How to Watch Local TV Without Cable - SmartMove (2024)

Have you ever wished you could watch your favorite local broadcast channels without signing up for cable? If so, you're not alone. “Cord-cutting” and using broadband Internet for streaming is now the norm and not the exception. Many people search for ways to access local channels on their mobile devices or smart TVs while avoiding cable bills.

The good news is that several options are available to stream local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, The CW, PBS, and Telemundo. We'll explain each method in detail below so you can make informed decisions about the best option for you.

Get started now!

Use An HD Antenna To Watch Over-The-Air TV

An HD antenna is an excellent option for watching Over-The-Air TV (OTA HDTV). To get started, select an indoor antenna compatible with your area and powerful enough to deliver the local channels you want. Next, connect the TV antenna using a coaxial cable or converter box for older TVs.

Then use your TV's menu system to scan for available channels. Once complete, you can begin watching local channels in high-definition, without cable TV or an Internet connection – all for just the price of the antenna.

Subscribe To A Specific Channel App To Watch Live TV

Many major networks and local stations offer their own apps. That includes local ABC, CBS All Access, NBC Universal (i.e., Peaco*ck), Fox, and more. These apps allow cord-cutters to stream live TV channels, catch up on TV shows, and watch their favorite on-demand movies.

It’s important to note that some channel apps may offer live streaming of local TV stations for free, while others may require a subscription or an additional fee.

Further, some TV channels may only offer live streaming in select markets. Additionally, there are ways to subscribe to a TV network using Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Android TV, Apple TV, and similar apps.

Overall, using these types of apps to watch local TV channels is a convenient way to access your favorite shows on a streaming device wherever you want, whenever you want. It’s important to note that streaming apps like Disney Plus, Netflix, and others don’t offer live TV in real time.

Stream Local News Online or Subscribe to Their Youtube Channel

You can stream live shows, catch up on past broadcasts, and watch clips from your local news station online. Popular options include ABC News Live, CBSN, NBC News Now, and Fox News - although some may require a subscription or a login from your TV provider. Additionally, apps like NewsOn stream newscasts from local stations.

If you're looking for an even more straightforward way to stay informed about your area's happenings, you can subscribe to the YouTube channel of your local news station. Many post regular updates through live streams and upload broadcasts directly to their YouTube page.

So if you're looking for an easy and effective way to keep up with the latest developments in your community without relying on cable TV – streaming local news online or subscribing to their YouTube channel are great ways to do so.

Use Popular Live TV Streaming Services

Do you want to watch your favorite shows or live events on local channels without cable? If so, live TV streaming services may be the perfect solution. From FuboTV and Hulu Live to Sling TV, YouTube TV, Paramount Plus, Peaco*ck Premium Plus, and DIRECTV Stream.

Depending on the platform, they offer access to ABC, FOX, CBS, NBC, PBS, Telemundo, and more – all without the need for cable subscriptions.

Once you've signed up for a plan that includes local channels in your area, simply download the app onto your chosen device (smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or streaming device) and start browsing the channel lineup. Local channels may vary depending on location, so check with your provider before signing up to ensure you get all the channels you want.

For example, some services, like DIRECTV Stream, offer access to regional sports networks as well as regional and national programming on-demand. Others, like YouTube TV, provide access to an even larger selection of local channels: ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, and PBS, among them – plus additional add-ons at an extra cost.

One of the best things about these popular Live TV streaming services is that you can watch shows from your local network while still being able to tune into channels like ESPN, NFL Network, HBO, and your favorite on-demand content.

Find The Right Internet Provider To Stream Local Channels

Are you searching for an Internet provider that allows you to stream or DVR local TV shows? At SmartMove, we’re here to connect you with the best Internet providers in your area. Start exploring your options today!

