Streaming TV Services Guide
Cut the cord and discover a world of entertainment options from third-party companies across the Internet. This guide will help you navigate the streaming landscape and find the perfect services for your viewing preferences.
Getting Started with Streaming TV
Transitioning from traditional cable to streaming services can seem overwhelming, but it's actually quite simple. Follow these steps to get started on your streaming journey:
Check Your Internet
For HD streaming, you'll need at least 5 Mbps. For 4K content, aim for 25+ Mbps. Run a speed test to check your current connection.
Choose Your Device
Smart TVs, streaming sticks (Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast), gaming consoles, or even your computer or smartphone can serve as streaming devices.
Select Services
Choose streaming services based on your content preferences, budget, and viewing habits. Many offer free trials to test before subscribing.
Create Accounts
Sign up for your selected services, download their apps to your streaming device, and start enjoying your favorite shows and movies!
Popular Streaming Services
Netflix
The streaming pioneer offering a vast library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and award-winning Netflix originals.
- Extensive content library
- Original programming
- 4K and HDR content available
- Download options for offline viewing
Disney+
Home to Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content, including exclusive originals.
- Family-friendly content
- Disney classics and new releases
- Marvel and Star Wars franchises
- Group watch feature
Hulu
Featuring current TV episodes, original series, hit movies, and more with optional Live TV plans available.
- Next-day TV episodes
- Award-winning Hulu Originals
- Live TV option with sports
- Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle available
Max (HBO Max)
Premium entertainment platform with HBO content, Max Originals, Warner Bros. films, and classic TV shows.
- HBO's entire catalog
- Same-day theatrical releases
- DC Universe content
- Cartoon Network and Adult Swim shows
Amazon Prime Video
Included with Amazon Prime membership, offering movies, TV shows, and award-winning Amazon Originals.
- Included with Prime membership
- Additional channels available
- Rent or buy new releases
- X-Ray feature for actor/music info
Apple TV+
Featuring Apple Originals with high-profile talent, focusing on quality over quantity content.
- All original content
- High-quality productions
- Family sharing for up to 6 people
- 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos
Peacock
NBCUniversal's streaming service with NBC shows, Universal films, sports, and Peacock Originals.
- Free tier available
- NBC and Universal content
- Live sports including Premier League
- Next-day access to current NBC shows
Paramount+
Offering CBS shows, Paramount films, live sports, and exclusive originals from ViacomCBS networks.
- CBS shows and NFL games
- Star Trek universe content
- Nickelodeon shows
- Comedy Central and MTV content
YouTube TV
Live TV streaming service offering 85+ channels including local networks, sports, and news.
- Live TV from major networks
- Unlimited cloud DVR
- Up to 6 accounts per household
- No cable box or contracts
Sling TV
Affordable live TV streaming with customizable channel packages and flexible pricing.
- Customizable "Sling Orange" and "Sling Blue" packages
- Lower cost than traditional cable
- Add-on packages for sports, news, and entertainment
- Cloud DVR included
DirecTV Stream
Premium live TV streaming service with regional sports networks and comprehensive channel lineups.
- Multiple package options (Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, Premier)
- Regional sports networks in many markets
- HBO Max included with certain packages
- No satellite dish required
fuboTV
Sports-focused live TV streaming service with extensive sports coverage including regional networks.
- 100+ channels with strong sports focus
- FanDuel Network for Atlanta Braves streaming
- 4K streaming for select events
- Cloud DVR with 1000 hours of storage