Thinking About Cutting Cable? Here’s Your Guide to Streaming TV
Many Saskatchewan households still rely on cable TV. It’s familiar, bundled with phone or internet, and feels simple. But with prices rising and streaming offering better flexibility, you might be wondering if it’s time to switch to streaming.
The good news? Streaming gives you more control over what you watch, often for less money each month – and it’s easier than you might think. In this guide, we’ll compare streaming and cable in detail, cover the best streaming options available in Saskatchewan, and help you decide what works best for your home.
Why More Saskatchewanians Are Switching to Streaming
Here are the top reasons your neighbours are making the move:
✅ Save money: Only pay for the streaming apps you actually use, while maximizing the benefits of a service you’re already paying for.
✅ More reliable viewing experience: With the right internet connection, streaming is smooth and buffer-free, even during peak times.
✅ More content choices: Find shows and movies that cable doesn’t offer.
Cable vs Streaming: What’s the Difference?
FEATURE |
CABLE TV |
STREAMING |
| Cost | Often $60–$120+/month | Starts as low as $8.99/month per service |
| Contracts | Usually required | Month-to-month, cancel anytime |
| Equipment | Cable box rental | Smart TV or streaming device |
| Content Flexibility | Fixed channels/packages | Choose specific apps for your interests |
| Picture Quality | HD; some 4K channels | HD and 4K widely available |
| Availability | Requires cable hookup | Anywhere with good internet |
Top Streaming Services in Canada
Here’s an updated overview of paid streaming services, their prices as of mid-year 2025, and what they’re best for:
SERVICE |
MONTHLY PRICE (approx.) |
HIGHLIGHTS |
FREE TRIAL |
| Netflix | $5.99-$20.99 | Biggest variety: movies, series, documentaries | No |
| Disney+ | $7.99 | Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic | No |
| Crave | $9.99 | HBO, Showtime, Canadian originals | 7 days |
| Amazon Prime Video | $8.25 (included with Prime) | Prime Originals + movie rentals | 30 days |
| Apple TV+ | $9.99 | Apple Originals like Ted Lasso | 7 days |
| Paramount+ | $6.99 | CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, movies | 7 days |
New in 2025: Netflix Standard with ads is now $7.99/month, an affordable option if you’re okay with commercials.
Free Streaming Options You Might Not Know About
If you’re looking to save even more, try these free, ad-supported apps:
SERVICE |
TYPE OF CONTENT |
| Tubi TV | Free movies and TV shows with ads |
| Pluto TV | Live channels and on-demand shows |
| Plex TV | Movies, shows, and live TV options |
Streaming Sports in Saskatchewan
Sports are a big part of Saskatchewan life, from NHL playoffs to CFL Rider games. Here’s how to catch your favourites without cable:
SERVICE |
SPORTS COVERAGE |
| DAZN | NFL, Premier League, Champions League, boxing, and more |
| TSN Direct | CFL (including Roughriders games), NHL, NBA, curling, and TSN-exclusive sports |
| Sportsnet NOW | NHL, MLB, NBA, Sportsnet regional coverage |
Tip: Check for regional blackouts, especially for CFL and NHL games before subscribing.
Internet Speed: Do You Have Enough for Streaming?
Most streaming services recommend:
STREAMING QUALITY |
MINIUMUM SPEED REQUIRED (per stream) |
| HD (1080p) | 5 Mbps |
| 4K UHD | 15–25 Mbps |
The CRTC’s standard for all Canadian homes is a target minimum of:
- 50 Mbps download / 10 Mbps upload
- Unlimited data option
This standard supports basic internet usage. If you have higher bandwidth needs, such as multiple users and multiple devices, you may require a higher speed.
Why Internet Quality Matters More Than Ever
With more Saskatchewan households working remotely, learning online, gaming, and streaming in 4K, your internet connection matters. Slow speeds or dropped connections mean buffering, pixelated images, or interrupted streams.
Choosing the Right Streaming Setup
Here’s what you’ll need if you switch from cable to streaming:
- Smart TV or Streaming Device: Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, Chromecast.
- Reliable High-Speed Internet: Fibre or fast wireless with speeds that match your household needs.
- Streaming Accounts: Choose services that match your viewing preferences.
FlexHome Fibre Internet: Built for Streaming
We believe your internet should never hold you back from enjoying the shows, sports, and movies you love.
✅ 100% fibre-to-the-home connections for stable, lightning-fast speeds
✅ Symmetrical upload and download speeds – great for 4K streaming and video calls
✅ Low latency and reliable performance, even during peak hours
“Spectacular addition as I transition from regular satellite and wireless service to the streaming platform. Happy someone finally listened to rural Saskatchewan! Thank you.” – Ian Rowswell
If you’re thinking about switching from cable to streaming, remember, streaming gives you:
- More choice and flexibility
- On-demand viewing
- Often, a lower monthly bill
All you need is fast and reliable internet to enjoy streaming in its full quality.
Ready to Stream Without Limits?
Find out if fibre-to-the-home is available for your address.
FAQs for Saskatchewan Households
Do I need to cancel cable to use streaming?
No, you can use both. Many households try streaming alongside cable before deciding to switch fully.
Will streaming work in rural Saskatchewan?
Streaming depends on your internet speed. Most apps recommend at least 5 Mbps for HD and 25 Mbps for 4K UHD. If you have multiple users or devices at home, higher speeds will ensure no buffering.
Does streaming use a lot of data?
Yes, between 1GB/hour (SD) and 7GB/hour (4K UHD). An unlimited internet plan is ideal.
Can I watch Rider games through streaming?
Yes. TSN Direct carries CFL games, including the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
