Are you thinking about cutting the cord? You’re not the only one.
Last updated: February 2026
According to a Pew Research Center survey, the percentage of Americans who watch TV through cable or satellite service dropped from 76% in 2015 to 56% in 2021. By 2026, this number has continued to decline, with only 38% of Americans maintaining traditional cable subscriptions. Many cite a variety of reasons for this: high monthly costs, access to everything online and not watching much TV anymore.
Streaming services have filled the gap left by cord-cutting as cord-cutting has gained popularity. From channels and programming to how you watch and pricing, each offers a slightly different viewing experience. But, to help narrow down your decision, and save some money, here are 35 of the best alternatives to cable TV in 2026. The average savings for cord-cutters now exceeds $200 per month, making streaming services a financially attractive option for most households.
1. Sling TV
Because Sling TV’s lower price and customizable nature align with cutting the cord, it is arguably one of the most popular cable TV alternatives.
With Sling TV, you’ll also get ESPN, FOX, and NBC for $45 a month as of 2026 (up from $40). However, their first month is currently 50% off. Viewers can pick and choose from two basic packages of channels (Orange and Blue), then add on smaller extras for $5.
There is an Orange + Blue package for $60 as well. It’s best for those who can’t decide between NFL Network and ESPN to subscribe to Sling Orange + Blue, which gives you six extra channels than Sling Blue alone.
Whether you’re a sports fan or a comedy fan or a parent looking for kids’ programming, Sling TV has something for everybody. Here’s a handy hack for you to try. Ordering an HD antenna with any package will allow you to receive all your local channels.
Is Sling TV perfect? Of course not. In terms of channels, Sling TV does not have the most. In addition, unlike Hulu and YouTube, its cloud DVR is not unlimited
2. YouTube TV
A great cable TV alternative, YouTube TV offers an easy-to-use interface and a huge array of channels. The service offers shows from 70+ different networks such as ESPN, Bravo, Animal Planet, TLC, National Geographic, and FX.
Aside from that, there are more than 100 live channels, sports (MLB, NFL, and NBA Networks), and movies to choose from. There are also add-ons from Starz, Showtime, or AMC for an additional price.
YouTube TV also has a short lag behind cable TV, which is another standout feature. Despite being a little behind live feeds (less than a minute), Sling and other services still count for sports and live events. Upon recording sports matches on a DVR, YouTube TV also has key plays, which makes it easy to view key highlights in minutes. YouTube TV has expanded its 5.1 channel audio and now offers 4K streaming on select sporting events.
Its monthly bill is now $79.99 due to continued price increases since 2023. There is also the lack of forced bundling, which may be a pro or a con depending on your perspective. Those who do not need Disney Plus or ESPN Plus might also enjoy it. The NFL Sunday Ticket will be available as a paid add-on to YouTube TV starting in 2023.
3. Philo
As a relative newcomer to the video streaming scene, Philo launched its nationwide streaming service in 2017. It is one of the most affordable cable TV alternatives with a monthly subscription rate of $28 for 64 channels (up from $25). Some of the standout channels include A&E, AMC, Comedy Central, Food Network, Hallmark Channel, and Nickelodeon.
The main drawback? You will need to check out other options if you are looking for news or sports channels on Philo.
Up to ten different accounts can be created with Philo and three devices can be streamed at the same time. In addition to unlimited DVR, they also offer a 7-day free trial. Movie lovers will also appreciate Philo’s affordable add-ons, including Reelz and Sony Movies for $3/month, EPIX for $6/month, and Starz for $9/month.
4. Hulu
For people who want to watch the latest episodes of their favorite network shows, Hulu is a great alternative to cable TV. Moreover, Hulu has released its own content with Hulu Originals such as The Handmaid’s Tale, Only Murders in the Building, and Letterkenny. Additionally, they have a growing library of movies that are updated fairly frequently. A&E, HGTV, CNN, FX, MTV, and CNN are all included.
Hulu’s lowest level service is now $5.99/month with ads, while the ad-free premium option remains competitive at $14.99/month.
Hulu offers the following plans and pricing for 2026:
- Hulu $5.99 per month (with ads). Enjoy over 85,000 episodes from your favorite shows, movies, and Hulu Originals.
- Hulu (No Ads) $14.99/month. This is similar to the above, but without any ads.
- Hulu + Live TV $79.99/month. Stream live TV and all the content in Hulu’s library.
- Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV with Disney+ and ESPN+: $89.99 per month
- Hulu Premium Networks $8.99-$14.99/month. With HBO, Showtime, and Starz on demand, you can pay for premium cable channels as you wish.
- If you are a student, you may be able to sign up for Hulu (with ads) for just $1.99 per month.
