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Cord-Cutter’s Shopping Guide: Essential Amazon Products for Streaming
Sep
Are you tired of paying sky-high cable bills? You’re not alone. More and more people are cutting the cord and switching to streaming services. But to make the most of your streaming experience, you’ll need the right gear. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide will walk you through all the essential Amazon products you need to become a happy cord-cutter.
Why Cut the Cord?
Before we dive into the shopping list, let’s talk about why cord-cutting is becoming so popular. Cable TV costs have been rising faster than inflation for years. The average cable bill is now over $100 a month! That’s a lot of money for a bunch of channels you probably don’t even watch.
Streaming, on the other hand, lets you pick and choose what you want to watch, often at a fraction of the cost. Plus, you can watch on your own schedule, without being tied to a TV guide. It’s all about freedom and flexibility.
The Essentials: What You’ll Need
Okay, let’s get down to business. Here’s what you’ll need to start your cord-cutting journey:
- A reliable internet connection
- A streaming device
- An HDTV antenna (for local channels)
- Streaming service subscriptions
Now, let’s look at some top Amazon products in each category.
1. Internet Modem and Router
Your streaming experience is only as good as your internet connection. If you’re still renting a modem from your internet service provider, stop right now! You can save money in the long run by buying your own.
NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700
Get the NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700
This modem is compatible with most major cable internet providers and can handle speeds up to 500 Mbps. It’s perfect for streaming HD content without buffering.
Key Features:
- DOCSIS 3.0 technology
- 32×8 channel bonding
- Easy setup
TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router
Pair your modem with a good router to ensure strong WiFi throughout your home. This TP-Link model offers great performance at a reasonable price.
Key Features:
- Dual-band WiFi
- 4 Gigabit LAN ports
- Easy setup with Tether app
2. Streaming Devices
Now for the fun part – choosing your streaming device. There are several great options on Amazon, each with its own strengths.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Get the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k
If you’re already in the Amazon ecosystem, the Fire TV Stick 4K is a no-brainer. It’s affordable, powerful, and super easy to use.
Key Features:
- 4K Ultra HD streaming
- Alexa Voice Remote
- Access to thousands of channels and apps
Roku Streaming Stick+
Get the Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Roku is known for its user-friendly interface and huge selection of channels. The Streaming Stick+ is a great mid-range option.
Key Features:
- 4K HDR streaming
- Long-range wireless receiver
- Voice remote
Apple TV 4K
For Apple fans or those who want top-of-the-line performance, the Apple TV 4K is hard to beat. It’s pricier than other options but offers a premium experience.
Key Features:
- 4K HDR with Dolby Vision
- Powerful A12 Bionic chip
- Access to Apple Arcade and Fitness+
3. HDTV Antennas
Don’t forget about your local channels! An HDTV antenna lets you watch network TV for free in HD quality.
Mohu Leaf 50 Indoor HDTV Antenna
Get the Mohu Leaf 50 Indoor HDTV Antenna
This paper-thin antenna can be easily hidden behind your TV or on a wall. It has a 60-mile range, which is enough for most urban and suburban areas.
Key Features:
- 60-mile range
- Multi-directional reception
- Includes 16-foot coaxial cable
ClearStream 4MAX Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna
Get the ClearStream 4MAX Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna
If you live further from broadcast towers, this more powerful antenna might be a better choice. It can be used indoors or outdoors.
Key Features:
- 70-mile range
- All-weather design
- Includes 20-inch mast
4. Streaming Service Subscriptions
While not physical products, streaming service subscriptions are essential for cord-cutters. Here are some popular options available through Amazon:
Amazon Prime Video
As an Amazon Prime member, you get access to a huge library of movies and TV shows, including Amazon Originals.
Netflix
The grandfather of streaming services, Netflix offers a vast selection of content, including many critically acclaimed original series.
Hulu
Hulu is great for watching current TV shows from major networks, usually available the day after they air.
Disney+
A must-have for families, Disney+ offers content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.
Setting Up Your Cord-Cutting System
Now that you’ve got all your gear, it’s time to set everything up. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you might think!
- Connect your modem and router: Follow the instructions that come with your devices. Usually, it’s as simple as connecting the modem to your cable outlet, then connecting the router to the modem.
- Set up your streaming device: Most streaming sticks plug directly into your TV’s HDMI port. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your WiFi and set up your accounts.
- Install your HDTV antenna: Find the best spot in your home for the antenna. Usually, this is near a window facing the direction of your local broadcast towers. Connect it to your TV’s coaxial input.
- Sign up for streaming services: Use your streaming device or computer to sign up for the services you want. Most offer free trials, so you can test them out before committing.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your New Setup
- Optimize your WiFi: Place your router in a central location in your home. Keep it away from walls and metal objects that can interfere with the signal.
- Use ethernet when possible: For the best streaming quality, connect your streaming device directly to your router with an ethernet cable if you can.
- Take advantage of offline viewing: Many streaming services let you download content to watch offline. This is great for traveling or if you have data caps on your internet.
- Explore free content: Don’t forget about free streaming options like Pluto TV, Tubi, and the Roku Channel.
- Use a universal remote: Simplify your setup with a universal remote that can control all your devices.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, you might run into some issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
Buffering or Poor Quality
If your stream keeps buffering or the quality is poor, try these steps:
- Restart your streaming device and router
- Move your router closer to your streaming device
- Upgrade your internet speed if necessary
Can’t Find Local Channels
If you’re having trouble picking up local channels with your antenna:
- Try different locations in your home
- Make sure your antenna is pointed towards the broadcast towers
- Consider a signal amplifier if you’re far from towers
Audio/Video Sync Issues
If the audio and video are out of sync:
- Pause the stream for a few seconds, then resume
- Exit the app and restart it
- Check for updates for your streaming device and apps
The Future of Streaming
Cord-cutting is more than just a trend – it’s the future of how we watch TV. As more and more people cut the cord, we can expect to see even more innovations in streaming technology. Here are some exciting developments to look out for:
8K Streaming
While 4K is still the gold standard for high-quality streaming, 8K is on the horizon. As internet speeds continue to improve, we might soon be able to stream in even higher resolutions.
Virtual Reality TV
Imagine watching your favorite show or movie in a completely immersive virtual environment. Several companies are already experimenting with VR streaming.
AI-Powered Recommendations
Streaming services are getting better at suggesting content you’ll love. As AI technology improves, expect these recommendations to become even more accurate.
Interactive Content
We’re starting to see more interactive content, where viewers can make choices that affect the story. This trend is likely to grow in the coming years.
Conclusion: Embrace the Freedom of Cord-Cutting
Cutting the cord might seem daunting at first, but with the right equipment and setup, it’s easier than ever. The products we’ve covered in this guide will help you create a streaming setup that rivals (or even surpasses) traditional cable TV.
Remember, the beauty of cord-cutting is flexibility. You can start small with just a streaming stick and one or two services, then expand your setup as you get more comfortable. And unlike cable contracts, you’re free to change your streaming services month to month based on what you want to watch.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to cut that cord and start enjoying TV on your own terms. Happy streaming!
