After cutting the cord, one of the most common concerns is maintaining access to local broadcast stations that offer local news, sports, weather, and TV network programming.
If you are wondering How to stream Local Channels Without Cable, then this is your go-to guide.
This guide will walk you through the various methods for streaming local channels over the internet to your computer, mobile device, streaming box or smart TV.
These local affiliate stations include ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and PBS. The good news is that today’s cord-cutting options make it easier than ever to stream local channels without cable.
How to Stream Local Channels Online Without a Cable Subscription?
There are several easy ways to watch local channels online without cable:
- Use a TV Antenna – Installing an over-the-air (OTA) HD antenna is one of the most effective ways to watch local channels for free. An antenna can pull local broadcast signals depending on how close you are to the station broadcast towers. You can connect an OTA antenna to your TV or a DVR device like Tablo to receive and record local channel programming.
- Subscription Streaming Services – Live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream, and FuboTV carry many local channels and major broadcast networks. Most streaming services offer ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, availability varies by region. Streaming services also provide DVR storage to record shows.
- Free Streaming Apps – Many local stations now offer free apps to live stream local news and network shows on phones, tablets, computers, and streaming devices. Apps like ABC, CBS News, NBC, and FOX NOW provide free access to full episodes.
- Channel Websites – Major broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX allow you to live stream local affiliate stations for free on their websites. You can access live local programming as well as view recently aired shows on demand via the network websites.
- Locast – This non-profit streaming service offers local broadcast channels via the Internet to U.S. markets where they have coverage. It’s available as a free app on streaming devices and smart TVs. For uninterrupted streaming, you can pay $5/month for Locast Plus.
Can I Watch Local Channels on Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast, YouTube, or Apple TV?
Yes, you can stream local channels on these popular streaming devices:
- Roku – Access local channels through free broadcaster apps, streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, or by casting from mobile apps. An HD antenna can also connect locally for OTA channels.
- Fire TV – Get local stations through free network apps, live TV streaming subscriptions, casting, and by connecting an OTA antenna for local broadcast reception.
- Apple TV – View local programming through free apps from ABC, CBS, NBC, etc. Streaming services with live locals are also available. Apple TV works with AirPlay casting to stream from mobile apps.
- Chromecast – You can cast local channel streams directly from mobile apps to your TV using Chromecast. An OTA antenna can connect to Chromecast with Google TV.
Most Popular Shows to Stream on Local Channels
Local broadcast stations carry the major network shows that draw big audiences. Here are five of the most popular shows you can stream on local channels:
- The Bachelor/The Bachelorette – ABC’s hit reality shows follow men and women on their journey to find love. Drama, romance, and surprise twists keep devoted fans coming back for more.
- NCIS – This long-running CBS police procedural focuses on the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they solve crimes involving the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. It’s one of CBS’s highest-rated primetime shows.
- This Is Us – This emotional NBC drama chronicles the lives and connections of multiple characters and an intertwined family across time. Strong performances have garnered numerous award nominations.
- The Masked Singer – Celebrities sing covers on stage while dressed in elaborate costumes concealing their identity in this popular FOX competition series. The format originated in South Korea.
- PBS NewsHour – This nightly newscast covers national and international news events in depth. It has aired on PBS since 1975 and is known for its substantive reporting and analysis.
More Channels to Watch for Local Channels Fans
Beyond the major broadcast networks, many cord-cutters also want access to additional channels typically found on cable. Here are some options:
- Comet TV – This free OTA channel and streaming service airs sci-fi, fantasy, and horror movies and TV shows. You can watch live or on-demand via their app.
- Charge! – Owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group, Charge! offers action and adventure programs. It’s available free over-the-air and streaming.
- MeTV – This classic television network features iconic sitcoms and dramas from the 50s-90s. MeTV is accessible via antenna and streaming apps.
- PBS Kids – For children’s educational programming, the free PBS Kids 24/7 channel offers popular shows through OTA and online streaming.
- The CW – While available in most markets, The CW isn’t as widely accessible with an antenna compared to major networks. Streaming through their app offers another option.
Conclusion
With the range of options now available, cord-cutters can easily replace their costly cable TV subscriptions and still enjoy all their favorite local programming. An HD antenna combined with free streaming apps provides an effective way to watch local channels without cable or satellite. For full access to live local stations and major cable channels, a live TV streaming service may be the best solution.
Frequently Asked Questions (fAQs)
Q1.Can I watch local channels without a subscription?
Ans: Yes, you can watch local channels for free with an antenna.
Q2.How can I watch local TV on my phone?
Ans: Use an antenna or streaming service like Locast to watch local channels on your phone.
Q3.Is it possible to stream live TV?
Ans: Yes, many streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, and Sling offer live TV streaming.
Q4.Does Amazon Prime have live TV?
Ans: No, Amazon Prime does not offer live TV channels.
Q5.Which app provides free live TV channels?
Ans: Locast and Pluto TV offer free live local and cable TV channel streaming.