Aside from unlimited screens, a cloud DVR enhanced with Spanish subtitles, and many other add-ons, Hulu lets you customize your plan even further. Many cord-cutters use Hulu as their primary income replacement tool by combining it with other streaming services.
Sadly, major sports channels such as MLB Network and NBA TV are often left out.
5. fuboTV
As part of their “Elite” plan, fuboTV offers access to 164 channels for $84.99 a month (updated 2026 pricing). In addition to this, there are a number of local channels, sports, and entertainment channels. For those who prefer premium options like Showtime, STARZ, and Regional Sports, there are additional add-ons available.
The following are the different fuboTV packages for 2026:
- Pro Quarterly. For $75/month, you’ll get 125 channels, 1,000 hours of Cloud DVR, and unlimited screens
- Elite Quarterly. For $85/month, you get 176 channels, fubo Extra (39 more channels), News Plus (12 extra channels), 1,000 hours of cloud DVR, and unlimited screens.
- Ultimate Quarterly. $105/month gets you 210 channels, fubo Extra (39 additional channels), News Plus (12 additional channels), SHOWTIME® live + on-demand, NFL Redzone, and 1000 hours of cloud DVR.
- Latino Quarterly. A subscription for 43 channels, 250 hours of Cloud DVR, and two screens at once costs $38/month.
FuboTV now includes robust parental controls and family sharing features. You can cancel fuboTV at any time since there are no contracts.
6. Peacock
Launched in 2020, Peacock is NBC’s streaming service. After discontinuing its free tier in 2023, Peacock now offers premium and plus versions. However, ads are now available on the premium tier as well.
With the premium plan, you’ll have access to more on-demand content for $5.99 a month (with ads) or $11.99 without ads. You can watch some titles offline when you subscribe to the Plus plan, which costs $14.99 a month.
There are countless shows you can watch, including Cheers, Below Deck, Parks and Recreation, and Bel-Air. There are 40,000+ hours of movies, TV shows, and more on their platform. You can also watch live sports and events, such as the Olympics, Super Bowl, and WWE.
7. Vidgo
Vidgo is a newer alternative to cable television. As you watch a show, you can join chat rooms to share the experience with friends and family.
The Vidgo plan is a respectable one, despite its youth. You can subscribe to 110+ channels for $69.95 or 150 channels for $84.95 a month (2026 pricing). The service now offers a 7-day free trial, a feature they reintroduced in 2025.
In addition to ESPN and Fox Sports, the package offers a full suite of lifestyle and entertainment channels. Vidgo has added cloud DVR functionality in 2026, a major improvement over earlier years.
8. Paramount Plus
CBS All Access was replaced by Paramount+ in March, 2021. The Paramount Network, Nickelodeon, and CBS are all included in the ad-supported Essential Plan, which is now $7.99 per month (increased from $5.99).
With Paramount+, you can remove all advertisements for $12.99 monthly. The pricing and offerings of Paramount have continued to evolve as the service matures. As an alternative to basic cable, this is a great option for less than $15 per month. Plus, this is the only home for CBS shows on-demand.
Included in the Paramount+ Premium plan are:
- On-demand access to over 30,000 episodes, movies, and originals
- Exclusive programming and Paramount+ Originals
- Stream the NFL and UEFA Champions League on CBS, as well as other top soccer leagues, plus MORE sports like PGA golf and NCAA basketball.
- CBS News Streaming Network and CBS Live offer 24/7 local and national news
- Watch your shows offline at any time by downloading them
- Live CBS channel from your local CBS affiliate
- Stream on up to three devices simultaneously with up to 6 profiles
In addition, if you have a T-Mobile postpaid wireless account, you can add the Paramount+ ON US offer without providing your credit card information for 12 months.
9. Disney Plus
You can access Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic titles through Disney Plus, along with some 20th Century Fox titles. Movies and series from the Disney vault as well as originals from Disney Channel are included.
For $14.99 a month (with ads), Disney Plus can be bundled with Hulu and ESPN+ to save sports fans money. Ad-free access is $13.99 per month. It’s important to note that ESPN+ is its own app and doesn’t include live content from ESPN2.
To watch shows or movies on the go, Disney Plus lets you download them. In addition, you can download unlimited files from up to 10 devices as long as you remain a subscriber. It is also possible to watch on four screens at the same time.
Additionally, Disney Plus offers more than 300 titles in 4k UHD and HDR, all of which are ad-free on premium plans. Both of these upgrades are free.
10. Netflix
In terms of OG cord-cutters, Netflix has long been a popular alternative to cable TV. Most likely because you have access to both movies and TV shows, including original content that won multiple Emmy trophies in recent years.
