We recommend products and services based on unbiased research from our editorial team. We make money via affiliate links, which means if you click a link on our site, we may earn a commission. Any commissions we receive do not affect our recommendations; if you want to know more about how that works, read more.
A subscription with a cable company can feel like a one-sided relationship. You may not have many providers to choose from, leaving you with no recourse for annoyances like rate hikes. The best live streaming services give you another option: full channel bundles delivered over the internet, with cloud DVR and flexible month-to-month plans from providers like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, Fubo, and DIRECTV STREAM — often for less overall hassle than cable.
How We Chose the Best Live TV Streaming Services
Live TV channels
The best live TV streaming services provide more flexibility than cable. You can live stream tv channels as they air while paying a month-to-month fee — no need to sign a long-term contract, and no need to pay a $200 penalty if you want to end your contract early. For this review, we didn’t look at popular streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, which only stream on-demand content (You can read about those options in our review of on-demand services). We focused on today’s major “live TV” bundles (vMVPDs): YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, Fubo, and DIRECTV STREAM — with budget-friendly options like Philo and Frndly for entertainment-focused lineups.
Quality of channels
After finding our contenders, we graded each live TV streaming service on the quality and number of channels they offer. Each service offers a different range of channels, but it’s not always easy to figure out which package is actually the best deal. Companies tend to pad their offerings with obscure channels to make the raw numbers sound better. Rather than chasing raw counts, we emphasized access to the channels most people actually watch — local broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC), cornerstone sports and news channels, and key entertainment nets — and how those lineups vary by ZIP code and plan.
Enter TiVo’s channel-preference research. Historic surveys have long shown that broadcast TV networks ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox are at the top of most viewers’ “must-have” lists. We used that insight directionally and weighted services that reliably include local channels and widely watched cable networks — while noting that availability still depends on where you live.
Live sports
According to industry research, live sports remain one of the strongest reasons people keep a live TV bundle. We wanted to find streaming services that let viewers cut the cord without missing their favorite games.
Here, we turned to a Gallup survey about Americans’ favorite sports to watch and paired that with each provider’s published channel lineups. We checked which channels air live games from major leagues (NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, college football/basketball, and more) and how often, then weighted those channels accordingly.
We also accounted for regional sports network (RSN) coverage, which varies widely by provider and ZIP: DIRECTV STREAM has the broadest RSN access (including Bally Sports in applicable markets), Fubo carries many non‑Bally RSNs, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV commonly offer NBC Sports RSNs in covered areas, and Sling does not carry RSNs. Always verify your ZIP code on the provider’s site before subscribing.
Cloud DVR and simultaneous streams
A number of live TV streaming services also include perks like cloud DVR storage and simultaneous streams. In 2025, most leading services offer large or unlimited cloud DVRs (often with recordings kept for up to nine months) and support multiple concurrent streams, with optional add-ons for “unlimited” in‑home streaming on the same Wi‑Fi network. These features make it easier to time‑shift big games and share a subscription across a household.
Device compatibility
No matter how many channels you have, it’s not a good deal if you have no way to play them. The major services support a wide range of devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV/Android TV, recent Samsung/LG/Vizio smart TVs, and current PlayStation/Xbox consoles. If you’re new to streaming TV, you can check out our review of the best streaming devices here.
The 7 Best Live TV Streaming Services
- Hulu + Live TV – Best Channel Lineup
- PlayStation Vue – Discontinued; best current alternatives for sports: DIRECTV STREAM (Bally RSNs) or Fubo (many non‑Bally RSNs)
- Fubo TV – Sports‑forward lineup and RSN coverage in many markets
- YouTube TV – Best User Experience
- DirecTV Now – Now DIRECTV STREAM; best for RSNs on higher tiers
- AT&T Watch TV – Discontinued; consider Sling or Philo for budget bundles
- Pluto TV – Best Free TV Streaming
Pros
Best-in-class channel lineup
Includes Hulu on-demand
Airs most live sports
50 hours of DVR storage
Cons
Poor user interface
Only two simultaneous streams
Why we chose it
Best-in-class channel lineup
The best channel lineup is highly subjective, but we think Hulu + Live TV is the best option for most people. Hulu + Live TV generally includes a broad mix of local broadcast stations, sports, news, and entertainment channels, and it’s bundled with Hulu’s on‑demand library, Disney+, and ESPN+. While exact lineups vary by ZIP code, Hulu + Live TV hits the “must‑have” networks for many households and keeps everything in one app.
