The best cord cutting tips according to Roku customers!

Posted: 10 Dec 2019 06:21 AM PST

Cord cutting is becoming more and more popular as users look to move away from traditional cable services. We've already showed you how to watch TV for free, but thought we’d do a deeper dive into cord cutting, lay out the alternatives, and then give you expert advice straight from our Roku customers on our Facebook, Twitter and Reddit communities.

roku remote

What is cord cutting?

Cord cutting refers to the practice of forgoing conventional, subscription cable or satellite services for internet-based streaming alternatives that often prove to be a more cost-effective option.

What are the best alternatives to cable?

There are plenty of flexible, entertainment options nowadays that allow you to still watch live TV, sports, news and more without being locked in to a cable or satellite contract. These options offer bundles of channels, affordable prices, and no hidden fees or contracts. Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV are just a few choices that offer such services, but here's a full list of cable alternatives.

Ready to get started? Here are cord cutting tips directly from our users who've done it.

Best cord cutting tips according to Roku customers

“Don't rush it. Try each streaming service and see which one fits best. Once you like a streaming service, then you can cancel your cable/satellite tv.” – @NYCKNP, Twitter

"Stop thinking and just do it, one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s always nice to save money." – McElveen R., Facebook

“I cut the cord in 2008. I never looked back. I have Netflix and Hulu. I have an antenna for local programs and football.” – mclassy8, Reddit

“Get an antenna if you don’t have one. Otherwise you will find plenty of content between Netflix, Crackle (free), Pluto TV (free), various other free movies (older but free).” – Lauren111, Reddit

“For local news, search the Channel Store for your favorite news station. Many now have Roku apps.” – IveSeenTheSaucers, Reddit

"I replaced all but one cable box with Roku devices, you'd be surprised how much equipment rentals drive up the price on the monthly bill." – Tori V., Facebook

“If you have the ability, install a Plex server in your home. It’s “Netflix” for your own personal or downloaded content, and Plex is pretty nifty at helping to organize it.” – rushaz, Reddit

“Don’t subscribe to everything. Only one or two at a time. You can pause and reactivate subscriptions to save money.” – @pitsaboi, Twitter

“If you need to keep certain TV channels, compare the packages from Sling, Hulu, Philo, fuboTV and others. Each will have channels that others don’t. If you don’t need live TV, you might be able to save more by getting individual channels’ streaming services. Do your homework first.” – @Ziz62266, Twitter

“Take your cable listing. Figure out how many channels you actually watch. Divide that by how much you pay for cable and work out the price per channel. Realize how much more you are paying for channels you never actually watch.” – @cjIsALock, Twitter

“Subscribe to a free trial of the service you want and check its performance over your internet before you commit. Also, a lot of networks offer their shows for free on their apps. NBC, ABC, etc. often have shows available free for a short term. Usually day after air date.” – @GDRitter, Twitter

“Don’t be afraid to at least try a service, most have free trials.” – DWCourtasan2, Reddit

"We were paying $165 a month for TV and internet. The equipment fees and taxes were outrageous! Every year we called and pleaded with our cable company to give us a deal. Cut cable two years ago and saving a lot of money with Roku." – Harry M., Facebook

"I get the top channels with an unlimited cloud DVR for $50. Cable offers you more channels for your dollars, but the value is negated by all the rental fees + taxes." – Dan M., Facebook

“Selection of channels, number of concurrent streams, and DVR also are important factors.” – ChefMikeDFW, Reddit

“Just do it! The money we have saved from cutting the cord has been so worth it. Never going back.” – Jennifer B., Facebook

"How could you not cut the cord? No monthly fees at all, lots of free programming and channels to choose from." – Christine J., Facebook

"I wish I had cut the cord long before I did. Since I got Roku there is so much to pick from… I have saved over $150 a month." – Linda W., Facebook

“Sling TV. Plain and simple. That’s the best option on content availability, channel availably, and price.” – Zachary S., Facebook

“Do it! I have a Roku & an antenna. I haven't paid a cable bill in 10 years! I have saved over $15,000 by cutting the cord. And I haven't missed it at all, ever.” – Bonny L, Facebook

“I bought a Roku device and subscribe to Sling TV and couldn’t be more satisfied. I save about $90/month. All I will ever need from my cable provider is my internet. Every day you delay is $$$ down the drain.” – Luann R., Facebook

“The cost to switch will be paid for in less than six months. View the free trials before you disconnect service. It’s an evolving industry, just keep an open mind and if you stay informed about new services, you’ll find the fit that works for you. It’s a great feeling!” – KC Sand, Facebook

“Check out Philo. A lot of bang for your buck.” – Marie B., Facebook

“We got rid of our cable and are saving $100+ a month. I now have Netflix, Roku, Prime Video, and Hulu. I also added several free channels like Vudu, Crackle, Filmrise, Popcornflix, Pluto, and many more. – Sherry B.Take a test drive. Try living without cable before actually cutting it.” – dankostecki, Reddit

“Get a good router and use 5Ghz frequency bands when available.” – sglville, Reddit

“Utilize Ethernet if possible and develop a set up for your router and TV beforehand so you will know if it's feasible with your current set up.” – zamm9527, Reddit

“Just do it. Cut the cord. Most people procrastinate because they are too worried about figuring it out. You’ll figure out alternatives after you cut it”. – BabyBronxbomber, Reddit

Looking for more tips before getting started? Check out these 4 easy steps on how to cut the cord.

Happy Streaming!

The post The best cord cutting tips according to Roku customers! appeared first on The Official Roku Blog.