The landscape of television viewing has changed drastically over the last few years, with more people than ever before opting to cut the cord on traditional cable and satellite TV providers.
Live TV streaming services have emerged as a popular alternative, offering various channels and flexible pricing options to suit different budgets and preferences.
As per CrazyStreamers guides, there are a number of popular Live TV streaming platforms available. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 live TV streaming services in 2023 so streamers can watch live TV cable free. Let’s get started with the best one, Hulu + Live TV.
-
Hulu + Live TV
Pros:
- Extensive on-demand library
- Access to exclusive Hulu Originals
- Local channels included in most areas
Cons:
- Limited plan customization
- No 4K streaming
Features: Cloud DVR with 50 hours storage, two simultaneous streams, premium channel add-ons, compatible with most devices
Hulu + Live TV has long been famous for cord-cutters seeking an all-in-one streaming solution. With over 75 live TV channels, including local channels in most areas, and access to Hulu’s extensive on-demand library, this service offers impressive content to keep viewers entertained.
Moreover, the platform’s exclusive Hulu Originals, such as “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “Only Murders in the Building,” provide additional value for subscribers.
While Hulu + Live TV’s basic plan of $69.99 offers a solid lineup of channels, it falls short in plan customization and 4K streaming. Subscribers looking for more personalization or a higher-definition viewing experience might need to consider other options.
However, the service does offer premium channel add-ons and is compatible with most devices, making it a versatile choice for many viewers.
-
YouTube TV
Pros:
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage
- Access to YouTube Originals
- Support for unlimited streams
Cons:
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited channel add-ons
Features: 85+ live channels, local channels in most areas, three simultaneous streams, access to YouTube Kids
Since its launch, YouTube TV has gained significant traction, offering a straightforward and user-friendly live TV streaming experience. With unlimited cloud DVR storage, support for up to six accounts, and access to YouTube Originals, this service stands out in terms of user flexibility and unique content offerings.
The main drawback of YouTube TV is its higher starting price of $85/month compared to competitors. Additionally, the platform’s channel add-ons are somewhat limited and cost $20 per add-on, and this may not cater to those seeking a more customized channel lineup.
However, YouTube TV does provide 85+ live channels and access to local channels in most areas, making it an appealing choice for many viewers.
-
Sling TV
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Highly customizable channel lineup
- Wide selection of international channels
Cons:
- Local channels not included in base plans
- Limited cloud DVR storage
Features: Sling Orange and Sling Blue plans, 50-hour cloud DVR storage, extensive add-on packages, compatible with most devices
Sling TV offers a competitive and customizable live TV streaming service for budget-conscious viewers. With its two base plans of $35/month, Sling Orange and Sling Blue, subscribers can choose the channel lineup that best suits their preferences. Sling Blue offers 41+, while Sling Orange provides 31+ channels. The platform also offers a wide array of add-on packages, allowing users to tailor their experience further.
The primary downside to Sling TV is the lack of local channels in its base plans, which may be a deal-breaker for some viewers. Additionally, the service only provides 50 hours of cloud DVR storage, which may be insufficient for heavy users.
-
FuboTV
Pros:
- Extensive sports coverage
- 4K streaming available
- Local channels included in most areas
Cons:
- Expensive base plan
- Limited on-demand content
Features: 100+ live channels, 250-hour cloud DVR storage, Family Share with three simultaneous streams, international sports add-ons, compatible with most devices
FuboTV stands out as a top choice for sports enthusiasts, offering extensive coverage across various leagues and events. With 4K streaming available for select content and local channels included in most areas, FuboTV provides a high-quality viewing experience for subscribers.
The main downside to FuboTV is its expensive base plan of $69.99, which may deter budget-conscious viewers. Additionally, the platform’s on-demand content offerings are somewhat limited compared to competitors like Hulu + Live TV.
However, for sports fans seeking comprehensive coverage and a premium viewing experience, FuboTV is hard to beat.
-
DIRECTV Stream
Pros:
- Wide range of channels
- HBO Max included in certain plans
- Regional sports networks available
Cons:
- Pricey compared to some competitors
Features: Four tiered plans, 20 hours of cloud DVR storage, three simultaneous streams, premium channel add-ons, compatible with most devices
DIRECTV Stream (formerly known as AT&T TV) offers a robust live TV streaming experience with a wide range of channels and four-tiered plans. The plans start from $74.99 per month.
For viewers seeking premium content, certain plans include HBO Max, adding even more value to the service. The platform also caters to sports fans with the availability of regional sports networks.
The primary drawbacks of DIRECTV Stream are the lack of unlimited cloud DVR storage and its pricing compared to some competitors. However, the platform’s extensive channel lineup and premium content offerings make it an attractive option for viewers seeking a comprehensive streaming experience.
Wrap Up!
With the ever-growing popularity of live TV streaming services, evaluating the options available is essential to find the best fit for your viewing preferences and budget.
Each of the top five services discussed in this article – Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV, and DIRECTV Stream – has unique strengths and drawbacks.
Consider each platform’s channel lineups, customization options, and additional features before deciding. Also, check out our piece on some of the top streaming giants.
The bottom line is that you have more content to explore than ever before, so pick a service that best resonates with you!