Of the most desired channels viewers look for, Hulu tends to cover the big broadcast networks in most markets and key cable brands like FX, TNT/TBS, Discovery, and History, alongside sports staples such as ESPN. As always, check your ZIP code to confirm the exact lineup where you live.
Includes Hulu on-demand
Hulu + Live TV has one perk that no other live TV streaming service offers: When you sign up for Hulu, you also get its vast on-demand library of TV shows and movies, and the plan is commonly bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+. Unlimited cloud DVR is included, so you can record and watch on your schedule.
Airs most live sports
As you may have heard, Hulu has live sports. While not the single deepest sports option, Hulu + Live TV covers the major national sports networks and local affiliates in many markets. RSN coverage is more limited (commonly NBC Sports RSNs where available), so if your local team plays on a specific RSN family, verify your market first.
50 hours of DVR storage
Hulu now includes unlimited cloud DVR with recordings typically available for up to nine months, so you can save full seasons and big games without worrying about running out of space.
Points to consider
Poor user interface
Hulu’s live guide and navigation have improved over time, but the interface can still feel busy and take a few extra clicks compared with simpler guides. If you value a very streamlined EPG and previewing what’s on before tuning, YouTube TV’s interface may feel more intuitive.
Only two simultaneous streams
You’ll only be able to stream on two devices at once with Hulu by default. If you live in a house with several people who want to watch different things, it might be worth adding Unlimited Screens, which allows unlimited streams on your home network plus three when you’re away from home.
Pros
Extensive sports channels
Easy to navigate
Unlimited cloud DVR storage
Five simultaneous streams
Cons
Not worth the money for casual sports fans
Why we chose it
Extensive sports channels
PlayStation Vue was discontinued in 2020. For a comparable or better sports experience today, consider DIRECTV STREAM (broadest RSN coverage, including Bally Sports in applicable markets) or Fubo (strong for non‑Bally RSNs and extensive national sports channels). YouTube TV is also a great all‑around option with robust national sports coverage and unlimited DVR.
If following local teams is your priority, start by checking your ZIP code on DIRECTV STREAM or Fubo to confirm which RSNs are included and whether any regional sports fees apply. For many viewers, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV will cover national games and local broadcasts even if an RSN isn’t carried.
Easy to navigate
While PlayStation Vue’s interface was well liked in its day, modern services like YouTube TV and Fubo now offer fast, intuitive guides, multiview options on select platforms, and reliable discovery features.
Unlimited cloud DVR storage
Today, unlimited or very large cloud DVRs are standard across the leaders: YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV include unlimited DVR (with typical nine‑month retention), and Fubo includes generous hour‑based DVR allotments on core plans.
Five simultaneous streams
Current services offer ample concurrency: YouTube TV supports three streams by default with an add‑on for unlimited in‑home streaming; Hulu + Live TV offers an Unlimited Screens add‑on; and Fubo commonly allows many in‑home streams on supported plans.
Points to consider
Not worth the money for casual sports fans
Since PlayStation Vue is no longer available, casual sports fans should compare YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV for broad national coverage and locals, and consider Sling for lower-cost national sports if you don’t need RSNs. Viewers who require specific RSNs (especially Bally Sports) should look at DIRECTV STREAM; many non‑Bally RSNs are also available on Fubo.
Pros
96 channels
Great for fans of European soccer
Sports in 4K
Cons
Expensive
Missing essential sports channels
Why we chose it
Sports-forward lineup with 190+ channels (Pro plan)
Fubo’s base plan offers one of the broadest sports‑centric lineups among live TV streamers, with extensive national sports channels and many local broadcasters. It also includes numerous entertainment and news networks. One important caveat: Fubo does not carry Turner networks (TNT/TBS/truTV), which affects parts of the NBA and NHL regular seasons and postseasons, as well as March Madness.
Great for fans of European soccer
If you follow soccer, Fubo is a strong choice. It carries a deep mix of soccer channels and league coverage, plus NBC/USA Network for Premier League matches in the U.S. In many markets, Fubo also includes regional sports networks that carry local MLS, MLB, NBA, or NHL coverage (market- and rights-dependent).
