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Norwalk, OH 44857
Over the past few years, the number of cord cutters has continued to increase. As is typical in the world of electronics, things have evolved. If you're new to this concept, we recommend reading our first blog article from a few years ago. You can access it through this link. However, if you already have a basic understanding and are seeking more detailed information, keep reading.
Below, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions we receive, particularly regarding whether specific channels are available through streaming apps. So, without further ado, let's delve into the most common Q&A's and check out the chart displaying the streaming apps that offer the majority of sports channels (including the ones people often inquire about).
Yes, you will either keep your exisiting providers internet, or switch to a different provider offering better speeds and better prices.
Probably Yes. Because usually people will keep Spectrum, or Buckeye just for their internet service. You have to have an internet provider to stream any apps.
A reason why you may not keep Spectrum or Buckeye etc.. is if you find a different internet provider with faster speeds or a lower cost.
Yes, see our chart below showing the local channels from Cleveland. You will see the streaming apps we have listed carry the local channels. Most live TV streaming apps carry local channels from across the United States.
If you get a live TV streaming app like those below in the chart, no you do not need to keep your cable or satellite company for TV channels.
However, you may still want or need to keep them for internet. This is where people shop for the best internet provider offering the fastest speeds at the lowest cost.
We recommend at least 200MBS download, preferably 300MBS - 600MBS download speeds.
If you have a lower speed try it out but be aware if you get buffering, pixelation, or poor focus, you probably want a faster speed. This is especially true when people are on their devices and watching multiple TV's at the same time.
No, each TV streaming app (if it offers DVR) stores it in their cloud (servers). You access these DVR programs through the providers app.
Most likely Yes, if your TV is a newer smart TV. Especially with the older smart TV's, not all smart TV's support every streaming app.
Generally speaking a new smart TV should get the apps listed in the chart below. (not a guarantee).
If your Smart TV does not get one of these apps, your choices are either replace the TV or purchase a streaming device like a Roku, or Fire Cube.
Due to slower speeds, it is not our first recommendation to purchase the lower cost model Roku or Firesticks. We would recommend the Roku Ultra, or Firecube which offer the fastest processors, and an ethernet port to hardwire these devices to your internet.
Below, you will find a chart displaying four prominent TV streaming services. These particular services have been selected due to their widespread popularity and extensive offering of sports channels – a frequent inquiry among individuals. While not all of them encompass every requested sports channel, a few do.
Please take note of the following information. The data presented in the chart is accurate as of September 2023. However, if you are reading this in late 2023 or 2024, there is a possibility that it may have changed. This could be due to alterations in the channel lineup or cost by the provider.
The electronics industry is constantly evolving, after all. Additionally, you will observe that both Directv Stream and Fubo TV offer various TV plans. I have indicated in the chart which plans are required to access the listed channels.
Channel | YouTube TV | Hulu TV | Directv Stream (Choice & Above Plan) | Fubo TV (Pro Plan) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bally Sports | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Big 10 Network | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
ESPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
ESPN 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
NFL Network | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
3 NBC Cleveland | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
5 ABC Cleveland | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
8 Fox Cleveland | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
19 CBS Cleveland | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
DVR | Yes - Unlimited | Yes - Unlimited | Yes - Unlimited | Yes - 1,000 Hours |
Screens | 3 - Unlimited screens is add on | 2 - Unlimited screens is add on | 20 - On Same Wifi Network | 10 Screens at Home |
Cost | $72.99 | $69.99 | $99.99 - Choice Plan | $74.99 - Pro Plan |
From a cost comparision (as of September 2023) Fubo TV offers all the channels listed with a DVR for the best price. In our area Bally Sports network is a big one, people want the Guardians, and Cavs. With that said we will see what happens to Bally sports in regards to their problems. Will this change in 2024 - 2025....probably so stay tuned. But for 2023 it was time for a cord cutting update with the current information based on questions I commonly get.
If you happen to have no interest in sports and are only looking for the essential channels, there are a few other options available. However, it is important to note that these alternatives do not currently provide local Cleveland channels. Sling TV and Philo are among the choices you can consider. Please refer to the comparison chart below for more details. While the cost is significantly lower, keep in mind that you will not have access to certain sports programs and local Cleveland channels.
Channel | Sling TV Orange | Sling TV Blue | Philo TV |
---|---|---|---|
Bally Sports | No | No | No |
Big 10 Network | No | No | No |
ESPN | Yes | No | No |
ESPN 2 | Yes | No | No |
NFL Network | No | Yes | No |
3 NBC Cleveland | No | No | No |
5 ABC Cleveland | No | No | No |
8 Fox Cleveland | No | No | No |
19 CBS Cleveland | No | No | No |
DVR | Yes 50 Hours - 200 Hours add on | Yes 50 Hours - 200 Hours add on | Yes - Unlimited |
Screens | 1 | 3 | 3 |
Cost | $40 | $40 | $25 |
When you're prepared to venture into the realm of cord cutting, simply inform us. If you're ready to upgrade your TV for a smart TV, we're here to assist you (with price matching for comparable models). We frequently install these applications on clients' TVs, set up their app accounts, and provide and install streaming devices to keep you up-to-date with the latest trends.
Understanding the ever-changing nature of this industry, we hope this provides you with some valuable perspective on the cord cutting world. Get in touch with us when you're prepared for an electronics enhancement. We would be delighted to provide you with exceptional service.
If you're prepared for a visit, kindly get in touch with us by calling, texting (419.668.5131), or utilizing our contact form to verify our availability at the office.
There may be instances when we are away conducting TV and home theater installations or consultations. So it is advisable to give us a call or reach out to us when you're ready to purchase your TV, mount it, set up your home theater installation, or undertake any other home entertainment project.
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