Netflix has been investing significantly in creating its own content, with hits like Stranger Things, Black Mirror, Orange Is the New Black, House of Cards, and Arrested Development leading the way.
They constantly add more titles to keep this alternative feeling fresh. Furthermore, it is very good at analyzing your viewing habits and making recommendations for you.
Netflix offers the following 2026 plans:
- Basic with ads: $6.99 per month
- Standard: $15.49 per month. You can watch on up to two screens simultaneously, with HD picture quality. No ads.
- Premium $19.99 per month. With this, you can watch Netflix on up to four devices simultaneously in HD and Ultra HD. No ads.
Netflix offers ad-free viewing options and has introduced new features like spatial audio on select devices. Netflix doesn’t require any contracts, so you can change your plan at any time.
11. DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream has undergone multiple name changes over the years. Compared to most competitors, it remains more expensive, with the Entertainment package including about 75 channels. Cloud DVR recordings now persist for 9 months (up from 90 days).
While the company tries to promote annual contracts, these are optional. DirecTV Stream has added live score overlays similar to Fubo to keep up with other streaming services.
Despite this, cord-cutters can still watch their favorite local teams through DirecTV Stream, as many regional sports networks are only available through this service.
The current 2026 pricing includes:
- Entertainment: $79.99/month with 75 channels
- Choice: $109.99/month with 105 channels
- Ultimate: $119.99/month with 140 channels
12. HBO Max (Now Max)
HBO Max rebranded to simply “Max” in 2023 and continues to expand its content library. You can stream over 10,000 hours of popular content on demand. HBO Originals such as Game of Thrones, Succession, and Curb Your Enthusiasm remain flagship offerings.
Max has 2,000+ movies and 500+ TV shows, such as Friends, South Park, and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
You can choose between two plans: one with ads for $9.99 a month, or ad-free access for $19.99 per month (2026 pricing).
13. Amazon Prime Video
As an Amazon Prime member, you get access to Prime Video. Even with AmazonFresh and two-day shipping, you can access Prime Video’s extensive catalog for $14.99 a month or $139/year. A standalone Prime Video subscription is available for $8.99 a month.
Besides live sports coverage, such as the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and Premier League soccer, Prime Video has a growing slate of original programming including The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
With growing original content and live sports, Prime Video has become a more compelling option for cord-cutters seeking retirement planning content and light entertainment.
14. Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has carved out quite the niche with hit shows like Ted Lasso and Schmigadoon for $9.99/month (up from $6.99). Since this is a relatively new service, it doesn’t have a large back catalog of content. It is growing rapidly, however, when it comes to original content.
Apple TV+ is a streaming service only and shouldn’t be confused with Apple TV streaming devices or Apple TV app. You can test out Apple TV+ for free for 7 days and it’s ad-free and available in 4K. Downloads last for 30 days and you can watch on 6 screens at once.
A free year of Apple TV+ is likely to have been included as part of your new Apple device purchase (must be activated within 3 months). For $19.99/month, it’s also offered as part of Apple One bundles.
15. ESPN+
If you’re a sports fan, ESPN+ is an excellent complement to cable TV alternatives. It’s $10.99 per month (or $109.99/year) and you can stream live sporting events, watch sports networks, and watch ESPN+ Originals.
It does not replace traditional ESPN, but it does provide access to exclusive content including MLS, NHL, and college sports. The app is the exclusive provider of UFC pay-per-view fights at a reduced subscriber rate.
Save when you sign up for a year. For $14.99 per month, you can bundle ESPN+, Hulu, and Disney+.
16. Crackle
There are many shows and movies available on Crackle, a free, ad-supported video-on-demand service. Crackle Originals remain popular among budget-conscious cord-cutters. Drama, comedy, docuseries, miniseries, and movies are among the service’s original content offerings. With over 38,000 hours of content combined, it continues to grow.
17. Frndly TV
At $7.99/month for the Basic plan, Frndly TV offers some of the cheapest live TV programming available.
With more than 40 live streams, on-demand channels, and DVRs it offers a wide variety of entertainment. Popular channels include A&E, Hallmark Channel, and the Outdoor Channel.
In addition to 1,000+ on-demand movies and shows, there is live streaming available as well. Most devices support Frndly TV, including FireTV, Roku, Android TV, Apple TV, and iOS mobile apps.
There are three service tiers:
- Basic – $7.99/month. Watch live and on-demand TV on one TV
- Classic – $9.99/month. Stream HD video on two screens simultaneously
- Premium – $12.99/month. Watch on four screens at once with unlimited DVR
18. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is a completely free, ad-supported streaming service with over 200 channels available to its viewers. There are Viacom properties such as Comedy Central, MTV, and Nickelodeon, plus notable content providers like A&E Networks, CNN, Nerdist, and WeatherNation TV.
