The Illusion of Savings
Initially, cutting the cord felt like a financial win. Swapping expensive cable bundles for individual streaming services seemed like a smart move. However, with multiple subscriptions needed to access diverse content—Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Prime Video, and more—monthly costs quickly add up.
Hidden Costs and Price Increases
Many platforms have gradually raised subscription prices while introducing new tiers, such as ad-supported plans. Additionally, consumers often forget about unused subscriptions that quietly drain their wallets each month.
Fragmentation and Consumer Fatigue
Unlike cable, which provided one-stop access, today's fragmented OTT landscape forces users to chase content across multiple providers. The result? More subscriptions and more money spent—often exceeding what cable once cost.
The Future of Streaming Costs
OTT services may continue adjusting pricing strategies, potentially leading to bundle offerings similar to cable. Meanwhile, competition among providers means users must make tough decisions on which subscriptions to keep or drop.