Cable TV came to the US in the year 1948 and it reigned supreme among Americans until the late 90s. Thereafter cable TV subscriptions began to decline slowly. Let us know about that the Watch Local Channels Without Cable.
Viewers across America are currently facing a dilemma about ditching cable TV altogether. Every year about 5 million people cut the cord in the US and they are constantly on the lookout for cheap and practical alternatives. Viewers can watch local channels without cable by purchasing an antenna, subscribing to a streaming service, downloading the TV network app, etc. Through these cost-effective methods, viewers can gain access to broadcast TV channels and some other local channels and thus finally cut the cord.
Why has cable TV subscription declined?
In the past, most TV networks were affiliated with local cable networks and hence cable TV was the only way through which viewers could watch TV at home.
- In 1989, 53 million Americans received cable television subscriptions
- By 1992, nearly 60% of American households had cable TV
Now technology has advanced greatly and several alternatives like live streaming, mobile apps, etc. have emerged. As a result, cable TV subscriptions have declined and so has TV viewership.
Some reasons for the decline are listed below:
- Cost – Cable TV is expensive when compared to other streaming services as the starter plan itself is sold at $60 a month
- Time – People don’t have time to watch TV at home and so streaming services come in handy as they can be accessed anywhere
- Lack of variety – There are several networks like AMC, TNT, USA, FX, etc. that are not affiliated to local cable networks as they operate on their own and thus their shows cannot be accessed via cable
Thus viewers across the US are opting for accessible and cost-effective options. It is estimated that by 2023, less than half of the US population will still be subscribed to traditional pay-TV.
How can you get local channels without cable?
There are several alternatives to cable TV
- Purchase an HD antenna that can pick up TV channels like CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS, ABC, and some other local channels as well
- Subscribe to a live TV streaming service that provides access to the local channels as well as other independent broadcast TV channels like CNN, ESPN, AMC, etc.
- Live stream news and local TV shows on the mobile apps and websites of certain TV stations like CBS, NBC, FOX, CW, etc.
- Download a live TV streaming app like Pluto TV, Tivimate, etc.
- Live stream free news channels like NewsON, Haystack news, Amazon news, etc.
Before cutting the cord or unsubscribing from cable TV there are certain guidelines to follow
- Always purchase an HDTV antenna, rather than the normal one, as it alone can pick up broadcast TV channels in a particular neighborhood
- Get a streaming device like a smart TV, a gaming console, Fire TV, Roku, Chrome cast, etc. before subscribing to a TV streaming service
- Browse the different streaming options carefully and choose a suitable service
What are the different streaming devices available?
Several streaming services replace cable TV and also provide additional services like:
- Direct TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- Fubo TV
- Youtube TV
- Sling TV – $35
- Amazon Prime Video
- HBO Max
- Netflix
Among the above services, the cheapest is Hulu on demand which offers the latest dramas and TV shows for just $6.99 a month. Direct TV offers DVR capability to its subscribers in addition to its streaming services.
There are also some devices like the Amazon Firestick and the Roku streaming stick which access local channels and also possess certain unique functions like voice recognition among others.
Conclusion
Cable TV is no longer the only option for watching TV. Viewers can always stream the channels on their devices or purchase an antenna and view them on their TV. There are several affordable video streaming services and other cost-effective methods by which viewers can continue watching their favorite channels.
FAQs
1.Does Amazon Prime offer local channels? Amazon Prime offers a wide range of entertainment shows, dramas, movies, and sports programs to its subscribers. Prime members can add more channels to their subscriptions if needed. The streaming service does not require cable.
2. Do Smart TVs have built-in antennas?
Smart TVs have built-in antennas to help connect the TV to a phone, laptop, or tablet via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. An HD digital TV antenna will still be required to pick up local TV broadcast channels.
3. Does Amazon Prime have live TV?
No, but live events will regularly be broadcast on the prime video website and apps. Subscribers can always download the app or visit the website and live stream the shows.
4. Which is better: Amazon fire stick or Roku?
The Amazon fire stick is best suited for Amazon prime members and for those who possess Amazon smart devices. But overall Roku is a better choice as it offers more channels, features, device options, and free content than the fire stick.
