Top Live TV Streaming Services for 2025

Ready to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming? Live TV streaming services are the perfect alternative to traditional cable, offering a seamless way to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports without the burden of long-term contracts. The best part? You can stream at home or on the go using your mobile phone or tablet. Plus, these services are often more budget-friendly, with no hidden fees or additional hardware costs to worry about.

With a plethora of options available, choosing the right service can be daunting. Fear not—we've done the legwork and handpicked the best live TV streaming services for you to explore in 2025.

DirecTV Stream

Best Cable Alternative

DirecTV Stream stands out as an excellent cable alternative, offering unparalleled flexibility to tailor your TV viewing experience. The service provides three Signature Packages, each designed to cater to different viewing preferences:

• Entertainment Pack: Over 90 channels focused on entertainment and family-friendly programming.
• Choice Pack: Adds 35 additional channels, including specialty options and regional sports.
• Ultimate Pack: More than 160 channels, covering movies, sports, and news.

For viewers with specific tastes, DirecTV Stream introduces new Genre Packs—affordable bundles focused on live sports, entertainment, or news. Subscribers enjoy unlimited DVR storage, simultaneous recording, and streaming on an unlimited number of devices within their home. You can also catch up on shows up to 72 hours after they've aired, even if you forgot to record them!

Hulu + Live TV

Best Streaming Bundle With TV

Hulu + Live TV merges the beloved Hulu streaming platform with a robust live TV package, offering over 95 channels. This service is ideal for fans of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, as it includes the Disney Bundle at no extra cost, typically valued at $16.99 per month. This bundle comprises Hulu (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and ESPN+ (with ads).

Subscribers benefit from unlimited DVR space and the ability to stream on two devices simultaneously, with an option to upgrade to unlimited screens for family viewing. A three-day free trial allows you to test the waters before committing to a monthly subscription.

Fubo

Best For Sports Variety

Fubo caters to sports enthusiasts, offering over 200 channels and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. Known for its comprehensive sports catalog, Fubo supports streaming on up to 10 devices at home and three on the go. With access to over 55,000 live events annually, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA college sports, and more, Fubo ensures you never miss a game. A seven-day free trial is available for new subscribers to experience the service firsthand.

Sling Freestream

Best For Free TV

Sling Freestream is the go-to for viewers seeking free TV content. With over 600 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand movies and TV shows, it's a treasure trove of entertainment, albeit mostly older content. Creating a free Sling TV account grants you 10 hours of DVR recordings and the chance to earn rewards and win prizes. For those interested in upgrading, various add-ons from Sling TV plans are available.

Live TV Streaming FAQs

Can You Watch Live TV For Free?

While major networks might not be available for free, you can access certain TV shows and channels at no cost. Using a TV antenna can pick up local channels and some extras. Alternatively, free streaming platforms like Sling Freestream, the Roku Channel, and Tubi offer viable options for free live TV viewing.

Which Live TV Streaming Services Have Free Trials?

All the services highlighted offer free trials, varying in length. Hulu + Live TV offers a three-day trial, DirecTV Stream provides five days, and Fubo offers a generous seven-day trial.

Should You Get Cable Instead?

With the proliferation of streaming services, fluctuating content availability, and increasing costs, some are reconsidering cable. Basic cable can be found for around $50–$100 per month, often as a limited-time offer. However, signing a contract may lock you into higher rates post-promotion. Streaming services offer the flexibility of month-to-month billing, allowing you to cancel or resubscribe at will. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences and tolerance for the evolving streaming landscape.