When choosing between video streaming services for news, it is likely that you would choose cable television. Find out how to entertain yourself and your family the best way by understanding the differences between them.
Video streaming services and cable television provide the same result (entertaining video on your screen), but the way in which they do so differs significantly. Content providers have long-standing relationships with cable companies, which broadcast video content over their networks. This structure was built into the pay television industry, and the product you receive reflects that.
The only downside of cable is that it is typically more expensive and that is literally all. Nevertheless, that does not mean you should consider cutting the cord. There are many cable service providers that are offering affordable packages and plans. For instance, you can go with Optimum cable packages that include 420+ channels, with ABC, HBO®, and ESPN in HD. They also have built-in streaming apps, in case you casually like to stream your favorite shows.
On the other hand, streaming providers are newcomers to the video market, and are not subject to the same rules as traditional providers. Their services are available nationwide, and they can be accessed from a variety of devices. The advantage of using them is that they are not tied to legacy infrastructure. However, the quality of the Internet connection is out of their control, and they are completely dependent on it. However, these plans tend to be less expensive.
Content: Cable Vs Streaming
A streaming video service does exactly what its name implies. You request the video content, and the provider sends it to you via your Internet connection then and there. There are several advantages to this method. There are several benefits of portability, including the ability to access the service on any Internet-enabled device (including computers, iOS and Android devices, and gaming consoles).
Another advantage is the ability to watch from anywhere you have access to the Internet. The program can also be paused or rewind even when running in real-time. As a result, your internet connection plays a crucial role in your experience.
Cable is similar to local television systems in that it transmits the video over the airwaves. Copper wire is now used instead of signals, and cable has long since transitioned from analogue to digital. However, the basic concept remains. The end result is all content is in real-time.
Today, most modern cable boxes can automatically record your current program so you don’t miss anything if you get up for a snack. It depends on the carrier to what extent this will work, and it will reset if you change channels. In order to enjoy your provider’s services, you’ll need to buy a set-top box.
Price & Contracts: Streaming Vs Cable
As you might have guessed from the previous sections, the cable is more expensive than streaming (no pun intended). Your cable bill will be higher unless you get the very bare-bones. In terms of more channels, it is fair to say that you get what you pay for. In some cases, this number can go higher if you select a super-capable DVR box, or it can go lower if you choose to bundle it with other services, such as telephone or Internet. It is common for your bill to go up after the first year due to the expiration of your contract and promotional pricing.
Streaming providers will have much looser agreements, however. You can cancel your plan online and it will be terminated automatically before your next bill date. Plans are typically month-to-month affairs. Additionally, streaming providers generally do not offer tiers as expensive as those from cable companies. Just make sure you can stream all of your preferred channels.
Final Thoughts
When making this decision, there are a couple of things to consider. From a technological standpoint, both are comparable. However, there are several cable providers that offer dedicated apps to watch the video, even though streaming services are likely more flexible in terms of devices. Many of the same functions that streamers are used to are also available on cable boxes, including DVR functionality and the ability to pause and rewind live TV. Cable boxes operate a little differently, though.
But you really have little to lose by at least trying streaming first. There is no extra equipment to buy, and if you don’t like the service you’re getting, you can be done with it at the end of 30 days (or try a different provider).
Having said that, there are two situations when you should take a good look at cable TV. One is if the internet is slow and unreliable. Your streaming will always be blocked and/or buffered if the Internet is low-quality in your area. Second, if you only watch specific channels on cable that are not available on streaming platforms, news for instance, then cable is the better option.
