Admit it, you want to buy a Roku and cancel cable. I remember thinking about it when Streaming TV entered the scene circa 2010 or maybe even earlier when Netflix was all the rage and perhaps were one of the few Streaming Players around. After all, watching TV minus a few favorite shows was no longer as entertaining.There were channels that I simply couldn’t live without (or so I thought). Truth is, I didn’t even watch too much TV which had me contemplating the necessity of keeping cable to begin with. The monthly recurring charges seemed unnecessary and a waste of monies. Sure, it’s important to keep up with current events and local news, but all this is so accessible with the internet, livestream and if necessary all one needs to do is install a Mohu Leaf Antenna (almost paper thin–they are truly sleek) to access HD local network channels.
Mohu Leaf Antenna
Buy a Roku Vs. Cable, it’s all in the dollars and cents
For comparison, XFINITY TV charges $49.00/month, the digital starter plan for 140 channels or $69.00/month, the premier digital plan for 260 channels (including STARz, HBO, Cinemax, Showtime & Encore). Of course this is specifically in New Jersey however I’m sure in other cities and states, you’ll face similar rates. At first glance, it seems like a deal of lifetime to experience 260 channels, but truth is are you watching all of the channels?
Roku 2 Pricing? Pay ONCE and that’s it
In contrast, if you buy a Roku it costs a mere $64.99 and that’s it vs. the $828/year for cable TV and that doesn’t even include taxes. NO additional recurring monthly fees or random taxes and other miscellaneous fees. Let’s be realistic, saving $828-$900 isn’t a big deal for a lot of you folks. I know, yes I know but for some people, the $900 savings equate to a trip! $900 may be a few great handbags or whatever your vice.
2500 channels to start
If you’re after channels, then you will not be disappointed with your Roku2 because it streams (wait for it) over 2500 channels and more to come. Major networks and independent channels alongside the ever popular Crackle channel (my personal favorite new show is Jerry Seinfeld’s “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee”. But it’s more than the 2500 channels that impressed and glued me to the TV for a long weekend. I felt like a kid again just getting used to all the channels (mind you I have yet to preview all 2500 at last count)! All you do is scan all the different categories: travel, kids and family, international, home design, science and tech and even some independent channels from your favorite magazine publications. And if you’re into health and fitness, there’s free pilates, yoga and more to keep fit. Truly I was impressed so impressed that I simply don’t miss cable at all.
Roku Home Page
Never Miss HGTV or HBO
But let’s say you really miss HGTV, HBO, other cable channels and other popular TV series, don’t fret simply subscribe to Sling, Amazon TV and/or Netflix and depending in which provider it’ll only set you back an additional $10/month. Really! Granted I’m not a sitcom person myself and barely have time to watch TV, but if you find the time to you’ll really appreciate Sling.
Roku App on your Smart Phone
One of the best features ever is the Smart Phone app transforming your hand held device into a remote control. Are you a You Tube fan, then you can stream over WIFI right from your phone to your TV. How’s that for watching videos?
Roku as a Media Player
Think of your Roku as a media center where you can play audio, video and photo files. And if you’re into music, the music channel is international and if you have a Pandora account, link it up. In short this small Roku box (a little larger then a deck of cards) is amazing.
Roku as a Travel Companion
Did you know you can take your Roku with you when you travel? Staying at a hotel with free Wifi? You may be able to connect the Roku to your Hotel TV. Have a rental home and want to bring it with you, knock yourself out.
Streaming Quality over WIFI
The HD quality and speed over WIFI caught me off guard as virtually all of the channels were of the highest quality.
Easy Peasy Set Up
Excuses like it’s too hard to set up so why buy a Roku is silly. It’s super easy to set up and took about 15 minutes. The handy instruction set up guide walked you through the set up and with the WIFI set up. It really was plug and play with a few minor details to get signed up and registered. Once set up, you’re ready to add and/or remove your favorite channels.
Do you have a Roku2 streaming player? Let me know if you are in love with yours too in the comments below. Getting ready to buy a Roku and glad to get another perspective before you cancel cable? Glad to help! P.S. I know plenty of people that kept their cable and added a streaming player. But I have to say, I bravely said Sayonara cable and pleased with my decision!
