Stop spending so much money on streaming services

Streaming's promise of cheaper entertainment than cable TV hasn't quite materialized. New services pop up constantly, and existing ones keep raising prices, making staying current with movies and shows increasingly expensive. But it doesn't have to be this way. Here's how to cut streaming costs without sacrificing entertainment:

Stream Smart: One Service at a Time

With countless hours of content on each platform, why pay for multiple subscriptions simultaneously? Instead, try a "grazing" approach: subscribe to one service, watch it thoroughly, then cancel and switch to another. You might not always find exactly what you want instantly, but you'll consistently have something to watch, and ultimately access a wider variety of content, all while saving money.

Buy Physical Media for Frequent Rewatches

While seemingly old-fashioned, buying DVDs or Blu-rays makes sense for shows you rewatch often. Initially, a monthly subscription might appear cheaper, but consider the long-term cost. For instance, buying the complete The Office DVD set is cheaper than several months of Peacock. Plus, you own it indefinitely, avoiding the risk of content removal from streaming services.

Embrace Over-the-Air Broadcasting with an Antenna

Major networks broadcast free over-the-air signals. All you need is an antenna. While not a replacement for all streaming, it provides access to news, sports, dramas, and sitcoms, completely free. Signal quality varies by location, but when it works, the picture is usually excellent.

Unlock Your Library's Entertainment Resources

Don't overlook your local library! Many offer extensive collections of DVDs, Blu-rays, and sometimes even streaming services. Check what's available—you might be surprised at the free entertainment options.

Build Your Own Streaming Empire with Plex (or Jellyfin)

Create a personalized streaming experience with Plex or the open-source alternative, Jellyfin. This involves transferring your physical media collection to a computer or NAS and potentially adding a tuner card for live TV recording. It requires initial effort, but eliminates recurring subscription fees, offering complete control over your entertainment.

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