Cutting cable was supposed to save money, but with so many streaming services available, the costs can pile up quickly. We’ll show you how to avoid falling into the trap of overspending on entertainment and where to find the best bang for your buck.
Between Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and numerous others, figuring out which plans actually offer the most value can feel overwhelming. Signing up for all these popular services can quickly have you paying an enormous bill, which is precisely what you dropped cable to avoid.
Not to worry. In this article, we’ll show you how, with a bit of comparison, you can build a lineup that fits both your budget and your viewing habits.
Breaking Down the Big Players
Netflix remains one of the most popular platforms, but prices have increased, especially for those who want multiple screens or ad-free viewing. Disney+ offers family-friendly content and bundles with Hulu and ESPN+, which can be a better deal if you watch across categories.
HBO Max (now branded as Max in many markets) is great for blockbuster movies and prestige shows, but it’s one of the pricier subscriptions. Meanwhile, Amazon Prime Video is often included with Prime shipping, which makes it a substantial value if you already shop frequently on Amazon.
To understand how streaming compares to cable, see Cutting the Cord: Streaming for Non-Techies.
The Rise of Ad-Supported Plans
Most major streaming platforms now offer cheaper ad-supported tiers. While commercials can be annoying, these plans often save you several dollars a month. For casual watchers, sitting through a few ads may be worth the trade-off. If it’s movies hereafter, you can find those for free on ad-supported platforms such as Tubi.
If you only binge a couple of shows at a time, switching between ad-supported tiers on different platforms is another way to keep costs down. Canceling one service and picking up another later lets you rotate without paying for everything at once.
See Wi-Fi Made Simple: What to Do When It’s Slow for quick fixes on your connection.
Bundles and Hidden Savings
Bundles can stretch your dollar further. Disney’s package of Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ is more cost-effective than subscribing to each service separately. Similarly, some mobile carriers include subscriptions like Netflix or Apple TV+ as part of their phone plans.
Another strategy is sharing. Many services allow multiple profiles under one account, so splitting with family or roommates can significantly reduce costs. Just ensure it’s permitted under the service’s terms.
Do You Even Need Them All?
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you need every service, but chances are you only watch a few consistently. Track what you’re actually watching for a month. If one platform goes unused, cancel it. You can always resubscribe later when new shows drop.
Being intentional about your lineup can save more money than chasing every bundle or discount. Sometimes, the best plan isn’t adding more—it’s cutting back to what you actually use.
If you’re upgrading your home setup, check out Should You Buy a Smart TV or Just Use a Streaming Stick?
Key Takeaways
The cheapest streaming plan depends less on the service and more on your habits. Ad-supported tiers, bundles, and shared accounts all help lower costs; however, the most significant savings come from limiting the number of platforms you subscribe to at once.
Select the services that match your viewing style, and don’t be afraid to rotate them. With a bit of attention, you can enjoy all your favorite shows without overspending.
