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 watch your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the hassle of long-term contracts. The best part? You can enjoy your content at home or on the go, using your mobile phone or tablet. Plus, these services are often more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or extra hardware required.
With a plethora of options available, choosing the right live TV streaming service can be overwhelming. But don't worry—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 one of the best cable alternatives, offering unparalleled flexibility to tailor your TV experience. With three Signature Packages—Entertainment, Choice, and Ultimate—you can choose from over 90 channels in the Entertainment pack, which focuses on family-friendly programming. The Choice pack adds 35 more channels, including specialty and regional sports, while the Ultimate pack boasts over 160 channels covering movies, sports, and news.
For those with specific interests, DirecTV Stream introduces new Genre Packs, each dedicated to a particular type of content like live sports, entertainment, or news. These packs are cost-effective and ideal for viewers who know exactly what they want to watch.
Your subscription includes unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and streaming 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 is a fantastic choice for those who want a comprehensive streaming experience. It combines Hulu's popular streaming service with over 95 live TV channels. The service includes the Disney Bundle, which typically costs $16.99 per month, giving you access to Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads) at no extra charge.
With Hulu + Live TV, you get unlimited DVR space to record your favorite content. The service allows streaming on two devices simultaneously, with an option to upgrade to unlimited screens for family viewing. Plus, you can try Hulu + Live TV for free with a three-day trial before committing to a monthly 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 service for sports fans, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. While it comes with a higher price tag, Fubo's comprehensive sports coverage is unmatched, with 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. 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 three devices on the go. New subscribers can enjoy a seven-day free trial 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 TV 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 you won't find the latest releases, the vast selection ensures you'll find something to watch.
Creating a free Sling TV account gives you 10 hours of complimentary DVR recordings, allowing you to pause, fast-forward, and rewind content. You can also earn rewards and even win prizes just by watching. Sling Freestream also offers the option to upgrade with various add-ons from Sling TV plans within your profile.
Among other free streaming services, Sling Freestream stands out as our top pick.
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. Using a TV antenna is one of the easiest ways to access local channels and some additional content. Alternatively, free streaming sites and apps like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, and Tubi offer a variety of live TV options.
Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?
Each of the services mentioned above offers a free trial. Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo gives you a generous seven-day trial to test the service.
Should You Get Cable Instead?
The streaming landscape has evolved significantly, and with the proliferation of services, content removals, and price increases, some are reconsidering cable. Basic cable can often be found for $50–$100 per month, but these are usually promotional rates. Contracts can lock you in for a year or more, and prices can rise significantly after the promotional period.
Streaming services offer the advantage of month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe as needed. If the growing number of streaming services and their costs are becoming too much, cable might be worth reconsidering. Ultimately, the choice depends on your viewing habits and budget.
