Ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services are your perfect cable alternative, offering an extensive range of TV shows, movies, and live sports without the burden of long-term contracts. Not only can you enjoy your favorite content at home, but you can also stream it on your mobile devices while on the move. These services are typically more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or hardware requirements, making them an attractive option for savvy viewers.
With the plethora of options available, choosing the right service can feel overwhelming. Fear not—we've streamlined the process by highlighting 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 an excellent cable alternative, offering unmatched flexibility to tailor your TV viewing experience. The service provides three Signature Packages, each designed with a unique channel lineup to suit your viewing preferences. The **Entertainment** package boasts over 90 channels, focusing on entertainment and family-friendly content. The **Choice** package adds 35 more channels, including specialty and regional sports offerings. And for those who crave comprehensive coverage, the **Ultimate** package offers over 160 channels, covering movies, sports, and news.
For viewers with specific tastes, DirecTV Stream introduces **Genre Packs**, which focus on particular content types such as live sports, entertainment, or news. These packs are budget-friendly and ideal for those who know exactly what they want to watch.
Subscribers benefit from unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and the option to stream on an unlimited number of devices within your home. Plus, you can catch up on shows up to 72 hours after they've aired, even if you missed the live broadcast.
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 is the go-to choice for fans seeking a robust streaming bundle. It pairs Hulu's on-demand library with a live TV package featuring over 95 channels. The service includes the Disney Bundle, which usually costs an additional $16.99 per month, offering access to Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads). This makes it a fantastic value for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more.
Subscribers enjoy unlimited DVR storage to capture their favorite content. Hulu + Live TV supports streaming on two devices simultaneously, with an option to upgrade to unlimited screens, ensuring everyone in the family can watch without interruptions. Plus, new users can explore the service with a three-day free trial 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 ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. While it's on the pricier side, Fubo's extensive sports coverage is unrivaled, with access to over 55,000 live events annually, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA college sports, NASCAR, and more. The base plan includes over 35 regional sports networks, ensuring you never miss a game.
Fubo allows streaming on up to 10 devices at home and up to three devices on the go. New subscribers can try the service with a seven-day free trial, giving you ample time to explore its offerings.
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
For viewers seeking free content, 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 there's always something to watch.
Creating a free Sling TV account unlocks 10 hours of complimentary DVR recordings, allowing 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 provides options to upgrade with various add-ons from Sling TV plans within your profile.
Among the many free streaming services available, Sling Freestream stands out as our top pick.
Live TV Streaming FAQs
Can You Watch Live TV For Free?
While you can watch certain TV shows and channels for free, major networks are typically not included. One of the simplest methods to access live TV is using a TV antenna to capture local channels and some additional stations. Alternatively, free streaming platforms like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, and Tubi offer a variety of live and on-demand content.
Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?
All the live TV streaming services highlighted above offer free trials, though the lengths vary. Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo boasts the longest trial period at seven days.
Should You Get Cable Instead?
As the streaming landscape evolves, some are reconsidering the shift back to cable. Basic cable can often be found for $50–$100 per month, but these rates are usually introductory offers. Contracts often bind you for one to two years, after which prices can increase significantly.
Streaming services offer the advantage of month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe easily. If you're overwhelmed by the number of streaming platforms and their rising costs, cable might be worth reconsidering. The choice ultimately depends on your preferences and budget.