Sports in 4K
If you have a newer 4K TV, Fubo streams select live events in 4K on supported devices. You can find details about Fubo’s 4K availability in its support resources, and check the schedule of upcoming 4K games on supported channels. Keep in mind availability varies by event and device.
Points to consider
Expensive
Fubo’s pricing is on the higher end among live TV streamers, and in markets with regional sports networks you may see a separate regional sports fee on your bill. If you don’t need RSNs, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV may offer a better overall value.
Missing essential sports channels
Fubo’s lack of Turner networks (TNT/TBS/truTV) means you’ll miss some marquee NBA, NHL, MLB, and NCAA tournament games. Make sure those channels aren’t essential for your viewing before you commit.
Pros
Best-in-class interface and navigation
Unlimited DVR storage
Great for live sports
Cons
Average channel selection
Not compatible with Amazon Fire TV or PlayStation
Why we chose it
Best-in-class interface and navigation
YouTube TV is a delight to use. Most live TV streaming services have fairly similar interfaces, and they all stick pretty closely to the cable TV playbook. YouTube TV is the one that stands out. Instead of the ubiquitous black background with tiny text, YouTube TV provides a clean white interface with clear, easy-to-read black lettering.
We also loved how its guide shows you a preview of what’s currently playing and a short description of the program when you stop on a channel. If you see that your show’s still on commercial or the game’s a blowout, you don’t have to waste time clicking on that channel.
Unlimited DVR storage
It’s hard to beat unlimited DVR storage. YouTube TV lets you record as many shows and movies as you want, and it keeps them for nine months. That’s more generous than most hour-capped DVRs.
Great for live sports
YouTube TV offers one of the strongest national sports lineups, with local broadcast coverage in most markets and extensive league and conference networks. A 4K add‑on is available for select events. RSN availability is more limited than DIRECTV STREAM or Fubo, so verify your ZIP code if local team coverage is essential.
Points to consider
Average channel selection
YouTube TV’s overall lineup is excellent for most households, with strong locals and national sports/news. If you need the broadest RSN footprint, DIRECTV STREAM (Choice and up) generally covers more local team channels; if you need every Turner network game, note that Fubo lacks Turner while YouTube TV includes them.
Not compatible with Amazon Fire TV or PlayStation
YouTube TV now supports virtually all major streaming platforms, including Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, Google TV/Android TV, recent smart TVs, and current PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
Pros
Includes HBO in every plan
Has every local channel
Cons
Worst channel lineup overall
Regional sports networks only available in $70+ plans
20 hours of DVR storage
Two simultaneous streams
Why we chose it
Rebranded as DIRECTV STREAM; premium add-ons available
DIRECTV NOW has evolved into DIRECTV STREAM (also marketed as DIRECTV via Internet). Premium networks like HBO/Max are available as add‑ons or included in higher “Premier” tiers rather than bundled in every plan. DIRECTV STREAM’s strength is its traditional cable‑like breadth and its sports depth on mid/high tiers.
Has every local channel
DIRECTV STREAM carries local ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates in most markets, alongside a wide mix of national networks. You can get some local channels for free with an antenna, but it’s convenient to have them integrated in one live TV guide.
Points to consider
Worst channel lineup overall
DIRECTV STREAM isn’t the cheapest option, but it delivers one of the deepest overall lineups — especially if you need RSNs or premium channels. If you don’t need RSNs, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV may offer a better price-to-value ratio for many homes.
Regional sports networks only available in $70+ plans
RSNs are included starting with the Choice tier and higher, and some markets assess a separate regional sports fee. If your local teams are a must, factor the tier and any RSN fee into your total monthly cost.
20 hours of DVR storage
DIRECTV STREAM now advertises unlimited cloud DVR, making it more competitive with YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV for time‑shifting games and shows.
Two simultaneous streams
DIRECTV STREAM supports multiple simultaneous streams (with generous in‑home limits on many devices). Check the current plan details to confirm exact streaming limits for your household.
