As I recently moved to a one bedroom apartment, I instantly began looking for ways to save a buck here and there. It’s another one of my “weep today to laugh tomorrow” initiatives, if you will. If you’ve ever been wondering how the non-DVR life is, I’m here to share some of my findings with you.
In this very humble abode I seem to have accumulated not 1 but 3 streaming advices. Each come with their pros and cons but I’ll start from my least favorite to favorite.
Google Chromecast
This is barely my least favorite. In fact, the only reason it’s my least favorite is because it doesn’t operate on innate apps. In order to watch Netflix, you have to stream it from your phone or computer. Also, the app capabilities are still growing. However, I didn’t have to buy an HDMI cord for it. Just plug and chug. Score one for the simplicity.
Apple TV
It hurts me as an Apple cult follower to say that the capabilities of the Apple TV were very underwhelming. Sure, it has Netflix and YouTube, and a few awesome Apple products such as iTunes and Podcasts. But there is much to be desired when it’s almost your only source of entertainment. Sometimes it gets stuck and I have to reset the Apple TV. Not cool. My favorite part is the ability to stream video from my iPhone. But I wish I could cut the middle man and surf from my TV. And the remote control drives me nuts. I want more buttons.
Roku HD
Alas, here is my favorite. Roku is at the top of the streaming game and has a huge and quickly growing database of apps. Since I have an Amazon prime account, I primarily switch between Amazon, Hulu, and Netflix. I also found this service called Aereo and it offers you local cable channels live for $8/ month. This will come in handy when Scandal comes back on. Because I have needs and those needs involve being able to watch Scandal the night of.
So How much money am I really saving by cutting off the cable? First I will share with you my cable-less expenses.
Hulu $8/month
Netflix Free. Borrowed a login.
Internet $30/month
Aereo Still in my free trial, but $8/month if I don’t figure out how to install my TV antenna.
Grand Total: $38-46/month
Time Warner Cable with Internet and 1 DVR Box $93.97/month
Of course, TWC are crooks but, unfortunately that’s all that is available in this area for some reason. But alas, I’ve achieved savings. And I’m pretty darn proud of myself for that.
Have you made the switch to the cableless life? Any tips or services I should know about?
Credits: Daniel Go