More and more people are ditching traditional cable TV in favor of streaming services and on-demand entertainment. This is known as cord cutting, and it isn’t just about cancelling cable TV — it’s about getting all your shows, movies, and content through the internet instead.
Why Are People Cutting the Cord?
Cable TV subscriptions can be expensive and restrictive, with rising fees and limited plan flexibility. Many consumers prefer the customization of streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, etc.) which allow you to pick and pay for the channels and content you actually watch.
With large content libraries and flexible pricing options, streaming has become the go-to choice for entertainment.
The Quality of Your Internet Matters
Stepping away from cable TV means your video content will flow through your home internet connection. That means your internet speed, consistency, and latency become critical:
- Speed: faster download speeds mean smoother streaming, less buffering
- Latency: lower latency (shorter response time) improves the experience – especially for live TV
Fiber internet delivers high symmetrical upload and download speeds – often up to 1 Gig or more – making it ideal for homes that are cutting the cord.
Selecting Your Tech
In order to “stream,” you’ll need a smart device to broadcast your streaming services through. In this day and age, popular streaming tech includes Smart TVs (a TV with built-in software that connects to your internet), or devices like Amazon Fire TV Sticks, Roku Streaming Sticks, or Apple TV Streaming Devices that connect to the internet and plug into to your existing TV.
Also, streaming services can be supported on tablets, computers, and smartphones through a mobile app or internet browser.
Top Streaming Services to Consider (with Prices and Features)
Netflix
Often considered the flagship streaming platform, Netflix is known for its massive global library, delivering hit originals like Stranger Things, Bridgerton, and The Crown, alongside thousands of other titles (and now with live events like boxing matches and football games).
- Standard with ads: $7.99/month
- Standard: $17.99/month
Disney+
Ideal for families and fans of franchise content. It includes all Marvel (e.g. Avengers, Iron Man, Wonder Man), Star Wars (The Mandalorian), Pixar, National Geographic, and classic Disney movies. Bundling with Hulu and ESPN+ can offer even greater value.
- Disney+ with ads: $11.99/month
- Disney+ Premium (no ads): $18.99/month
Hulu
Another strong choice for cord cutters, Hulu shines with next-day access to current TV episodes, hit originals like The Handmaid’s Tale and The Bear, and a deep library of network and classic TV content.
- Hulu with ads: $11.99/month
- Hulu Premium (no ads): $18.99/month
- Hulu + Live TV (includes 90+ channels for live streaming local, regional & national network coverage): $89.99/month
Disney+ and Hulu offer exclusive bundling packages, such as:
- Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium (no ads): $19.99/month
- Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (no ads): $32.99/month
- Hulu Premium + Live TV, Disney+ Premium (no ads), and ESPN Select: $99.99/month
Amazon Prime Video
Offers a large selection of movies and TV shows alongside perks like two-day shipping and Prime Music. You’ll find popular Amazon originals, along with frequent big-release movies added to their catalog. Plus, enjoy exclusive access to Thursday Night Football live broadcasts.
- Standalone Amazon Prime Video: $8.99/month
- *Included in Amazon Prime membership: $14.99/month
Peacock
NBCUniversal’s streaming service, Peacock stands out for its mix of classic NBC shows, reality hits, sports coverage, and a growing slate of originals (like All Her Fault and The Paper) — plus beloved movies and franchise films like Shrek, Harry Potter, Despicable Me, and more.
- Select (with ads): $7.99/month, $79.99/year
- Premium (no ads, live sports & events): $10.99/month, $109.99/year
- *Bundle Peacock Premium Plus with Apple TV: $19.99/month
Popular Options with Live TV and Local Channels
YouTube TV
100+ live channels including local networks, sports, and news, plus unlimited DVR and multiple user profiles. Customers enjoy the user-friendly interface, all-in-one mobile app and the ability stream on multiple screens at once.
- $59.99/month for first 2 months, $82.99/month thereafter
DirecTV
Traditional cable-style live TV experience with local channels, live sports, and premium networks available. DirecTV is as close as it gets to cable TV in the world of streaming, offering several tiers and channel bundles.
Also, it’s worth noting that DirecTVs four standard tiers (Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, Premier) include streaming subscriptions to ESPN Unlimited, Disney+, and Hulu.
- Entertainment: 90+ channels for $89.99/month
- Choice: 125+ channels for $94.99/month
- Ultimate: 160+ channels for $124.99/month
- Premier: 185+ channels for $169.99/month
Sling TV
A budget-friendly, customizable live TV option that provides a smaller channel list. Made for users who just need the essentials. Sling offers two primary channel lineups: Sling Orange (targeting sports viewers), and Sling Blue (targeting news and entertainment watchers). Channel lists vary by plan, but still boasts networks like ESPN, TNT, TBS, HGTV, Discovery, FX, and more.
- Sling Orange: 34 paid channels, best for sports & family: $45.99/month
- Sling Blue: 43 paid channels, best for new & entertainment: $45.99/month
- Sling Orange + Blue: 50 paid channels, combined packages: $60.99/month
The Role of Fiber in Cutting the Cord
Access to high-speed internet plays an essential role in how people connect at home and stream TV. A recent broadband study showed that as of mid-2025, about 61% of U.S. homes have access to gigabit-class internet, up dramatically from just over 30% a few years earlier.
This kind of performance is essential for 4K streaming, live TV access, and streaming TV on multiple screens at once.
Now, Make the Switch with Confidence
Cutting the cord can save you money and give you greater control over your entertainment. From Netflix to YouTube TV and beyond, you can replace expensive cable bills and keep your favorite shows. But it’s important to have strong, reliable internet for the best experience.
With a dedicated 100% fiber connection, your household can connect with full confidence… in every room, on every device. Check your availability and make the switch to Greenlight fiber internet here: greenlightnetworks.com/connect
