Tired of cable? Three smart alternatives

Are you searching for a way to watch your favorite shows, without having to pay the high price for cable TV? Whether cable is too expensive, or just not available in your area, don't despair. Cable isn't the only game in town.

Here are three options that can give you access to those shows, movies, and sporting events you just can't live without.

Option 1: Satellite

If you live in a rural area where cable television services are limited, or you're simply tempted by the thought of unlimited channels from across the world - satellite television could be a great alternative to cable.

In fact, satellites cover nearly every part of the United States, providing consumers with access to a wide range of channels and reliable coverage.

Satellite television is also a great option for viewers who prefer the traditional scheduling of cable and local television, opposed to Internet streaming options, according to Dan Faltesek, a new media communications instructor at Oregon State University.

"Satellite is a good option if you are interested in access to regular channels and access to programming that is structured into a conventional programming flow," says Faltesek. This is a huge perk when compared to Internet streaming via services like Hulu, which often has a waiting period between the time it airs on TV, and when it's available for streaming.

So, how much does satellite cost? It ranges depending on the provider. For example, Dish Network's packages start at $24.99 per month, for a promotional period of one year. To make sure you receive the best rates, make sure to do your research and shop providers.

option 2: Internet Streaming

As we mentioned earlier, Internet streaming is another viable alternative to cable.

"Internet streaming is starting to take over and many devices are out there to help you acquire a great deal of content," says Josh Davis, resident tech expert at Glenview, Illinois' Abt Electronics, one of the largest independent, single-store appliance and electronics retailers in the country.

These "many devices" that allow you to stream content include your game console, computer, laptop, or handheld device.

And consumers are certainly taking advantage of this access. In fact, according to a 2011 study titled "The new age of television" by market research firm Chadwick Martin Bailey, over half of the respondents tried watching television online using services such as NetFlix, AppleTV, or a network website.

The appeal with these streaming subscriptions is the low price. For example, you can stream TV shows and movies on Netflix and Hulu for $7.99 month each. Pretty great deal, right?

However there are some potential issues to consider with this option.

"If you are using the Internet only, a major concern is access to current programming," says Faltesek. "A number of services offer access to a variety of content, but these are not always complete libraries of material."

Another thing to keep in mind with online streaming is that your viewing experience will only be as good as your Internet connection.

"Before I even mention some ideas for people to try and make do without a cable service, there is a large warning label: You need great Internet in your house," Davis says. "Your Wi-Fi signal needs to be solid and your provider needs to be supplying a good bandwidth. That way, many devices can coexist on your network not weakening the network."