In today’s changing entertainment market, you can easily find many cable replacements when you are looking to cut the cord. Unlike on-demand video streaming platforms like Netflix, live TV streaming services like Hulu and Sling TV offer you large channels to watch at affordable prices.
Finding the best live TV streaming service can be a game-changer for how we experience entertainment. With the flexibility to watch your favorite shows, sports events, and news on various devices without a traditional cable contract, live TV streaming services cater to a wide range of preferences. This guide will break down on what is the best live TV streaming service and help you decide which one suits your needs best.
Definition – What is the Best Live TV Streaming Service?
Wondering what is the best live TV streaming service? Here is a definition:
A live TV streaming service is an online platform that allows users to stream live television over the internet, including channels for news, sports, entertainment, and local broadcasts, without needing a traditional cable or satellite subscription.
These services are designed to provide the experience of cable TV with added benefits like DVR storage, on-demand options, and the flexibility to watch on various devices. Finding the best one depends on your preferences for channel selection, price, streaming quality, and features.
List of Best Live TV Streaming Services
According to Digital TV Research, self-imposed cord-cutting to hit Western Europe pay TV report, Western Europe is expected to lose around 9 million pay-TV between 2023 and 2029. IPTV is expected to gain 1 million subscribers during the forecasted period, with pay satellite TV, pay DTT, and cable down by 6 million, 0.8 million, and 2.4 million simultaneously.
Image Source: (Digital TV Research)
UK-pay TV giant Sky has experienced double the operational losses amid growing cord-cutting. Viewers like the convenience live TV streaming services provide. It facilitates viewers to watch national and local news, events, and sports. They can use smart TV or streaming devices to stream live. Just find the best and start streaming. Check the list of best live TV streaming services to find the one that provides you with multiple channels and content at an affordable price.
Hulu Plus Live TV
Hulu + Live TV combines Hulu’s extensive on-demand library with a range of live TV channels, creating an all-in-one service for live and on-demand viewing.
As part of its standard bundle, users gain access to Disney+ and ESPN+, making it an appealing choice for households looking for a mix of entertainment, sports, and family-friendly content. Its DVR functionality lets users record favorite shows with 50 hours of included storage, upgradable for added space.
Pros:
Extensive On-Demand Library: Access to Hulu’s entire on-demand library, with additional Disney+ and ESPN+ content.
DVR Options: Includes 50 hours of DVR storage, with an option to upgrade for more.
Cons:
Limited Customization: Fewer customization choices compared to some competitors.
Best For: Viewers looking for a blend of live TV, movies, sports, and exclusive on-demand content in one service.
Cost:
$59.99/month for the first 3 months.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV stands out for its broad channel lineup of over 100 channels, unlimited DVR storage, and a user-friendly interface. It includes sports, news, lifestyle, and entertainment options, along with six user profiles per account.
Each profile gets personalized recommendations and DVR settings, making it a great choice for households with varied interests. It’s also known for its high streaming quality, supporting up to 1080p HD for most channels and select content in 4K (with an additional subscription).
Pros:
Extensive Channel Lineup: Includes popular channels such as ESPN, NBC, Fox, CNN, AMC, and HGTV.
Unlimited DVR Storage: Record and store shows for up to nine months with no storage limit.
Multiple User Profiles: Up to six profiles per account, each with personalized recommendations and DVR.
Cons:
Higher Price: Generally costs more than other streaming services.
Best For: Households with multiple users wanting a comprehensive lineup and unlimited DVR without the need for a cable contract.
Cost:
$49.99/month for the first two months, then $72.99/month for the base plan.
Sling TV Blue
Sling TV provides a budget-friendly way to access live TV channels, with customizable packages and add-ons. Its two main packages, Sling Orange and Sling Blue, let users choose between a mix of sports, news, and entertainment, or family and sports channels.
Sling Blue is ideal for those who prefer news and entertainment, while Sling Orange has more family-oriented and sports content. Local channel options are limited, making Sling best suited for those focused on popular national channels.
Pros:
Customizable Plans: Choose between Sling Orange (family and sports focus) or Sling Blue (news and entertainment), with add-ons for more channels.
Affordable Pricing: Lower starting price than most competitors, making it highly budget-friendly.
Cons:
Limited Local Channels: Fewer options for local channels compared to other services.
Best For: Budget-conscious viewers seeking flexibility in channel options without extensive local programming.
Cost:
Ranges from $40 to $45/month depending on location.
FuboTV
FuboTV caters to sports fans, with a comprehensive selection of sports channels that includes popular options like ESPN, NFL Network, and NBA TV. Beyond sports, FuboTV also offers a range of general entertainment and news channels, making it a versatile choice for households with a strong interest in sports but also a desire for general TV options. Select packages offer 4K streaming, and users can enjoy up to 1,000 hours of DVR storage.
