Top Live TV Streaming Services in 2025

Author: Christian May 25,2025

Ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services offer a fantastic alternative to traditional cable, providing access to your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the hassle of long-term contracts. The beauty of streaming lies in its flexibility—watch from the comfort of your home or on the go using your mobile device or tablet. Plus, these services are often more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or hardware costs to worry about.

With the plethora of options available, choosing the right service can be overwhelming. We've done the groundwork and identified the top live TV streaming services you should 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 an excellent cable alternative, offering unparalleled customization for your TV viewing experience. The service offers three Signature Packages: the Entertainment pack with over 90 channels focused on family-friendly and general entertainment; the Choice pack, which adds 35 more channels including specialty and regional sports; and the Ultimate pack, boasting over 160 channels covering everything from movies to sports to news.

For those with specific interests, DirecTV Stream introduces Genre Packs, tailored to specific content types like live sports, entertainment, or news, offering a cost-effective way to watch what you love. Subscribers enjoy unlimited DVR storage, the ability to record multiple shows simultaneously, and streaming on unlimited devices at home. Plus, you can catch up on 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 a stellar choice for those seeking a comprehensive streaming bundle. With over 95 live TV channels, it's perfect for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, thanks to the included Disney Bundle, which normally costs $16.99 per month. This bundle encompasses Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads), providing a vast array of content.

Enjoy unlimited DVR storage to record your favorite shows and movies, and stream on two devices simultaneously, with the option to upgrade to unlimited screens for family viewing. Hulu + Live TV also offers a three-day free trial, allowing you to test the service before committing to a 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 a top pick for sports enthusiasts, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. Known for its extensive sports coverage, Fubo provides 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. With over 35 regional sports networks in the base plan, you'll never miss a game.

Most Fubo plans allow streaming on up to 10 devices at home and three devices on the go. New subscribers can take advantage of a seven-day free trial to experience Fubo's offerings firsthand.

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

Sling Freestream is ideal for viewers who enjoy watching TV without a specific preference. It offers over 600 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand movies and TV shows—all for free. While you won't find the latest releases, the extensive library ensures there's always something to watch.

Creating a free Sling TV account grants you 10 hours of DVR recordings, allowing you to pause, fast-forward, and rewind content. Additionally, you can earn rewards and even win prizes just by watching. Sling Freestream also provides the option to upgrade with various add-ons from the Sling TV plans, all accessible from your profile.

Live TV Streaming FAQs

Can You Watch Live TV For Free?

Yes, you can watch certain TV shows and channels for free, though major networks are typically not included. Using a TV antenna is one of the simplest ways to access local channels and a few additional ones. Alternatively, free streaming platforms like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, and Tubi offer a variety of live TV options.

Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?

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

Should You Get Cable Instead?

The streaming landscape has evolved significantly, leading some to reconsider cable. While basic cable can be found for $50–$100 per month, these rates are often promotional and may increase after the contract period. Streaming services, on the other hand, offer month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe as needed. If you're frustrated with the growing number of streaming services and their rising costs, cable might be worth another look.