Tired of missing your favorite shows thanks to a busy schedule? Are there too many good programs on at once? Wish you could rewatch the previous season before getting started on the newest one?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you’re probably on the prowl for a new Digital Video Recorder (DVR). This guide is here to help you choose the best DVR for all your entertainment needs.

Before you delve further, though, here are a few features that every DVR should have:

• Plenty of storage
• Ability to record many shows at once
• Intuitive interface and playback
• Connection to all of your TVs
• Support for multiple devices/on-the-go viewing
• Affordability

With all of this in mind, here’s a rundown of the best DVRs available.

#1 TiVo Bolt+

The top spot goes to the DVR market’s original power player — TiVo. They’ve had a lot of time to perfect their devices and delivery, and let’s just say they’ve made excellent use of that time.

Pluses

The TiVo Bolt+ functions as a cable DVR system as well as a streaming device. That means that aside from recording video, it allows you to install apps for streaming services like HBO, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. It’s a great system if you subscribe to any of these services on top of your cable subscription.

With a colossal three terabytes of storage, you won’t run out of storage space any time soon. Furthermore, TiVo’s Bolt+ gives you six tuners. That means you can record up to six shows at once! It’s a helpful feature for catching all of that primetime programming, or for families who have different tastes.

Hate having to fast-forward through commercials? The Bolt+ solves this problem with SkipMode, which lets you completely skip commercials on 20 different major channels. There’s no need to fast-forward or rewind — it jumps past the annoying bits so that you can enjoy your favorite shows without interruption.

Its other unique feature, QuickMode, is one that you probably never thought you needed. It’s like fast-forwarding, but better — it plays back video three times faster but keeps the audio pitch normal. That way, you can catch up or jump ahead without turning the characters into chipmunks.

Minuses

While the TiVo Bolt+ is the top DVR choice, it still has its flaws. For one, it doesn’t record the free programming you might get from a digital antenna.

Since the Bolt+ is a standalone device not offered by any TV service provider, you’ll end up having to pay extra each month. At $15 per month, it can be a big expense when you factor in what you’re already paying each month for programming.

Target Audience

If you’re adamant about saving tons of HD programming and tempted by its extra features, then the Bolt+ will be worth the price. If you’re really willing to commit, you can subscribe for a year for $150. However, if you’re certain that the Bolt+ is right for you, then you can pay $550 for a lifetime subscription.

#2 DISH Hopper 3

Next up is DISH’s Hopper 3 DVR. As the newest iteration of DISH’s Hopper, the Hopper 3 is a serious upgrade from previous versions.

Pluses

By default, the Hopper 3 has two terabytes of storage — more than enough for most viewers. It comes with six tuners, but you have the option to upgrade to a mind-boggling sixteen. One Hopper 3 will work with up to seven TVs, so your whole house will be covered.

If that’s not enough to convince you, there’s more. The Hopper 3’s AutoHop function, much like the Bolt+’s SkipMode, jumps past commercials and lets you enjoy shows without interruption. It works with just a simple press of a button on your remote.

You can even use Bluetooth headphones with the Hopper 3. It’s perfect for watching TV without disturbing a sleeping partner, child, or roommate.

Minuses

Overall, the Hopper 3 is an excellent DVR. Its only drawback is that it isn’t free! Plus, you can’t use it if you’re not a DISH customer.

Target Audience

DISH customers who already have the Hopper 3 don’t need to shop around for other devices — this one is amazing! And if you’re looking for a better DVR and don’t mind switching services, the Hopper 3 is almost good enough to justify making the change to DISH.

#3 DIRECTV Genie

Sports fans, this one is for you.

DIRECTV’s service caters to lovers of all sports, especially NFL. If you’re a DIRECTV subscriber, the Genie DVR is a handy device for making sure that you never miss a game.

Pluses

Have you ever realized too late that you forgot to set your DVR to record? DIRECTV’s Genie DVR allows you to begin recording remotely through its mobile app. Even better, its live rewind feature allows you to go back up to 90 minutes and begin recording. Together, these are indispensable features for the forgetful.

Combined with NFL SUNDAY TICKET, you can have the Genie record entire seasons of your team’s games. And if you’re truly serious about sports, you can even watch two games simultaneously on a split screen.

