For many years, we all relied on cable TV to give us all the news, information, and entertainment we needed. But with cord-cutting, TV viewers have a wide variety of more affordable options. Cord-cutting involves canceling your subscription to services available over satellite or cable TV. It is the go-to option if you want access to your favorite shows or live games with fewer bills. However, you can’t simply know how much money being a cord-cutter saves you without a cord-cutting calculator. The cord-cutting calculator shows how much money you can save by switching to streaming services.
Cord Cutting Calculator
So, how much money can you save? Well, there are different ways to find out and many steps to take to determine how much you are saving by making the switch. Here’s what you can do to prepare yourself to cut the cord.
What You Need To Be A Cord Cutter?
1. Compare and Consider Your Options
Your cable TV subscription cost will depend on whether you’re paying for cable TV only, internet bundle, or cable TV and internet bundle on average. Let’s break it down in the table below
| Cable TV only | Internet-only | Cable TV and Internet | |
| Price range | $20–$149.99/month | $19.99–$299.95/month | $44.99–$250.99/month |
| Avg. price | $78.58/month | $59.38/month | $129.05/month |
| Avg. no. of channels | 205 | N/A | 182 |
These figures may vary by state or region and are subject to change. The table above only gives you an idea of a subscription
2. Cancel Your Cable TV or Satellite Subscription
Call your cable TV or satellite provider and request to cancel your service. Be prepared to say no to any offer they give you because they will most likely try. The cutting cord is an important step. Make sure to make up your mind.
After canceling your cable and satellite TV subscriptions, there are a couple of things you must consider if you still want to enjoy your favorite TV shows and programs.
3. Consider Getting TV Antennas
After cutting the cord, you will need a TV antenna to have access to local TV channels still. In some regions, you can get a TV antenna for as low as $10, but it will depend on your location.
An antenna is a good start. With it, you will have access to your local news, sports and weather, and maybe other channels depending on the antenna.
4. You Will Need a Smart TV
If you don’t have a smart TV already, you’ll need to get one. A smart TV will help you sign up for any of the variety of streaming services available online. It will cost you extra to get a smart TV, but you can get one for as low as $151.40, and t’s a good investment in the long run.
5. Select A Streaming Service
There are many streaming services available today. These services have a variety of films and shows, and you can watch some of your favorite TV shows and games at a friendly price. Cord-cutting is a lot better when you know the resources at your disposal.
Below is a rundown of some of the most popular options
| Streaming service | Subscription plan |
| Netflix | $8.99–$15.99 |
| Disney+ | $8.99–$69.99 |
| Amazon Prime | $12.99–$119.00 |
| HBO Now | $15.99 (monthly) |
| Apple TV+ | $ 4.99 (monthly) |
There are also several other streaming services for live TV and sports.
They include:
- CBS All Access
- ESPN
- NBA League Pass
- YouTube TV
- Fubo TV
- Sling TV
It is advisable to start with one or two of these services after cutting the cord. Though it only costs between $10 and $50 for these services, you could end up paying more than you were paying for cable TV or satellite if you sign up for several at once.
Conclusion
While it is often pocket friendly to cut the cord, it may not be the best option for everyone. Some people prefer paying a little extra for what they want, and that’s okay. But if you’re to be a cord cutter, ensure you are fully prepared for the switch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I still watch my favorite channels if I cut the cord?
Yes, you can. There are several channels available without cable TV subscriptions. For instance, Sling TV offers live TV services for viewing on the internet, including HISTORY, AMC, TBS, etc.
- Will I save money being a cord cutter?
Studies show that an average viewer saves over $1,000 annually by being a cord cutter. However, it depends on how many services you choose.
- Do I still need WiFi even if I’m paying for streaming services on TV?
Yes. You do need WiFi at home if you’re to have a wireless internet connection instead of Ethernet cables.