There have never been more ways to get your television fix. From streaming episodes on services like Netflix, to buying individual episodes of your favorite show off Amazon, you no longer need an expensive cable package to get the quality shows you want.
Now you can add another option to the list of cable alternatives - PlayStation Vue. The service is currently only available in New York, Chicago and Philadelphia, but you can bet Sony is looking to roll it to a wider audience as soon as possible. So what is PlayStation Vue and how does it differ from Netflix or a standard cable subscription? Allow us to explain.
What Is It?
PlayStation Vue allows users to watch live TV on channels as they air, via streaming. Users are able to watch the latest episodes of their favorite shows up to three-days after premiering, and if you favorite a series you are given 28 days access to each episode of the series after it has aired. If you really wanted to, you could favorite every show to have access to every new episode for 28 days.
Instead of a cable box, PlayStation Vue transforms your existing PlayStation 3 and 4 consoles (and eventually iPad) into one, so no confusing box installation is required, though you will need a good Internet connection in order to stream shows. You can record shows just like you would with cable, as well as pause, fast-forward and rewind live television.
How Much Does It Cost?
Despite being a cable alternative, Sony's PlayStation Vue does follow a similar tier-package approach as cable. The "access" package for $49.99 includes access to more than 50 channels that include Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, Fox News, CNN, HGTV, SyFy and much more. Next up is the "core" package, which also includes local sports channels for select markets for $59.99. Another $10 at $69.99 gives users the "elite" package, which adds more lifestyle and family channels to choose from. Vue is also contract free, so you can subscribe on a month-to-month basis if you so desire.
Is It Worth It?
It's tough to give a definitive answer at this early stage. After all, the service is only available in select cities for the time being. While the tiered package system reeks of classic cable, Vue's upfront pricing and contract-free subscription does make for an appealing alternative. Expect to hear more about PlayStation Vue in the near future as Sony looks to bring the service to more cities across the country.
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