In the world of TV streaming services, each platform offers a unique selection of channels. To choose the right one for you, start by finding a service that includes your favorite cable channels and shows. Local channels like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC are particularly important for live TV. While not all services offer these channels in every area, the best streaming service for you will have most of what you love to watch.
It’s worth noting that the lineups of live TV streaming services are constantly changing. Networks are constantly negotiating to secure access to popular channels, especially those with highly watched original shows and regional sports networks. As a result, certain cable channels may disappear from a service after a network contract expires, as was the case in 2020 with regional sports networks.
These negotiations and changes also often lead to price increases. Over the past few years, services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu, Philo, and DirecTV Stream have all raised their prices. Additionally, there have been contract disputes between companies like Google and Roku, resulting in temporary restrictions on certain apps. In some cases, less popular services may be phased out altogether, such as AT&T TV Watch TV, TVision, and PlayStation Vue.
TV streaming services can generally be divided into two main groups: budget and premium. Budget services typically range from $25 to $50 per month and may not offer many local channels. Premium services, on the other hand, start at $70 per month and include local channels and enhanced cloud DVRs. All services allow you to record and play back shows, but there may be certain restrictions.
If you plan on streaming multiple programs simultaneously on different devices, it’s important to choose a service that offers enough simultaneous streams. Some services, like Sling Orange, only allow one stream at a time, while others have higher limits.
Lastly, it’s crucial to have fast and reliable broadband internet, especially if multiple people will be streaming on supported devices at the same time. A high-speed internet service with a download speed of around 100Mbps will cost approximately $50 to $60 per month.
Ultimately, finding the right TV streaming service involves considering your preferred channels, shows, simultaneous streaming needs, and internet requirements. It’s worth exploring different options and comparing their offerings to ensure you choose the service that best meets your entertainment needs.
