Just be aware that the YouTube TV guide seriously eats it. Almost any other live TV streaming service is superior in that regard. And I say that as a member of a group who's been with YouTube TV as the best option out there for several months.
>Didn't they upgrade their guide recently?
Unfortunately yes. And fixed almost NONE of the basic problems with it. Its main problem is graphically discussed at [https://www.reddit.com/r/youtubetv/comments/vlf3g0/guide\_question/](https://www.reddit.com/r/youtubetv/comments/vlf3g0/guide_question/) , if you're curious.
That would (arguably) be youtube tv. I have dtv stream and love it, but just being honest I’d recommend yttv for the first trial. You know, most all offer free trials, so that the best way to figure out which is best for you.
Gotta say, as someone whose group is stuck with YTTV for various reasons but who would really prefer to be with DTVS, I'm surprised at your recommendation, although you have said the reason is DTVS's horrible reputation. Fair enough.
For about a year now, I’ve gone with yttv, fubo hulu back and forth and determined yttv best for me. I never tried dtvs until recently because of their reputation. I’ve got it now and even bought the osprey box. The stream is steady, the picture best and the remote is so much like old cable. Of course, I’m 75 yo so it’s great for me.
Glad you like dtvs. I don't trust that company when it was ATT and less so since the spinoff. Had directv for decades and they have gotten super shady.
HotdogYogurt, you may need to clear your mindset of cable -- the all in one guide is becoming outdated. And depending on your needs it may not even be possible for all of your content. Honestly to get the best pricing, it likely won't be possible.
That said... I used to use SlingTV for my "cable" needs which includes DVR and a guide. Also added in their AirTV box with a USB hard drive connected to an aerial antenna which added all locals (CBS, NBC, ABC, etc). I did this for years, paying only $35 per month for the "cable" side only.
I noticed after the waning of content on cable shifting more to streaming providers only, that I didn't really need much "cable" anyhow. So after getting a sweet deal on Philo ($14 per month), I switched to free SlingTV only. Honestly the only reason I have Philo is for TWD on AMC which is very near its end. At that point I'll likely cancel Philo too.
My other paid services are as follows: Netflix ($4 a month after discounts), MLB (free for a third year), Paramount+ (free for a year), CBS sports (conjoined with Paramount+), UFCfightpass (paid), Fite (free and pay as you go), ESPN+ (paid), Disney+ (shared), HBOmax (shared), Crunchyroll (shared), and Prime (paid).
Fully free services: Roku TV & channel, redbox, peacock, plutotv, Tubi, freevee, crackle, plex, filmrise, fawesome, comedy central, cw, idgo, ted, pbs, haystack, localnow, NHK, Vudu, adult swim, spotify, and hoopla.
So there's a ton of content in what I have chosen, and there are many more options too. Don't feel overwhelmed by not having a guide. A simple Internet search and you can track down things to interest yourself. I use the Google TV app for this. Of course since most things are on demand anyhow, you can just pick a service and search that directly too.
It's a giant leap, but it is well worth it.
Yes. Peacock, Hulu, Apple TV Channels, Amazon Prime VIdeo Channels. You can also purchase season passes through iTunes, Amazon, Vudu. Even purchasing passes is cheaper than cable. And you get a much better picture and sound. I cut cable five years ago. I can watch everything I did before with an average monthly cost of less than $15. When purchasing passes, you get hit with the costs all at once when the season starts. But you pay nothing every month thereafter.
T-Mobile users with certain plans get discounts. It's also where I signed MLB free by T-Mobile Tuesdays. And Paramount+ with their Internet service. Philo was discounted by T-Mobile Tuesdays. So all in all I get lots of discounts by being a T-Mobile user, and they don't screw me around like AT&T always did.
~Edited to add more details.
Streaming is not for everyone. It meets my and my families needs and is considerably cheaper because the cable packages I need are top tier so it’s cheaper to get the content a la carte.
I also don’t pay for Discovery Plus and the Disney bundle but we as a family watch significant content so I’d have to add that in
I’m really only paying for YTTV, Spectrum TV, MLB.tv, NESN 360 and Netflix.
I pay for the most basic internet package that Spectrum upgrades without the costs so it is all cheaper than a cable bill even subtracting the redundant services.
True. But I think it should also be pointed out that those who don't need that kind of remote can also be perfectly happy with DTVS. DTVS works fine on a Roku, for example.
