Watching games without cable is easier than ever, thanks to a variety of streaming services, digital antennas, and other convenient options that bring live sports directly to your screen. You have several choices to catch all the action, whether it's an NFL showdown or another live event.
Live TV Streaming Services
These services mimic a traditional cable package but are delivered over the internet, offering live channels including those that broadcast sports. They typically require a monthly subscription.
- Peacock: NBC's dedicated streaming service is a great option, especially for football fans. It provides access to several games, including all Sunday night NFL matchups. While it offers a range of content, remember that the free version of Peacock does not include live sports. To watch live games, you'll need a paid subscription, which typically carries an $8 or $14 monthly charge. The service has also recently done away with its free trial.
- YouTube TV: This comprehensive service offers a wide array of live channels, including major broadcast networks (like CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC) and sports channels (like ESPN), making it a popular choice for watching live games. It generally includes unlimited cloud DVR storage.
- Hulu + Live TV: Combining live television with Hulu's extensive on-demand library, Disney+, and ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV provides a robust entertainment and sports package.
- Sling TV: Often a more budget-friendly option, Sling TV allows for more customizable channel packages, letting you pick bundles that include your favorite sports channels.
- FuboTV: Known for its strong focus on sports, FuboTV offers a vast selection of sports channels, including regional sports networks, and often supports 4K streaming for compatible events.
- DirecTV Stream: This service offers various packages that include a wide range of live channels, often encompassing regional sports networks (RSNs) that are crucial for watching local team games.
Here's a quick comparison of popular live TV streaming services:
| Streaming Service | Key Features | Estimated Monthly Cost (Varies) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peacock | Live sports, including all Sunday night NFL matchups | $8 - $14 | Free version does not include live sports; recently did away with free trial. |
| YouTube TV | Extensive channel lineup, cloud DVR, good for local and national sports | ~$73+ | Widely available on various devices. |
| Hulu + Live TV | Live TV channels, Disney+, ESPN+, on-demand Hulu library | ~$77+ | Great for sports and entertainment bundle. |
| Sling TV | Customizable channel packages, more budget-friendly | ~$40+ | Good for specific channel groups (e.g., sports add-ons), multiple base packages. |
| FuboTV | Strong sports focus, many regional sports networks, 4K streaming | ~$80+ | Ideal for dedicated sports fans due to channel selection. |
| DirecTV Stream | Wide variety of channels, various packages, often includes regional sports networks | ~$70+ | Different tiers available with varying channel counts. |
(Note: Prices are estimates and subject to change.)
Digital Antenna (Over-the-Air)
For games broadcast on major networks like CBS, FOX, NBC, or ABC, a one-time purchase of a digital antenna can be a cost-effective solution. Once set up, you can watch these channels in HD for free, without any monthly subscription. This is ideal for local Sunday afternoon NFL games, for example.
League-Specific Streaming Subscriptions
For dedicated fans of a particular sport or league, specific passes can provide access to out-of-market games. Examples include:
- NFL+: Offers live local and primetime regular season and postseason games on your phone or tablet. It also includes live out-of-market preseason games, NFL Network, and NFL Films' archives.
Public Viewings
If you prefer a social atmosphere, local sports bars, restaurants, or community centers often broadcast major games. This can be a great way to catch the action, especially for big events or if you only occasionally want to watch.
By exploring these options, you can easily find a way to watch the game without the need for a traditional cable subscription.