Minuses

The Genie has some great features, but it lacks storage space. Nevertheless, if you’re mostly saving sports games, it should have more than enough space for you.

Target Audience

Other DVRs will obviously be able to record and save sports. However, if sports matter to you more than other forms of entertainment, then you can’t go wrong with DIRECTV and their Genie DVR. Together, they’re a big reason many sports fans choose DIRECTV over the competition.

#4 XFINITY X1 Cloud

XFINITY’s DVR system works a bit differently than the others on this list, but that’s not a bad thing. In fact, the X1 Cloud is unique enough that you might actually prefer it. So what makes the X1 Cloud so special?

Pluses

The X1 Cloud from XFINITY allows you to view tons of shows on demand. It has a rotating library of shows, sports, and movies. Fortunately, this library changes regularly and manages to avoid feeling stale.

Its most unique feature is its cloud storage ability. By keeping your recordings on an external server, the X1 makes it possible to watch on-the-go on multiple devices. Even better, you can switch from watching on one device to another without skipping a beat. If you want to use local storage, however, you can connect a SATA drive to your X1.

The XFINITY X1 Cloud isn’t the only DVR system that lets you use voice commands. However, its included function works very well. It makes it much quicker and easier to find exactly the show you want to watch, especially since typing on a remote can be an exercise in patience.

Minuses

The X1 Cloud can be unreliable in terms of playback quality. You might run into pixelated video and lag, which are guaranteed to spoil your viewing experience.

Compared to other options, the X1’s storage space is disappointing. While 60 hours of storage is certainly a lot, it pales in comparison to the other DVRs on this list. However, this is slightly made up for by the X1 Cloud’s on-demand options.

Target Audience

Since Comcast’s service is available in almost all of the 50 states, there’s a good chance that you’re an XFINITY subscriber. Since the X1 Cloud is their default DVR, you don’t really need to switch to something more powerful. If your Internet connection is good, then the X1 will probably suit most of your entertainment needs.

#5 Tablo 2

Not everyone can afford an expensive cable or satellite package. When you add a DVR system, the price can go even higher. What can you do if budget is your main concern? And what if you only get your TV channels for free from a digital antenna?

The Tablo 2 is an affordable DVR unit that still delivers a surprisingly good user experience for its price.

Pluses

At about $220, the Tablo 2 is much less expensive than other DVR systems on this list. It’s great for people who get OTA programming from a digital antenna. Since OTA programming is free, a flat $220 fee gives you a lifetime of service for a very affordable price.

The Tablo 2 lets you watch shows on up to six devices. Furthermore, it has two tuners, so you can record two shows simultaneously. It’s a very generous offer — higher-end DVRs can charge extra for additional tuners. Even better, the Tablo 2 lets you skip commercials and record shows remotely. It has a lot to offer for a low price.

Minuses

The Tablo 2 has no interface at all. If you want a visual guide that shows what’s on, you’ll have to pay extra. It only costs $5 per month or $50 per year. You can also pay $150 up front for lifetime access. It’s not a bad deal, but it does drastically increase the price of an otherwise cheap unit.

The Tablo 2 also doesn’t have built-in storage. You’ll need a USB storage device like a thumb drive or an external hard drive in order to record any shows.

Target Audience

If you don’t have and don’t want cable or satellite, then the Tablo 2 is the DVR for you. It’s easy to use, affordable and will work well with the TV equipment that you already have.

What Should Every DVR Have?

Storage and Recording

Since a DVR’s main purpose is to save shows and movies for later, you’ll want your DVR to have plenty of storage space. Most DVRs start with around 500 GB (gigabytes) of storage. If for some reason that isn’t enough for you, it’s possible to connect an external hard drive to certain DVR models.

Most DVRs have the ability to record individual episodes as well as whole series. Better yet, there’s no need to manually record a show you want to save. In some cases, your DVR might even automate the process — the Hopper 3, for example, records primetime shows automatically. Pickier viewers may not like this, however, and it does eat up precious storage space.

Not all DVRs allow the same number of simultaneous recordings. Just keep in mind that more recordings don’t mean that you’ll get more storage. It only means that you can record more shows at once.

