Needham & Company senior media and internet analyst Laura Martin discusses Netflix's wild trading range ahead of earnings on 'Making Money.'
Many streaming services have implemented price increases over the past year or so, leaving some potential cord-cutters wondering how cable stacks up against subscribing to multiple platforms to get the content they want to watch.
Reports differ on how much providers typically charge for cable on a monthly basis, with the Financial Times recently pegging it at $83. Another report suggested it could come in around up to $125 when also keeping in mind accompanying gear and fees.
NETFLIX LEANS ON ‘WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN' STRATEGY
Meanwhile, some of the platforms that have seen prices of their streaming go up in the past month include Apple TV+, Netflix, Disney+ and Hulu. The most recent to do so was Netflix, who upped the per-month charge for its Premium and Basic options.
Netflix logo displayed on a phone screen and Netflix website displayed on a laptop screen are seen in this illustration photo taken in Krakow, Poland on July 14, 2022. (Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Streaming content could come with a combined price tag in the area of $147 per month if a person decided to use the respectively most-expensive version of Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Amazon Prime Video, Max, Discovery+, Paramount+ with Showtime, Apple TV+, Peaco*ck and Starz. That figure included the $8.99 price of Prime Video by itself rather than the overall Amazon Prime membership fee, which currently stands at $14.99 per month and comes with other benefits.
| Ticker | Security | Last | Change | Change % |
|---|
| WBD | WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY INC. | 8.49 | +0.83 | +10.84% |
| NFLX | NETFLIX INC. | 697.06 | +10.26 | +1.49% |
| DIS | THE WALT DISNEY CO. | 89.30 | +0.98 | +1.11% |
| AAPL | APPLE INC. | 222.77 | +0.11 | +0.05% |
|
A collective bill for streaming services could look lower if one went the route of a less expensive plan, such as one with ads, or only used certain platforms. Disney also has options to bundle its three services – Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ – that could cut down such a total.
VERIZON REPORTEDLY PUTTING TOGETHER NETFLIX, MAX STREAMING BUNDLE
Earlier this week, Disney CEO Bob Iger told analysts and investors the entertainment giant has plans to bring together Hulu and Disney+ on the latter service. That move would apply to those who bundle the two platforms, according to his comments.
"We will launch a beta version for bundled subscribers in December, giving parents time to set up profiles and parental controls that work best for their families ahead of the official launch in early spring 2024," he said.
The logo of the streaming service Netflix can be seen on a television. (Thomas Trutschel/Photothek via Getty Images / Getty Images)
In July of last year, the proportion of people in the U.S. whose TV viewing time utilized streaming services notably came in at 34.8%, according to Nielsen.
TWO STREAMING SERVICES RAISING PRICES FOR AD-FREE PLANS
That instance represented it beating out cable for the first time ever, which Nielsen said saw 34.4% in the same month. The organization found broadcast at 21.6%.
Nielsen linked streaming’s viewership feat to less sports and other new shows available on TV that month.
FAQs
How Much Does Cutting Cable Cost? The average cost for a cable alternative is $40 per month. However, there are individual factors that can dramatically impact the final cost. Overall, homeowners typically pay anywhere from free to $160 a month on cable alternatives.
How much does it cost to stream content? ›
How your favorite streaming services compare on costs, free trials and more
| Service | Starting monthly cost, basic plan with ads | Devices that can stream at once |
|---|
| Hulu | $8 | 2 to 5 |
| Disney+ | $8 | 4 |
| Amazon Prime | $9 | 3 |
| Max | $10 | 2 to 4 |
4 more rowsAug 2, 2024
What equipment do I need to cut the cord? All you need is a high-speed internet connection, a streaming device, and streaming channels.
How can I watch TV without cable or internet? ›
Use An HD Antenna To Watch Over-The-Air TV
An HD antenna is an excellent option for watching Over-The-Air TV (OTA HDTV). To get started, select an indoor antenna compatible with your area and powerful enough to deliver the local channels you want.
Can I get rid of my cable box with a smart TV? ›
For those wondering how to watch TV without cable, smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Apple TV provide the answer. These devices connect to your TV and internet, transforming a television into a smart device capable of accessing a wide range of streaming services.
Can I cancel cable TV and keep internet? ›
Canceling your TV and keeping internet service isn't a difficult task, but it may be time consuming if you have to call your ISP directly. Your main goal is to cancel your current plan and sign up for standalone internet service.
Is it worth switching from cable to streaming? ›
Want live TV? Streaming is still (usually) cheaper. If you want to have the cable TV experience without the fees and contracts, then live TV streaming is the next best thing. These services can offer a program guide, DVR and most of the familiar channels you're used to with cable.
Is it cheaper to stream or use cable? ›
With this being said, cable often has a higher base cost than a single streaming service and it usually requires long-term contracts.
Why do people still pay for cable? ›
Watching live sports on cable was the main reason that has kept Americans from getting rid of cable as of 2022, according to 19.5 percent of respondents to a survey. Second common factor was watching live entertainment events, such as the award shows, with around 11.7 percent of people interviewed.
Is Roku really cheaper than cable? ›
Is streaming really cheaper than cable? The average US household spends $109 a month on cable or satellite TV. If you go all-in with free streaming channels, like The Roku Channel and Tubi, you could save $1300+ each year. Roku users save an average of over $70 each month over cable according to a recent survey.
If you're paying for cable to have something to watch but aren't so picky about what that something is, then you may want to switch to a streaming service or two instead and enjoy a lower credit card bill. But if you can afford cable and you like cable, keep paying for cable.
How do I switch from cable to streaming? ›
You just need to a good internet connection and the apps built into your smart TV or running on an inexpensive streamer, such as a Roku or Amazon Fire TV. They'll give you access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Hulu and more, as well as numerous free TV streaming options.
Do you really save money cutting the cord? ›
For some, cutting the cord is about saving money—on average, $1,236 a year—and for others, it's about control and only paying for what you use. If you've wanted to cut the cord but don't know exactly how to go about doing it, we're here to help with this step-by-step guide.
Is it worth getting rid of cable TV? ›
Many streaming services offer similar packages to cable or satellite subscriptions at a lower price. Cutting the cord can save you money in the long run by cancelling cable and going all-in on streaming.
Can I cut a cable line in my yard? ›
You can look in your county Register of Deeds to see if Comcast has a recorded easem*nt across your property.It has been my experience that these cables are installed underground. Please don't cut the cable.