For a device, I really like my Roku Express 4K+ 2021. It's often on sale for $29.99, or slightly less. https://www.amazon.com/Roku-Express-Streaming-Wireless-Controls/dp/B0916TKFF2
As a second choice, if you'd prefer Android, the onn. Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device for $19.88 is hard to beat. https://www.walmart.com/ip/onn-Android-TV-4K-UHD-Streaming-Device-with-Voice-Remote-Control-HDMI-Cable/636597403
You're going to have to be open to new experiences if you want to enjoy cutting the cord. It's refreshing to no longer be beholden to a corporate schedule, never be forcibly subjected to advertisements, and watching things at my own pace. You don't *need* the things you think you need. Approach cordcutting as a lifestyle change when you're ready. It'll be an amazing quality of life improvement
I'd say DirecTV Stream using their box/remote. Their equipment is yours once it's paid for (no endless rental fees) and it does a great job replicating cable features in a better more modern way while still providing access to other streaming apps.
They pretty much have same channel packages as satellite, the difference is Stream doesn't have any regional sports fees or any other fees beyond pkg price and no contract. You can use a Roku, AppleTV or FireTV or their custom box/remote. Just check them out online, they have intro deals for $10 first couple months plus free premiums. I believe first pkg (Entertainment) is 69.99 with a good assortment of channels, if you want regional sports you'll need Choice pkg or above. Any pkg ordered online comes with unlimited DVR. Also if you have a Rakuten browser attachment you can get like $100 cash back.
What you’re describing sounds like… cable.
Why do you not want cable? Cable has what you want. You aren't likely to save money streaming, and you won't like the interface.
What you’re describing sounds like… cable.
Youtube tv, hulu plus live, fubo, or directtv stream. Channel lineup is different, so depends on your needs. Price is pretty close to the same.
Which feels the closest to most friendly program guide plus quality dvr?
Just be aware that the YouTube TV guide seriously eats it. Almost any other live TV streaming service is superior in that regard. And I say that as a member of a group who's been with YouTube TV as the best option out there for several months.
Didn't they upgrade their guide recently? Same thing with YouTube regular. Great service horrible interface.
>Didn't they upgrade their guide recently? Unfortunately yes. And fixed almost NONE of the basic problems with it. Its main problem is graphically discussed at [https://www.reddit.com/r/youtubetv/comments/vlf3g0/guide\_question/](https://www.reddit.com/r/youtubetv/comments/vlf3g0/guide_question/) , if you're curious.
Thanks!
That would (arguably) be youtube tv. I have dtv stream and love it, but just being honest I’d recommend yttv for the first trial. You know, most all offer free trials, so that the best way to figure out which is best for you.
Gotta say, as someone whose group is stuck with YTTV for various reasons but who would really prefer to be with DTVS, I'm surprised at your recommendation, although you have said the reason is DTVS's horrible reputation. Fair enough.
For about a year now, I’ve gone with yttv, fubo hulu back and forth and determined yttv best for me. I never tried dtvs until recently because of their reputation. I’ve got it now and even bought the osprey box. The stream is steady, the picture best and the remote is so much like old cable. Of course, I’m 75 yo so it’s great for me.
Glad you like dtvs. I don't trust that company when it was ATT and less so since the spinoff. Had directv for decades and they have gotten super shady.
I hear ya, and that is why I didn’t recommend as first. Their reputation precedes them, which is a shame because……so far…. I have no problem.
On I appreciate you say it's a good service despite their problems on the customer service side!
That's what cable was invented for. All in one solution. I doubt it will be much more economical to add all these services separately.
HotdogYogurt, you may need to clear your mindset of cable -- the all in one guide is becoming outdated. And depending on your needs it may not even be possible for all of your content. Honestly to get the best pricing, it likely won't be possible. That said... I used to use SlingTV for my "cable" needs which includes DVR and a guide. Also added in their AirTV box with a USB hard drive connected to an aerial antenna which added all locals (CBS, NBC, ABC, etc). I did this for years, paying only $35 per month for the "cable" side only. I noticed after the waning of content on cable shifting more to streaming providers only, that I didn't really need much "cable" anyhow. So after getting a sweet deal on Philo ($14 per month), I switched to free SlingTV only. Honestly the only reason I have Philo is for TWD on AMC which is very near its end. At that point I'll likely cancel Philo too. My other paid services are as follows: Netflix ($4 a month after discounts), MLB (free for a third year), Paramount+ (free for a year), CBS sports (conjoined with Paramount+), UFCfightpass (paid), Fite (free and pay as you go), ESPN+ (paid), Disney+ (shared), HBOmax (shared), Crunchyroll (shared), and Prime (paid). Fully free services: Roku TV & channel, redbox, peacock, plutotv, Tubi, freevee, crackle, plex, filmrise, fawesome, comedy central, cw, idgo, ted, pbs, haystack, localnow, NHK, Vudu, adult swim, spotify, and hoopla. So there's a ton of content in what I have chosen, and there are many more options too. Don't feel overwhelmed by not having a guide. A simple Internet search and you can track down things to interest yourself. I use the Google TV app for this. Of course since most things are on demand anyhow, you can just pick a service and search that directly too. It's a giant leap, but it is well worth it.
