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In the fast-paced digital age, sports fans are no longer tethered to their living room TVs to catch the latest NFL action.
Streaming NFL games has become a popular choice for many, offering convenience and flexibility.
However, like any technology, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of NFL game streaming.
Furthermore, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of cutting the cord.
Pros of Streaming NFL Games
- Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of streaming NFL games is the convenience it offers. You can watch games from anywhere with an internet connection, be it on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. No need to rush home or find a sports bar; your favorite team is just a click away.
- Variety of Options: Streaming services offer a plethora of options for NFL fans. From NFL Game Pass to streaming platforms like NFL Sunday Ticket, you can choose the service that best fits your needs and budget.
- Access to Exclusive Content: Some streaming services provide exclusive content, such as behind-the-scenes footage, pre-game shows, and access to NFL RedZone. This enhances the overall viewing experience for dedicated fans.
- No Hardware Installation: Unlike cable or satellite TV, streaming NFL games doesn’t require any additional equipment or installations. Simply download the app or access the website, and you’re good to go.
- More Freedom: To be sure, you need your football fix every Sunday. But do you hate the feeling of being welded to your couch? One of the perks of an NFL online stream is that you can watch games on almost any mobile device. So go ahead, enjoy a game on your tablet while you’re working out. Sneak a peek on your phone and make that boring event more bearable.
NFL streaming without cable is cost-effective
To no one’s surprise, money is the main reason that people cut the cord.
Streaming can be a cost-effective option compared to traditional cable or satellite TV subscriptions. Many streaming services offer flexible payment plans, including monthly subscriptions, which can save you money in the long run. How much, you ask? To emphasize, there’s 2 ways to spin this:
- The “think about the future” approach, or how much cable TV costs in the long run. If you took your monthly cable bill and put it in an investment portfolio, how much, in effect, is it costing you over a lifetime?
- $634,970?
- $1,102,950?
- $2,081,549?
- $4,209,990?
- Depending on your return level, it’s all of the above, according to 20somethingfinance.com.
- The “what about now?” scenario, or what you’ll save if you watch NFL without cable. For instance, take the average cost of the 4 main streaming providers (Sling, Fubo, Hulu, & YouTube), which is about $60. Subtract that from the average monthly cable bill in 2019 ($157) and you have an extra 97 bucks in your pocket.
Cons of Streaming NFL Games
- NFL Live Stream Quality: Programming these days is mostly in high-def, if not 4K resolution (or better). Typically, all you need is a fairly recent model TV. The quality of live streaming, on the other hand, is dependent on more factors, namely:
- Internet download speed – the recommended minimum speed for streaming is 5 Mbps. In reality, it should be at least 50 Mbps.
- Internet provider/hardware – an ISP and/or hardware – for instance, a router – that isn’t up to par will result in video buffering issues.
- Streaming device – you need to make sure that the device you’re streaming to can handle it. So, if you’re trying to watch the game on a PC or laptop with an outdated GPU, you’re going to have problems.
- Local Blackouts: Streaming services may be subject to local blackout restrictions, preventing you from watching games that are broadcast on local networks. This can be frustrating for fans who want to watch their hometown team.
- Data Usage: Streaming NFL games can consume a significant amount of data, especially if you’re watching in high definition. Be mindful of your data plan to avoid unexpected overage charges.
- Subscription Costs: While streaming can be cost-effective, some premium services come with a hefty price tag. If you want access to all games and exclusive content, you may end up paying more than you would for a traditional TV package.
Conclusion
In conclusion, streaming NFL games offers tremendous advantages in terms of convenience, variety, and cost-efficiency.
However, it also comes with challenges related to internet reliability, blackout restrictions, data usage, subscription costs, and device compatibility.
To make an informed choice, consider your individual preferences and needs as a football fan.
Here are some helpful resources:
- How To Watch Out of Market NFL Games
- What Are the Best NFL Streaming Services?
- The Cheapest Way to Watch NFL Games
Cord-cutting poll
Are you planning on cutting the cord?
Answer Percent
Yes. I'd rather use the money for other things 67.95% 
I'm considering it 23.08% 
No. I like being ruled by cable companies 8.97% 
Take the poll (located in the right sidebar ⇾).
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