This week on TechHive: It’s here! Your ultimate guide to streaming TV bundles

It’s hard to believe that just a few years ago, Sling TV was your only option for watching cable channels over the internet. Now, you’ve got a half-dozen more streaming bundles to choose from, including PlayStation Vue, DirecTV Now, Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Philo.

But with more competition also comes more confusion, as each bundle offers different channels, features, strengths, and weaknesses. I’m excited to finally share with you my streaming bundle mega-guide over at TechHive. It’s filled with recommendations, charts to compare channels and features, and links to individual reviews if you want to dive deeper.

As with TechHive’s other guides for cord-cutters (best DVR and best media streamer), I’ll be updating this one over time as these services evolve. In the meantime, let me know if you have any questions or comments. Read the full guide on TechHive.

Weekly rewind

Super Bowl streaming details: If you plan to watch the Super Bowl without cable this weekend, my column this week is all about what to expect in terms of video quality. NBC confirmed to me that it won’t be streaming the game at 60 frames per second, and most streaming bundles will max out at 30 frames per second as well. For the kind of ultra-smooth motion you get from cable or over-the-air broadcasts, you’ll need to use PlayStation Vue or DirecTV Now. FuboTV is also an intriguing option for those who like to text or use social media during the game, since its feeds have less of a delay than other bundles.

Of course, all claims to superior video quality could go out the window if these services become overwhelmed by demand. As always, your best option for reliable, high-quality video during the Super Bowl is an over-the-air antenna.

YouTube TV adds Roku and Apple TV support: Although I’ve been impressed with YouTube TV’s $35 per month streaming bundle, I didn’t put it atop my recommendation list due to its limited device support. On Thursday, however, YouTube TV launched apps for newer Roku players and the Apple TV, joining its existing support for Chromecast, Android TV devices, and the Xbox One. I’m evaluating the new apps and will revisit my recommendations soon.

Check the fine print on Roku’s blog post for a list of compatible devices.

More Catch-Up

Save more money

Once again, Roku’s Streaming Stick and 4K-enabled Streaming Stick+ are each $10 off a various retailers, bringing them down to $40 and $60, respectively. Consider upgrading you’re in need of a speedy device for streaming the Super Bowl–and one that works with all streaming TV bundles. You’ll find both deals at Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon, among others.

Thanks for reading!

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Until next week,
Jared