Why Cord Cutters Should Use a TV Antenna

I was recently reading a post on the Tablo TV blog asking a simple but important question: Do People Still Use TV Antennas? Their post served as a great reminder that for many people, the idea of getting TV for free with an antenna still seems like an antiquated concept. For those of us who have been cord cutters for a long time, we know it's one of the best ways to get TV.

In fact, modern TV antennas and over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts are better than they've ever been. The switch to a digital signal in the late 2000s meant a massive upgrade in picture quality, and today, you can get uncompressed high-definition broadcasts that can look even better than what you get from a streaming service or cable. Here in southeast Georgia, I get over 30 channels that come in crystal clear.

Of course, using a modern antenna with your streaming devices requires a bit of hardware. I've been a big believer in devices that integrate OTA TV with a streaming experience, and I've had a lot of experience with both Tablo and AirTV.

My Experience with Tablo and AirTV

Like many people, my path to the perfect setup was not a straight line. When I first started looking for a way to integrate free TV with my streamers, I tried an AirTV device, but the hardware was a bit spotty at the time, and I ended up switching to a Tablo device. For a long time, the Tablo platform worked well for me. It’s a great product that provides a great experience.

However, when I learned that the newer Tablo models no longer supported out-of-home viewing, I decided to revisit AirTV. That feature is something I rarely use, but I occasionally rely on it. I also learned a valuable lesson in the process: sometimes you don't realize how important a feature is until it's no longer available. When I tried AirTV again, I was happy to find that the service and overall quality had improved significantly, so I made the switch back. I now use an AirTV Anywhere device with my large outdoor antenna, located just over 40 miles from the towers. This gives me the peace of mind that I can always access my local broadcasts, whether I'm at home or on the road.

I still believe that Tablo is an excellent platform that works well for most people. My decision to switch was based purely on my personal needs and the evolution of the technology.

The Value of an Antenna

Even if you don't go with a device like AirTV or Tablo, I still believe a TV antenna is a must-have for any cord cutter. It’s a one-time purchase that gives you access to major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, plus dozens of subchannels, all for free. It’s a great way to watch local news, sports, and prime-time shows without paying a monthly fee.

As I’ve written before, I’ve been a cord cutter since January 2011, and the TV antenna has always been a key part of my setup. My Streaming Life is all about finding the best combination of free and paid services to meet my viewing needs without a massive monthly bill.