Brilliant Ways to Save Money on Television

This is the first article in a series “How to Save Money on (Almost) Everything” debuting this year on walletwhisperer.com. This article focuses on saving money on television!

Many people have figured out that cable is not worth the hefty price tag, but they find themselves missing it. Some people crave premium channels, especially when it comes to sports or specific television series. Combining my own personal experiences, with research I have discovered  brilliant ways to save money on television, while still being entertained.

Get a Television Antenna

If you invest in a decent TV antenna (for around $20) you can get many channels for free. All the basic programming such as PBS, ABC, NBC, The CW, TBS, etc. are completely free. If you want to watch sports, news, or popular shows airing on primetime tv, you still can.

I got an antenna a few years ago for Christmas because I still wanted to be able to watch “Wheel of Fortune” and the nightly news. This antenna has helped me save money on television because I combine local programming with streaming services, so I feel all my television needs are being met.

If you decide to try just having an antenna, make sure it is compatible with your television!

Invest in a Streaming Device

Since internet is almost a necessity, even if you are on a tight budget you will probably find a way to keep internet service. One benefit to having internet in your house is that you can access a ton of awesome content for free. There are so many streaming base apps that allow you to watch movies and tv shows for free!

Streaming Players

I have found that streaming players such as a Roku or Amazon Fire TV has really helped me save money on television. I am able get the most out of streaming services and awesome free internet content by putting it directly on my television.

Amazon Fire TV

Since I have Amazon Prime, I am partial to Amazon Fire TV. I have also used the Amazon Fire Stick and love it. I am able to download many free awesome apps, and use the ones I pay for with ease. The prices are fairly low (especially for the Amazon Fire Stick), and is worth the small investment.

You can get really good deals on Amazon Fire TV’s and Sticks around the holidays, or on Amazon Prime Day!

Roku

Roku is very similar to Amazon Fire TV and offers a multitude of different options with different price points. I have know several people that love their Roku and use it frequently.

Apple TV

Apple TV is similar to both the Roku and Amazon Fire TV. If you love Apple products you would probably enjoy the Apple TV. The price point with these devices is higher than the previous 2 devices listed.

Chromecast

Chromecast works slightly differently, but is worth mentioning. From my understanding Chromecast mirrors a designated device (smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc) to access streaming content on your television. I have not personally used it, but I have heard good things about it, and the price point is fairly low.

For more information on streaming devices check out this article from Bestproducts.com “Best Media Devices for your TV”

Smart Televisions

Although purchasing a smart television isn’t the most cost effective way to stream internet content, they are a viable option. If you need a new television, and can get a good deal, it may be worth the investment.

I personally prefer to have a streaming device, because they are easier to replace when they become “out of date”. However, some people really prefer the seamlessness of smart televisions!

Video Game Consoles

Almost all of the new video game consoles also can work as a streaming device. Since video game consoles are quite expensive, never purchase them only to be used for that purpose. However, if you really enjoy video games and want to find a decent streaming device you may consider the investment.

Blu-Ray Players

I know these are a bit archaic, but many blu-ray players have some streaming services. If you are really in a financial bind, consider purchasing a used blu-ray player to be used as a streaming device.

Consider Paid Television Streaming Services and Apps

There are many streaming services that offer a cheaper alternative to cable and can help you save money on television.

Netflix

I have had Netflix for over 6 years. I really enjoy the television shows and some of the movies. For your benefit I made a quick pros and cons list!

• Pros
  • Inexpensive ($9.99 a month)
  • No commercials
  • Offers some good exclusive Netflix only content (Orange is the New Black, Stranger things, Fuller House etc)
  • Offers a vast library of television shows
  • Offers a vast library of movies
  • Easy to search and navigate
  • Can be played on multiple devices
  • Offers many different types of plans to suit a family’s needs
  • Offer a lot of good kid’s content
  • Shows or movies can now be downloaded to play offline
• Cons
  • Can only be streamed on two devices at a time for the $9.99 price
  • Most television shows and movies (other than Netflix exclusives) are not current (usually at least a season behind)
  • A lot of popular, current movies and shows are not offered on Netflix
  • Content frequently comes and goes, which can be frustrating when your in the middle of a television series

As you can see, there are many positives and negatives about Netflix. The good thing is that there is enough content to entertain you for the rest of your given life. You are pretty much guaranteed to find something you enjoy!