Accessing Pluto TV is as simple as launching your browser or downloading the app. The service can be enjoyed as long as your internet connection is stable. Pluto TV lets you watch it online across your devices without spending a penny. For budget-conscious cord-cutters, this remains one of the best ways to cut household costs.
19. Tubi
Launched in 2014, Tubi is often called “the free Netflix” because it offers quality movies and TV shows for streaming online. With one of the most extensive titles lineups, this free, ad-supported service is a popular cord-cutting option.
The easy interface, constant updating of the library, and of course the free titles make it attractive. The service also includes parental controls that parents will appreciate. With over 20,000 movies and shows, Tubi rivals paid services in content variety.
20. Samsung TV Plus
Users worldwide can access more than 200 live TV channels and on-demand content with the Samsung TV Plus app, included with all Samsung Smart TVs. To access the app, you don’t have to subscribe or create an account.
Samsung’s streaming platform is available on all Galaxy Devices, mobile and tablet, by updating their operating systems to Android 8.0 or higher, aside from TVs (specifically those released from 2016 onwards). If you want to watch your favorite channels hassle-free and cost-effectively, it’s a great choice for cord-cutters.
21. Plex
Plex has evolved into a comprehensive entertainment platform offering free, ad-supported streaming of movies, TV shows, and live TV channels. With partnerships with major studios, Plex offers a robust catalog of quality content.
The service is completely free and includes live TV channels, an extensive library of classic films, and an expanding collection of original programming. Plex is available on most streaming devices and is an excellent option for cord-cutters seeking diverse content without additional subscription costs.
22. Roku Channel
The Roku Channel offers a mix of free ad-supported content and premium subscriptions. It includes live TV channels, movies, and shows, many available for free. Roku Channel Originals have gained popularity with cord-cutting audiences.
You can watch hundreds of live TV channels and thousands of movies and shows. The free tier is quite generous, making it a worthwhile addition to any cord-cutter’s arsenal.
23. Peacock Premium Bundles
For 2026, Peacock offers several bundle options combining Peacock with other services. The Premium+ plan includes sports events, live TV, and original content for $14.99/month.
Bundles with other streaming services provide excellent value, allowing users to consolidate subscriptions and reduce overall costs.
24. Local Networks with an Antenna
You can watch dozens of live channels with a digital antenna, including ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates based on your location. A 2026 guide to digital antennas can help ensure you get the best reception in your area.
Pros:
- There are no monthly fees
- Resolutions up to 4K and HD are available
- There can be more than one TV served by one antenna
Cons:
- Channel selection is limited
- There may be some difficulty with the initial setup
- Bad weather can interfere with signal reception
Antennas for digital television are available both indoors and outdoors. The channel selection of indoor antennas will be less than that of outdoor antennas, but they tend to be cheaper and easier to install.
25. The Local Library
Libraries remain one of the best alternatives to cable TV because it is 100% free!
A library has an enormous collection of movies (even new releases, blu-rays, and more), complete TV series, and more. In many areas, libraries collaborate with other libraries, so you can probably find what you’re looking for at another if you don’t find it at your local library.
Free digital access to TV and movies is available through many libraries now, such as Hoopla and Kanopy. For those interested in best financial books, libraries often have comprehensive collections available through their digital services.
The downside? You may be limited to how many shows and movies you can watch each month. However, if you truly want to cut the cord and save a lot each month, this is probably your most advisable option.
FAQs
What is the best streaming service for live TV?
Depending on what you are looking for, the answer may vary. Among the alternatives to cable, YouTube TV remains a top choice. It offers a variety of local channels, sports networks, and more. Additionally, your DVR allows you to save an unlimited number of recordings.
How can I get rid of cable TV?
Your first step should be to check to see if you are still under a contract with your current cable company. If not, explore our streaming recommendations and decide which is best for you based on your viewing habits.
Is it possible to watch local channels without a cable subscription?
Many cable alternatives offer local channels for free, including DIRECTV STREAM, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV. If you prefer over-the-air broadcasts, choose the right digital TV antenna for your area. Alternatively, if you have access to it, you can download the Locast app.
Where can I watch free TV shows online?
Roku TV, Fire TV, and other streaming devices offer a number of free streaming services. You can watch thousands of movies and TV shows on these services, such as Hoopla and Tubi TV. In addition to streaming YouTube videos for free, you can also watch advertisements on the site. These are great budget-friendly cable TV alternatives for those looking to save money in 2026.
