The era of streaming

By Dominick Pacileo, Staff Writer

Television was invented in 1927 by Philo Taylor Farnsworth. It was a brand new way to entertain yourself. People would watch shows such as “I Love Lucy” and “Happy Days” with delight in order to distract themselves from their woes.

Then came cable television in 1948. Instead of a broadcast signal, television programs were now transmitted to subscribers by cables, as per the name. Those who were willing to spend a few extra dollars each month could now access even more shows than ever before. Shows like “The Walking Dead,” “Breaking Bad,” and “Game of Thrones.”

However, a new era of television is upon the nation: the streaming era. HBO Max, Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, and more. They’re here, and they’re here to stay. A veritable slew of programming for the savvy shopper.

Students have taken notice of the differences between streaming and cable.

“In my opinion, the biggest difference between cable and streaming is the variety of shows and movies that are offered on both, along with the fact that streaming services allow shows and movies to be played instantly. I believe streaming is more cost efficient than cable as long as the individual enjoys the offerings of the streaming service,” sophomore business administration major Brandon Humbert said.

It’s true that with streaming, one can get as many shows as they want, even shows that are no longer airing on television. These shows can be watched on demand. It appears that the days of there being nothing good on television are over. Streaming seems to be a better option than cable.

Tyler Cooper from Broadbandnow shared some interesting statistics on the subject. The average cost of cable is about 45 to 135 dollars a month. The average cost of streaming is about 20 to 70 dollars a month. After the promotional period, cable’s price increases around ten to forty dollars a month. Streaming prices do not rise as often. Cable also has equipment fees, while streaming does not. Cable requires a contract more often than not. Streaming usually requires one as well. Cable has a broadcast and regional sports fee of 10 dollars or more a month. Streaming does not have this fee.

Cable offers 150 to 400, and more, channels. Streaming offers 30 to 95. Cable offers access to premium networks with some plans. Streaming offers the same thing for an additional monthly fee. Cable has an on demand library of mostly reruns, while streaming has an on demand library of original content.

So pricewise, streaming is a better option for students. It also doesn’t charge equipment fees, broadcasting fees or require contracts. It also offers less channels than cable TV, but the channels it does offer are more popular.

There’s another reason why streaming would be more popular among college students. If one wants to watch cable in their dorm room, they have to lug a heavy cable box around. However, if someone wants to stream television, they only need an internet connection.

Evidence shows that streaming is a better option than cable. However, at the end of the day, it’s really a matter of personal preference.