Hulu Plus

I have also had Hulu Plus for many years. The great thing about Hulu Plus is that you can watch the current television shows the day after they air. It is a way to keep up on current content. Since Hulu Plus works very differently from Netflix I have decided to make another pros and cons list

• Pros
  • Inexpensive ($7.99 a month)
  • Has apps for pretty much all devices
  • Fairly easy to search and navigate
  • Has current up to date content
  • Newest content usually offered the next day from basic channels only
  • Offers some shows from cable channels that Netflix does not
• Cons
  • Has commercials (unless you pay an extra $4 a month)
  • Does not have very many good movies
  • Can only be played on one device at a time
  • Content from cable channels limited, or offered later

I do enjoy Hulu Plus, and they are continuing to improve their content. I do like being able to access more current shows sooner than Netflix. If you keep up on shows and need the most current content, Hulu Plus is definitely for you.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime is great and offers more than just streaming television shows and movies. You can get free Prime shipping, access to books, magazines, and music all included for $99 a year.

Since I have had prime for several years, I have made another pros/cons list.

• Pros
  • Prime membership includes multiple things (free Kindle books, movies, Prime Music, Kindle magazines, television series, Prime 2 day shipping)
  • Low cost (around $8.25 a month)
  • Has many movies and television shows
  • No commercials (other than once in awhile to advertise other Prime content)
  • Has apps that allow you to stream from multiple devices at the same time
• Cons
  • Not always user friendly
  • You have to figure out what is “Prime” content and what you have to pay for
  • Doesn’t work the best on all devices, since Amazon and Google have had their issues
  • Does not usually offer current content
  • Television and Movie selection is limited

As you can see there are many benefits to having a Prime Membership. Although the content is limited, there still is a lot of content I have enjoyed (Downton Abby!).

Sling TV

I have never used Sling TV, but I know a little about it. From my understanding the cost is $20 a month, and you get access to many live cable and local channels. The great thing about sling is you can pay extra to add the channels you want. If you are a huge sports fan you can add sports packages for just $5 or $10 extra a month.

I love the concept of Sling TV because you can customize the packages to fit your watching needs, and only pay for what you watch.

I believe this is a cheaper option than cable, because you still get live access to the channels you want without having to pay as much.

Since I haven’t used Sling TV I cannot accurately make a pros/cons list. If you want to try it, they do offer a 7 day free trial.

Consider Free Television Streaming Services and Apps

In addition to paid streaming services and apps there are many free ones available. Before I talk about some of the ones I use, I want you to be careful about downloading illegal apps. There are many apps out there that offer free movies and television shows that break all kinds of copyright laws. Before you download and use an app, please research it to make sure it’s legit.

Crackle

Crackle is an app that offers a fairly decent selection of movies and television shows. The app is easy to use and can be accessed from multiple devices.

You Tube

You tube offers movies, television shows, funny videos, music videos, etc. You can always be entertained by You Tube!

Pluto TV

I love Pluto TV! The app is easy to use and can be accessed on many devices. It is set up like a regular television and has channels that cover a variety of subjects. I encourage you to try it.

Hulu.Com

This only works on a computer (to use the app you need to have Hulu Plus), but Hulu.com offers a lot of free content. They also offer access to free tv shows and movies. It’s free to watch on your computer!

PBS

I love PBS. They offer great programming, and documentaries. Their app works great on multiple devices and gives free access to PBS programs.

Other Network Apps

While most cable networks won’t allow free access to programing (must have a subscription) Many networks (CW, ABC, CBS, NBC) do. MyLifetime also offers some free content. You can download these apps for free and watch many shows on multiple devices.