While every DVR gives you the ability to pause and rewind your videos, only a few of them allow you to fast-forward. If annoying ads are the bane of your existence, TiVo and DISH will make your life easier with their commercial-cutting features.

Multi-TV Support

Very few people have only one TV in their home — if you have several TVs, you’ll probably want DVR service for all of them. Unfortunately, few DVRs work for multiple TVs at once. In most cases, you’ll need to buy extra units or other add-ons.

The Hopper 3 is the king of multi-TV support — for large households, this is probably the best DVR you can get. Compare it to TiVo or DISH — both companies require you to buy extra receivers, which can get costly if you have a lot of TVs.

On-the-Go Access

These days, fewer and fewer people are watching TV on their TVs. DVR services that can stream to your phone, tablet, or computer are becoming more common — and for a good reason. Who wouldn’t want to watch TV wherever they go?

With a service like XFINITY, you can watch on-demand content wherever you have an Internet connection. A good DVR service can make for a seamless viewing experience that follows your schedule — not the other way around.

Affordable Price

If you’re planning to get a DVR system, you have to decide if you’d rather buy or rent your unit. Buying one can be more expensive, but it’s a good option if you expect to have it for at least three years. Renting, on the other hand, will ensure that you always have the latest and greatest technology available.

Your decision might come down to your TV subscription. If you’re not planning to stay with one provider for a long time, then you should definitely buy your own DVR. Most DVRs cost around $15 per month, which means that you’ll spend around $360 in two years or $540 in three years. Therefore, if you get a DVR for less than that, you’ll save some money in the long run.

The Verdict

It may seem like DVRs are more trouble than they’re worth, especially when you compare them to the simplicity of the VCR. But don’t ignore the benefits — a good DVR puts you in charge of your own TV experience. With a reliable DVR system, you can watch and record whatever you want with the push of a button. What’s not to like about that?

On the other hand, if you are happy with your cable provider or streaming service, you most likely don’t need to buy an indoor antenna. But, keep in mind that a classic antenna could be used as a backup or a free alternative to cable.

Even today, the indoor antenna market is crowded. To help you choose the best one, here is a short list of the best indoor HD antennas.

#1: Editor’s Pick — ClearStream Eclipse 35 Mile

This indoor HD antenna has a unique and versatile design. It’s easy to set up because it grips to any smooth flat surface — walls or windows. Also, you can change the color of the antenna so that it blends in better with the overall design of your room. Use the white side for placement on walls and the black side to blend in with darker surfaces.

In addition, the ClearStream Eclipse antenna can pick up frequencies within a 35-mile range and comes with a 12-foot detachable cable. The overall channel count with this antenna is significantly higher than with other similar antennas.

Quick stats:

• Comes with a 12-foot detachable cable
• An amplifier is not included
• Advertised number of channels: 46
• Actual number of channels: 74

Benefits

Modern and functional design

The ClearStream Eclipse indoor antenna doesn’t have that classic antenna look. Its patented ring-shaped design is sleek and won’t distract you while you are watching TV. In addition, this antenna is not as bulky as other classic antennas. So, the area around your TV set will seem less cluttered.

If you have guests over, this antenna will quickly become a discussion topic. They will be intrigued because i looks nothing like “ancient technology.”

Other than that, the ClearStream antenna is functional because it comes with a detachable cable. If you have to move things around in your room or just want to clean up, the detachable cable feature will make your life easier. Essentially, you won’t have to detach the antenna from the wall or window during cleaning or moving.

More channels

The Clearstream Eclipse antenna has a better signal reception than other antennas. You might be able to pick up as many as 74 channels, depending on the number of TV channels broadcast in your area. As an added bonus, there is no need for an amplifier to get that many channels.

Lifetime warranty

With most other antenna brands, you only get a one-year warranty. However, with the ClearStream Eclipse antenna, you get a lifetime warranty on parts from its manufacturer Antennas Direct.

Downsides

Amplifier not included

This antenna doesn’t come with an amplifier. If you need amplification, you’ll have to buy the model with the 50+ mile range or a third-party amplifier. But, in most cases, you won’t need an amplifier because it might add only a few more channels.

