If you're like me, you might be thinking about cancelling your cable TV subscription. In the modern world, you can stream almost anything using the internet. It is possible to watch local network TV without having to pay for a big bundle. You might need some help figuring out your options and how they'll work with your current TV service provider.
How To Watch Local TV Without Paying For A Big Bundle
There is no need to shell out big bucks for a cable or satellite TV subscription if you're looking to watch your local stations. In fact, there are several free and paid methods for watching local TV that you can use without any conflicts.
Here are two ways to watch local TV without paying for a bundle:
If you have an over-the-air (OTA) DVR, you can watch local TV without subscribing to a cable or satellite TV service. This method is perfect for those who want to save money but still get their local channels.
Simply connect your OTA DVR to your TV and scan through the channels until you find your local station. Most OTA DVRs come with a limited number of back-up recordings, so make sure to delete old recordings if you no longer want them.
Several popular free apps allow you to watch local channels without paying a penny. For example, SlingTV lets users watch live and on-demand channels from various networks (such as ESPN, CNN, AMC, TNT, TBS, and Fox News), as well as dozens of popular movies and TV series.
The app is also compatible with Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Firestick models, Chromecast, Apple TV, and other streaming devices. Most importantly, the live feeds offer up-to-the-minute access to local news coverage, weather and traffic updates wherever you are. Cable companies have also begun to introduce apps that let you turn a streaming box, phone, tablet or computer into your cable box, so you don't need to rent one at all.
Read: 5 Best OTA DVR Options: Best DVR for Cord Cutters
Free Network TV Streaming Options
Here are four of the best free network TV streaming options:
Network TV Shows On Streaming Services
With the influx of streaming services, like Netflix and Hulu, it can be hard to keep track of what you're watching. Thankfully, there are plenty of apps out there that will help you keep up with your favorite shows. Here are four apps that you should check out if you're a fan of network TV shows:
- CBS All Access: If you're a die-hard fan of CBS programming, then you need to sign up for CBS All Access. This service offers live streaming of all of the network's shows, as well as exclusive content that you can't see anywhere else. It's pricey, but it's worth it if you want to catch all the latest episodes of your favorite shows.
- NBCSN Anytime: NBCSN is another great option if you're a fan of network TV shows. This app offers live streaming of all the network's Olympic sports events, as well as other programming that isn't currently airing on television. It's free to use and features a wide variety of programming options, so there's sure to be something for everyone.
- Hulu with Live TV: Hulu with Live TV is one of the most popular streaming services out there, and it's definitely worth a look if you're looking for something that offers more than just a handful of cable-network shows.
The app is very similar to the NBC app in terms of functionality, but it also allows you to watch Hulu's original programming such as The Handmaid's Tale and other popular TV shows that were previously available only on the streaming service. Hulu with Live TV also has full access to Hulu Originals and some great films from around the web, including Season 1 of Super Drags.
- HBO Now: If you want to watch premium network programming without having to pay high subscription fees or subscribe to multiple services, then using HBO Now might be your best bet. The app does require a cable subscription, however. The HBO offerings are pretty limited (especially compared with Netflix's towering library) but suggest you subscribe to the channel for the sole purpose of getting access to Game of Thrones.
Streaming Local News Broadcasts
There are many apps available for streaming free local news broadcasts. Some of the popular ones include: