The cheapest way to get "all" TV channels—encompassing local broadcast networks, major cable channels, and premium content—is to combine a digital HDTV antenna for free, high-definition local channels with a low-cost streaming service or a, curated, ad-supported, free streaming app.
Can a TV work without an aerial. All TVs can work without an aerial, but it might mean that you are limited to just watching your shows on demand. With a Freely TV, you'll be able to stream your favourite shows both live and on demand without an aerial.
While most channels are ad-supported, there's no charge at all. Two of the biggest options are The Roku Channel and Google TV Freeplay. Both have hundreds of channels available across a wide range of categories, and both are easy to use.
If your smart TV has Freeview Play you can watch both live and on demand free to air TV. Otherwise, you'll need to watch live TV through Freeview and on demand content through the individual channel apps – BBC iPlayer, ITVX, the Channel 4 app and My5.
Antennas allow you to watch dozens of channels — including the biggest networks on the air — often in full high-definition clarity. You simply make a one-time purchase to get the antenna, hook it up to your TV and you'll be watching all kinds of popular shows and live events. Antennas come in a variety of styles.
All you need is a high-speed internet connection, a streaming device, and streaming channels. With free channels like The Roku Channel and Tubi, on-demand services like Netflix and Disney+, and cable alternatives like Sling, it's easy to enjoy the same entertainment while saving money every month.
Compare top TV providers
Free TV done right
WatchFree+ delivers 300+ live channels including local news, sports, movies, gaming, and music—plus over 30,000 On Demand movies and shows—all available for free on VIZIO OS.
You can cancel your licence if you no longer: watch TV on all channels, like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, U&Dave and international channels. watch TV on pay TV services, like Sky, Virgin Media and EE TV. watch live TV on streaming services, like YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.
Sling TV is the best cheap live TV streaming service. It might lack some local channels, but it's still the cheapest way to access certain cable channels without an expensive cable bundle.
500+ Free TV Channels Available on FreeCast
Enjoy instant access to 500+ free TV streaming channels featuring live news, sports, movies, entertainment, and more.
Our top 4 picks for streaming A&E without cable
YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and DirecTV Stream all carry CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, and other 24/7 news channels. For free options, Pluto TV has channels drawing content from networks such as Bloomberg, CNN, and NBC News. The Roku Channel and Tubi also offer free news programming.
Channel-specific apps.
Search your smart TV's app store for your favorite channel. Many channels offer smart TV apps that allow you to watch live programming without an antenna. You can download apps from major broadcasters like CBS, NBC, and PBS, as well as smaller local channels exclusive to your area.
Are Freeview Boxes Worth It? Overall, a Freeview box, and especially one which records to SSD storage, is still the cheapest and easiest way to access hours and hours of TV and film. For minimal cost and no recurring charges you can access, record, and rewatch content all year round.
Yes, your Smart TV can work as usual without an internet connection. You will be able to watch cable TV channels, connect to Bluetooth and use your TV as a standard TV without any issue at all. However, Smart TV features such as streaming content on demand from online applications will not be available.
You may be able to get a free or discounted TV Licence if you're 75 or over and get Pension Credit, or if you're blind or in residential care. You do not need a TV Licence to watch: streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus. on-demand TV through services like All 4 and Amazon Prime Video.
What channels can I watch without a TV Licence? You can watch on demand programmes on all catch up services excluding BBC iPlayer, like ITVX and All 4, without a TV Licence. You need a TV Licence to watch or stream live TV on any streaming platform, channel or device.
If you don't watch live television or use BBC iPlayer, or if you are over-75 and receive pension credit, then you can declare to TV Licensing that you do not require a licence.
YouTube TV offers access to more than 100 channels, including all the major broadcast networks, cable channels (AMC, Bravo, Disney, ESPN, FX, Fox News, Fox Sports, MSNBC, National Geographic, Turner, USA), and major sports networks such as CBS Sports, ESPN, and Fox Sports, along with the MLB, NBA, and NFL league ...
The Best Free Netflix Alternatives
Select Your Live TV Plan
$99.99/mo. Live TV on Hulu with 95+ top channels. No cable required.
If you're looking for a cheap live TV streaming service that still offers a usable number of channels, then it's without a doubt Sling TV Blue.
Subscription TV only providers
You can get decent subscription TV packages from BT Broadband or EE Broadband (both via EE TV), from Virgin Media (Virgin TV), and from TalkTalk (TalkTalk TV).
There are ways to lower your bill — like trimming your package — for those not quite ready to sever the cord.