More expensive

The ClearStream antenna is among the more expensive indoor antennas on the market. For example, the Vansky antenna has a longer range at half the price of the ClearStream antenna. On the other hand, the ClearStream is capable of pulling in more channels compared with the 50+ mile range Vansky — with an attached amplifier. All in all, it’s worth the money since you have to pay for this antenna only once — when you buy it — and you’ll be set for a long time.

#2: Cheapest Antenna w/ Lots of Channels — Vansky

The Vansky’s antenna might not have the most appealing design, but it’s on the list as one of the favorites.

Quick stats:

• 16.5-foot cable is not detachable
• Comes with an amplifier
• Advertised number of channels: Not specified
• Actual number of channels: 72
• Amplified number of channels: 73

Benefits

Low cost

The Vansky antenna is inexpensive and practical. For a one-time 20 dollar expense, you can start watching HD channels free of charge. In addition, you won’t need to buy any extra equipment. Having in mind that cable TV subscriptions sometimes cost even five times that amount, this antenna is truly a bargain.

If for some reason you are not satisfied with the quality of the product or signal reception, don’t stress because there is a 45-day money back guarantee. You also get a standard one-year warranty.

Easy setup

The setup process for this antenna is straightforward. Just plug the cable into your TV, stick the antenna on a wall or window and scan the channels. You will most likely have to move the antenna around and rescan the channels until you find the optimal location.

Downsides

Cable not detachable

This antenna comes with a non-detachable 16.5-foot cable, which is longer compared with other antenna brands. But, do still consider the cable length if you intend on buying this antenna. Non-detachable cables can’t be replaced with longer cables. If the cable gets damaged, you will have to replace the entire antenna.

Simple design

The Vansky indoor antenna has a simple, flat design — as do other similar antennas on this list, excluding the ClearStream brand. Vansky’s simple design isn’t necessarily a drawback, but it’s just that — a basic antenna. There is nothing wrong with wanting an antenna that has an appealing design. However, if you are simply looking for a powerful antenna that will do its job — grab sounds and images out of thin air — then, look no further.

#3: Best Two-Sided Antenna — Mohu Leaf 30

The Mohu Leaf 30 antenna can cover a range of up to 40 miles and comes with a 10-foot detachable cable. Even though the design is not as stylish and it doesn’t come with an amplifier or a table stand, it will give you access to free HD channels.

Quick stats

• Cable is detachable
• Comes without an amplifier
• Price: $69.99
• Advertised channel number: 65
• Actual channel number: 55

Benefits

Cable is detachable

Mohu Leaf has a versatile black and white design that comes with a white detachable cable. Generally, you won’t be attaching and detaching the cable very often, but it’s helpful while cleaning, moving or replacing it with a longer cable.

Two-sided

Most of the antennas on this list have two sides — a dark side and a light side. As a result, you can blend the white side of the Mohu Leaf antenna with your walls and the black side with darker surfaces without investing additional effort.

Downsides

Short, thick cable

Of all the antennas on this list, the Mohu Leaf antenna has the shortest and thickest cable. For that reason, you might want to replace it with a longer one. As for the size, the Mohu Leaf antenna is similar in size compared with other antennas on this list.

No amplifier

In most cases, your antenna won’t need to be amplified. However, some people like having the amplification option just in case. Particularly, people living in more isolated areas may need to get an antenna with a longer range or buy an additional signal booster.

#4: Nicest Looking Antenna — BESTHING

BESTHING’s digital TV antenna is not your ordinary indoor antenna. Apart from its exceptional design, it comes with a stand and a signal booster.

Quick stats:

• Cable is not detachable
• Comes with an amplifier
• Advertised channel number: Not specified
• Actual channel number: 59
• Amplified number of channels: 61

Benefits

Integrated amplifier

In general, most antennas that come with amplifiers also include a detachable cable and a power supply. However, with the BESTHING antenna, the amplifier and the USB cable are integrated into a single  adapter. This set-up is practical because there are fewer parts that you have to assemble.

On the other hand, keep in mind that, if one cable fails, you’ll be left with a semi-functional adapter.

