Can IPTV replace cable in the US?

For many households, yes — combined with an antenna for free local broadcasts and the on-demand apps you already use. Check that your local channels and sports networks are covered first.

What do I lose when I cut the cord?

Mainly the cable box, contract and bundled equipment. Some regional sports networks and local channels can be harder to replace, so check them before you cancel.

Do I need an antenna if I have IPTV?

Not necessarily, but an over-the-air antenna gives free, reliable local broadcast channels and works even if your internet goes down.

Cutting the Cord in the US: Where IPTV Fits

US flag illustration for a guide to cutting the cord with IPTV

Cutting the cord in the US usually means replacing a cable or satellite bundle with a mix of an over-the-air antenna (free local broadcasts), on-demand streaming apps (originals and films) and a live-TV option such as an IPTV subscription (live channels, news, sport and a programme guide). IPTV fills the "live TV with a guide" gap — but check local channels and sports coverage before you cancel cable.

The cord-cutting building blocks

Piece	What it covers	Cost model
Antenna (OTA)	Local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS affiliates in HD	One-off antenna purchase
On-demand apps	Originals, films, series	Monthly per app
IPTV subscription	Live channels, news, sport, a guide, often on-demand	Prepaid plans
Broadband	Everything above	Monthly

Where IPTV fits

IPTV replaces the live channel lineup and guide of a cable box: news networks, entertainment channels, sports networks and channels from other countries, usually with an on-demand library too. See IPTV USA channels for what US lineups usually include.

Check before you cancel cable

Local channels — does the lineup include your market's affiliates, or will an antenna cover them? See US local channels.
Sports — the networks that carry your teams, including regional ones.
Broadband — about 10 Mbps per HD screen, 25 Mbps for 4K; watch for data caps. See broadband for 4K.
Devices — every TV needs a compatible device; Roku needs a workaround (see the device list).
Your cable contract — early-termination fees and equipment returns.

Comparing costs

Add up your current bill including box rental and fees. Then add up the replacement: antenna (one-off), the apps you'll keep, and an IPTV plan — ours is €65.99 for 12 months on one device (about €5.50 a month), charged in euros and converted by your card. See IPTV pricing.

Switching safely

Run a free IPTV trial while cable is still active.
Test local channels, sports and news during a busy evening.
Move to a month-long plan, then cancel cable once you're confident.
Keep the antenna as a backup for local news and emergencies.

The legal question

IPTV technology is legal; the question is what a service is licensed to carry. Since 2020, running an unlicensed streaming service for profit can be a felony in the US. Read more in IPTV in the USA.