Ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services are the perfect cable replacement, offering you the freedom to watch your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the burden of long-term contracts. The best part? These services are not only accessible at home but also on your mobile devices, wherever you go. Plus, they are generally more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or additional hardware required.
With a plethora of options available, choosing the right service can be daunting. But fear not—we've streamlined the selection process and highlighted 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 DirecTVDirecTV Stream stands out as a premier cable alternative, offering unparalleled flexibility to tailor your TV viewing experience. Choose from three Signature Packages, each designed to cater to different viewing preferences. The Entertainment package boasts over 90 channels, perfect for family-friendly entertainment. Upgrade to the Choice package for an additional 35 channels, including specialty and regional sports networks. For the ultimate viewing experience, the Ultimate package offers over 160 channels, covering a wide array of genres from movies to sports and news.
For those with specific interests, DirecTV Stream introduces Genre Packs, allowing you to focus on content like live sports, entertainment, or news at a more affordable rate.
Your subscription includes unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and streaming on an unlimited number of devices at home. Plus, enjoy the convenience of watching 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 HuluHulu + Live TV is an exceptional choice for those seeking a comprehensive streaming experience. This service bundles over 95 live TV channels with the popular Hulu streaming platform, and it comes with the added bonus of the Disney Bundle, which includes Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads) for a total value that typically costs $16.99 per month.
Enjoy unlimited DVR storage to capture your favorite content and the ability to stream on two devices simultaneously, with an option to upgrade to unlimited screens for uninterrupted family viewing. Hulu + Live TV also offers a three-day free trial, allowing you to explore the service 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 FuboFubo is a top choice for sports enthusiasts, providing over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. With a focus on sports, Fubo offers access to more than 55,000 live events annually, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA college sports, NASCAR, international soccer, golf, tennis, boxing, MMA, and more. The service includes over 35 regional sports networks in its base plan, ensuring you never miss a game.
Most Fubo plans allow for streaming on up to 10 devices at home and three devices on the go. New subscribers can take advantage of a seven-day free trial to test the service.
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 SlingSling Freestream is an excellent option for those looking for free TV content. Offering over 600 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand movies and TV shows, it's ideal for casual viewers. While the content may primarily consist of reruns and older shows, the extensive selection ensures there's always something to watch.
Creating a free Sling TV account enhances your experience with 10 hours of complimentary DVR recordings, allowing you to control your viewing. Additionally, you can earn rewards and even win prizes just by watching through Sling Freestream. If you decide to upgrade, various add-ons from Sling TV plans are available within your profile.
Sling Freestream is our top pick among free streaming services for its broad content and added features.
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 can help you access local channels and some additional content. Alternatively, explore free streaming platforms like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, Tubi, and others for a variety of live TV options.
Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?
Each of the services mentioned offers a free trial: Hulu + Live TV provides three days, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo gives you a generous seven-day trial.
Should You Get Cable Instead?
The landscape of streaming has evolved, leading some to reconsider traditional cable. Basic cable can be found for $50–$100 per month, often with promotional pricing. However, these deals usually require a contract that may lead to price increases after the promotional period.
Streaming services offer the advantage of month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe as needed without the hassle of contracts. If the increasing number of streaming services and rising costs are overwhelming, cable might be worth another look. Ultimately, the choice depends on your viewing habits and budget.