You can stream sports through various live TV streaming services and dedicated sports platforms, each offering a unique selection of channels, sports leagues, and price points. The best option depends on your budget, the specific sports and teams you want to follow, and the features you prioritize.
Top Streaming Services for Sports
To help you choose, here's a breakdown of popular services, highlighting their strengths for sports enthusiasts:
Understanding Your Options
When selecting a streaming service for sports, consider factors such as the types of sports and leagues covered, the number of channels offered, pricing, and any additional features like DVR storage or simultaneous streams.
Detailed Overview of Sports Streaming Services
Here’s a look at leading platforms to stream your favorite games:
- YouTube TV: Considered an Editor's Choice, YouTube TV offers a comprehensive channel lineup that includes major sports networks like ESPN, Fox Sports, CBS Sports Network, and regional sports networks (RSNs) in many markets. It's known for its user-friendly interface and unlimited cloud DVR.
- ESPN+: For those seeking Best Value, ESPN+ provides exclusive live events, original series, and on-demand content not available on ESPN's linear channels. While it doesn't include all ESPN linear content, it's essential for a wide range of collegiate sports, international soccer, UFC, and more.
- Peacock: If you're looking for the Cheapest option, Peacock offers a selection of live sports, including Premier League soccer, Sunday Night Football, and WWE events. Its free tier provides some content, but premium subscriptions unlock more live sports.
- Hulu + Live TV: This service is recognized for offering the Best Sports Bundle, combining a robust live TV channel lineup (including many sports channels) with the extensive on-demand libraries of Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+. This bundle provides a broad spectrum of entertainment alongside live sports.
- Sling TV: Known for its Best Channel Add-ons, Sling TV allows for a highly customizable sports viewing experience. You can start with a base package and add specialized sports packs, like the Sports Extra add-on, to get channels like NBA TV, MLB Network, NHL Network, and more without paying for channels you don't need.
- DIRECTV STREAM: For users seeking the Most Sports Channels, DIRECTV STREAM provides an extensive array of sports networks, including a strong selection of regional sports networks (RSNs) that are crucial for following local professional teams. Its higher-tier packages offer unparalleled access to sports content.
- Fubo: Fubo stands out for offering the Best Free Trial, allowing new users to test its sports-centric streaming service. It boasts a wide variety of sports channels, including international soccer, and offers features like cloud DVR and multiple simultaneous streams.
- Paramount+: If your focus is on Live CBS Sports, Paramount+ is the go-to platform. It streams live NFL games (local and primetime), UEFA Champions League soccer, and other CBS Sports events, alongside its extensive on-demand library.
Comparison Table of Popular Sports Streaming Services
| Streaming Service | Key Strength | Typical Sports Coverage Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | Editor's Choice | NFL, NBA, MLB, college sports (via major networks & RSNs) | Cord-cutters wanting a comprehensive cable TV replacement with sports. |
| ESPN+ | Best Value | UFC, college sports, international soccer (LaLiga), exclusive ESPN content | Fans who want specific niche sports and exclusive content at a low price. |
| Peacock | Cheapest | Premier League (soccer), Sunday Night Football (NFL), WWE, cycling | Budget-conscious viewers focused on specific popular leagues or WWE. |
| Hulu + Live TV | Best Sports Bundle | NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, and all Hulu, Disney+, ESPN+ content | Households wanting a full entertainment and sports package. |
| Sling TV | Best Channel Add-ons | Highly customizable; NBA TV, MLB Network, NHL Network, college sports | Viewers who want to build their own sports package and save on unneeded channels. |
| DIRECTV STREAM | Most Sports Channels | Extensive RSN coverage, NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, Golf Channel | Die-hard fans who need broad access to local and national sports channels. |
| Fubo | Best Free Trial | International soccer, NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, extensive sports channels | Sports enthusiasts who want to try before they buy and enjoy a wide sports lineup. |
| Paramount+ | Live CBS Sports | NFL (local & primetime), UEFA Champions League, PGA Tour, NWSL | Viewers primarily interested in CBS-broadcasted sports events and soccer. |
To make an informed decision, it's often best to utilize free trials where available and check the channel lineup for each service against your favorite teams' and leagues' broadcasting partners.
