How to Watch Cable TV Online

If you're one of the millions of people hoping to cut ties with your cable company, but still don't want to miss out on your favorite shows, you're in luck. Not long ago, accessing cable television online was practically impossible, but these days there are several options that allow viewers to skip the monthly cable bill, but still enjoy many of the movies and television shows they love. You can opt for a monthly paid subscription to services like Sling TV, which grants you access to many popular cable networks like AMC and even HBO, or you can add your favorite channels to your already-existing subscriptions to services such as Hulu and Amazon Prime. Ready to cut the cable cord? Below are the eight most commonly asked questions about watching cable TV online. 

Frequently Asked Questions ( 8 )   Add a Question

  1. Will I have access to all cable channels online?
    Reply

    There currently isn't a service that gives you all the standard or premium cable channels online if you cut ties with your cable company completely. However, most popular channels are available through Sling TV for a much lower monthly price than you'd pay for cable television service. 

    Best Answer
  2. Is there a benefit to subscribing to multiple online services at once?
    Reply

    Depending on what you want to watch, sometimes subscribing to multiple services can be beneficial and give you a wider range of programming to choose from. However, be careful not to subscribe to too many services, especially if there's a lot of overlap in programming, because doing so could actually end up costing you more than simply subscribing to cable television service. 

    Best Answer
  3. Can I access my current cable television subscription online?
    Reply

    Some cable television providers allow you to access certain content online, whether through your phone or table, or by using devices such as AppleTV and Roku. Talk to your cable television provider to find out whether they offer this service, and if so, which programming you can access.

    Best Answer
  4. Are DVR services available through subscription or online cable television services?
    Reply

    Hulu allows you to access cloud DVR services when you subscribe to Hulu Live-TV. In addition, Amazon Prime, Sling TV and other online services usually offer on-demand viewing of content, though this content may be limited in some cases. 

    Best Answer
  5. What channels can I add through Amazon Prime?
    Reply

    Currently, you can add most premium channels to your Amazon Prime subscription, including Starz, HBO, Showtime, Cinemax and more. Check Amazon Prime for a full list of channels available for you to choose from. 

    Best Answer
  6. Which services allow me to watch live TV online?
    Reply

    Hulu has a live-TV package that lets you watch all your favorite popular channels for just $39.99 per month. Sling TV also gives you access to live programming. Keep in mind, however, that local channels are not always included in the live TV streaming services. 

    Best Answer
  7. Will paying for online cable TV services save me money?
    Reply

    Unlike regular cable television services, paying for your own services means you get access to the channels you'll actually watch, often without paying for ones you won't. In addition, buying monthly subscriptions to online services is often considerably less expensive than what you'd pay for cable television.

    Best Answer
  8. Which premium channels can I add to my Hulu subscription?
    Reply

    Hulu currently allows subscribers to add Showtime to their channel lineup for an extra $8.99 per month. This is currently the only stand-alone premium channel that can be added to Hulu, though more may be added soon. 

    Best Answer