Are you ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services offer a fantastic alternative to traditional cable, providing you with access to your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the burden of long-term contracts. The best part? These services are not only convenient for streaming at home but also on the go using your mobile phone or tablet. What's more, they are often more budget-friendly, eliminating the need for extra fees or hardware.
With numerous options available, choosing the right live TV streaming service can be overwhelming. But don't worry—we've done the research and compiled a list of the best services for you to explore in 2025.
DirecTV Stream
Best Cable Alternative
Limited-Time Offer
DirecTV Stream (Choice)
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Includes $10 off for 24 months offer.
$79.99 at DirecTV
DirecTV Stream stands out as a top cable alternative, offering unparalleled flexibility to tailor your TV viewing experience. With three Signature Packages, each with a unique channel lineup, you can find the perfect fit. The Entertainment package boasts over 90 channels, focusing on family-friendly and entertainment programming. The Choice package expands with an additional 35 channels, including specialty and regional sports options. For those seeking a comprehensive selection, the Ultimate package offers over 160 channels, covering movies, sports, and news.
For those with specific viewing preferences, DirecTV Stream introduces Genre Packs, curated collections of channels centered around live sports, entertainment, or news. These packs are cost-effective and ideal for viewers who know exactly what they want.
Your subscription includes 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 air, even if you missed the live broadcast.
Hulu + Live TV
Best Streaming Bundle With TV
Disney Bundle Included
Hulu + Live TV
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Includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads).
$82.99 at Hulu
Hulu + Live TV seamlessly integrates the acclaimed Hulu streaming service with a robust live TV package, featuring over 95 channels. It's an ideal choice for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, as it includes the Disney Bundle at no extra cost, which normally costs $16.99 per month. This means, alongside your live TV channels, you'll also have access to Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads).
With Hulu + Live TV, you'll 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, ensuring everyone in the household can enjoy their preferred shows. Additionally, Hulu + Live TV offers a three-day free trial, allowing you to test the service before committing.
Fubo
Best For Sports Variety
$30 Off First Month
Fubo (Pro)
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Save $30 off first month after free trial period.
$84.99 save 35%
$54.99 at Fubo
Fubo is a live TV streaming service with a strong emphasis on sports, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. Known for its extensive channel lineup, Fubo does come at a premium price. However, it allows streaming on up to 10 devices simultaneously, with the option to watch on three devices while on the go.
For sports enthusiasts, Fubo is unbeatable, offering 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. New subscribers can enjoy a seven-day free trial to experience the service firsthand.
Sling Freestream
Best For Free TV
Watch and Earn Prizes
Sling Freestream
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Over 600 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand movies and TV shows.
See it at Sling
If you're looking for free entertainment without specific preferences, 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 it may not include the latest releases, its vast selection ensures you'll find something interesting to watch.
Creating a free Sling TV account provides 10 hours of DVR recordings, allowing you to pause, fast-forward, and rewind content. Plus, you can earn rewards and even win prizes just by watching through Sling Freestream. The service also allows you to upgrade with various add-ons from Sling TV plans directly from your profile.
Among the many free streaming options available, Sling Freestream stands out as our top pick.
Live TV Streaming FAQs
Can You Watch Live TV For Free?
You can watch certain TV shows and channels for free, but major networks are typically not included. One of the simplest ways to access live TV is by using a TV antenna to receive local channels and some additional content. Alternatively, you can explore free streaming platforms like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, Tubi, and others.
Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?
Each of the highlighted live TV streaming services offers a free trial, with varying durations. Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo provides the most generous trial at seven days.
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 increasing costs. Basic cable can be found for around $50–$100 per month, often through promotional offers. However, these deals typically require a contract, which can lead to price increases after the initial period.
One of the key advantages of streaming services is their month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe without hassle. If the growing number of streaming services and their rising costs are becoming too much, cable might be worth reconsidering.
