If all you need are the standard network TV channels, such as CBS, NBC, ABC, and a FOX affiliate, and you’re not too far from a broadcast mast or obstructed by mountains, you can pick up good quality high definition (HD) signals, which are frequently superior to cable-delivered signals. You will require an antenna, and it doesn’t need to be overly complicated. Any old analog television antenna you could have mounted to your roof will frequently function. In the worst situation, you can update the antenna or add an amplifier.
How to Get TV Reception Without Cable
- Find any antennas that are currently on your home. If you had cable before using terrestrial (free-to-air) broadcasting, the antenna and cable may still remain on your roof. When receiving the new digital free-to-air transmissions, an analog antenna can be used. After turning off the TV and unplugging it from the wall, connect the coax antenna line to your TV. Use the same television jack where the cable box was previously connected.
- Reconnect the television to the wall outlet and go to the television’s setting menu. Change the antenna setting from cable to air and then search for channels. There is no need for further action if your television already records the stations you desire.
- Get a set-top digital free-to-air antenna and connect it to the TV. Once more, switch the antenna setting from cable to air and scan the channels to see what you get.
- A free-to-air amplifier should be bought. Connect the amplifier to the television and the home outlet, then connect the antenna to the amplifier. Re-scan for channels.
- Install a free-to-air antenna outside. Perhaps you should hire a contractor to complete this. The antenna wire should be brought inside the house and plugged into the TV outlet that would normally house the cable box. Restart the TV and continue to look for channels.
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This article discusses your options for watching cable programming via a TV antenna or a cable subscription.
Get a Live TV Streaming Service and Register
An internet live TV subscription can be your ideal option if you want the benefits of a cable membership without having to pay the astronomical fees cable providers demand. Each of these can be used on a computer or smartphone; if you prefer to utilize your TV, move on to the section below.
YOUTUBE TV
One of the greatest subscriptions available to obtain the same live TV experience as cable is YouTube TV. Watch all the live TV channels you adore but don’t want to spend as much for, such as ABC, CBS, NBC, Discovery, Disney, FX, HGTV, and many others. You may record and keep any episode you miss for up to 9 months using its helpful “cloud DVR” function.
It is accessible from wherever and costs approximately half as much as cable. Watch YouTube TV on your computer, your smartphone, or any other streaming device that has access to YouTube TV. One membership covers up to six household members’ accounts.
LIVE TV + HULU
Compared to YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV is a little less expensive. Many of the same live TV networks are there, although some, like PBS, Comedy Central, and MTV, are not.
Every family member can create a unique profile on Hulu TV with their preferred TV stations and 50 hours of storage for shows you want to record. You also have access to exclusive content that is frequently produced by Hulu staff.
SLING TV
The most affordable internet-based cable TV service is Sling TV. You still have access to the most well-liked channels for around half the price of YouTube TV and Hulu. The History Channel, A&E, CN, Comedy Central, AMC, HGTV, and numerous other channels are among them.
Don’t assume that cheaper equates to too little. At a fraction of the price of a basic cable TV subscription, you can watch live news, live sports, and a ton of other material. It’s the most economical alternative to attempt first if you want to receive TV without cable.
Purchase a streaming gadget
You need an online streaming device in order to enjoy cable television on your TV. You may access most of these devices’ free movie and television content.
ROKU
One of the most affordable media players on the market is the Roku streaming gadget. Simply connect the streaming device to your TV or monitor’s HDMI connector to access hundreds of channels with content.
You may stream content from Disney+, Apple TV, HBO, Showtime, live news, sports, and many other sources, among others. Additionally, you can use the device to access all of your online streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu.
AMAZON FIRE TV STICK
One of the most widely used streaming products is the Amazon Fire TV Stick. It costs just a little bit more than Roku, but it also has an integrated Alexa voice controller. The HDMI plug on the stick connects straight to the HDMI port on your TV.
Amazon Fire TV
You can watch prominent TV networks like AMC, ABC, CBS, Showtime, HBO, and even Comedy Central with Amazon Fire TV. A&E and Fox Now are two free channels. A&E, Pluto TV, CBS Sports, CBS News, Fox News, and more free channels are also available. Streaming services including Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video are also available.
Chromecast from Google
Because the streaming services are not embedded on the Google Chromecast, it stands apart from other streaming devices. Instead, you use a computer or mobile device to access those services, then use the cast icon to send the content to your Chromecast.
Although it can seem like a drawback, many services are Chromecast compatible. These consist of Google Play, Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Sling TV, and Netflix. You may also display a Chrome browser tab on your TV if you have a Chromecast device. Cast content from YouTube TV, Playstation Vue, or DirectTV Now to your Chromecast to watch TV shows.
Apple TV
The most costly TV streaming gadget on the list is Apple TV. But it’s also the most adaptable. Access Apple TV-only movies and TV series by combining Apple TV with an Apple TV Plus subscription. You can use the service to get a subscription to high-end TV networks like Showtime or Starz.
With Apple TV, you may choose the precise TV channels you wish to subscribe to, unlike with a cable subscription, and view them all online without a cable or an antenna.
Think about switching to a smart TV
Consider a Smart TV if you’re in the market for a new TV. These TVs can connect to the Wi-Fi network in your home and include embedded software. They give you access to the majority, if not all, of the streaming channels and services that the aforementioned streaming devices do.