Live TV Streaming in 2025: The Best Services Compared
We still think a live TV streaming service is a better deal than traditional cable, but the gap between the two is narrowing. With many major providers now costing over $80 per month, the savings aren’t as dramatic as they once were. However, streaming services still offer key advantages: no long-term contracts, simpler pricing, and no need for special equipment beyond a smart TV and an internet connection.
After testing all the major players, YouTube TV stands out as the most well-rounded option. The live TV streaming landscape is evolving rapidly, with new services launching from ESPN and Fox, and the ongoing consolidation of Hulu into Disney.
How to Stream Live NFL Games
The rights to air NFL games are spread across several networks. CBS/Paramount+ and Fox/Fox One will show around 200 Sunday games. NBC/Peacock hosts Sunday Night Football, Prime Video airs Thursday night games, and ABC/ESPN covers Monday night matchups. A few games are exclusive to the NFL Network, and Netflix will stream the Christmas-day games. YouTube will also air a single week-one game for free.
To see all Sunday daytime matchups, you’ll need the NFL Sunday Ticket, now exclusive to YouTube TV, which costs between $35 and $115 per month. Most paid live TV services like YouTube TV, Fubo TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV include the local Fox, CBS, ABC, and NBC stations needed to watch most games.
You can also stream many games for free. Using a digital antenna lets you pick up your local broadcast stations. Most paid services offer free trials, allowing you to hop between them to catch games. Alternatively, your local sports bar is always an option.
Best Free Live TV Streaming Services for 2025
There are numerous ways to get free TV. Many standard streaming apps have added live components; for example, Peacock and Paramount+ subscriptions can include access to your local NBC and CBS stations, respectively.
The smart TV operating system you use likely provides free live content. Amazon’s Fire TV, Google/Android TV, Roku, and Samsung TVs all offer hundreds of free, ad-supported live channels through their respective platforms.
For dedicated free apps, the best options we tested are Tubi, Plex, Sling Freestream, and Pluto TV. These services offer a wide selection of live channels and on-demand content without any subscription fee.
What to Look for in a Live TV Streaming Service
When choosing a service, consider the monthly price, which now often starts around $80. Check for local channel availability, as this is crucial for news and sports. Live sports coverage is a major differentiator; ensure the service carries the regional sports networks you want.
Also, evaluate the on-demand library and cloud DVR capabilities. Most services offer storage, either unlimited for a set period or a fixed number of hours you can keep indefinitely. Look at the number of simultaneous streams allowed and whether the service supports features like multiview for watching several games at once.
While 4K streaming is available on FuboTV, YouTube TV, and DirecTV Stream, it often requires an extra fee or specific streaming devices. Finally, be mindful of add-ons and premium packages, as these can quickly increase your monthly bill.
The most cost-effective option truly depends on what you want to watch. Free services provide plenty of content but lack the breadth of premium channels. For those seeking a full cable replacement, YouTube TV remains the most popular and comprehensive choice.
Recent Updates August 2025: Added a section on streaming live NFL games and updated recommendations for free live TV streaming services.
