What CBS cable subscriptions are and how they differ

CBS cable subscriptions are monthly services that let you watch CBS programming through a cable provider, not directly from CBS. You pay your cable company (Comcast, Charter, Dish, DirecTV, or another provider in your area), and they bundle CBS with other channels. CBS itself does not sell cable subscriptions — your cable provider does.

This is different from CBS streaming, where you pay CBS directly through their Paramount+ app or website. With cable, you get CBS as part of a larger package of channels. The price, channels included, and what you can record all depend on which cable company you use and which package tier you choose.

Cable subscriptions also include the ability to watch CBS on a cable box connected to your TV, record shows to a DVR, and sometimes watch on-demand content through your provider's app. Streaming services like Paramount+ work only through an app on your phone, tablet, computer, or streaming device.

Key Takeaways

  • CBS cable subscriptions come from your cable provider (Comcast, Charter, Dish, DirecTV, or others), not from CBS directly, and CBS is bundled with other channels in a package.
  • Price varies by provider and package tier, typically ranging from $50 to $150 per month depending on how many channels and services you include.
  • You need a cable box and a TV connection to watch CBS cable; streaming services like Paramount+ work on phones, tablets, and streaming devices instead.
  • Cable packages often include on-demand content, DVR recording, and the ability to watch on your provider's app, but these features vary by company.

How much CBS cable subscriptions cost

CBS cable subscription cost depends entirely on your cable provider and the package you choose. There is no single price — Comcast's basic package costs different from Charter's, and both differ from Dish or DirecTV. Most basic cable packages that include CBS start around $50 to $70 per month, but can reach $120 to $150 per month if you add premium channels, sports packages, or streaming add-ons.

Your cable provider sets the price and changes it periodically. Introductory rates (often $30 to $50 for the first 12 months) are common, but the price usually increases after that period ends. Some providers bundle internet and phone with TV, which can lower the per-service cost but increases your total bill.

To find out the exact price in your area, you need to contact your cable provider directly or visit their website. Prices vary by location, and what is available in one neighborhood may not be available in another. Ask about current promotions, contract terms, and what happens to your price after any introductory period ends.

What channels and content come with CBS cable

CBS cable packages always include the CBS broadcast channel, which carries network shows like The Bold and the Beautiful, The Young and the Restless, sports events, and news. What else you get depends on your package tier. Basic packages might include 50 to 100 channels; higher tiers include 150 to 300 channels plus premium networks like HBO, Showtime, or Starz.

Most cable packages include on-demand content, meaning you can watch recent CBS episodes for free through your cable box or provider's app, even if you missed the live broadcast. DVR recording is usually included, so you can record shows to watch later. Some providers let you store recordings for 30 days; others allow longer storage.

Sports, news, and premium channels cost extra. If you want ESPN, NFL RedZone, or HBO, those are add-ons that increase your monthly bill. Ask your provider which channels are in each package tier before you sign up, because the channel lineup varies by provider and changes over time.

How to set up and use CBS cable

To start CBS cable service, contact your cable provider by phone, website, or in person at a local office. You will need to provide your address to confirm service is available in your area, choose a package, and schedule installation. Installation usually takes one to two weeks, though some providers offer faster service for an extra fee.

A technician will come to your home to install a cable box (or boxes, if you want service in multiple rooms), connect it to your TV, and set up your account. You will receive a remote control and login information for your provider's app. The technician will show you how to use the cable box and access on-demand content.

Once installed, you watch CBS by turning on your TV and cable box, then selecting the CBS channel. You can also watch CBS through your provider's app on a phone, tablet, or streaming device if your provider offers that feature. Recording works through the cable box remote — select a show and choose "record," and it saves to your DVR.

Comparing CBS cable to CBS streaming (Paramount+)

CBS cable and Paramount+ (CBS's streaming service) serve different purposes. Cable requires a cable box and TV connection but includes many channels and local CBS broadcasts. Paramount+ is an app-based service you can watch on any device with internet, but you pay CBS directly, not a cable company.

Paramount+ costs $5.99 per month with ads or $11.99 per month without ads (prices as of 2024, subject to change). You get CBS shows, movies, and original content, but not local news or sports broadcasts. Cable packages cost more but include dozens or hundreds of other channels, local programming, and DVR recording.

If you only want CBS shows and do not care about other channels, Paramount+ is cheaper. If you want local CBS news, sports, and a full range of channels, cable is the better option. Some people use both — cable for live TV and local content, and Paramount+ for on-demand shows and original series.

What happens if you cancel CBS cable

To cancel CBS cable, contact your provider and request disconnection. Most providers require 30 days' notice, though some allow cancellation immediately. You will be charged through your final service date, and you may owe an early termination fee if you are still under contract (usually $10 to $20 per month remaining on your contract).

After cancellation, a technician will come to your home to remove the cable box and disconnect the service. This usually happens within one to two weeks. You will receive a final bill that includes any remaining charges or credits.

If you signed up for an introductory rate and cancel before the promotional period ends, you may owe the difference between the intro price and the regular price for the months you used the service. Read your contract or ask your provider about early termination fees before you sign up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch CBS cable on my phone or tablet?

Yes, if your cable provider offers a mobile app. Most major providers (Comcast, Charter, Dish, DirecTV) have apps that let you watch live CBS and on-demand content on phones and tablets. You log in with your cable account credentials. Not all providers offer this feature, so check with yours before signing up.

Do I need a contract to get CBS cable?

It depends on your provider. Some require a one- or two-year contract; others offer month-to-month service. Contracts often come with lower introductory rates, while month-to-month service may cost more. Ask your provider about contract terms and early termination fees before you commit.

What if CBS cable is not available at my address?

Not all cable providers serve all areas. Check your address on your provider's website or call them to confirm service is available. If cable is not available, you may be able to use satellite (Dish or DirecTV) or stream Paramount+ instead. Some areas have only one or two cable options.

Can I record CBS shows on my DVR?

Yes, DVR recording is included with most cable packages. Use your remote to select a show and choose "record." The show saves to your cable box's hard drive. Storage limits vary by provider — some allow 30 days of recordings, others allow more. Check with your provider about storage limits and how long recordings stay available.

What is the difference between CBS cable and local CBS broadcast?

Local CBS broadcast is free over the air if you have an antenna; cable is a paid service. Cable includes CBS plus many other channels, on-demand content, and DVR recording. If you only want CBS and have an antenna, you do not need cable. If you want other channels or on-demand features, cable is necessary.