Jeopardy is one of the most popular and longest running game shows in television history. As a syndicated show, it airs on various local network affiliates across the country. Traditionally, the easiest way to watch Jeopardy has been via a cable or satellite TV subscription. However, with the rise of cord-cutting, many viewers are looking for ways to watch the show without paying for expensive cable packages.
Fortunately, there are several easy and affordable options for streaming Jeopardy without cable.
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Use an OTA Antenna
One of the simplest ways to watch Jeopardy without cable is to use an over-the-air (OTA) antenna. Jeopardy airs on local network affiliates like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX which can all be accessed for free with an OTA antenna.
Benefits:
- Completely free after buying an antenna
- Access to other local channels
Drawbacks:
- Need to be within antenna range of TV towers
- Can’t record episodes
I recommend checking out AntennaWeb to see what OTA channels are available in your area. Top-rated HDTV antennas start around $20.
Live TV Streaming Services
Live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Stream allow you to stream live TV, including local stations that air Jeopardy, over the internet.
Most services offer free trials so you can test them out. Prices start around $40/month.
Benefits:
- Stream on many devices
- Cloud DVR to record episodes
- Access to other live channels
Drawbacks:
- Monthly subscription fee
- Local channel availability varies
I recommend YouTube TV for its unlimited DVR, wide device support, and widespread local channel availability.
Channel-Specific Streaming
If Jeopardy airs on CBS or NBC in your area, you can stream it live with a subscription to Paramount+ or Peacock Premium respectively.
Channel-specific streaming usually starts around $5/month.
Benefits:
- Inexpensive
- Easy access on many devices
Drawbacks:
- Only useful if Jeopardy airs on that local station
- No DVR capabilities
This option works best paired with an OTA antenna for other local channels.
Pluto TV
The free streaming service Pluto TV offers select episodes of Jeopardy on-demand along with other classic game shows.
Benefits:
- 100% free
- On-demand access
Drawbacks:
- Limited episode selection
- No live viewing
- Ads
Pluto TV works well for occasional Jeopardy viewing though you won’t be able to watch new episodes live.
Locast
In a few metro areas, the nonprofit service Locast streams local OTA channels online for free. If available in your city, you can use Locast to stream whatever local station airs Jeopardy.
Benefits:
- Free access to local channels
- Can stream on many devices
Drawbacks:
- Only available in some cities
- Interrupted by donation requests
Check the Locast website to see if your city is supported.
Use a Friend’s Cable Login
If you have a friend or family member with a cable subscription, you may be able to use their TV provider login to access their cable provider’s streaming app. Apps like WatchABC and FOXNow allow cable subscribers to stream live local programming.
Benefits:
- Totally free access
- Full cable channel lineup
Drawbacks:
- Inconsistent availability across cable providers
- Access could be revoked
While not the most reliable method long-term, borrowing a login can be a handy option in a pinch.
Final Recommendations
The best all-around option for streaming Jeopardy without cable is definitely a live TV streaming service like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. For under $50/month, you get reliable live access to Jeopardy along with unlimited DVR.
If you just want to watch Jeopardy and budget is a concern, pairing an OTA antenna with a channel-specific streaming service like Paramount+ or Peacock delivers reliable access for less than $10/month.
I don’t recommend relying solely on free options like PlutoTV and Locast as availability and reliability is hit or miss.
No matter which streaming option you choose, you can save money over expensive cable packages while still enjoying new episodes of America’s favorite quiz show. With Alex Trebek’s legacy living on, Jeopardy remains appointment viewing TV for millions of devoted fans.