Streaming Made Simple: Save Money, Watch Anywhere, Stay Safe

Not too long ago, cable TV was the go-to way to watch your favorite shows and stay updated with news and entertainment. It was a major step up from traditional broadcast television, offering more channels, better picture quality, and access to live programming. But as technology has advanced, so has the way we watch TV.

Today, so many people are cutting the cable cord and switching to streaming services to custom-curate their television experience. In this guide, we’ll break down what streaming is, how it works, and how you can choose the best option for your entertainment needs.

What are streaming services?  

Streaming TV lets you watch shows and movies over the internet. Most services require you to create an account and pay a monthly fee. Once subscribed, you can watch as much content as you want, anytime. Payments are usually automatic, billed to your credit or debit card, and you can cancel anytime.

The shift from cable to streaming has made entertainment more accessible, flexible, and customizable. Streaming Giants like Netflix, Hulu, or Pluto TV are just a few examples of the growing number of streaming services worldwide. We can break down the types of streaming services into three different categories: subscription services, free services, and live services.

• Subscription

Subscription-based streaming services charge a monthly fee, usually from $4.99 to $20. They often have tiered plans: lower tiers include ads, while higher tiers offer ad-free viewing and more content. Examples include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Max.

• Free

Free streaming services are free to use but come with ads. Some services offer free content but require a paid subscription for full access. They’re a low-risk way to explore new shows on your TV or tablet. Examples include Tubi and Pluto TV.

• Live

Live streaming services are the priciest, costing $20–$70 per month, but they’re often still cheaper than cable. They offer fewer originals and on-demand content than subscription services, but include more live sports and news. Examples include Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Hulu TV+Live TV.



Streaming services are often more affordable, easier to set up, and provide greater flexibility in how and where you watch your favorite shows.

Benefits of Using Streaming Services

·      Lower Costs

Streaming services typically cost anywhere between $5-$20 per provider. For example, Peacock boasts a price to use their services for only $4.99 a month. You can subscribe to a bundle of services to watch your favorite content, and it will still cost less than a cable bill!

·      Easy Installation

While cable uses bulky boxes, cords, and satellite dishes to stream entertainment, streaming services are app-based. To access these services, all you need is a strong, reliable internet connection and a Smart TV (a TV that connects to the internet) or a small electronic stick that plugs into your current TV (e.g., Roku, Fire Stick).

·      Multiple Ways to Stream

Streaming services let you watch your favorite shows on your phone, computer, or tablet - anytime, anywhere. You could be on a plane, in the car, or waiting at the doctor’s office, just press play and pick up right where you left off. Unlike cable, which sometimes requires you to be at home, streaming with Wi-Fi keeps your shows with you wherever you go.

Now that you know the basics of streaming, how can you choose the right streaming service?

How to Choose the Right Streaming Service

·      Create a TV diary - Keep a record of what you watch, when you watch it, and where you watch it (cable, streaming apps, etc.). This will help you pinpoint your favorite channels and programs. Choose based on your interests. Netflix and Prime Video offer movies and shows, while YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV include live news and sports. Free options like Pluto TV have classic content.

·      Set a Budget – Free services have ads, while paid ones cost $5–$20/month. Live TV streaming is pricier at $20–$70/month but often cheaper than cable.

·      Check Your Devices – Smart TVs, phones, and tablets work with most services. Older TVs may need a Roku, Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV.

·      Look for Free Trials – Try before you buy! Many services offer a free trial period.

·      Consider Bundles – Some services bundle together to save money, like Disney+ with Hulu and ESPN+.

·      Ads or No Ads? – Ad-supported plans are cheaper, while premium tiers remove ads.

If you are still unsure? Pick one or two services to test. You can always cancel or add more later!

 Streaming can be sketchy!

As streaming becomes more popular, scams are increasing too. Fake emails, sketchy websites, and risky streaming services can steal your personal information. Here’s how to stay safe:

·      Watch Out for Fake Emails – Scammers might pretend to be Netflix, Hulu, or other services, asking for money or personal details. Always go to the official website instead of clicking links in emails.

·      Check Website Addresses – Fake sites often have misspelled or slightly different names. Only visit trusted sites by typing the official web address yourself.

·      Use Strong Passwords & Extra Security – Hackers try to steal accounts. Use unique passwords and turn on extra security (like two-factor authentication) when possible.

·      Avoid Risky Free Streaming Sites – Some free sites have viruses or steal your info. Stick to trusted services.

·      Check Your Bank Statements – If you see strange charges, someone might be using your info. Look over your bank statements often and report anything suspicious.

By staying cautious and using trusted streaming platforms, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies safely and securely. Streaming doesn’t care if you're in fuzzy slippers or airport socks — your shows are always ready when you are.



Switching from cable to streaming can offer more flexibility, lower costs, and a greater variety of shows and movies. Whether you want free streaming services, a paid subscription with no ads, or live TV options for sports and news, there’s a service that fits your needs.

Thinking about breaking up with cable? Start by asking yourself what you actually enjoy watching (no shade if it’s just game shows and baking competitions). With just Wi-Fi and a basic device like that tablet your grandkid set up once and you haven’t touched since — you can unlock a whole buffet of entertainment, all without leaving the couch.

Streaming is made to be easy, like microwave-popcorn easy. If you're even a little curious, give it a try — the only thing you'll miss is the cable bill.

Need help picking the right service? CNET put together a handy guide just for folks like us:

👉 Best Live TV Streaming Services for Cord Cutters – CNET

Written by: Tristina Herndon and Kayla Thompkins