Comes with a stand

For those who want to place their antenna next to or on top of the TV, the BESTHING antenna comes with a stand. However, to get the strongest signal reception, keep it close to a window. You are welcome to place the antenna on a table or your entertainment console if there is no interference with the signal.

Downsides

Non-detachable cable

As mentioned already, detachable cables are more convenient if you need to replace it with a longer one.

#5: Indoor Antenna w/ High Range — 1byone

With a 50-mile range and an included amplifier, 1byone antenna has all the essentials needed to successfully pull in all your favorite HD channels for free.

Quick stats:

• Non-detachable cable
• Comes with an amplifier
• Advertised channel count: Not specified
• Actual channel number: 56
• Amplified channel number: 58

Benefits

Comes with an amplifier

In order to avoid interference and increase the number of channels, you need to make use of the amplifier by plugging it into the antenna. With the 1byone antenna, there are two ways to amplify the signal. You can either plug the USB power cable into a USB port on your TV or into the included power supply.

Cheaper than other antennas

The 50-mile range 1byone antenna has a competitive price at only $24.99. However, it’s a bit more expensive compared to the Vansky antenna, for example. But, if you search Amazon for other variations of the same product, you’ll find some models that go for as low as $9.99.

Downsides

Not as many channels

The 1byone antenna has a weaker signal. For example, you can pick up around 58 channels with the signal booster activated. It’s unclear why this antenna pulls in fewer channels than others, but it could be due to the quality of the design and materials.

If you are concerned with the price, consider getting the Vansky antenna instead of the 1byone. In fact, it’s $5 cheaper than 1byone.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Indoor Antenna

Over-the-air broadcast channels such as CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, and others can be picked up for free with a standard indoor digital antenna. Not many people are aware of that fact. Antenna prices can vary anywhere from $9.99 to $79.99. Similarly, the channel count can range from about 40 channels to as many as 70 channels. Surprisingly, the ClearStream HD TV Antenna picked up 74 channels. As for the signal strength, indoor antennas can range from 25 miles to about 150 miles. However, at the range of about 60 or 70 miles, antennas start to fall into the category of outdoor antennas.

Things to Look Out For Before Buying

Price

First, try to figure out which antenna offers the best price to quality ratio. Should you spend around 40 bucks on an indoor antenna when the $19.99 model would get the same job done, but at half the price? Ultimately, there is nothing wrong with wanting to save some extra cash if you have the opportunity.

Design

There isn’t much variety in the antenna market in terms of design. Most antennas look the same. Basically, they come with a flat receiver with sticky surfaces attached to a cord with a coaxial connector that you plug into your TV. That’s all there is to it. However, a unique antenna design could quickly become a conversation starter among your friends or family members. But, if your antenna is bulky and strange-looking, it’s likely that you would prefer to keep it out of sight.

Setup simplicity

Will you run into difficulty with the setup process? Unlikely, because antennas nowadays are quite simple and the setup process is straightforward. If you have to move your antenna for whatever reason, just take it down and stick it somewhere else. Could the setup process be any simpler?

Detachable and non-detachable cables

One of the essential features of any antenna design is whether the cable is detachable or not. Depending on the distance from your TV to the wall or window, the cable length can have an impact on the overall presentation. Will your antenna blend in or will it look sloppy?

Most people prefer antennas with a detachable cable. That way, it’s easier to replace the original cable with a longer one or a new one if it gets damaged.

Amplification

If you live in isolated rural areas, chances are your antenna will require a signal booster to maintain a strong signal reception. If your antenna comes with an amplifier try it out to see if it pulls in additional channels. On the other hand, if you don’t get any additional benefits from an amplifier, you probably shouldn’t use it. Keep in mind that it all depends on your setup and where you place the antenna.

The only thing you need to watch TV without satellite or cable is a solid and fast internet connection. If you want to pick up local channels and watch the majority of popular shows, sports and news, you can buy an antenna. You probably already own streaming devices such as tablets, cell phones, etc. But you should consider investing in a device that will be connected directly to your TV. Next, let’s take a look at some of the best cable alternatives currently on the market.

Live TV Streaming

There’s a reason why streaming services have gained so much popularity lately, as they offer the best features available at best prices. Whether you want a more budget-friendly option, the highest channel count or the best DVR, live TV streaming has something for everyone.

