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Streaming TV Costs a Lot Less Than Cable, but Choosing a Service Has Proven Frustrating

The sheer number of options, however, can be overwhelming for many consumers who are used to making one payment for their TV service. The offerings and prices for different services vary widely, making it difficult for consumers to comparison shop. Some services, such as Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Crackle, are free, while others, including Univision and LucasOilRacing.TV, extend discounts to customers willing to pay for a full year in a lump sum rather than monthly installments.

“Consumers, by and large, are delighted by the opportunity to get more control,” said Brett Sappington, director of research of Parks Associates. “But the challenge comes from finding all of that content. You have to go into each service to find out if the content you want to see is available.”

From the article "Streaming TV Costs a Lot Less Than Cable, but Choosing a Service Has Proven Frustrating" by Meg James & Yvonne Villarreal.

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