Do I Need a Smart TV to Cut the Cord in 2025?
Thinking about ditching cable but wondering if your current TV is up for the job? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions people ask is: Do I need a smart TV to cut the cord?
Good news — the answer is no. You don’t need a smart TV to stream shows, live channels, or even sports. All you need is an internet connection and a simple device that plugs into your existing TV.
So, What Do You Need to Stream Without Cable?
If your TV has an HDMI port (which most flat-screen TVs made in the last 10–15 years do), you’re good to go. Just plug in one of these:
- Roku Streaming Stick
- Amazon Fire Stick
- Apple TV
- Google Chromecast
These streaming devices turn any TV into a smart TV — no upgrade needed. They cost around $30–$50, connect to Wi-Fi, and let you download streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and yes, CUE Broadcast.
What If You Do Have a Smart TV?
Even better — you can just download apps directly to the TV. But keep in mind, smart TVs sometimes have clunky software or slow updates. That’s why many people with smart TVs still prefer using a Roku or Fire Stick anyway. They’re faster and easier to navigate.
Cutting the Cord Without the Confusion
One of the simplest ways to go cable-free is with CUE Broadcast. It works on all the devices listed above and gives you:
- Live local channels
- News, sports, and entertainment
- No contracts, no hidden fees
- One app. One login. Done.
No need to bounce between 6 different apps or worry about what’s included — CUE just works.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been asking, “Do I need a smart TV to cut the cord?” — now you know the answer. You don’t need a fancy new television or a complicated setup. A simple $30 streaming stick and a service like CUE Broadcast are all it takes to kick cable to the curb and start saving money.
