14 Best Alternatives to Cable TV for 2021
When it comes to services that help you save money, cable is never on that list. Most people despise that monthly bill, even if they enjoy watching television, as the cost often seems extreme compared to the value.
This general disdain for the price of television services spurred a new market of options that function as alternatives to cable tv and satellite tv.
Over time, people have adopted these cable alternatives, officially ditching cable and satellite television (cord cutters!) without having to miss out on their favorite shows.
But these days, there are so many options that it can actually be hard to choose.
To be considered a great alternative to cable and satellite tv, the service needs to be affordable and offer a reasonable amount of programming for the cost. Luckily, there are quite a few options that meet those criteria. I’ve included live tv streaming services as well as those offering on-demand content.
Best Alternatives to Cable
Here are 15 alternatives to cable tv you can sign up for today:
- 🏆 Philo: Best Overall
- Sling TV
- Hulu
- fuboTV
- ESPN+
- Amazon Prime Video
- Vudu
- Local Networks with an Antenna
- Television Channels Online
- YouTube
- Netflix
- Premium Channel Online Subscriptions
- AT&T TV Now
- PlayStation VUE
- The Local Library
1. Philo
Philo is a streaming service for all your devices (computer, phone, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Fire), offers personalized profiles, and lets you save shows to watch up to 30 days later.
A relative newcomer to the video streaming scene, Philo gives you access to live tv access to cable channels at a fraction of the cost, making it one of the best alternatives to cable around.
Philo offers one package of 63 channels for $20/month. These channels include:
- A&E
- AMC
- BBC America
- Comedy Central
- Discovery Channel
- Food Network
- Hallmark Channel
- HGTV
- Lifetime
- MTV
- Nickelodeon
- and many more…
SERVICE: Philo
PRICE: $20
CHANNELS: 60+
TRIAL: 7-day
LEARN MORE: Read our full Philo review
2. Sling TV
Sling TV is a streaming service that operates more like actual cable or satellite television, making it a great option for those looking to cut the cord.
The “orange” package, available for $30, includes 30+ live channels, including popular ones like HGTV, ESPN, and Disney. Its lineup is geared towards sports and families.
The “blue” package contains 50+ channels and is also $30; however, it consists of more news and entertainment channels and doesn’t include ESPN. It also gives you 2 additional allowed devices for streaming. (Pro tip: Sign up for Sling “Blue” and ESPN+ below for only $4.99 more per month.)
There are also several other add-ons (like Showtime) that give you the ability to customize your service a bit. Sling TV is probably the closest thing to à la carte television service available, so it’s worth exploring.
Limited Time Offer: Get a FREE TiVo Stream 4K ($49.99) when you subscribe and prepay for 2 months of SLING using the link below.
SERVICE: Sling TV
PRICE: $30
CHANNELS: 30+ or 50+
TRIAL: 3 days
3. Hulu
Hulu is one of the best streaming service available and an affordable alternatives to cable and satellite tv.
Not only is there original content, but you can also view shows from local channels and some cable networks soon after they air.
The best part about Hulu is that they have options for every budget, letting you decide what features or channels you’re willing to pay for.
| Basic | No Ads | Bundle | Live TV |
| ad-supported on-demand content |
ad-free on-demand content |
ad-supported on-demand content + Disney+ + ESPN+ (live sports) |
60+ live channels + ad-supported on-demand content |
| $6 | $12 | $13 | $65 |
It’s right in line with the original inspiration for the “cord-cutting” movement.
SERVICE: Hulu
PRICE: $6 – $65
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content Basic Service; 60+ Live
TRIAL: 30-day for basic; 7-day for Live TV
4. fuboTV
fuboTV is a cord-cutting option that provides access to over 167 channels in their “Elite” plan starting at $79.99 / month. This includes all the major sports, entertainment and local channels you could want. Additional add-ons are available for those desiring more premium options like SHOWTIME, STARZ and Regional Sports packages.
They also have a “Family” plan offering 122 channels for $64.99 per month. You are granted 3 simultaneous devices and 250GB of Cloud DVR.
The Family plan comes with a 7-day free trial option, while the Elite plan does not. There are no contracts with fuboTV and you can cancel any time.
If you’re looking for a streaming service with no contracts or hidden fees, check out fuboTV.
SERVICE: fuboTV
PRICE: $65 – $80
CHANNELS: 115 – 159+
FREE TRIAL: 7-day
5. ESPN+
Are you one of the many millennials that only has Cable TV for sports? Consider ESPN+ offers a standalone service to stream thousands of live sports, commentary shows and ESPN+ originals for only $5.99 per month.
Need a little more? Bundle with Hulu and Disney+ for only $12.99 per month. For many, this is the cordcutter’s dream, offering access to a wide range of shows for just a fraction of typical cable or satellite service providers.
Pro Tip: Save with a yearly plan at $49.99 (That’s less than $4.17 per month).
There are also options for those wanting to tack on UFC pay-per-view at a deep discount for new and existing subscribers.
