Consumer Reports offers a practical guide for cutting cable while keeping a robust TV lineup, using three streaming services—Disney+, Paramount+, and Peacock—for less than $25/month. Here's how to make it work:

1. Paramount+

• Why It’s Great:
• Local-market NFL games on CBS, NCAA basketball, PGA golf, and live CBS affiliates.
• Access to CBS shows, BET, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and Paramount content.
• Originals like 1923, Special Ops: The Lioness, and Fatal Attraction.

• Movies like Top Gun: Maverick and Mission: Impossible—Dead Reckoning Part One.

• Plan Options:

• Essential Plan: $6/month (with ads).

• Showtime Bundle: $12/month (ad-free, includes Showtime).

• Our Pick: Essential plan at $6/month.
  Remaining Budget: $19.

2. Disney+ Bundle

• Why It’s Great:
• Disney+ content includes The Mandalorian, Marvel, Pixar, and National Geographic.
• Hulu (ad-supported) delivers shows from ABC, AMC, ESPN, NBC, PBS, and more.

• ESPN+ offers MLB, college football, UFC, and the "30 for 30" documentaries.

• Bundle Options:

• Duo Basic: $10/month (Disney+ and Hulu with ads).
• Trio Basic: $13/month (adds ESPN+ with ads).

• Trio Premium: $20/month (ad-free Disney+ and Hulu, ESPN+).

• Our Pick: Duo Basic at $10/month (Disney+ and Hulu).
  Remaining Budget: $9.

3. Peacock Premium

• Why It’s Great:
• Next-day NBC and Bravo shows, Universal movies, and originals like Poker Face.
• Sports: Premier League soccer, golf, WWE, and NFL Sunday night games.

• Movies like Fast X and Five Nights at Freddy’s.

• Plan Options:

• Ad-Supported: $6/month.

• Ad-Free: $12/month.

• Our Pick: Ad-supported plan at $6/month.
  Remaining Budget: $3 (perfect for popcorn!).

Total Monthly Cost: $22

This lineup offers a solid mix of live sports, original series, blockbuster movies, and cable-style content for less than $25/month.

Additional Tips for Savings

"Subscription Hopping": Sign up for a service only when a must-watch show or event is available, then cancel when done.

Free Streaming Options:
- Use services like Pluto TV, Tubi, or Xumo for classic shows and movies.

TV Antennas:
- Get free access to local broadcasts with an indoor HDTV antenna.

For Those Who Want More

• Upgrade Paramount+ to the Showtime bundle ($12/month) for just over $30/month total.
• Add services like Max or Netflix for more variety while staying under a typical cable bill.

By carefully mixing services and using free options, you can keep your budget low while enjoying a wide range of entertainment!

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