Our lives are super hectic. From jobs to studies and chores, there is struggle everywhere. In
such a tough routine, everyone wants a little escape, this is where we bring reinforcements!
Fortunately, our entertainment sector has progressed amazingly over the last decade. There
are countless forms of local and foreign content along with advanced technology. With a
dedicated range of options and mediums, the traditional media doesn’t seem to cut it anymore.
So, what should you choose now that the choices have expanded? We are helping you find the
answer to this question by creating an extensive guide. Let’s begin!
CONTENTS
Features
A short-term transmitting system that is less likely to be affected by the weather than its
satellite alternative. There is a cable box and navigation remote that catches the radio
frequencies of channels and displays them on your television. Whereas, Internet TV involves
digital apps and structures that can be easily accessible through eligible devices and are
managed online.
While one is a conventional medium, the other is a relatively new one and aims to empower
users without relying on sectioned and limited service providers. The medium of the internet is
not the core difference between the two, many other things set them apart. But the purpose of
both is customer-centric entertainment and command over the viewing experience.
Pricing
Every provider and service can be different depending upon the area, provided packages, and
the updated terms and conditions. There are several connectivity and networking brands that
offer both cable and internet services. For instance, Charter’s provider has both categories
available in the form of Spectrum TV and Spectrum Internet. Similarly, other brands like Xfinity,
and Optimum offer dual facilities for users.
Other providers have chosen to stick with basic internet services or Live TV streaming based on user preference. For cable TV, you can expect the prices to range between $30 to $50, but this range can extend to $100 or more if connected with premium selections and bundles. If we talk about streaming TV, there is a wide collection of affordable plans to scroll through starting from $5 to $15.
Accessibility
Cable is more selective in terms of availability. You can’t find it everywhere but the nearest
provider can deliver a steady connection. However, the best thing about the respective service
is that it functions without internet and the absence of Wi-Fi would not damage your viewing
experience. This category includes local area connections.
On the other hand, internet streaming can be done anywhere as long as there is a good
network. If your service provider has widely accessible sites, you can get the required
transmission from the nearest brand site. Unlike cable, streaming does depend on a good
connection and requires a sturdy network to function optimally. Your subscription could include a range of features, but it needs the web to exist and operate.
Content Variety
Even the most basic television systems can respond to cable services. While there may be a
monopoly structure, you can make the most out of your package without any service
restrictions and data limitations. For instance, Verizon offers more than 400 cable channels
followed by Xfinity with the second-highest collection. The absence of data usage means you
can flip through more than 50 to 100 channels in a standard package without any worries.
Streaming TV and live entertainment are some of the hottest trends to come out of the last five
years.
There are countless channels spread across the internet where you can not only
consume custom content but also keep track of your progress regularly. There is an expansive
variety of more than 700 to 800 channels and accounts you can find either by networks or
creators. Plus, the personalized experience only heightens the overall convenience of the
concept.
Plan Specifications
Cable TV plans are the same for everyone. This means that you will be getting the same number of channels as your neighbors along with the pricing details. However, more providers are coming out with the premium variety that can be exclusively utilized by paying a little more.
However, the element of peak curation is still not fully leveraged in this industry.
Streaming your favorite shows is easier than you think and a lot more cost-effective than cable.
You can pick, choose, build a playlist, and subscribe to your favorite channels to receive regular updates. Reruns aren’t a thing with internet content as it is available regardless of when and how many times you choose to watch. You can find more diversity when it comes to plans and offers. These TV bundles often come with mobile and internet features that are easily
accessible and require zero to no maintenance.
Equipment and Installation
Your local cable operators need only a few details to manually activate a connection and make
it available for you. If you take out the wiring procedure, it’s all very manageable with the least
amount of mess involved. Wiring is a huge factor as it determines the connection with ports,
visual quality, and more. So, cable lovers should be ready to see and deal with a bundle of wires just being there and functioning differently.
Modem, routers, transmission wires, or fiber, internet installation is a little similar to the cable
process when it comes to required materials. However, the aftermath is tolerable and there is
mostly a wireless presence spreading signals across the space, unless we consider Ethernet.
Frequencies are the main drivers of this system and the relevant equipment is also not
bothersome. With self-installation kits, things become a little classier and allow the client to
stay in control of the entire trajectory.
Quality of Experience
Cable and streaming both have their risks and issues but if we consider a bird’s eye view of both products, internet TV seems more reliable, durable, and preferable. The visuals are
uncompromised and there is little to no static released by weather conditions. Sustainability is a huge thing in the current era and the cable sector needs to up its game otherwise it might lose against the client-oriented approaches of streaming TV.
But the competition isn’t that one-sided. The conventional yet practical facilities of cable are
reliable and a lot of people who aren’t online can manage it without any training. You don’t
need to be tech-savvy to change a channel and that makes it a lot more convenient.
Conclusion
This comparison has a clear winner and that is Internet TV but that does not take away the
power and accessibility of cable. It is just a matter of priority that can determine what a person
will lean towards. Either way, both mediums are appreciated but considering the customer
privileges may lead to a bigger fan base for streaming.
FAQs
Is Internet TV better than Cable TV?
It is more affordable and convenient than cable TV, however, it depends on what the user
prefers as well. Some people find the former to be more reliable than the latter while others
may find convenience in the consumption design of the latter.
Is picture quality better with TV or streaming?
Some television brands and models have in-built high-definition and 4K streaming. Cable
channels can have amplified frequencies that can be enjoyed with such TV products. For
internet TV, the presence of the internet and the responsiveness of signals decides how well
the picture will turn out.
Are smart TVs better than cable?
Smart TVs are better as they allow users to get the best of both worlds. Users can choose to
scroll through cable channels or switch to compatible apps that can be streamed through TV
with an authentic internet connection.
Hey, I’m David. I’ve been working as a wireless network engineer and a network administrator for 15 years. During my studies, I also worked as an ISP field technician – that’s when I met Jeremy.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in network engineering and a master’s degree in computer science and engineering. I’m also a Cisco-certified service provider.
In my professional career, I worked for router/modem manufacturers and internet providers. I like to think that I’m good at explaining network-related issues in simple terms. That’s exactly what I’m doing on this website – I’m making simple and easy-to-follow guides on how to install, set up, and troubleshoot your networking hardware. I also review new network equipment – modems, gateways, switches, routers, extenders, mesh systems, cables, etc.
My goal is to help regular users with their everyday network issues, educate them, and make them less scared of their equipment. In my articles, you can find tips on what to look for when buying new networking hardware, and how to adjust your network settings to get the most out of your wi-fi.
Since my work is closely related to computers, servers, and other network equipment, I like to spend most of my spare time outdoors. When I want to blow off some steam, I like to ride my bike. I also love hiking and swimming. When I need to calm down and clear my mind, my go-to activity is fishing.