SERVICE: ESPN+
PRICE: $6 (bundled options may add to price)
6. Amazon Prime Video
If you pay for Amazon Prime, you already have access to their alternative to cable: Amazon Prime Video. But, if you don’t need Prime shipping, you can pay for the service on its own for about $9 per month.
Like other streaming service giants, you gain access to a giant library of content and original programming. As a bonus, if something you want isn’t on Prime but is available through Amazon, you may have the ability to rent it, including single television episodes.
SERVICE: Amazon Prime Video
PRICE: $9
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: 30-day
7. Vudu
In an attempt to get in on the movie rental and content delivery game, Walmart created Vudu.
While they were a little late to the game when compared to other online content services, Vudu has been aggressive in using Walmart’s retail backing to grow and bring a quality product to market.
There are several features that make the service unique from many of the other video streaming services. First, there is a TON of free content that is supported by showing short ads.
This applies to both movies and full seasons of television shows. Both in the movies and television categories the best options to watch for free seem to be at least two years old. So you are not going to get the latest and greatest options for free and will have to purchase and rent those kinds of titles.
Second, for those who like to rent and do not care so much about picture quality, you can still rent many of the movies in the “Standard Definition” format for $1 less than the HD format. This is a great way to save money on getting movies for your kids since they don’t seem to even care if the movie is in English.
If you are a person that likes to physically own your movies, Walmart makes watching them amazingly easy. If you purchase a physical copy that includes the digital copy you can order it on the Walmart website, have it delivered to your house, and watch the movie INSTANTLY on Vudu.
That’s a pretty cool way to sync the two business models.
SERVICE: Vudu
PRICE: Varies
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: None
8. Local Networks with an Antenna
For those who want to scale back completely, then consider an antenna.
HDTV antennas are fairly affordable (for example: this one on Amazon has great reviews, 130-mile range, and is less than $30) and much less intrusive than the rabbit ears of yore. Plus, thanks to digital television signals, the picture quality can be outstanding.
With an antenna, you can potentially pick up any local broadcast stations, such as:
- ABC
- CBS
- NBC
- FOX
- CW
…and more for absolutely nothing.
However, you may want to check to make sure you have a reasonable signal before making the switch, especially if you have a favorite show you don’t want to miss and live outside of a major city.
The benefit of using an antenna as a cable tv alternative is that you don’t need internet service either. You can cut the cord entirely and still keep up with network news and shows all for free.
SERVICE: Antenna
PRICE: $0 (after hardware purchase)
CHANNELS: Varies
FREE TRIAL: N/A
9. Television Channels Online
Most major television networks post recently aired episodes of their leading shows online.
Each episode may only be available for a short time, and you may have to wait for a week or so after it originally airs on television, but it does give you the ability to watch without an additional cost.
When you start exploring your options, don’t be afraid to look at cable channels as well as networks. While ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox are obvious places to begin, many cable channels also have some of their content available online.
For example, HGTV and Comedy Central both have some of their content up for free online. However, you might not have access to recent shows or episodes, and some shows aren’t available at all without a subscription.
If you have a smart TV, you may be able to download the network’s app onto your television. This allows you to watch the show on your biggest screen without a subscription, making it a great alternative to cable and satellite tv.
Usually, the apps themselves are free. However, some networks offer paid subscription options to access certain shows or old episodes.
But that doesn’t mean the cost isn’t potentially reasonable, depending on how many shows you may watch. For example, CBS All Access is available for as little as $5.99 per month (plus tax), which isn’t bad in comparison to the cost of cable.
SERVICE: CBS All Access
PRICE: $6
CHANNELS: 1
FREE TRIAL: 7-day
10. YouTube
The home of everything from viral videos to how-to guides to unique content from a plethora of creators, YouTube is the quintessential destination for free video-based entertainment.
And it’s not just home videos shared by someone you’ve never met; there’s professional-quality programming in nearly every genre.
YouTube also has a paid subscription option known as YouTube Premium. It includes original series and movies, as well as YouTube Music Premium, a newer streaming service.
The price tag for the service is around $12, which is comparable to other video streaming companies.
YouTube TV is also available as a streaming service option, albeit more expensive after several recent price hikes
SERVICE: YouTube Premium or YouTube TV
PRICE: $12 Premium; $65 TV
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content Premium; 85+ TV
FREE TRIAL: 30-day for Premium; 2 weeks for TV
11. Netflix
Netflix is both highly affordable and incredibly accessible. Nearly any internet-connected device can be used to watch Netflix, so it’s about as convenient as possible.
There are multiple pricing plans to choose from, starting around $9 a month. However, every option is commercial-free, which is certainly a bonus.
Along with a massive library of movies and television shows, you also gain access to original series and movies.
Plus, you can create multiple viewer profiles on a signal account, allowing you to separate each household member’s list and recommendations from everyone else.
SERVICE: Netflix
PRICE: $14 – $18
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: 30-day
12. Premium Channel Online Subscriptions
It wasn’t long ago that the only way to watch programming from HBO, Showtime, and Starz was through add-on subscriptions on a cable package.
Now, these premium channels have their own online streaming services, usually for between $9 and $15 a month.