Other Legit Apps and Websites

There are so many more free legit websites that offer free entertainment (although I pretty much listed the most popular). Please use caution when accessing free content to make sure it is legal!

Use the Library

The library is a great place to save money on television and access free content. They have tons of movies and television shows you can borrow for free. Sometimes for the more popular items you have to get on a waiting list, but there is enough material to keep you entertained for free!

I personally believe the library is underutilized. Not only can you save money on television and movies, but you can also access so many amazing resources. Most libraries allow you to access free e-books and online education programs for free.

If you are unsure what your local library offers go to there and talk to a librarian. They will walk you through how to access online content and help you understand all the resources they offer.

Utilize Friends and Family

Chances are you have friends and family that have a decent movie and TV series collection, or pay for cable. Here are a couple ideas to help you save money on television by working with your friends and family.

Have a Movie or TV Series Swap

Trade movies or tv series that you purchased with friends and family members. You could even host a fun event with snacks and games.

Have a “show” night

If you are obsessed with a specific television show and a friend or family member is equally obsessed ask to go over there to watch it. Offer to bring snacks, and make it a tradition. This way you get to have fun, and still watch your favorite shows.

Borrow from a friend or family member

You can also ask to borrow movies or tv series from friends and family members. As long as you are reliable, most people don’t mind.

Purchase Television Shows and Movies for Less

Another alternative to streaming is purchasing physical copies of television series or movies.

Garage or Yard Sales

Many people attempt to sell their used dvd collections at garage sales. You can save money on television series by searching these sales. If you feel the price is too high, offer less. That is the great thing about garage sales!

Pawn Shops or Thrift Stores

Although this isn’t the conventional place to purchase television series or movies, you can get great deals at pawn shops or thrift stores. If people are desperate they will pawn or sell dvd’s and tv series, especially to pawn shops. I have seen pawn shops selling dvd’s for $1! If you are looking for something particular consider checking out your local pawn shops and thrift stores.

Online

You can buy used dvds and television series online for a fraction of the cost. I have seen great deals on both Amazon.com and half.com. Also consider checking out ebay. Be cautions when you purchase items online and make sure the seller is reputable.

Craigslist or Local Facebook Groups

Similarly with purchasing online, you can also check out Craigslist or local Facebook selling groups for deals on dvds and television series. Some sellers need to get rid of their dvd collection so will offer great deals. You also have the benefit to negotiate to get a better deal! Please be careful when purchasing from both craigslist and local Facebook selling groups. Make sure you meet in a safe location, and you carefully examine the product before handing over money. 

Black Friday

If you can wait until black friday, you can get really good deals on brand new dvds and television series. In my experience Wal-Mart and Target offer great deals. I have been able to get television series for under $10 and movies for under $3.

What if I Can’t Afford Internet?

As I have mentioned throughout the article, having internet access is necessary for streaming content. Luckily there are a few ways you can still save money on television without having internet access.

1. Purchase a TV antenna, no internet access is needed to get local channels
2. If you purchase a service such as Netflix or Amazon Prime you can find a spot that offer free Wifi (the library or a local coffee shop) and download content to your device that can be accessed offline.
3. You can access free media from the library
4. You can borrow or trade items with friends and family. Or ask to watch specific shows or programming at a friend’s house
5. You can go to a sport’s bar to watch the big game
6. You can purchase discounted television series or movies from Pawn shops, thrift stores, or on Black Friday. You can also access a computer from the library and order items online.

Find Other Activities

There are a ton of other, more fulfilling activities than watching television. Consider participating in activities that help you grow and learn more than watching television. I plan on expanding on this idea in future articles.

However, I do understand that television can be a great way to unwind after a long day. Some love it for background noise when they are alone, and really enjoy media. There is nothing wrong with watching television, as long as you have a balanced life!

Cut the Cable Cord!

Luckily, it’s 2017! You are now able to meet all of your television needs without having to pay for cable! If you are on a budget and really trying to meet financial goals now is the time to buckle down and save money everywhere you can!

If you want more tips on learning how to meet your financial goals in 2017 check out this article here!

What is your favorite way to save money on television?