Recently our cable package increased from $17 to $23 per month, so I’ve been on the look-out for some new ideas and ways to cut costs. I decided I would test out several options and share my findings! Hopefully, it will be helpful…and maybe you can give me some ideas, too.
For the last few years, we’ve had the basic of the basic cable packages offered in our area. We get about 15 channels, so we’re used to not really watching too much t.v. We’ve kept it because my husband likes to watch the games offered on network t.v. — and I still don’t know how many channels we could pick up with an antennae in our rural area. That will be something we test out, too!
Over the next few months, I plan to try:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime
- Hulu Plus
- Antennae
- Unplugged (NO T.V.)!!
(If you missed the first post in this series, you can read the rest of Cable Alternatives: Netflix (From a Mom’s Viewpoint here).
My Amazon Prime Instant Video Review
Up next in my list of cable alternatives to try is Amazon Prime Instant Video!
To get started, you need to purchase an Amazon Prime Membership for $79 per year (this breaks down to $6.58 per month). You’ll also need to have a way to stream your internet to your t.v. You can find compatible devices here.
Several of my friends recommended Roku, and I found a great deal on one. Depending on what our final decision is, I’ll be able to use it to stream either Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Hulu Plus. The Roku also has tons of other free channels available (including Pandora)!
Amazon Instant Video Pros and Cons
Here are a few of my favorite things:
Inexpensive
Since we have Amazon Prime anyway, this would be an inexpensive option for us. Not only do you get access to free movies and shows, you also get 2-day shipping, Amazon Mom discounts and benefits, and a free monthly eBook check-out with your Amazon Prime membership. $6.58 per month for all of this is very affordable (especially since I usually use the free 2-day shipping option several times per month)!
Selection of Shows
I feel like there are a lot of options (of course, I’m looking at it from the viewpoint of someone who is used to having 12 basic channels)! Right now, there are over 13,000 movies and shows available for free. Also, new ones are added quite frequently. The girls were thrilled to have Backyardigans, Sesame Street, Wonder Pets, and more available.
Free Credits
Amazon often runs special deals where you can get free credits for the rental/purchase portion of the Instant Video store. I just recently got a $3 credit, so free movie night for hubby and me!
Portability
I can watch on my computer or television. I can also easily transport the Roku box and watch anywhere there is internet access. I can also stream it to the Kindle Fire.
Here’s what I’m not so excited about:
Lack of Parental Controls
There are none! I can’t find a way to control what we see as we scroll through the movies or television shows. There are some categories I would like to remove, but they don’t have that option. (I much prefer the Netflix Kids option for a more family-friendly experience.)
No Queue
Again, unlike Netflix, there is not a queue to hold the videos I’m interested in watching. At this point in time, there isn’t a way to mark videos that I’m interested in watching.
No Amazon Instant Video App
It seems like there should be a way to have an Amazon Instant Video app for smartphones, but there doesn’t appear to be one at this time.
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Overall, my review of Amazon Instant Video is favorable…I’m just not sure about the lack of parental controls. Right now, it’s easy to control because the girls aren’t allowed to run it on their own. Hopefully, Amazon will add some extra options soon!
Have you used Amazon Instant Video?
Mary says
I created a special “wishlist” to use as a queue…thought that might be helpful for you!
Stacie says
Thanks, Mary! I saw that I could add to a wishlist. I just wish I could see it on my t.v. through the Roku!
LaToya Edwards says
Stacie I have a Roku and I can see my watchlist on my TV. I only use Amazon instant video on the TV. I can add to my list via the TV or through amazon and my videos are listed there.
Stacie Nelson says
Awesome! That’s great to know!
Tami says
So, the kids shows and those 13,000 movies are free with the APrime Membership? Are there tons of old tv shows too? That is what I’m interested in… So, the free $3 credit is something you would use towards a new release? I just haven’t looked at it yet, so I have no clue. Thanks for the review!
Stacie says
Yes…there are quite a few older shows, but some newer ones, too. Obviously not this season’s current shows, but since we don’t get those anyway, the old seasons seem just as good.
Yes, I can use the credit towards anything in the Instant Video section. I think we’ll watch Chariots of Fire! I’ve never even seen it before — isn’t that sad!!
Mox says
$23/month for cable? OMG …we pay $74 for BASIC and it’s not even digital. No add-ons. We’re shopping for online options to get down to $23/month.
You’re very lucky.
Stacie says
Well…ours is the limited basic, so 12 channels. Hopefully, since I’m finding out about other options, it will be even less soon!
Steve says
We have decided to completely eliminate our pay tv expenses. In a couple months we will be out of our satellite contract. We plan to put an antenna on the roof and use the Roku for our non-local channel entertainment. Have you considered an outdoor antenna instead of paying for basic channels. If you live within 45 or 50 miles of a metropolitan area you should be able to pick up at least 12 channels. I know a guy by us who threw up an antenna and gets 50 channels, all for free!
BTW, thanks for the excellent review of Amazon Instant Video. We are considering signing up for it. The lack of parental controls isn’t an issue for us since all of our kids are grown up and have moved out.
Stacie says
Thanks, Steve! We tried an antenna, and I thought it should work fine, but we live in a little valley! We weren’t able to pick up any channels unfortunately. My plan was to have Amazon Prime and use an antenna, but I guess it’s not going to work as well as I hoped!
Sarah says
Did you review Hulu Plus and the antennae? I just came across the Netflix review and this one, but when I searched couldn’t find the Hulu Plus one.
Stacie says
No! I’m terrible! I tried out an antenna, but forgot to write about it. I still need to do HuluPlus. Thanks for reminding me. I better get to that!