Tips From The Top

  • Choosing a Streaming Service for Your Needs

    If you’re considering cutting cord, now could be the perfect time to leap from cable or satellite to livestreaming TV services. Last summer we blogged about how millions of people are cutting the cord and switching to livestreaming on all their video devices. Livestreaming offers more options and features for less money, has no hidden fees, very little set-up, is easy to cancel, and some offer cloud-based DVR storage. You can get live sports and prime-time television programs, plus premium channels for an additional fee.

    But the decision to cut the cord on cable can be stressful. While you know you don’t want to pay the high price of cable, you still have to decide how to watch your favorite shows. There are so many services available; it can be overwhelming to sort through them all and choose the right streaming service for your needs. Here are some helpful steps to make the process easier.

    First, decide what channels are important to you. Is your focus sports? If so, you will want to choose a service or package that offers local sports channels, as well as any regional sports channels. Don’t care about sports? You can save money by choosing a package that skips popular sports channels. 

    Next, check your zip code to determine what options are available in your area; this helps avoid any surprises down the road. Sometimes, local affiliate stations are not available in all areas, or are only available on demand — which could potentially defeat the purpose of choosing a streaming service over cable. 

    If you’ve narrowed down your options and still aren’t sure which service you should go with, almost all streaming providers offer a free trial. Before committing, take the time to try each service. This way, you can identify any small quirks that may sway you towards one service over the other. And don’t sweat it - if you do make a mistake in choosing a service, you are never locked into a streaming service for more than a month. But it’s still worth it to experiment. 

    For more information on how to choose a service, and for an in-depth comparison of some of the top streaming choices, Reviews.com has posted a helpful guide.

    To learn more about how your home entertainment needs can benefit from livestreaming, call us at Jackson Hole AV. We’d love to discuss the possibilities.