In the evolving landscape of cord cutting, where consumers increasingly seek affordable alternatives to traditional cable, Frndly TV and Philo have emerged as the top choice for discounted live TV streaming services in the 2025 Cordie Awards. Based on a comprehensive survey of over 1,000 cord-cutters asking what is the best discounted live TV streaming service.
Frndly TV secured a majority vote of 55.6 percent, edging out Philo, which garnered 44.4 percent. This outcome highlights a growing preference among viewers for budget-friendly options that prioritize entertainment over comprehensive bundles laden with sports and news channels.
The Cordie Awards, an annual recognition of excellence in the cord-cutting space, polled participants who have ditched cable in favor of streaming. Respondents were asked to evaluate the best discounted live TV services, specifically between Frndly TV and Philo, two platforms designed for cost-conscious households. Frndly TV’s victory underscores its appeal as a streamlined, family-oriented service that delivers essential channels without the bloat of premium add-ons. With plans starting at just $6.99 per month for the basic tier, rising to $11.99 for premium features, it offers over 40 channels focused on wholesome content like Hallmark movies, Lifetime dramas, and networks such as A&E and Vice. This pricing structure makes it significantly more accessible than Philo, which charges $28 monthly for a broader lineup of over 70 channels, including AMC, BET, Food Network, and Nickelodeon.
Both services cater to a niche audience by deliberately excluding sports and news networks, which often drive up costs in other streaming bundles. This strategic omission aligns with broader industry trends observed in 2025, where non-sports enthusiasts are increasingly opting out of live TV altogether or gravitating toward these economical alternatives. Data from recent market analyses indicate that a substantial portion of cord cutters—particularly those not invested in live games or current events—are saving hundreds of dollars annually by avoiding pricier services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, which can exceed $70 per month. Instead, they supplement these discounted streams with on-demand platforms or free ad-supported options for news and highlights.
Frndly TV’s edge in the survey can be attributed to its emphasis on affordability and simplicity. The service provides unlimited DVR storage, with recordings retained for up to nine months on higher plans, allowing users to build extensive libraries of favorite shows. It also includes a unique loopback feature, enabling viewers to revisit programs up to 72 hours after airing, which adds flexibility for busy families. While Philo boasts a more robust DVR with one-year retention and support for up to three simultaneous streams, its higher price point may deter those strictly watching their budgets. Frndly TV, in contrast, limits basic plans to one screen but scales up to four on premium tiers, making it scalable for different household sizes.
This shift toward discounted streaming reflects deeper changes in consumer behavior amid rising inflation and subscription fatigue. Many cord cutters report feeling overwhelmed by the proliferation of services, leading them to consolidate around low-cost essentials. For instance, families focused on feel-good programming find Frndly TV’s curated selection sufficient, avoiding the need for expansive libraries that inflate bills. Philo, while offering more variety, appeals to those willing to pay a premium for additional entertainment options like reality TV from Discovery networks or animated content from Comedy Central.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Cordie Awards results suggest that the live TV streaming market will continue to fragment, with discounted providers like Frndly TV gaining ground. As more viewers prioritize value over volume, services that strip away non-essential channels could dominate the budget segment. This trend not only empowers consumers to tailor their viewing experiences but also pressures larger platforms to introduce more flexible pricing. For cord cutters navigating these choices, Frndly TV’s win serves as a clear signal: in a world of endless options, sometimes less truly costs less—and delivers more satisfaction.
The survey’s findings come at a pivotal time, as streaming adoption reaches new heights. With over half of U.S. households now cord-free, the demand for affordable live TV without the frills of sports or news is reshaping the industry. Frndly TV’s narrow but decisive lead over Philo illustrates how targeted offerings can outperform broader ones in niche markets, encouraging further innovation in discounted streaming solutions.
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