Ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services are the perfect alternative to traditional cable, offering you the freedom to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the burden of long-term contracts. Not only can you stream from the comfort of your home, but you can also take your entertainment on the go using your mobile phone or tablet. And the best part? These services are typically more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or extra hardware costs to worry about.
With the plethora of options available, choosing the right live TV streaming service can seem daunting. Fear not—we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the top live TV streaming services to consider in 2025.
DirecTV Stream
Best Cable Alternative
Limited-Time Offer
DirecTV Stream (Choice)
0Includes $10 off for 24 months offer.
$79.99 at DirecTV
DirecTV Stream stands out as a top choice for those seeking a cable-like experience with the flexibility of streaming. It offers three Signature Packages tailored to different viewing preferences. The **Entertainment** pack provides over 90 channels focused on entertainment and family-friendly content. The **Choice** pack enhances your selection with an additional 35 channels, including specialty and regional sports. And for those who want the ultimate viewing experience, the **Ultimate** pack boasts over 160 channels, covering movies, sports, and news.
For viewers with specific tastes, DirecTV Stream introduces **Genre Packs** centered around particular content types such as live sports, entertainment, or news. These packs are cost-effective and perfect for those who know exactly what they want to watch.
Subscribers enjoy unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and the freedom to stream on an unlimited number of devices at home. Plus, you can catch up on your favorite 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
0Includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads).
$82.99 at Hulu
Hulu + Live TV offers a compelling package that combines Hulu's renowned streaming service with a robust live TV offering of over 95 channels. It's an ideal option for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, as it includes the Disney Bundle, which typically costs an additional $16.99 per month. This bundle encompasses Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads).
With Hulu + Live TV, you benefit from unlimited DVR space to record your favorite content. The service supports streaming on two devices simultaneously, with an option to upgrade to unlimited screens for uninterrupted family viewing. Plus, you can test the waters with a three-day free trial of Hulu + Live TV before committing to a subscription.
Fubo
Best For Sports Variety
$30 Off First Month
Fubo (Pro)
0Save $30 off first month after free trial period.
$84.99 save 35%
$54.99 at Fubo
Fubo is the go-to live TV streaming service for sports enthusiasts, boasting over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. While it comes with a higher price tag, Fubo's comprehensive channel lineup makes it worth considering. Most plans allow streaming on up to 10 devices at home, with the ability to watch on three devices on the go.
Sports fans will appreciate access to over 55,000 live events annually, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA college sports, NASCAR, international soccer, golf, tennis, boxing, MMA, and more. With over 35 regional sports networks included in the base plan, you'll never miss a game. Fubo offers a seven-day free trial for new subscribers, allowing you to test the service before committing.
Sling Freestream
Best For Free TV
Watch and Earn Prizes
Sling Freestream
0Over 600 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand movies and TV shows.
See it at Sling
If you're looking for free content without a specific preference, Sling Freestream is an excellent choice. It offers over 600 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand movies and TV shows at no cost. While you won't find the latest releases, the vast selection ensures you'll discover something to enjoy.
Creating a free Sling TV account grants you 10 hours of complimentary DVR recordings, enabling you to pause, fast-forward, and rewind content. Additionally, you can earn rewards and have a chance to win prizes just by watching. Sling Freestream also offers upgrade options to various Sling TV plans directly from your profile, providing a seamless transition if you decide to expand your viewing options.
Among the many free streaming services available, Sling Freestream stands out as our top recommendation.
Live TV Streaming FAQs
Can You Watch Live TV For Free?
Yes, you can watch certain TV shows and channels for free, though major networks are typically not included. One of the simplest ways to access live TV is by using a TV antenna to pick up local channels and a few extras. Alternatively, you can explore free streaming sites or apps like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, Tubi, and others.
Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?
Each of the live TV streaming services mentioned above offers a free trial, with varying durations. Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo is the most generous, with a seven-day trial.
Should You Get Cable Instead?
The landscape of TV viewing has evolved significantly, with many now reconsidering the shift back to cable due to the proliferation of streaming services, content removal, and rising costs. Basic cable can often be found for $50–$100 per month, though these prices are usually promotional and may increase after a contract period. Streaming services, on the other hand, offer the advantage of month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe as your preferences change.
Ultimately, the choice between cable and streaming depends on your viewing habits and budget. If the complexity and cost of multiple streaming services become overwhelming, cable might be worth reconsidering.