Pros:
Excellent Sports Selection: Extensive sports channels, including ESPN, NFL Network, NBA TV, and regional sports networks.
Non-Sports Options: Includes popular channels like NBC, Fox, ABC, FX, and AMC.
High-Quality Streaming: Offers 4K streaming for some channels.
Cons:
Higher Cost for Premium Packages: Sports fans may need to pay extra for more comprehensive packages.
Best For: Sports enthusiasts looking for extensive sports access combined with general entertainment options.
Cost:
Packages range from $32.99 to $109.99/month:
Latino: $32.99/month for over 60 channels.
Pro: $79.99/month for 200 channels.
Deluxe: $109.99/month for 325 channels.
Elite with Sports Plus: $99.99/month.
Philo
Philo is a low-cost option focused on entertainment and lifestyle channels, making it ideal for viewers who don’t need sports or local programming. It includes a lineup of channels such as AMC, BET, Discovery, and A&E.
Users enjoy unlimited DVR storage, with shows saved for up to one year. For viewers focused on entertainment, lifestyle, and family-friendly content, Philo is a strong choice with budget-friendly pricing.
Pros:
Affordable Pricing: Low-cost access to entertainment and lifestyle channels.
Unlimited DVR Storage: Record and save shows for up to a year.
Cons:
No Local or Sports Channels: Lacks sports and local programming, limiting its appeal for some viewers.
Best For: Viewers interested in lifestyle and family-friendly channels who don’t need sports or local options.
Cost:
$28/month as of June 2024. Includes AMC+, A&E, MTV, BET, and Discovery. Offers a 7-day free trial.
DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream brings a traditional TV experience to streaming, featuring extensive channel options and packages similar to cable, including options for sports and premium content.
Subscribers have multiple package choices, including an Entertainment package and a separate Sports Pack, which offers regional sports networks and additional sports channels. With Gemini support, DirecTV Stream allows streaming on up to 20 devices on the same network.
Pros:
Comprehensive Channel Lineup: Offers popular national and regional sports networks, along with local channels.
Live and On-Demand Content: Includes a wide selection of on-demand shows and movies.
Multiple Device Streaming: Supports streaming on up to 20 devices simultaneously on the same network.
Cons:
Higher Price Range: One of the pricier options, especially for sports and premium channels.
Best For: Viewers seeking a cable-like streaming experience with local, regional sports, and premium content.
Cost:
Packages start at $86.99/month for the Entertainment plan, with an additional $14.99/month for the DIRECTV Sports Pack.
Ending Note
The best live TV streaming service depends on user needs and budget. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offer robust channel lineups and DVR storage, ideal for viewers seeking variety. Sling TV and Philo are affordable options for those who want flexibility or don’t require sports. FuboTV is a top choice for sports fans, while DirecTV Stream provides a cable-like experience with regional sports and premium channels. Choose based on which features align best with your preferences and budget.
How Alphanso Technology Can Help You Launch Your Best Live TV Streaming Service?
As the demand for live TV streaming services continues to grow, launching a competitive platform can be challenging. Alphonso Technology provides comprehensive solutions designed to help you create, optimize, and scale your live TV streaming service efficiently.
With seamless multi-device support and dedicated onboarding assistance, Alphonso Technology equips you with the tools and expertise needed to successfully enter and thrive in the streaming market.
FAQs: What is the Best Live TV Streaming Service?
How do I choose the best live TV streaming service for me?
When choosing a live TV streaming service, consider factors such as channel selection, pricing, streaming quality, available features (like DVR storage), and whether the service fits your viewing habits (e.g., sports, news, family content).
Can I watch live streaming services on multiple devices?
Yes, most live TV services enable you to watch streaming content on different devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers.
Do live TV streaming services offer DVR functionality?
Many live TV streaming services include DVR functionality, allowing you to record live shows and watch them later. The amount of storage and the ability to upgrade may vary by service.
Can I access local channels with live TV streaming services?
Many live TV streaming services offer access to local channels, but the availability can vary by service and geographic location. Services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV generally provide good coverage of local networks.
Is there a free trial available for live TV services?
Many live TV streaming services offer free trials for new subscribers, allowing you to test their offerings before committing to a subscription.
How do live TV streaming services compare in terms of cost?
Pricing for live TV streaming services varies widely based on the number of channels offered and additional features. Options like Philo and Sling TV tend to be more budget-friendly, while services like YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream are typically priced higher due to extensive channel offerings and features.
Can I watch sports on live TV streaming services?
Yes, many live TV streaming services include sports channels. Services like FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV are particularly strong in this area, offering extensive sports coverage, including national and regional networks.