No Cable, No Problem: How To Watch CBS Without the Cord

If you’re one of the many people who’ve decided to cut ties with cable but still want to enjoy your CBS programming, in this article, we’ll show you the best methods to do so.
We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

If you’ve given up on cable, you don’t have to miss out on your favorite content.

In this expert guide, we’ll show you multiple methods to watch CBS without cable, including using a virtual private network (VPN), and give you details on pricing and features.

In this article
How to watch CBS without cable in the U.S.
How to watch CBS without cable in the U.K.
How to watch CBS without cable in Canada
How to watch CBS without cable from anywhere
FAQs
Bottom line

How to watch CBS without cable in the U.S.

If rising cable costs have you cutting the cord, you aren’t alone. Many have tired of paying extravagant prices for the less-than-stellar programming that some cable companies offer.

Watching CBS without cable has never been easier. Being tethered to a high cable bill is no longer necessary when there are multiple ways to get your programming fix.

Get the CBS app

If you’re ready to watch some CBS sports, you won’t have to wait long. One of the easiest ways to catch your favorite CBS shows is to use their app. It’s free, and your associated fees will come from your data and internet use.

CBS programming is also free with Roku, and you won’t need a login to stream.

Stream Hulu + Live TV

If you have any streaming services, you may know that most come with extra features and avenues to watch live television. For example, a subscription to Hulu + Live TV costs $59.99/mo (first 3 months), and you get access to all your favorite Hulu shows and live channel services, including CBS.

Watch CBS shows on Paramount+

Many CBS shows are on the Paramount+ app, including Sunday afternoon NFL games. If you have Paramount+, you can tune in for kick-off for around $6.00/mo.

Use a VPN service

A VPN service allows access to geo-restricted content and streaming platforms, keeping you connected to your favorite channels and shows wherever you go. A VPN also encrypts your online traffic to keep your data safe from unauthorized users.

If you use a VPN, you’ll want to find the fastest streaming speeds to forgo any buffering that can seriously hamper your entertainment.

How to watch CBS without cable in the U.K.

If you live in the U.K. or want to travel abroad for a bit, being able to watch CBS without cable may look a little different. No worries, though — you can still enjoy your favorite network.

If you have a VPN service, watching CBS without cable may be as easy as changing your location (opt for a U.S. server) on your VPN application. The best VPN services will keep your connection secure and your streaming smooth.

How to watch CBS without cable in Canada

If you live in Canada or are traveling there for business or pleasure, watching CBS without cable is no problem.

CBS All Access app

CBS has expanded its streaming capabilities into the international arena with the All Access app. For 5.99 CAD ($4.39 USD) per month, you can watch commercial-free programming. It works on your iOS and Android devices, so you have over 7,500 episodes of primetime TV at your fingertips.

Lining up your favorite shows is as easy as tapping the app.

Use a premium VPN service

Using a VPN service in Canada is an excellent way to watch CBS. If you cherish your privacy and want various device compatibility, ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption, and has no data limits.

You can use this VPN with a smart TV, computer, or mobile device, and prices start at $6.25/mo (billed annually).

How to watch CBS without cable from anywhere

No matter which device or app you use to watch CBS without cable, it’s always easy to use a VPN. Remember, watching CBS in the United States is different from viewing it in another country.

Certain VPNs may work better depending on the location and entertainment you choose to view. If you want to watch geo-restricted content in Canada, for example, Surfshark is one of the most affordable options that passed our Canadian streaming test.

No matter where you are located, a secure VPN is one of the best ways to watch CBS without cable. The best VPNs for the U.K. will give you access to your favorite British TV shows on BBC iPLAYER, along with other popular CBS content.

FAQs


+

Is CBS free on Roku?

The CBS app is free to use if you have Roku, and you can stream your favorite shows without logging in. For live TV streaming, you will need access to live TV either through cable or other services.


+

Does Peacock have CBS?

Peacock does not include CBS, but it does have NBC stations. For more CBS streaming options, you can choose from DIRECTV Stream, Fubo, or YouTube TV.


+

Is the CBS app free?

The CBS app is entirely free to download. You can get it from Apple’s App Store, Google Play, or Amazon. You can also go to cbs.com to stream content using your desktop or mobile device.

Bottom line

VPNs are an excellent way to watch CBS without cable. Since cable prices seem to keep rising, it’s good to have other options that allow you to keep your favorite lineup while not being forced to have all those extra channels you never watch anyway.

The best VPN for you depends on where you go, how fast you need the streaming to run, and how much you want to pay.

Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network
4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website
VPN
Surfshark
BLACK FRIDAY: Starting at $1.99/mo + 4 months extra
  • All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
  • Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
  • One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support

Author Details
Patti Croft is a seasoned writer specializing in technology, with three years of experience. With a B.S. in Computer Science and a background as a technical analyst and security specialist, she covers a range of topics like data security and parental control software.