The way we watch TV has changed significantly since television sets first flooded American households. With the rise of streaming services, mobile viewing, binge-watching options and the ability to view shows on multiple screens throughout a home, it can be hard for viewers to keep up with knowing the best — and most cost-effective way to watch TV.
Even deciphering the language can be confusing, such as the difference between live and on-demand TV services, which can make it hard to know what you’re paying for. Live streaming is when real-time content is delivered, like when you watch The GRAMMYs as they are happening live and in real-time. The hitch is that without a digital video recorder (DVR) you have to also watch the live event in real-time as it’s happening, which can be difficult with busy schedules. Video-on-demand (VOD) services, like cable, satellite, Netflix or Hulu, allow viewers to watch content whenever they’d like because it comes pre-recorded.
The tricky part is that cable and satellite costs have risen, due to rising content acquisition fees, technological advancements and changes in market dynamics. Not only are consumers paying for monthly packages, but there are also channel add-ons, equipment rental, taxes and service fees tacked on top.
Smart Solutions For Watching TV
A smart, cost-effective solution is to buy a Tablo device (4th Generation), which gives you the ability to watch and record live TV without a monthly subscription. The Tablo Total System even comes with an antenna, making it easier than ever to get started enhancing your viewing experience. It comes with a live TV guide for both OTA and the included 70+ free streaming channels and one-touch series recording. To further boats, it has 50 hours of onboard HD storage for recording your favorite shows.
But what if you love binge-watching shows on Netflix? No problem! A combination of Tablo, which replaces the cost of cable or satellite TV and a streaming service (like Netflix or Hulu) for on-demand and exclusive shows may be your best bet because you can do both. This way you increase your viewing options to include all broadcast channels (and subchannels) plus you won’t miss a beat of your favorite streaming options.
With the status of streaming services fluctuating as people’s viewing habits change and budget considerations are taken into account, it’s becoming more and more common for users to hit pause or cancel streaming service subscriptions when their favorite series drops because it can be frustrating to have to pay for something when you’re not using it.
That’s where a Tablo device is extra handy. Even if you unsubscribe from your monthly streaming service, a Tablo device lets you access the news, dramas, movies, sports and more—either pre-recorded or live and ready to watch at your disposal. Cost of Tablo devices range from $99 to $159 and can be purchased on the TabloTV.com website, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart or HSN. Once a Tablo is device installed in your home, you can save money on those services and jump right into watching over-the-air TV—for free!