Live TV Streaming Services Compared for 2026 People looking for a live TV streaming service typically want sports, news, and cable-like channels. While every major provider has raised prices recently, these services are still generally more cost-effective than cable and come without contracts. Based on testing, YouTube TV is the most well-rounded option, but others may better suit specific needs. A significant ongoing issue is the blackout of NBC channels on FuboTV due to carriage negotiations, meaning fans cannot watch NBC content, including the upcoming Super Bowl, on that platform. How to Watch the 2026 Super Bowl The Super Bowl on February 8, 2026, will air on NBC. To stream it, you will need a subscription to YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or DirecTV Stream. Sling Blue offers NBC only in certain markets. Since NBC is dark on Fubo, that is not an option. The game will also stream on Peacock, NBC’s own streaming service, with plans starting at $8 per month. The most economical method is using a digital antenna to pick up the local NBC broadcast for free. For free NFL game access, a digital antenna can capture local CBS, Fox, NBC, and ABC broadcasts. Alternatively, sports bars offer a communal viewing experience, though they pay high fees for the privilege. Key Features to Consider in a Service Monthly prices for base plans now typically start above $75, a significant increase from earlier years, driven largely by the cost of sports and local channel rights. Local channel availability is crucial. Most services provide local ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC affiliates based on your zip code. Notably, some traditional streamers like Peacock and Paramount+ now include live feeds of their parent companies’ local stations. Live sports coverage is a primary driver for many. The landscape is complex, with games spread across numerous regional and national networks. Beyond live TV services, standalone streaming apps are increasingly carrying sports. Peacock airs Sunday Night Football and Premier League, Amazon Prime has Thursday Night Football, Netflix will stream Christmas Day NFL games, and Max offers a sports add-on. Dedicated sports streaming services also exist, like ESPN’s standalone service for $30/month and Fubo Sports. The inclusion of traditional cable networks like Bravo, CNN, and HGTV varies. Some content is also available through standalone apps like Discovery+ or cheaper niche services like Frndly TV. Other important features include cloud DVR storage, with limits ranging from 50 hours to unlimited; the number of simultaneous streams allowed; and user profiles. Advanced features like multiview, which lets you watch up to four streams at once, are offered by YouTube TV, FuboTV, and DirecTV Stream. True 4K live streaming is still limited, available mostly as an add-on or on specific channels with YouTube TV, FuboTV, and DirecTV Stream. Free Live TV Streaming Options There are many free ad-supported TV (FAST) services. These include Tubi, Pluto TV, Sling Freestream, and Plex. Smart TV platforms from Roku, Amazon, Samsung, and Google also have built-in free live channel offerings. These provide a limited selection of live networks and on-demand content at no cost. Testing Methodology Evaluation of paid services included YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, Sling, and Philo. Free services tested were Tubi, Pluto TV, Sling Freestream, and Plex. Testing focused on channel selection, price, user interface, DVR functionality, search capability, and overall performance. Frequently Asked Questions Live streaming refers to content delivered over the internet in real-time, either as linear channel programming or live events. This differs from standard video-on-demand streaming where you choose from a library. The best service depends on priorities. FuboTV excels in sports and interface organization. YouTube TV is a strong all-arounder with a wide selection. The most cost-effective services are free FAST apps like Pluto TV or Tubi. For paid services, value depends on getting only the channels you need. Currently, the price gap between basic cable and live TV streaming has narrowed significantly, with both often starting around the same monthly price. The advantage of streaming remains the lack of long-term contracts. No service has every channel. Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV Stream carry the most top-rated networks, while FuboTV leads in sports channel count. YouTube TV is the most popular by subscriber count, with over 8 million users. Reputable free streaming services like Pluto TV or Tubi, accessed through official apps, are as safe as any major streaming platform. The safety concerns typically involve unofficial file-sharing websites. Recent Updates As of December 2025, this guide includes FuboTV’s latest channel and pricing changes and confirms current pricing across all reviewed services.
