Summary
Cutting the cord used to be a cost-effective alternative to cable, but with the rise of exclusive content and multiple streaming services, it’s possible to spend more on streaming services than you do on cable. If you want to cut back on your streaming costs, here are four strategies
Listen
Links
Transcript
Cutting the cord used to be a great way to save money. However, as more services launch and set up exclusive deals, it can now cost over $100 a month just for streaming. But you don’t have to waste money when you cut the cord. Here’s how you can do it and still save money instead.
For Personal Tech Media, this is Two Minute Tech. I’m Jim Herman.
First, look for bundled options. For example, a bundle including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, can cost much less than purchasing each one individually.
Second, take advantage of free trials. If a service only has one or two shows you’re interested in, wait until you can binge the entire series. Then, sign up for the free trial, watch that show, and cancel before the trial ends.
Third, choose add supported options. Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, and Paramount+, are just some of the services that offer a cheaper plan if you’re willing to deal with a few ads. In many cases, you can save as much as 50% by choosing the add supported option.
Fourth, limit the number of services you use at one time. There’s so much content available on each service that you can’t watch everything simultaneously. Last year, I realized I only used my ESPN+, subscription during the college basketball season, so I canceled it in April and resubscribed when the season started again in November. Instead of signing up for every service, sign up for one or two at a time, watch the shows you want to see, and then cancel and sign up for different services.