Streaming 101: The Rise of the VODs
Sounds a little like it could be the next chapter in the Star Wars Mandalorian series, doesn’t it? Why not? We’ve already seen The Acolyte, Ahsoka, and Andor. So why not the VODs?
VOD, or Video on Demand is not a new term. Cable systems like HTC have featured video on demand for years. But, truth be told, Video on Demand on traditional Cable TV is going the way of the 8-track tape. The platforms have been around for decades and are costly to maintain. With newer technologies available, HTC, along with many other companies will be shutting down On-Demand on the traditional platforms. (HTC TV MAX will continue to have an extensive VOD library).
Streaming VOD is newer. Netflix and Amazon Prime brought this new world to our screens a decade ago. Video, movies, and shows can be watched when we want (hence the ‘On Demand’), without the need for a DVR.
Types of VOD
There is Subscription Video on Demand, where you’ll pay a monthly fee to watch the platform’s content, and Advertising based Video on Demand. The difference between the two is simple: one includes advertisements, while the other is ad-free in exchange for higher subscription fees. Many subscription-based platforms have lower cost tiers that contain the same content, just with advertisements. Netflix, Prime, and MAX (HBO) all have introduced lower priced tiers that contain ads in recent years.
But what about my favorite Network shows? Glad you asked.
That is where Peacock, Hulu, and Paramount+ come in. Most of the Network original programming (some sports licensing may differ) can be found same day, or next day on the corresponding platform. Paramount+ is owned by CBS and includes their suite of programming, Peacock is NBC/Universal, and Hulu has content from both ABC and FOX.
For example, Paramount+ with ads (Ad based) is $7.99/month. Peacock (Ad based) is also $7.99/month. Add Hulu (AVOD) at $9.99/month and you’ve built a $25.97 bundle of all your network shows, PLUS a whole lot more. Easy access to hundreds of movies, and streaming of past seasons, (just in case you want to watch all 14 seasons of Blue Bloods.) *
If you choose to go ad-free on these services the costs are $12.99/month for Paramount (which includes Showtime), $13.99/month for Peacock, and $18.99 for Hulu. So, for under $50 monthly, you get full access to all the network shows, original series, Showtime and a vast library of movies for about HALF the price of cable. *
Afraid of commitment?
Not to worry. Streaming provides what we like to call the 3C’s. Control, Cost, and Convenience. Control? Watch what you want to want when you want. Cost? Effectively cut the cost of your programming by buying direct. Control? Add a platform and cancel any time you’d like. No long-term commitment.
Still not sure? Or just don’t want to put your credit/debit card out there? Stop in your local supermarket or chain drug store, and there on the gift card display you’ll see that many of the major streaming platforms have gift cards. Pick one up with the dollar amount of your choice and you’ll be streaming in no time. When the funds run out, it will be your decision as to whether you want to continue. This is an effective way to try out the services without risk.
But wait, there’s more! It’s time for BLACK FRIDAY deals y’all!
So, just when we point out the cost savings of cutting the cord, there are deals galore out there to be had. The following deals* are live for Black Friday, and most run through the weekend (Check each platform’s website to confirm).
- Peacock – $1.99/month or just $19.99/year for Peacock with ads!
- Ad-free is $139.99 for the year
- MAX (Formerly HBO MAX) $2.99/month for 6 months on the ad-based tier
- Paramount+ – $2.99/month for the first 2 months with 1 week free
- This includes SHOWTIME
There are streaming deals out there for everyone, too many to list here. Visit our Streaming Marketplace Black Friday page and take advantage of these great savings!
You may be wondering.
Why is your cable company telling you how to save money on cable? Great question.
As a cooperative, our members are our owners. We have a duty to be fiscally responsible and good stewards with the dollars you send our way. If there is an opportunity to find deals on video service that is better than we can possibly offer, we will gladly let you know. And we do that, while providing you with home internet that will reliably cover all your streaming needs.
* Prices and programming were accurate at the time of writing this blog post.
