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Jan 22, 2025 - 10:51:05 AM
151 posts since 6/6/2015

Will someone please enlighten me as to streaming television services. I have no idea how they work. What equipment is reqired? What is the best one and why?

I was recently notified that my DISH satellite service is requiring that I upgrade my equipment to be able to access one of the very few channels I watch. This will necessitate an increase in my monthly bill. Today I received notice that my regular monthly bill is taking a rate hike of $42.80 per month in addition to the rate increase for the upgrade equipment and rate increase to watch that one channel. I have had enough of DISH's constant rate hikes.

Thanks for any information for this technology challenged banjo fan.

Jan 22, 2025 - 11:21:38 AM
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BobbyE

USA

3651 posts since 11/29/2007

No techie myself either but streaming basically means the signal comes in via wi-fi signal via internet connection rather than a cable. That's why some of the services encourage you to , 'cut the chord.'  Ours requires a modem and router. The TV signal can only be received by a smart TV which, IMO, is basically a TV with internet capability. Many streaming services are free such as Tubi, while others have a fee based on different criteria, (commercial free versus not commercial free). There are enough free services, if you can stand the commercials, to provide all the TV you could probably care to watch. You could go streaming and also add a regular antenna to your TV to pick up local public networks such as CBS, ABC, etc. determined by how close you might be to their broadcasting facilities. Basically, internet service that provides TV programming.  Feel sure others will fill in the gaps and gaffs I probably made. We have a Roku stick with ours which basically is a small device that plugs into a port on the TV that keeps many different services pre-loaded on it for easier navigation, and also allows you to add new services when and if you decide you want them. It really is not as complicated as it all sounds.  Pretty intuitive once you begin to work your way through it. 

Bobby

Edited by - BobbyE on 01/22/2025 11:28:37

Jan 22, 2025 - 11:54:32 AM
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Players Union Member

rinemb

USA

16865 posts since 5/24/2005

We have not had cable for 30 years. When Roku came out we went in early. We also still have our over the air service as well. One thing I always tell folks about streaming, the way we use it...If you are hooked on fast clicking from channel to channel, watching more than one station, or if you just like to surf much of the time, you may be dissappointed or frustrated with streaming tv. Our wifi is ATT and it has streaming content, Roku gets you streaming and you can add Sling for more content, and your over the air networks. it can be slow and clumsy jumping around. Multiple clicks on remotes, sometimes never know what "home" is depending where you are at streaming, etc.
Find a friend who does not have cable and does having OTA and multiple streaming packages. Watch that person try to jump around and see if you can tolerate it. Being quite a bit cheaper can be a big influence on your decision, though. Brad

Jan 22, 2025 - 1:23:38 PM
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15465 posts since 1/15/2005

We cut the chord several years ago and went with Youtube TV. It operates about the same way as the others, like Bobby described and Brad with Roku. Our TV has a Firestick device that we control the TV with and I pay for several apps, like Amazon Prime, and Paramount Plus, but you don't have to buy those. I get all the local channels and ESPN is part of my Youtube package, so I get just about all of the sports events that I want.

Jan 22, 2025 - 2:19:43 PM

151 posts since 6/6/2015

Thanks to those that have replied so far.

I live in a rural area and have no one to ask to compare these services.

We do have internet through AT&T.

How does one shop for the different services?

Jan 22, 2025 - 2:26:54 PM
Players Union Member

Texasbanjo (Moderator)

USA

31218 posts since 8/3/2003
Online Now

I also have Roku and with it plugged into your TV, you can get a lot of free channels and also subscibe to many pay type channels. Just look up Roku on the internet and see all you an receive there. You may be able to receive some of your local channels through Roku.

Other paid subscriptions can be looked up on the internet, anything from your basic channels: NBC, ABC, Fox, CBS which all have "plus" channels that show all their programs either live or streaming.

Check it all out and then get what you need.

Jan 23, 2025 - 6:10:45 AM

BobbyE

USA

3651 posts since 11/29/2007

>>How does one shop for the different services?<<

Just google the different services and they will describe what they offer and the price plan, if there is one. Then it is just a matter of downloading the app for their service. No different than downloading other types of software for your computer. You are just downloading it to your TV. One more caveat, be sure your internet is fast enough for streaming or you will encounter delays as the system 'buffers,' the data before resuming playing. Most internets have enough speed, but it is a consideration before making the plunge. If you don't a simple upgrade in that area would be recommended.

Bobby

Edited by - BobbyE on 01/23/2025 06:11:01

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