Josh Elledge - Chief Executive Angel
You've done it. You've cut the cord to satellite TV and kicked cable to the curb. Convinced that the savings you'll gain by dropping these expensive forms of entertainment will free up plenty of money for other things. But has it? What are you doing instead that is costing you? It's not uncommon for cord cutters to seek entertainment elsewhere.
For some, going back to cable or getting that satellite up and running again just isn't going to happen. They've learned to adjust and life is good. For others, there may be reason to re-consider. Consumer experts the world over (including myself) have predictably beat the drum of cutting your cord – but this consumer expert is going to do the unthinkable and ask…
As an home entertainment geek, I recently took advantage of a promotional offer to try XFinity's new X1 platform. It's worlds better than the last cable/satellite provider my family and I used. The ability to control my receiver, and every DVR function including advanced searching and timer setting with my phone and tablet from anywhere is incredibly convenient. The user interface, built in apps, and is also worth taking a peek at. While you are comparing prices and promotional offers from cable/satellite providers in your area, ask to see the coolest new receivers – and how they connect with any tablets or smart phones you have.
6. Do you need the big bundle?
Maybe the one channel you and your significant other miss most watching together is AMC, Discovery, or Food Network. Save yourself $10 to $40 monthly and don't bother with the higher level or premium movie packages. And, it should go without saying that bundled voice services can often be overpriced. My favorite voice provider if you need a line in the home is Ooma. It's close to free after you buy the $145 phone. (Click here to learn more about cutting your phone service).
7. TV where you want it
After my cable reconnection, I've been able to stream sports, news, and kids channels on my tablet and phone – which can be very cool depending on the situation. There are over 50 streamable cable channels. With Xfinity, you can download TV shows and movies from several movie channels to your device and watch them offline.
8. Switch teams every year (or at least threaten to) and you can get a great deal
Most cable and satellite providers will give you a great 1-year deal – which I recommend comparing providers to see who works best for you. After your one year period, act as a free agent and see what offers other providers will offer. You may get a great offer to renew for another year when you call your cable company to let them know you're shopping around. Sometimes, you'll need to call your cable company a couple times to get their best offer (which should be very close to the best offer given to new customers). Sometimes, you'll actually need to cancel to get the best “come back” offer. This means you should call your old cable company and let them know you're considering coming back for the right offer. Yes – it's a little work – and never be afraid to hang up the phone without getting your cable established if you didn't get a great price to stay. It's worth it if you can save $200 to $300 a year and still enjoy all the latest programming and technology I've illustrated above.
If you don't get an offer immediately and alternatives don't look so good, you can always use this month or two off to experiment with the latest cable alternatives.
Are you a cable/satellite subscriber? Or not? We'd love to hear your take on this subject in the comment section below. Also – I was only able to share my personal experience with Xfinity. I'd like to hear if you enjoy your cable or satellite TV's latest features.
