By: The BitMar Team.
As the name implies – and according to Wikipedia – "cord-cutting" refers to the practice of canceling traditional Cable, or Satellite, TV subscriptions, with the purpose of using Internet-based streaming services, to access content. In this article, we will explore the 'ins-and-outs' of cord-cutting; and why it has become such a popular option, for many.
The Cost of Cable, and Satellite, TV:
Cable, and Satellite, TV providers have been a staple, in American households, for decades. However, with the rise of Internet-based streaming services, like: Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, more consumers are questioning the value of traditional TV subscriptions. One of the primary reasons, is: cost. Cable, and Satellite, TV subscriptions can be quite expensive, with some providers charging over $100, per month, for basic packages. Add-ons, like: premium channels, and DVR service, can drive the price even further.
Streaming Services: The Alternative to Cable/Satellite TV:
Internet-based streaming services, on the other hand, offer a lower cost alternative. For example, Netflix offers a range of plans starting at just $8.99 per month, while Hulu's basic plan is $5.99 per month. Amazon Prime Video is included with an Amazon Prime subscription, which costs $119 per year, or $12.99 per month. Other services like Disney+, HBO Max, and Peacock, offer additional options to stream TV shows, and movies.
These services offer a wide variety of content – from classic movies, and TV shows, to original content; produced exclusively for their platform. Many services allow users to create personalized profiles, providing a more tailored viewing experience. They also offer the ability to pause, rewind, and fast-forward through content – something that traditional TV does not always allow.
Streaming Devices:
Streaming services can be accessed through a variety of devices – such, as: smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other streaming devices, like: Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV. Some services even offer apps, for mobile devices; allowing users to stream content on-the-go.
Advantages of Cord-Cutting:
Cord-cutting has become a popular option, for many consumers – for several reasons:
1. Cost savings: As previously mentioned, streaming services are generally less expensive than traditional TV subscriptions; allowing consumers to save money on their monthly bills.
2. Flexibility: With Internet-based streaming services, consumers have the flexibility to watch what they want, when they want, and where they want.
3. Personalization: Streaming services allow users to create personalized profiles, providing a more tailored viewing experience.
4. No contracts: Unlike traditional TV providers, many streaming services do not require long-term contracts; allowing consumers to cancel at any time.
5. Ad-free options: Many streaming services offer ad-free options, for an additional fee; providing an uninterrupted viewing experience.
Drawbacks of Cord-Cutting:
While cord-cutting offers many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
1. Internet speed, and data caps: Streaming services require a stable Internet connection. Unfortunately, some providers may have data caps; which could limit the amount of streaming that users can do, each month.
2. Content limitations: While streaming services offer a wide variety of content, there may be some TV shows, or movies, that may not always be available on these platforms.
3. Multiple subscriptions: To access all the content that most users want, they may need to subscribe to multiple streaming services; which could add up to a similar cost, as a traditional TV subscription.
Conclusion:
Cord-cutting is a growing trend among consumers who are looking to save money on their monthly bills, while still having access to their favorite TV shows, and movies. Streaming services offer a lower cost alternative to traditional TV subscriptions—providing greater flexibility and personalization. While there are some drawbacks to consider, cord-cutting is a viable option for many consumers who may want to take control of their TV viewing.
Currently, next-generation streaming platforms – like: BitMar – may provide you the most affordable form of on-demand streaming entertainment. BitMar provides all-in-one streaming service, for life, for a one-time payment, of: $99.99 USD. It can connect you to millions of on-demand movies, TV shows, channels, videos, and songs (from many different sources on the Web), on the screens that you already own. In fact, BitMar provides access to more movies, and TV shows, than: Cable, Satellite, Netflix, Disney Plus, Max/HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Peacock, and Hulu – combined – and more songs, than: Pandora, Spotify, Amazon Prime Music, and Apple Music—combined. You may learn more, at: BitMar.com.