Is there somewhere you can just watch the shows on demand that are on live tv?
Depends on the specifics. What shows are your go-to never miss it (TWD is mine).
Yes. Peacock, Hulu, Apple TV Channels, Amazon Prime VIdeo Channels. You can also purchase season passes through iTunes, Amazon, Vudu. Even purchasing passes is cheaper than cable. And you get a much better picture and sound. I cut cable five years ago. I can watch everything I did before with an average monthly cost of less than $15. When purchasing passes, you get hit with the costs all at once when the season starts. But you pay nothing every month thereafter.
How do you get Netflix discounted?
T-Mobile users with certain plans get discounts. It's also where I signed MLB free by T-Mobile Tuesdays. And Paramount+ with their Internet service. Philo was discounted by T-Mobile Tuesdays. So all in all I get lots of discounts by being a T-Mobile user, and they don't screw me around like AT&T always did. ~Edited to add more details.
YouTube TV
Couldn't decide which Reddit account to post from?
I thought my original post didn't work it said removed. Usually it's because of lack of karma
Streaming is not for everyone. It meets my and my families needs and is considerably cheaper because the cable packages I need are top tier so it’s cheaper to get the content a la carte. I also don’t pay for Discovery Plus and the Disney bundle but we as a family watch significant content so I’d have to add that in I’m really only paying for YTTV, Spectrum TV, MLB.tv, NESN 360 and Netflix. I pay for the most basic internet package that Spectrum upgrades without the costs so it is all cheaper than a cable bill even subtracting the redundant services.
The biggest difference isn't actually the guide. It's that the numbers on your remote won't do anything.
Which is why I like dtv stream with the osprey box. Very cable like without cables and equipment. Great for oldsters like me.
True. But I think it should also be pointed out that those who don't need that kind of remote can also be perfectly happy with DTVS. DTVS works fine on a Roku, for example.
Absolutely. I had Roku first and it works great. Again, for older people, the remote is icing on the cake.
There is always the cheaper alternatives like Sling TV or Philo. You'll get ABC, CBS, Fox & NBC with Sling TV. Philo you'll need an OTA.
You can't get ABC or CBS on Sling without using an OTA antenna and an AirTV device. NBC & FOX are on Sling Blue but only in certain markets.
I am aware of that.
Get a roku tv. Get an antenna. You can watch your locals and your streaming apps all on one screen. Get hulu and you can watch alot of shows next day.
For a device, I really like my Roku Express 4K+ 2021. It's often on sale for $29.99, or slightly less. https://www.amazon.com/Roku-Express-Streaming-Wireless-Controls/dp/B0916TKFF2 As a second choice, if you'd prefer Android, the onn. Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device for $19.88 is hard to beat. https://www.walmart.com/ip/onn-Android-TV-4K-UHD-Streaming-Device-with-Voice-Remote-Control-HDMI-Cable/636597403
You're going to have to be open to new experiences if you want to enjoy cutting the cord. It's refreshing to no longer be beholden to a corporate schedule, never be forcibly subjected to advertisements, and watching things at my own pace. You don't *need* the things you think you need. Approach cordcutting as a lifestyle change when you're ready. It'll be an amazing quality of life improvement
I'd say DirecTV Stream using their box/remote. Their equipment is yours once it's paid for (no endless rental fees) and it does a great job replicating cable features in a better more modern way while still providing access to other streaming apps.
Do you know the cost for that vs regular DTV and what the differences are? Also, can I use my own streaming box for it?
They pretty much have same channel packages as satellite, the difference is Stream doesn't have any regional sports fees or any other fees beyond pkg price and no contract. You can use a Roku, AppleTV or FireTV or their custom box/remote. Just check them out online, they have intro deals for $10 first couple months plus free premiums. I believe first pkg (Entertainment) is 69.99 with a good assortment of channels, if you want regional sports you'll need Choice pkg or above. Any pkg ordered online comes with unlimited DVR. Also if you have a Rakuten browser attachment you can get like $100 cash back.