Internet Connection
You need internet service with at least 25 Mbps speed. Most home internet plans work fine. If you already have WiFi, you're set.
Stop paying $150+ for cable. Learn how to stream your favorite shows, live sports, and local news for a fraction of the cost.
Get a streaming device (Roku is simplest), pick 1-2 services (Netflix + YouTube TV covers most needs), cancel cable, and save $50-$100 per month.
Streaming is watching TV shows and movies through the internet instead of through a cable box. It's like video-on-demand, but better.
No schedules. Watch what you want, when you want. Pause, rewind, and resume.
Most streaming services cost $7-$20/month. No contracts, no equipment rental fees.
No long-term contracts. Start and stop services as your needs change.
Stream on your TV, tablet, phone, or computer. Take your shows with you.
Here's the equipment checklist for cutting the cord.
You need internet service with at least 25 Mbps speed. Most home internet plans work fine. If you already have WiFi, you're set.
Options include:
Pick 1-3 services based on what you like to watch. You can always add or cancel later.
Here's what each service offers and what it costs.
Best for original shows and movies. Watch Stranger Things, The Crown, and thousands of films.
Good for: Movie lovers, binge-watchers
Watch current TV shows the day after they air. Great for keeping up with network TV without cable.
Good for: People who want current shows
Included with Amazon Prime membership. Watch original series and rent/buy movies.
Good for: Amazon shoppers
Watch NBC shows, some NFL games, and classic content. Has a free tier with ads.
Good for: NFL fans, NBC show lovers
Yes, you can watch live sports, news, and local channels through streaming.
The closest replacement for cable. Includes 100+ channels: ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, ESPN, CNN, local news, and more. Unlimited DVR.
Best for: People who want the full cable experience
Live TV plus Hulu's on-demand library. Includes ESPN, Disney+, and local channels.
Best for: Families who want everything in one package
A $20-$50 indoor antenna picks up ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and PBS for free in HD. Great for local news and football.
Best for: People who mainly watch local channels
Follow these steps to cut the cord this weekend.
Visit speedtest.net on your phone or computer. You need at least 25 Mbps for smooth streaming. Most home internet plans provide 50-200 Mbps.
If your TV isn't a smart TV, buy a Roku or Fire TV Stick. Plug it into the HDMI port on your TV. TechMaid can help you set it up.
On your streaming device, go to Settings → Network → select your WiFi name → enter your password.
Open the app store on your device. Search for Netflix, YouTube TV, or whichever services you want. Download and install them.
Open an app, create an account or sign in, and start streaming. Most services offer free trials so you can try before you commit.
Once you're happy with streaming, call your cable company to cancel TV service. Keep your internet! You'll save $50-$100 per month.
Common questions about cutting the cord.
You need a smart TV or streaming device (like Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV), an internet connection, and a subscription to a streaming service like Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube TV.
Streaming typically costs $15-$75 per month depending on your services, compared to cable bills of $100-$200+. Most people save $50-$100 monthly by switching.
Yes. YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV offer live sports including NFL, NBA, MLB, and college sports. Peacock shows some NFL games, and ESPN+ covers many sports.
Yes, either through YouTube TV/Hulu Live (included in subscription) or by connecting a $20-$50 antenna to your TV for free local channels.
TechMaid can help you set up streaming on any device. Just ask and we'll walk you through it step by step.
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