So, you're ready to ditch cable and embrace the future of streaming. Live TV streaming services offer a fantastic alternative, allowing you to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the burden of long-term contracts. The best part? You can stream at home or on the go from your mobile phone or tablet. Plus, streaming services are often more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or extra hardware costs.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose. Don't worry—we've done the research and narrowed down the top live TV streaming services for you to try 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 one of the best cable alternatives, offering unparalleled flexibility to customize your TV viewing experience. The service provides three Signature Packages, each tailored to different viewer preferences. The Entertainment pack features over 90 channels focused on entertainment and family-friendly programming. The Choice pack expands your options with 35 additional channels, including specialty and regional sports networks. For those seeking the ultimate viewing experience, the Ultimate pack offers more than 160 channels covering movies, sports, and news.
For viewers with specific interests, DirecTV Stream introduces new Genre Packs, each dedicated to a particular type of content such as live sports, entertainment, or news. These packs are cost-effective and perfect for those who know exactly what they want to watch.
With your subscription, you'll 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 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
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Includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads).
$82.99 at Hulu
Hulu + Live TV merges the beloved Hulu streaming platform with a comprehensive live TV package featuring over 95 channels. It's an ideal choice for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, as the monthly cost includes the Disney Bundle, which typically costs $16.99 per month. This bundle provides access to Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads), in addition to the extensive live TV lineup.
Subscribers to Hulu + Live TV enjoy unlimited DVR storage to record their favorite movies and shows. The service allows streaming on two supported devices simultaneously, with the option to upgrade to unlimited screens for family viewing. Additionally, Hulu + Live TV offers a three-day free trial, allowing you to test the service before committing to a monthly subscription.
Fubo
Best For Sports Variety
$30 Off First Month
Fubo (Pro)
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Save $30 off the first month after the free trial period.
$84.99 save 35%
$54.99 at Fubo
Fubo is renowned for its focus on sports, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. While it comes with a higher price tag, Fubo's extensive catalog makes it a top choice among live TV streaming services. Most plans allow 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, providing 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. New subscribers can enjoy a seven-day free trial to test the service.
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 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—all at no cost. While you won't find the latest releases, the extensive library 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. Plus, you can earn rewards and even win prizes simply by watching through Sling Freestream. The platform also allows you to upgrade with various add-ons from Sling TV plans within your profile.
Among free streaming services, Sling Freestream is our top recommendation.
Live TV Streaming FAQs
Can You Watch Live TV For Free?
While some TV shows and channels are available for free, major networks typically aren't included. Using a TV antenna is one of the simplest ways to access local channels and a few extras. Alternatively, you can explore free streaming sites or apps like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, Tubi, and more.
Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?
Each of the live TV streaming services mentioned above offers a free trial, varying in duration. Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo offers the most generous trial period at seven days.
Should You Get Cable Instead?
After years of cutting the cord, many are reconsidering cable due to the proliferation of streaming services, content removal, and rising costs. Basic cable can be found for $50–$100 per month, often as a promotional offer. However, these deals require contracts that lock you in 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 without hassle. If you're frustrated with the growing number of streaming services and their increasing costs, revisiting cable might be worth considering.