Heavens no. There is more free content than you could watch in a lifetime, a great deal of which is from quality providers like Conde Nast, Nat Geo, Discovery Channel / History, H2 etc. Apple TV has its adherents but Roku is the leader, with over 1000 'official' channels and even more 'private' (beta) channels, etc.
Go to youtube and search the term Unsupported App Store. This is used in conjunction with Plex Media Server for even more choices via Roku client for Plex. You will be astounded.
Some may think that is an over exaggeration, it is not!
Like what content, some selected shows or what. I've been told it's different from what's shown on cable.
Plus the beta channels are hit and miss. One episode of a tv show works, the next one doesn't...etc.
I will be getting a Roku soon and begin testing.
I'm not giving up. Again, thanks.