity packages you can choose from:
Many cable providers want to turn your router into a Wi-Fi hotspot for the neighborhood. This way, other customers can get internet service no matter where they are. You might not like the idea of providing other people with free internet — but it can benefit you too.
Say you’re a Comcast customer out in the wild. You’re struggling to connect to the internet. If you’re near another Comcast customer, you may be able to connect to Xfinity Wi-Fi. Learn more about this Xfinity feature here.
You and other customers are part of the same network, but you can opt out if you want.
It’s like Amazon Sidewalk, which turns your home gadgets into a part of your neighborhood’s wireless network. Tap or click here for Kim’s take on whether or not you should opt out of Amazon Sidewalk.
2. A huge video-on-demand library is another one of the best cable TV perks
Why it’s time to rethink cutting the cord (and 3 smart ways to save)
There are countless streaming solutions that can make movie night a breeze. If you’re a little late to the party, take the plunge and cut the cord once and for all. Tap or click here for our guide to quitting cable for good.
Money-saving trick to stream everything you want without breaking the bank
Are you a cord-cutter who relies on streaming services? Perhaps you’re a cord-never (those who have never signed up for cable) who utilizes apps like Roku, Apple+ and Pluto TV for watching television, or maybe you prefer a combo of cable and streaming services.