Cutting the cable, lets talk options and media setups

There are better performing routers out there for half the price of that Nighthawk. The GUI might not be as slick, bit it's an overpriced piece of tech IMO. I'd start with the TP-Link Archer C7 or C8 first. TheWirecutter really has a good review of them both.

If you want to go even cheaper, just grab the Fire Stick for $40. In fact, if you're apprehensive about cord cutting that's the way I'd go. This way if its not for you, you're out of $40 and not $99. If you like it, you have an extra device for the second TV. Use the included extension wire for better WiFi performance. If it looks like a great option for you, upgrade to the FireTV (box) and hard wire it to the Router for better performance.

SlingTV is another $20. Add $5 for the sports package. You can add HBO Now of you like.

If you want to keep going, you can add Amazon Prime for $99. I'd wait until the next awards show though because if Amazon wins they will probably drop the price. You can add on Showtime for another $10/mo.

We currently have internet and basic cable because its $10 cheaper a month than cable alone. I use the cable log in info to access the NBC, ABC, HGTV, FOOD Network, Travel Channel, FoxNow, HBO GO, Starz and Encore apps. CW Seed used to be good for Arrow, Flash, etc., but only has the crappy shows now.

Then there are the Kodi streaming options...