While you don’t get as much bang for your buck as you do with Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, it may be the only alternative to cable for certain original series and movies anywhere close to their original air date.
SERVICE: Premium Channel Online Subscriptions
PRICE: $9 – $15
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: Varies
13. AT&T TV Now
Once DirecTV figured out that the best way to beat the streaming services was actually to join them, AT&T TV Now entered the mix.
The service, which runs between $65 and $135, depending on your package, is a no-contract alternative to satellite television (though priced about the same).
In total, you gain access to between 45 and 125 channels – including some premiums like HBO – making it one of the largest offerings that most closely mimics genuine cable.
SERVICE: AT&T TV
PRICE: $65 – $135
CHANNELS: 45 – 125
FREE TRIAL: 7-day
14. The Local Library
Many local libraries have movies and television shows on DVD, and some even offer BluRay.
Borrowing one is completely free as long as you are eligible for a library card, and you usually have a generous return window too.
The only caveats are that your selection may be limited and other borrowers may not have been kind to the DVD when they borrowed it, so some of them may not work.
But, when the cost is $0, it isn’t as painful when that happens.
SERVICE: Local Library
PRICE: $0
CHANNELS: On-Demand Content
FREE TRIAL: N/A
Do You Need Internet to Use the Best Alternatives to Cable?
Mostly, you do need the internet to use alternatives to cable and satellite tv.
The only exceptions on this list are using an HDTV antenna or heading to your library, both of which give you the ability to watch movies and television shows while cutting the cord entirely.
However, there are free and cheap internet options available, and you can save a ton by ditching your television service subscription.
Just be aware that cable and satellite companies will tout their service bundles to try and convince you to commit to multiple services.
While the promo or introductory prices may look attractive, they will go up when the initial period ends, so think long and hard about the potential consequences, especially if you have to sign a contract.
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I watch a lot of tv since I’m retired and quarantined but I can no longer afford to pay $83 for internet and another 100. For cable. I only watch 22 channels total and that includes local channels so I’m trying to figure out what my best alternative is. I’m on a very small fixed income and can’t keep paying these prices but this is my main activity and I can’t imagine not having something to watch.
Hi. Wife and I are retired. I watch very little TV, wife watches the local stations, ie: ABC,NBC,CBS,FOX and a few independents. Would like NG Wild, OAN, and perhaps 1 or 2 other premiums. Trying to ditch Directv and lower out cost. Is there a site you can direct me to that spells out what is what. Old guy, new ideas lost on me. Need somewhat to understand this enough to make a proper decision. Can you help??
Our home has multiple Comcast Adapter Boxes, allowing for different channel selections by numerous household members. Is there an option which will allow 4-5 TVs to have different channels being viewed simultaneously. I want to move away from Comcast, however afraid of this issue,
Thanks
Bill
Looking to cut cable but I’m very hesitant! I want to save money who doesn’t! Which one would you recommend?! We get Netflix paid for by our cell phone company. We also have show box (free download on cell phone devices you can stream on smart tv’s) However neither seem to be enough as I have 4 children (each have their own TV) a TV in the living room and my bedroom! I need something user friendly that even my 6 year old can figure out and simply navigate! So 6 devices total (Netflix is up to 4) Maybe I’m over thinking that we are going to miss cable too much!?!
This is a great article! I needed a basic uncomplicated article that explains what all the non-cables services are all about. As my services have gone up with no additional services, I want to cut the cord. this is a very good overview. Thank you!
Thanks John. Happy to help.
I pay $72.00 for my internet alone and $220.00 for my Directv package! I am definitely switching how I watch tv. Thanks so much for the tips and information.
You’re welcome Micki
Your bill might go down but these streaming services add up. I only pay $77.71 for internet only then add Netflix, Sling, Amazon Prime., and my Xbox Live which I need to use to stream and play games, I am back up to over $100 a month
Thanks Kenneth. Yeah they can definitely add up. $77.71 seems like a lot for internet these days.
Great post! After contentious relationships with FiOs and Xfinity, I’m switching to one of the alternatives you listed. I had thought the only alternative was Roku.. Now I have a whole menu to choose from. Thanks.
This is a great read! I’ve been hitting a bunch of articles about cutting the cable, so to speak. I was doing a check on the channels I had and fully 95% of them I never watch. Even if I took a combination of your top 12 I’d still be at 50% of my ridiculously expensive cable bill with Comcast. I appreciate the Intel
Thanks Donna. Cable bills are so crazy. I don’t miss mine!
Good reading. We dropped cable about 7 years ago and initially, we used a very nice network tuner which beams free OTA channels through the home. It also has DVR capability, Jeopardy! must not be missed. Then, through a series of fortunate circumstance, we group share one or more of the pay to stream services with family. We also discovered that through our cellular network, we could get another company’s service as part of the cellular company’s partnering. We spend less than 10% of what the cable bill used to be. We have really improved our lives but not watching some of the utter rubbish we used to pay for. I will never go back.
Great post Thomas. We are finding that we almost never watch cable anymore and watch Netflix almost all the time.
Our cable package runs around $35 a month, where as netflix is only $8. The cable package is going to be cancelled at the end of the year.