In 2011 you can watch TV in more ways than ever before. Companies like Apple, Hulu, Netflix, Amazon, and ESPN have developed a variety of ways to watch hit TV shows, movies, and sporting events on your own schedule!
Each service has its own strengths and weaknesses. Here's a quick rundown of some ways to watch online:
1. Hulu. By far the closest to viewing actual cable TV, many new shows are on Hulu the day after they air. The site also has an archive of classic shows to browse and watch. Many shows are free, but the paid “Hulu Plus” service adds full seasons and more. You can also watch on your TV with a modern game console.
2. Netflix. The DVD-by-mail company has added a wide variety of streaming video to its library. You won’t find current seasons or episodes here. Only after they’ve officially hit DVD does Netflix get them. The selection is second to none, though.
3. iTunes. Apple’s online media retailer lets you buy shows individually or by season, and the prices are reasonable. Episodes are generally available the day that they air on TV, but are usually held back until after the show screens on the West Coast. You can stream to your home entertainment center with AppleTV.
4. Amazon. The online retailer is similar to iTunes as it lets viewers pay for individual TV shows or full seasons. Prices are about the same as iTunes, but some people prefer Amazon’s interface and selection.
5. ESPN3. Sports fans have only one real choice, and that’s ESPN’s streaming service. The channel boasts millions of hours of available content, both live and archived, and can be watched on the Xbox 360 console as well as computers.
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