“Cord cutters” is the term used to define people who have canceled their traditional TV services, or “cut the cord.” Thinking about it for yourself? You could “cut the cord” for good like 33 million other Americans and save over an estimated $500 annually.

There are a few things you should know before you cut your ties with traditional TV:

1. What exactly is streaming TV?

Streaming TV allows viewers to select services with content that is more aligned with their viewing habits. Rather than being charged for dozens of pre-selected traditional TV channels – many of which viewers never watch — streaming TV services offer more streamlined, select programming. Vendors such as YouTube TV, Hulu, Netflix, Sling TV, FuboTV, and others offer their own unique viewing options, including programming developed specifically for that service. These subscriptions are often priced far less than traditional TV packages.

Viewers can review these streaming TV services and select the vendor or vendors that offer programming they want to watch. Viewers can see significant savings over traditional TV subscription services — but it’s not exactly apples and oranges.

2. Gadgets are required.

In order to stream TV, you’ll need to purchase devices like Roku or an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, Xbox One, PlayStation or other products that support streaming services. The Roku and Fire TV Stick generally cost in the $30-$50 range, with the other devices selling at higher price points.

3. Network channels are not a given.

To some viewers, local/network channels are not important, while to others, not having access to those sources of information and programming are unthinkable. While some streaming services offer major network stations, not all of them do — and some of them only offer one or two.

The good news is that you can purchase an antennae to pick up those local stations. (Yes, they still make them!)

4. You’ll need some solid internet speeds.

Because streaming services come in through the internet, you’ll want to make sure you have the best speeds available. Adams Fiber recommends at least a 100 Mbps internet connection — because no one likes spending time watching the little wheel spin while shows buffer.

Most of our fiber internet speeds can handle streaming with ease. Our customer service representatives can help you determine if your Adams Fiber speed is compatible with streaming.

5. One more thing.

Many of these services offer a free trial period so you can try before you buy. If you find it’s not your cup of tea, simply cancel. The affordable price makes it easy to give it an “Ah, what the heck” shot as well.

Ready to get rid of channel clutter and cut the cord? Let us do the homework for you! We’ll compare costs, install your streaming device(s), and set up streaming service in your home. Complete this form or call us at 217-214-3423 to get started.