With the surge in smart TV popularity and decreased costs, many viewers are opting to cut the cord from traditional cable services. Smart TVs from brands such as Hisense and TCL provide high-quality displays and run advanced operating systems like Android, Roku OS, and webOS. As a result, cord cutters have access to various essential TV apps that enhance their viewing experience.
Essential TV Apps for Every Cable Cutter
Below is a selection of must-have apps for cord cutters, tailored to suit different viewing preferences and requirements.
Kodi
Kodi is a highly regarded media center application that allows users to manage their local content. It has been downloaded over 50 million times on the Google Play Store. Originally developed for Xbox, Kodi is now available on multiple platforms. Users enjoy its easy navigation and a wide array of plugins that enhance content categorization.
- Open-source and free to use
- Allows streaming of local media over networks
- Supports video, audio, and even game libraries
Plex
Plex combines local media storage with streaming capabilities, letting users create their own media server. Also boasting 50 million downloads, Plex allows seamless streaming regardless of network quality. It does offer a subscription service starting at $1.99 per month for remote access, enhancing the cable-cutting experience.
- Ideal for users wanting access to media anywhere
- Operates both as a local library and a streaming service
- Subscription required for some features
Jellyfin
Jellyfin is a free, open-source alternative to both Kodi and Plex. Launched in 2018, it has gained over a million downloads on the Google Play Store. This app enables users to create their own media server without the fees associated with Plex.
- Finer feature control compared to other services
- Secure and privacy-focused with local data storage
- No subscription fees
VLC
For those who prefer simplicity, VLC is an excellent media player. With over 100 million downloads since its launch, this app supports almost any media file format. VLC operates across various platforms, making it reliable for playback without complicated setups.
- Includes built-in codecs for easy playback
- Lightweight and user-friendly
YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers a solution for watching live TV, including news and sports, without a cable subscription. With 10 million downloads, this service is known for delivering local channels, though it does cost $82.99 per month. New themed plans are being introduced, potentially lowering costs for specific genres.
- Permits recording local stations with a DVR-like function
- Competitive pricing in comparison to traditional cable
These TV apps provide essential tools for anyone looking to replace their cable service with smart TV capabilities. Whether streaming, managing local media, or accessing live channels, these applications make the transition to cable-free viewing an effortless experience.
