When you think about cutting down the expenses, the very first thing that comes to mind is to reduce the entertainment expenses. Most people spend a lot of money on entertainment which can range from a vacation to just a night out with friends while the majority rely on TV as a source of entertainment. If you fall in the second category, there is a high chance that you will consider cutting the cord from time to time.
If you have been considering the cord-cutting method lately, it is only logical to consider the possible outcome and alternatives. For most people, switching to streaming is a viable option whereas; others rely on online websites and applications. No matter what you are considering, you need to list down the pros and cons before you make a decision. This pros and cons list will help you take your decision and eventually, you will be able to picture if you feel safe about choosing this option.
Contrary to common belief, streaming is not the only option that will let you enjoy content on the go. Some of the good cable TV services offer access to the free content library along with in-built content streaming sites, the best channel line up along with on the go streaming option. Best cable TV services like Optimum TV offer all these features and much more at affordable prices, which makes it one of the most popular cable options among the masses.
Within this article, our goal is to list the pros and cons of cutting the cord so you can know if it is a viable option for you. So let us get started.
Pros and Cons of Cutting the Cord
The average American household still relies heavily on cable TV for their entertainment for all the right reasons. With cable TV, you choose to have more options of entertainment and you can keep the whole house entertained regardless of their interests and choices.
However, streaming services are now catching up, trying to offer much better and quality content for their viewers. These options are not only raising questions but also confusing the viewers about the possible options.
Here are some of the pros and cons that will help you clear out the confusion:
1. Affordable
Affordability is one of the biggest reasons most people choose to cut the cord. With cable TV, you will have to pay for the full package that will include the channel lineup, content library, and inbuilt content streaming sites. This offers better value for money but as a single user, this can be a little expensive.
On the contrary, if you choose to cut the cord, you will bring down your entertainment fee to a minimum.
2. Content
Content options are very limited when you choose to cut the cord. Within content streaming sites, you will have very basic options including documentaries, movies, and TV series. These content options are further become restricted based on the location.
On the contrary, if you stick with the cable TV option, you will have news channels, sports channels, music channels comedy channels, movie channels, and more. To have better content options it is better to not cut the cord especially if you are living with people who like to stay informed or enjoy sports.
3. Screen numbers
If you stick with the cable TV, there is no device or screen limit. You do not have to pay extra for the remote content. Moreover, you can have on-the-go apps that can be installed on the phone so you can watch the content of your choice later.
However, if you cut the cord and get to the content streaming sites, you will have limited options. The maximum number of screens will range from 4-5 only. This makes content streaming sites more expensive as compared to other options.
4. Watch time
With cord cutting, you will not rely on the show on airtime and can watch content anytime you want. You can set your schedule, stream on the go, or binge-watch when you want without worrying about the on-air or episode release time.
On the contrary, choosing to stick with cable TV will offer you liberty on the base of recording. You can record the content you like to watch later. Moreover, you can from their online content library as well.
5. Availability of internet
No doubt, streaming service attracts most people but with streaming service, you need to rely on the availability of the internet. In short, you will be paying for the internet along with the streaming service.
On the contrary, if you choose a cable TV service, you do not have to rely on using the Internet. It will work with or without the use of the Internet. This will help you cut the internet budget while offering you more content variation.
6. Location
This might seem an odd variable to consider but in the case of both cable TV and streaming, location plays a very important role. For instance, in some areas, cable TV coverage is not very good while in others you will have very limited options.
Similarly, with streaming services, there is local server access, which means there might be some content that is not available in your country, eventually restricting your access although you have paid for the service.
Bottom Line
Cutting the cord or sticking to it is a decision that will eventually impact your life and finances in the long run. The above-mentioned pros and cons list will help you narrow down your options and make a good decision.