Here are the most popular providers, their prices, and channel counts:

• AT&T Watch App — $15 a month for over 30 channels
• Philo TV — $16–$20 a month for 37–46 channels
• Sling TV — $25–$40 a month for 30–50 channels
• Hulu with Live TV — $39.99–$43.99 a month for 60 channels
• YouTube TV — $40 a month for 73 channels
• DIRECTV NOW — $40–$75 a month for over 120 channels
• fuboTV — $44.99–$49.99 a month for 74–90 channels
• PlayStation Vue — $44.99–$79.99 a month for 49–90 channels

DIRECTV NOW is DIRECTV’s way of offering its satellite TV for those who don’t want to be locked into long contracts. You can also add HBO for $5 a month. That is a great deal, considering most providers will charge at least $15 a month for it. You will also be able to view some of the most popular networks like the Travel Channel, Sundance TV, and HGTV. Furthermore, their cloud DVR allows you to record 20 hours of live TV that you can keep for 30 days.

With some of the most popular channels and the price of only $25 a month — Sling TV gives you great value for your money. However, if you like to binge-watch your favorite shows, Hulu has a huge library of on-demand content. While YouTube TV is good, it’s still not available in many areas.

Streaming Platforms

Streaming platforms allow you to watch your favorite shows on a flexible schedule and without having to sign any long-term contracts. The only downside is that you won’t be able to watch live TV with these services. But you can still view original content and on-demand movies and shows.

Here are some of the best streaming platforms and their prices:

• CBS All Access — $5.99–$9.99 a month
• Hulu — $7.99–$11.99 a month
• Netflix — $7.99–$13.99 a month
• Amazon Prime — $12.99 a month or $99 a year
• HBO NOW — $14.99 a month

Netflix is the king of original content. Their hit shows like “Stranger Things” and “Peaky Blinders” have solidified the platform’s popularity. The streaming service also offers a variety of movies, and its library is constantly expanding.

Hulu also offers fan-favorite shows, such as “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” on-demand. Amazon Prime is not the most up to date when it comes to their movie selection, but it offers many classics. However, their original programs haven’t taken off yet, except for “The Handmaid’s Tale.”

Our Pick

If you want to watch it all, you can combine a live TV streaming service such as Sling TV or DIRECTV NOW with Hulu or Netflix. Also, Hulu Live TV includes everything from Hulu’s regular library in case you want to watch both and not subscribe to two services.

Indoor Antennas

Investing in an antenna allows you to have access to local HD channels forever, with a single payment. Most people don’t know this, but you can get great local channels if you buy an indoor TV antenna. You can also view the ones such as ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC in HD and for free.

Best indoor antennas and their prices:

• Vansky — a one-time payment of $24.95
• Mohu Leaf — a one-time payment of $39.95
• Clearstream Eclipse — a one-time payment of $39.99

Keep in mind that providers change their prices quite frequently, so you should always make sure to check the pricing available on Amazon — as it might be lower there.

A lot of streaming services don’t offer the greatest selection of local channels. Buying an HD antenna is the best way to circumvent that downside. However, if you can’t find a good spot in your home to install it, an HD antenna might not be the best option for you.

The Best Streaming Devices

Streaming devices are great for when you want to watch something on your TV and easily control it without using a remote. They are also known as streaming players, and when you link your TV to the internet, you can use apps like DIRECTV NOW, Sling TV, and Hulu. All of these players come with their interface from which you can select different apps and games.

Here are a couple of best streaming devices and their prices:

• Chromecast — $35
• Roku — $39
• Fire TV — $89.98
• Apple TV — $199.99

You can also opt out of buying a specialized device and use things you already have in your home, such as:

• Phones
• Tablets
• Computers
• Smart TVs

Depending on your phone and the service you use, you should be able to cast the screen on your TV. Tablets work similarly to phones, except they have bigger screens, which are better if you want to watch content on the go. You can also hook up your computer’s HDMI cable to your TV to stream content directly. However, if you already have a Smart TV, you will also have all of these apps ready to use, and you won’t need any additional devices.

