Media & Streaming
Streaming vs Cable Cost Calculator
Enter your monthly streaming total and your cable bill (plus any box/DVR fees) to see which is cheaper and how much you save per year by cutting the cord.
Making a fair comparison
Cable's advertised price is rarely what you pay. To compare honestly, add the extras the ads hide — set-top box rental, DVR service, broadcast and regional-sports fees — which routinely add $20–$40 a month. Put that real total next to your streaming spend and the winner is often surprising.
How to use this calculator
- Enter your monthly streaming total.
- Enter your full cable bill including fees.
- Read which is cheaper and your annual saving.
Need your streaming total first? Use the streaming subscription cost calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What fees should I include for cable?
Add equipment rental, DVR, broadcast/regional sports fees and any sports add-ons — these often add $20–$40 to the advertised price.
Does this include internet?
No. You need internet for both, so it cancels out. Compare only the TV portion.
Is cord-cutting always cheaper?
Not always. Once you stack live-TV streaming, sports add-ons and multiple services, a bundled cable package can occasionally win. The only way to know is to compare your real numbers — which is what this tool does.
Should internet cost be included?
No. You need internet for both streaming and modern cable boxes, so it cancels out. Compare only the TV portion of each bill.