How to Watch Local TV Without Cable - SmartMove (2024)

FAQs

How to Watch Local TV Without Cable - SmartMove? ›

Use An HD Antenna To Watch Over-The-Air TV

Can I get local channels on my smart TV without cable? ›

If you've been wondering how to get local channels on a smart TV, you'll either need to purchase a high-definition TV antenna. Using an antenna only has a one-time cost and doesn't even require an internet connection. Alternatively you, may be able to download a free app or two from your TV's app store.

Is there an app to watch local TV for free? ›

With LocalBTV, you can watch local TV stations on your smartphone or laptop, or by streaming to your TV —simply launch and you're live! LocalBTV is available in 53 US markets with more coming soon!

How can I watch live TV on my smart TV without cable? ›

The best way to watch free live TV on Android TV is by using a streaming device. The Chromecast, Roku, and Amazon Fire Stick all have apps that allow you to easily stream free over-the-air TV with just a few taps. However, these devices aren't the only option for streaming free broadcast channels.

Can I get local channels with WiFi? ›

Buy an AirTV Anywhere. Stream FREE HD local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS, and more over your home WiFi network to compatible devices using an HD antenna.

Can you use an antenna with a smart TV? ›

If you're interested in trying OTA TV as a way to get local channels on your smart TV, you'll find that it's pretty easy to get into. If you're worried about making the switch before you're sure, simply get an antenna, set it up, and try it out before ending your subscription to cable, satellite or live-TV streaming.

Do digital TV antennas really work? ›

So whether you're living in a city apartment or in a rural home, you can capture a good signal to watch the news, sports, sitcoms and more. Digital antennas use uncompressed, 1080i over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts, which means it displays your shows using high-quality picture and sound.

Is local now free on Roku? ›

Watch FREE local news and weather, over 400 channels and 1000s of Hollywood movies. From national news, live courtroom programming, comedy, nature shows, documentaries, sports, food & travel, horror, gaming, Spanish and international favorites, we have what you're looking for. It's all FREE and available now.

Will a smart TV work without a cable box? ›

If you're wondering whether you need a cable box in order to get your favorite channels on a smart TV, we're here to help you decide. Long story short, you no longer need a cable subscription to watch your favorite shows and movies on a smart TV.

Can I get TV channels through Wi-Fi? ›

You don't have to have a Smart or Internet TV to watch streaming television over the Internet. As long as your TV has an HDMI port or Wi-Fi, you can use any streaming box (or their stick-like counterparts) to watch shows from a variety of subscription services.

How to get free local TV? ›

An HD antenna is an excellent option for watching Over-The-Air TV (OTA HDTV). To get started, select an indoor antenna compatible with your area and powerful enough to deliver the local channels you want. Next, connect the TV antenna using a coaxial cable or converter box for older TVs.

What equipment do I need to get rid of cable TV? ›

To cut the cord and start streaming TV over the internet you'll need:
  1. A modem and WiFi router;
  2. A WiFi extender (for larger homes);
  3. A streaming video service;
  4. A streaming device for your TV;

Can you get free to air TV through WiFi? ›

If you are wondering how to get free to air channels without an antenna, or if it is possible, you'll be pleased to know that you can do so by watching content over the web using your digital TV. While you won't need an antenna, you will need an internet connection that is set up to a smart TV.

Can I watch my smart TV without an antenna? ›

Here's how: Internet Connectivity: Smart TVs can connect to the internet, allowing you to stream live TV or watch catch-up TV without the need for an aerial. Built-in Apps: Popular streaming services often come pre-installed, enabling viewers to access vast libraries of content without an aerial socket.

Is there a streaming service that has local channels? ›

DirecTV Stream is the best streaming service for local channels because it has fewer location restrictions and more programming options than competitors. All four of its plans include affiliate stations, meaning you can wake up and fall asleep to your favorite news teams for under $70 a month.

How to set up a TV antenna for local channels? ›

Simply attach the antenna's coaxial cable into the plug labeled “Antenna/Cable” on the back of your television set. If your TV is older than that, you'll definitely need a digital tuner of some kind: either a VCR, DVD, or DVR with a digital tuner, or a digital converter box.

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