More Cable Alternatives

If you don’t like any of the best cable alternatives for you so far, here are a couple more ways you can watch your favorite shows. Keep in mind that while some of these methods come at no monetary cost, others might cost you an arm and a leg.

Borrow Someone Else’s Login

Most providers’ websites will require you to log in to use their streaming services. You could ask the people you know to lend you their username and password to find out what happened in the latest episode of “The Bachelor.” However, if you’re the person who used to give out Netflix logins like candy, you know that this isn’t a long-term solution. Constantly using someone else’s account could even cause friction between the two of you.

Visit the Network’s Website

You can watch so many great shows on the network’s website at no cost. Although you will have to log in to gain access to certain shows, a lot of fan favorites are available for free. You can find shows like “Modern Family” on ABC, “This Is Us” on NBC, and “New Girl” on FOX without even signing in.

Individual Apps

If you don’t watch a wide range of content that spans across different networks, you can simply buy an individual app created by a network or service provider. For example, if you only want to watch GOT, you can purchase the HBO Go app for only $15 a month. You can also get the SHOWTIME if you want to watch shows like “Who Is America.”

Saving Money

As you can tell, you can save a lot of money if you start using a streaming service. You can save thousands of dollars throughout a couple of years if you switch to providers like DIRECTV, DISH or Comcast. Next, let’s take a look at the money pits you’ll avoid if you use some of the best cable alternatives.

Equipment Fees

The rental fees for a single device can range anywhere from $10 to $20 a month. Thus, you will save as much as $300 a year on a single receiver. If you have a big family or live with many roommates, the savings will be even greater. You won’t have to pay for every individual device you want to use and will be able to save more money over time.

Broadcast Fees

Getting ABC, CBS, FOX or NBC can cost anywhere from $5 to $20 a month if you use cable service. However, if you buy an HD antenna, you will be able to watch these channels for a one-time payment of $20–$40.

HD Fees

Cable companies seem to think that watching content in HD is a luxury, and thus, charge you upwards of $10 to do so every month. But streaming services know that is an absolute must and offer 720p quality at the very least. Most of the time, you will be able to watch content in 1080p or more, and you won’t have to pay extra for it.

Sports Fees

You might have to pay your cable company anywhere from $3 a month to watch sports. Although this isn’t a lot of money, why pay for something you can get for free? An antenna will give you access to all sports channels you can imagine — without the added fees.

Regulatory Fees

Cable companies do have to pay to gain access to certain networks, but it’s you who has to foot the bill. Although these fees aren’t usually more than a couple of bucks, why would you pay for them when you don’t have to? It’s time to cut the cord and switch to any of the best cable alternatives mentioned so far.

Additional Fees

On top of all of these, there are even more surcharges that keep piling on your bill. These may include franchise fees, FCC regulatory fees, as well as many others, depending on the provider and channels available.

Popular Alternatives: DIRECTV NOW & Sling TV

You can’t go wrong with any of the services listed, especially considering they all offer free trials. Depending on whether you want the most channels no matter the price or are looking for a more budget-friendly option, these two providers offer the best service.

DIRECTV NOW

DIRECTV NOW offers a huge variety of content even with their cheapest package. However, their prices are some of the highest on the market. You will also receive two simultaneous streams with every package, and you can pay an additional monthly fee to add a third device. Moreover, the provider won’t charge any additional fees if you want to switch from cable to their streaming services, and you won’t even have to sign a contract.

Sling TV

Just because Sling TV offers inexpensive packages, this doesn’t mean their service is inferior in any way. Although you get less content overall, you will still be able to watch some of the most popular premium channels. Also, if you want to watch EPIX or SHOWTIME at no additional cost, go with Sling TV.

Final Thoughts

All of the best cable alternatives mentioned are by far superior to cable with their features, prices, and channel options. Also, the majority of them offer amazing DVRs that make them even more convenient for your binge-watching your favorite shows. However, not every streaming service is the same. So always make sure to do your research to get all the features and channel options you want.

By switching from cable, you can opt out of being locked into contracts without missing out on your favorite channels. With these best cable alternatives, you can mix and match packages and providers to customize your viewing preferences and needs. You have nothing to lose, and you can try out most of these services for a free trial period to see if they fit your needs.