It can get difficult to understand the exact difference between cable TV and streaming services, especially these days when content providers provide the option of bundled services that blur the distinction between internet and broadcast media.

The number of cable TV subscribers are now declining as consumers tend to favor streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime. But on the whole, the video consumption industry is steadily rising. While more choices in terms of content empower the viewers, it is important to understand the difference between streaming services and cable TV to make the right choices. Some of the main distinctions include:

Technology
Cable TV falls into the category of broadcast streaming. The video and audio content is broadcasted from a center point to your homes with the help of coaxial cables. You are required to ‘tune in’ to a particular frequency (channel) to view the content you want.

The main difference between streaming services and cable TV is that streaming services come under internet networks. Here, content is delivered and requested through the IP or Internet Protocol (the language through which packets of data are transferred between two computers in the same internet network). Streaming services use the same open and unmanaged client-server model like your web-browser and email to deliver the content.

Quality
Another important difference between streaming services and cable TV is the quality of each service. Cable TV uses hybrid fiber-coaxial networks to bring you the video transmissions. The signal begins at the satellite communication system, is picked up by the ‘headend’ or your cable provider’s local distribution facility, these radio frequency signals (what we call channels) are then modulated and transmitted, ultra-fast through the fiber. This transmission is decoded on a set-top box and the video and audio are played on your TV. Due to this seamless transmission system, cable TV quality is consistent and generally good.

Streaming services are transmitted via the Internet and suffer from the same limitations as those of your regular provider; the most important being data caps implemented by the provider. Unlike other downloads on the Internet, the streaming services split the video file into tiny bundles and transmit them separately, in chronological order. Because of this, the video file can start buffering. Also, poor wifi networks and lots of traffic during peak internet hours can slow down the transmission.

Costs and Convenience
When it comes to cost, a big difference between streaming services and cable TV is that you do not need to pay for the Internet when it comes to cable TV. Although chances are you might already have an Internet subscription for work or school purposes. And if you don’t, cable TV can save you up to $50. However, there are additional fees when it comes to cable transmission. These charges include equipment fee for the set-top boxes, broadcast fee, termination fee, and extra charge for sports channels.

Cable TV offers more sports channels and lets you enjoy surfing, but they do not give you the freedom to watch any show at any time or from anywhere.

Streaming Services
At first glance, the streaming services tend to look cheaper than cable TV. But there is a need for caution as buying two or more subscriptions can drive up costs. If you’re paying for extra screens, streaming services let you access the video content on more than one device, while you are stuck with one TV despite what you’ve paid. There is also more customization and flexibility offered by streaming services as you can set up notification alerts for shows, watch wherever you want, and on any device, and there is no termination fee required.