Ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services offer a dynamic alternative to traditional cable, providing access to your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the hassle of long-term contracts. The beauty of streaming lies in its affordability and convenience, allowing you to enjoy content at home or on the go via your mobile device or tablet. With no hidden fees or additional hardware required, it's an attractive choice for the modern viewer.
Navigating the sea of options can be overwhelming, but fear not—we've sifted through the choices to bring you the top live TV streaming services to explore in 2025.
DirecTV Stream
Best Cable Alternative
Limited-Time Offer: DirecTV Stream (Choice) - $79.99 at DirecTV, includes $10 off for 24 months.
DirecTV Stream stands out as a premier cable alternative, offering unparalleled flexibility to tailor your TV experience. With three Signature Packages—Entertainment, Choice, and Ultimate—you can select from over 90 to 160 channels, catering to everything from family entertainment to sports and news. Additionally, new Genre Packs focus on specific content types, providing a cost-effective way to enjoy your favorite shows or sports events.
Your subscription includes unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and streaming on an unlimited number of home devices. Plus, enjoy the convenience of watching shows up to 72 hours after they've aired, even if you missed recording them.
Hulu + Live TV
Best Streaming Bundle With TV
Disney Bundle Included: Hulu + Live TV - $82.99 at Hulu, includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads).
Hulu + Live TV merges the popular Hulu streaming service with over 95 live TV channels, making it an ideal choice for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more. The service includes the Disney Bundle, which adds value by providing Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads) at no additional cost. You'll enjoy unlimited DVR space to record your favorites, and the ability to stream on two devices simultaneously, with the option to upgrade to unlimited screens. Plus, a three-day free trial lets you explore the service before committing.
Fubo
Best For Sports Variety
$30 Off First Month: Fubo (Pro) - $84.99 save 35% to $54.99 at Fubo.
Fubo caters to sports lovers, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. It's renowned for its extensive sports catalog, featuring over 55,000 live events annually, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA sports, and more. With access to over 35 regional sports networks in its base plan, Fubo ensures you never miss a game. You can stream on up to 10 devices at home and three on the go. A seven-day free trial allows new subscribers to test the service.
Sling Freestream
Best For Free TV
Watch and Earn Prizes: Sling Freestream - Over 600 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand movies and TV shows at Sling.
For viewers seeking free content, Sling Freestream offers over 600 channels and a vast library of on-demand movies and TV shows at no cost. While it primarily features reruns and older content, the variety is impressive. A free Sling TV account unlocks 10 hours of DVR recordings and the chance to earn rewards and prizes. Sling Freestream also allows for easy upgrades to Sling TV plans, enhancing your viewing options.
Live TV Streaming FAQs
Can You Watch Live TV For Free?
While some TV shows and channels are available for free, major networks typically aren't included. Using a TV antenna can capture local channels, or you can explore free streaming platforms like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, and Tubi for a variety of content.
Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?
Each service highlighted here offers a free trial: Hulu + Live TV for three days, DirecTV Stream for five days, and Fubo for seven days, allowing you to sample their offerings before deciding.
Should You Get Cable Instead?
With the rise of streaming services, the landscape has shifted, yet cable remains an option. Basic cable can cost between $50–$100 per month, often starting with promotional rates that increase after a contract period. Streaming services, however, offer the flexibility of month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe as needed. If the proliferation of streaming services and their rising costs frustrate you, revisiting cable might be worthwhile.
