If you’re still paying for a cable bundle, you’ve probably noticed the bills keep creeping up while the experience hasn’t changed much. Between hidden fees, bulky equipment, and long-term contracts, traditional TV is starting to feel… dated.
Streaming, on the other hand, is flexible, affordable, and customizable — so you get everything you want (and nothing you don’t). When you pair it with fiber-optic internet, it’s better in every way — cost, quality, and control.
Let’s compare streaming vs cable and find out which one really fits modern life.
Read More
- What’s the Difference Between Streaming and Cable?
- Is Streaming Cheaper Than Cable?
- Streaming + Fiber = Unstoppable Performance
- What You Need to Switch from Cable to Streaming
- Build Your Own Streaming Bundle
- FAQs for New Streamers
- Your Cut-the-Cord Checklist & 10-Minute Setup
- How IQ Fiber Makes Streaming Better
What’s the Difference Between Streaming and Cable?
Cable delivers TV through coaxial lines into a set-top box, which is separate from your internet services. Streaming services deliver shows and movies through your internet connection, which means you don’t need additional equipment to watch movies, games, or TV.
That means no cable boxes, no installation appointments, no extra cost for every TV, and no waiting around for a technician when something glitches. You simply open an app, hit play, and watch what you want — anywhere, anytime, and on any device.
Is Streaming Cheaper Than Cable?
Usually, yes — and often by a lot.
Cable companies advertise a low starting price, but once you add boxes, HD fees, “broadcast” surcharges, and regional sports fees, the bill can climb to over $180 a month.
Streaming lets you choose exactly what you pay for. Want live local channels? Add YouTube TV. Prefer on-demand content? Stick with Netflix, Disney+, or Hulu. Cancel or swap anytime — no contracts, no surprises.
Streaming + Fiber = Unstoppable Performance
A lot of people hesitate to cut the cord because they worry about buffering — especially if they’ve been on a shared cable connection where internet speeds tank every night.
Fiber internet changes that completely. IQ Fiber delivers a dedicated connection straight to your home with symmetrical upload and download speeds. That means smooth 4K streaming on multiple TVs at once, even during peak hours.
Cable internet shares bandwidth with your neighbors. Fiber gives you your own private lane.
What You Need to Switch from Cable to Streaming
- Pick your streaming device. Most TVs already come with streaming (Smart TV). For TVs that aren’t, add a Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, or use a game console — if it connects to Wi-Fi, it can stream.
- Choose your on-demand platforms. Think Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, etc.
- Get your local channels and live sports. YouTube TV, DIRECTV STREAM, Sling, or league apps like NFL+, NBA League Pass, and MLB.TV cover live TV.
- Record shows in the cloud. Most live-TV apps include cloud DVR — no hardware needed. Start, stop, rewind, and save content for later.
- Handle phone & security easily. Keep your number with a VoIP provider like Ooma, and connect smart security systems directly through fiber Wi-Fi.
Build Your Own Streaming Bundle
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to streaming. Here’s what real-world setups look like:
Hidden costs to skip: cable boxes, DVR rental, “regional sports” fees, price hikes, and annual contracts.
Smart savings tips: rotate streaming subscriptions seasonally, share household profiles, or prepay annually for discounts.
Sources:
FAQs for New Streamers
How much internet speed do I need for streaming?
Plan for 500 Mbps per 4K stream. A 500–1000 Mbps IQ Fiber plan will power every TV, tablet, and device you own. Increase speeds if you have lots of devices or a large household.
Will streaming buffer during peak hours?
Not on fiber. Cable networks slow when neighbors share the same line; fiber delivers consistent speed 24/7.
Can I keep my phone number and security system?
Absolutely. Port your number to VoIP and keep existing security equipment connected via Wi-Fi.
What about 5G home internet?
5G can work for a single TV, but it often throttles or caps data. Fiber is faster, steadier, and made for multi-device streaming.
Your Cut-the-Cord Checklist
- List must-have channels/shows
- Confirm smart TV or streaming device compatibility
- Set a monthly budget
- Check your address for IQ Fiber availability
Your 10-Minute Setup Plan
- Install your streaming apps on each device.
- Sign in and personalize profiles.
- Run a speed test to see your fiber power in action.
- Hit play and relax — no boxes, no contracts, no buffering.
Success metrics: Lower bill, no hidden fees, crystal-clear picture, and the freedom to cancel anytime.
How IQ Fiber Makes Streaming Better
We’re not just fast — we’re attentive. Our team installs fiber the right way and monitors your connection so you don’t have to think about it. We answer 93% of calls in under 30 seconds and have 4.8★ reviews in Jacksonville and 5★ in Gainesville.
No contracts. No gimmicks. Just stress-free streaming on internet that actually works the way it should.
