Cut Costs by Cutting off Cable TV
Love cable TV but hate the expense? You're not alone. If you're tired of paying high costs in an attempt to find something to watch when you veg out after a hard day's work, try a few of these alternatives to cable.
Give digital a try
With a one-time charge of $50, you can get a digital converter box and pick up all the basic network channels. You'll be able to get NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and CW -- plenty to watch and no monthly fee.
Public library
A free library card can get you access to sometimes hundreds of DVDs. Even libraries in small towns have their shelves stocked with everything from educational DVDs to recent movies and popular TV episodes. Check into it -- you might just be surprised.
Netflix
Netflix has revolutionized that way people watch movies. With a click of your mouse, you can have DVDs delivered to your home faster than you ever believed possible. For as cheaply as $5 per month, you can have the latest movies delivered to you and never have to step foot in a video store again or pay for cable TV service.
Network websites
Have a favorite TV show? Check out the website the show airs on. Many times, they offer full-length episodes of your favorites. Even cable channels will have full episodes online so you get the benefit of cable without the expense. This is pretty close to getting free cable TV.
Redbox DVD
You've seen these -- the big red box at places like Wal-Mart, McDonalds and local grocery stores. Redbox has recent release movies that you can rent for $1 a day.
iTunes
If you have a show you just have to watch as soon as possible, iTunes can come to the rescue. It will cost you $1.99, but you can download current episodes. With iTunes, you can also rent movies ranging from $4 for new titles and $3 for oldies.
Now, admittedly, these options aren't as convenient as picking up the remote and watching whatever you feel like. With these options, you have to put a little more effort and planning into what you're going to watch, but if you're looking to save some bucks by getting rid of cable TV, these options are hard to beat.