Top Live TV Streaming Services in 2025

So, you're ready to ditch cable and embrace the future of streaming? Live TV streaming services are the perfect alternative, allowing you to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without being tied down by long-term contracts. The best part? You can stream from the comfort of your 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 costs.

With the plethora of options available, choosing the right service can be overwhelming. Don't worry—we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the top live TV streaming services to try in 2025.

DirecTV Stream

Best Cable Alternative

Limited-Time Offer
DirecTV Stream (Choice)
$0
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 tailor your TV experience. Choose from three Signature Packages, each designed to cater to different viewing preferences. The Entertainment package includes over 90 channels focused on entertainment and family-friendly programming. Upgrade to the Choice package for an additional 35 channels, including specialty and regional sports. For the ultimate viewing experience, the Ultimate package offers over 160 channels covering movies, sports, and news.

For those with specific interests, DirecTV Stream introduces new Genre Packs—affordable options tailored to specific content types like live sports, entertainment, or news. With your subscription, you get unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and the freedom to stream 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 forgot to record them.

Hulu + Live TV

Best Streaming Bundle With TV

Disney Bundle Included
Hulu + Live TV
$0
Includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads).
$82.99 at Hulu

Hulu + Live TV offers a compelling package that combines the popular Hulu streaming service with over 95 live TV channels. It's an ideal choice for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, as the subscription includes the Disney Bundle, which typically costs an additional $16.99 per month. This means you get Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads) along with your live TV channels.

Enjoy unlimited DVR space to record your favorite content and stream on two devices simultaneously. For larger households, you can upgrade to unlimited screens to ensure everyone can watch without interruptions. Hulu + Live TV also offers a three-day free trial, allowing you to experience the service before committing to a monthly subscription.

Fubo

Best For Sports Variety

$30 Off First Month
Fubo (Pro)
$0
Save $30 off first month after free trial period.
$84.99 save 35%
$54.99 at Fubo

Fubo is the go-to live TV subscription service for sports enthusiasts, boasting over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. While it comes with a higher price tag, Fubo offers one of the most comprehensive channel lineups among live TV streaming services. You can stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously and watch on up to three devices while away from home.

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, Fubo ensures you never miss a game. The base plan includes over 35 regional sports networks. 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
$0
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 a fantastic 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 there's always something interesting to watch.

Creating a free Sling TV account grants you 10 hours of complimentary 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. If you decide to upgrade, you can add various options from Sling TV plans directly from your profile.

Sling Freestream is our top pick among free streaming services.

Live TV Streaming FAQs

Can You Watch Live TV For Free?

While some TV shows and channels are available for free, major networks are typically not included. One of the easiest ways to access live TV is by using a TV antenna to pick up local channels and a few extras. Alternatively, consider free streaming platforms like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, Tubi, and others.

Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?

Each of the live TV streaming services mentioned offers a free trial, though the duration varies. Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo offers a generous seven-day trial.

Should You Get Cable Instead?

As streaming services multiply and prices rise, some might consider returning to cable. Basic cable typically costs between $50 and $100 per month, often with promotional pricing. However, signing a contract can lock you in for a year or more, and prices can increase significantly once the promotional period ends.

One of the main benefits of streaming services is their flexibility, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe on a month-to-month basis. If the increasing number of streaming services and rising costs are frustrating, cable might be worth considering again. Ultimately, the choice is yours.