How to watch live TV without cable

The short answer

You can watch live TV without cable in three main ways: a TV antenna for free local channels, a live TV streaming service (also called IPTV) for a full channel lineup over your internet, or a mix of both. All you need is a screen you already own and, for streaming, a good home internet connection.

This guide walks you through each option, what you need, and a simple checklist to make the switch without missing your favorite shows.

Option 1: A TV antenna for local channels

A digital antenna picks up local broadcast channels over the air, for free, once you have bought the antenna. It is a good fit for local news and some network shows.

• Good for: local channels, no monthly fee, works without internet.
• Limits: the channels you get depend on where you live and how far you are from the broadcast towers. You will not get most cable-only channels, like many sports and movie channels.

Option 2: A live TV streaming service (IPTV)

A live TV streaming service delivers live channels over your internet connection to an app on your TV, streaming stick, phone or computer. You get sports, news, movies, series and family channels without a cable line or a cable box.

With Aurix, you watch live US channels on the devices you already own, with no contract and no box to rent. Plans start at $16.99 for 1 month, or from $5.83 a month on the 12-month plan, for 1 to 4 screens. It is a one-time payment with no auto-renew. See the plans and pricing.

Not sure how this compares to cable? Read our IPTV vs cable TV guide.

Option 3: Combine both

Some households keep an antenna on the main TV for local channels and use a streaming service for everything else, on every screen in the house. It is a flexible setup if you want a backup that does not depend on the internet.

What you need to watch live TV without cable

• A compatible screen: a smart TV, an Amazon Fire TV Stick, an Android TV box, a phone, a tablet or a computer. Check the supported devices.
• Home internet: for Aurix, plan on at least 10 Mbps per screen for HD and 25 Mbps for 4K. Our internet speed guide shows how to test it.
• A player app: after you sign up, our team emails you simple step-by-step setup instructions for your device.

How to switch from cable, step by step

1. List what you really watch. Write down your must-have channels and shows.
2. Check your contract. Look for the end date and any early cancellation fee with your cable provider.
3. Test your internet speed on the device you will watch on, in the evening.
4. Try before you cancel. Start a free 24-hour Aurix trial with no card needed and watch your usual channels.
5. Return the cable box once you are happy, so you stop paying the rental.

Common questions

Can I watch live sports without cable? Yes. Aurix includes live US sports channels along with news, movies, series and family channels. Exact channels can change over time.

Do I need a new TV? Usually not. Most smart TVs work, and a streaming stick can turn an older TV with an HDMI port into a streaming TV.

Can I watch on my phone too? Yes, on phones, tablets and computers. Each screen watching at the same time counts as one screen on your plan.

More answers are in our FAQ.

Try live TV without cable for free

The easiest way to know if you are ready to cut the cord is to try it. Start your free 24-hour trial on your own TV and internet. If it is not for you, just let it end. Questions first? Contact our team, every day from 9am to 11pm ET.