Top Live TV Streaming Services in 2025

Are you ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services offer a fantastic alternative to traditional cable, allowing you to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the hassle of long-term contracts. The beauty of streaming lies in its flexibility—you can watch from the comfort of your home or on the go using your mobile device or tablet. Not only is it more convenient, but streaming services are often more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or additional hardware costs.

With a plethora of streaming options available, deciding which one to choose can feel overwhelming. Fear not! We've done the research and curated a list of the top live TV streaming services for you to consider 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 a premier cable alternative, offering unmatched flexibility to tailor your TV viewing experience. With three Signature Packages—Entertainment, Choice, and Ultimate—you can select the one that best fits your viewing preferences. The Entertainment package offers over 90 channels focused on entertainment and family-friendly content. The Choice package expands this by adding 35 more channels, including specialty and regional sports networks. For those seeking the ultimate viewing experience, the Ultimate package boasts over 160 channels, covering everything from movies and sports to news.

For viewers with specific interests, DirecTV Stream introduces new Genre Packs, each centered around particular content types such as live sports, entertainment, or news. These packs are cost-effective and ideal for those who know exactly what they want to watch.

Subscribers enjoy unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and the freedom 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 is an exceptional choice for those seeking a comprehensive streaming bundle. With over 95 live TV channels, you can enjoy a wide range of content. The package includes the Disney Bundle, which typically costs $16.99 per month and offers Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads). This means you get access to Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, alongside your live TV channels.

Hulu + Live TV offers unlimited DVR storage, allowing you to record your favorite shows and movies. You can stream on two devices simultaneously, or upgrade to unlimited screens to ensure everyone in your household can watch without interruptions. A three-day free trial is available, giving you a chance to experience 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 first month after free trial period.

$84.99 save 35%

$54.99 at Fubo

Fubo is the go-to service for sports enthusiasts, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. While it comes with a higher price tag, Fubo's comprehensive sports coverage is unparalleled. You can stream on up to 10 devices at home and three devices on the go, ensuring you never miss a game.

With access to over 55,000 live events annually, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA college sports, NASCAR, international soccer, golf, tennis, boxing, and MMA, Fubo is a sports lover's dream. The base plan includes over 35 regional sports networks, providing ample opportunities to catch your favorite teams in action. 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 TV content without specific preferences, Sling Freestream is an excellent 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 of reruns and older content ensures there's always something 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, various add-ons from Sling TV plans are available within your profile.

Among the many free streaming services, Sling Freestream stands out as our top pick.

Live TV Streaming FAQs

Can You Watch Live TV For Free?

While you can watch certain TV shows and channels for free, major networks are typically not included. One of the simplest ways to access live TV is by using a TV antenna to pick up local channels and a few extras. Alternatively, free streaming sites and apps like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, and Tubi offer a variety of content.

Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?

Each of the live TV streaming services mentioned above offers a free trial, with varying durations. Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream offers five days, and Fubo is the most generous with a seven-day trial.

Should You Get Cable Instead?

The streaming landscape has evolved significantly, and some are reconsidering the switch back to cable due to the proliferation of services, content removal, and price increases. Basic cable can often be found for $50–$100 per month, though these are usually promotional rates. Contracts can lock you in for a year or more, and prices may rise after the promotional period.

Streaming services, on the other hand, offer the advantage of month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe as needed. If the growing number of streaming services and their costs are becoming overwhelming, cable might be worth reconsidering. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences and budget.