Pros
Inexpensive
Has five out of 10 most desired channels
Cons
No local channels or live sports
No DVR storage
One stream at a time
Why we chose it
Inexpensive
AT&T WatchTV has been discontinued. If you’re looking for the lowest-cost live TV option today, consider Sling TV’s Orange/Blue plans (modular channel packs and limited locals) or Philo (entertainment‑focused bundle without locals or major sports networks).
Has five out of 10 most desired channels
On a budget, Sling can cover essentials like ESPN (Orange) or broader news/entertainment (Blue) with add‑on packs. Philo offers many popular entertainment and lifestyle channels at a low price, with unlimited DVR, if you don’t need locals or sports.
Points to consider
No local channels or live sports
Budget services reduce costs by limiting locals and sports. Sling carries limited local channels in select markets (often best paired with an antenna); Philo does not include locals or major sports networks. Locast.org operated in some markets in the past but is no longer available.
No DVR storage
Sling includes a small DVR by default with an option to upgrade; Philo includes unlimited DVR with lengthy retention. If cloud DVR is essential, factor each service’s limits into your decision.
One stream at a time
Sling’s simultaneous streams depend on the plan (Orange allows one; Blue allows three; combining plans yields up to four with channel caveats). Philo supports multiple streams; check each service’s current limits before subscribing.
Pros
13 news channels
Old shows from MTV, Nick, and BET
Several well-known sports channels
Cons
Not many traditional cable TV channels
Ads interrupt programs at random times
Why we chose it
13 news channels
If you want to keep up with current events without paying a monthly cable bill, Pluto TV is a leading free, ad‑supported TV (FAST) option with numerous live news channels and feeds from major brands. Programming can differ from the paid cable versions, but you’ll find plenty of live updates and breaking coverage.
Old shows from MTV, Nick, and BET
Pluto TV features curated channels with classic series and themed blocks from brands like MTV, Nick, and BET — great for nostalgia viewing and lean‑back discovery without a subscription.
Several well-known sports channels
If you like highlights and commentary without paying traditional carriage fees for premium sports networks, Pluto TV offers a solid alternative. You won’t get the major live game rights found on vMVPDs, but you will find plenty of analysis, studio shows, and replays across its many sports-themed channels.
Points to consider
Not many traditional cable TV channels
Because it’s a free service, you won’t find many traditional cable channels in Pluto TV’s lineup. Even when you do recognize a channel, the programming on it is typically made up of that network’s back catalogue.
Ads interrupt programs at random times
It’s hard to complain about a free service, but we did find it annoying how Pluto TV’s commercials interrupted programs mid-sentence. This happens mostly on channels like NBC News and CBSN, which air a mix of their own content and their better-known counterparts’.
Guide to Live TV Streaming
How to stream live TV
Check your zip code
While ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC are the most sought after channels, each provider’s offerings will vary by location. ABC could be available to live stream in San Diego but available only on-demand in Omaha, or not at all in San Antonio. The same goes for regional sports networks. If these channels are important to you, we recommend checking your zip code on each provider’s website before signing up. We ran zip codes for Seattle, Cleveland, New York, Los Angeles, and Boston and found that DIRECTV STREAM, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV generally offered strong local coverage in these regions, while budget-focused services were more hit or miss.
Connect your TV
Most TVs sold in the past few years can connect to the internet and download apps for streaming, and this is by far the most popular option for streaming content. Smart TV and streaming OS platforms like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Google TV/Android TV cover most living rooms, and current PlayStation and Xbox consoles also support major streaming apps.
If you don’t already own one of these streaming-ready pieces of equipment, a cheaper option is to invest in a our review of the best streaming devices here like a Fire TV or Roku. These devices usually cost around $50, plug into your TV’s HDMI port, and connect to your home’s WiFi or Ethernet to provide access to streaming apps. For more information on setting up your TV for streaming, check out our guide here.
Ethernet is better for streaming than WiFi
If waiting for videos to buffer is the bane of your existence, consider an Ethernet connection. Although WiFi has gotten significantly faster over the years, Ethernet is still the more consistent option for streaming TV. Unfortunately, your TV will have to be relatively close to your wireless router for this to work, but the result is a much more reliable connection.
Live TV Streaming FAQ
The Best Live TV Streaming Services: Summed Up
Our Other TV Reviews
Live TV streaming is just step one on the path to a world-class entertainment setup. Check out some of our other reviews on how to step up your TV game:
Recently Added
