So, you’re thinking about ditching cable for good? It’s a pretty common move these days. Lots of people are finding that the old way of paying for TV just doesn’t make sense anymore. You end up paying for channels you never watch, and those monthly bills can get pretty high. This guide is here to help you figure out the best paid TV services that let you cut the cord and save some money. We’ll look at what you need to get started and compare costs, so you can make a smart choice for your entertainment in 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Many households are switching from traditional cable to streaming services for better value and more control over their entertainment.
- Live TV streaming services offer a cable-like experience without long contracts, including local channels, news, and sports.
- While costs can add up with multiple streaming subscriptions, they generally offer more flexibility and customization than cable packages.
1. The Best Live TV Streaming Services to Cut Cable in 2025
Thinking about ditching your cable provider? It’s a smart move for your wallet, and thankfully, there are some really solid live TV streaming services out there now. These options give you a lot of what cable offers – local channels, sports, news, and on-demand stuff – but without the crazy prices, equipment rental hassles, or those annoying two-year contracts. Plus, some even bundle in other popular streaming services, which is a nice bonus.
We’ve looked at the main players: YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, Fubo, DirecTV, and Philo. We tested them all, checking out the channel lineups, how much they cost, and if they’re easy to use. It’s not all good news, though. Like cable, these streaming services have been raising their prices lately. Still, for most people, they’re still a better deal than traditional cable if you want to catch live sports and regular TV channels.
What to Look For in a Live TV Streaming Service
When you’re picking a service, think about what you actually watch. Do you need all the local channels? Are you a big sports fan who needs specific sports networks? Or are you mostly interested in entertainment channels and maybe some news?
- Channel Selection: Does it have the channels you and your family watch regularly?
- Local Channels: Check if it includes your local ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox affiliates.
- Sports Coverage: If you follow specific sports, make sure the service carries the relevant sports networks.
- Cloud DVR: How much space do you get for recording shows, and how long do recordings last?
- Simultaneous Streams: How many devices can you watch on at the same time?
- User Interface: Is the app easy to navigate and find what you’re looking for?
Our Top Picks for Cutting the Cord
Here’s a quick look at the services we think are the best choices right now:
- YouTube TV: Often considered the best all-around option for most people. It has a great channel selection, including local networks, and a really user-friendly app. The unlimited DVR is a big plus too.
- Hulu with Live TV: This one is cool because it bundles Hulu’s on-demand library with live TV. It’s a good choice if you want both.
- Sling TV: This is a more budget-friendly option. You can customize your channel packages, which can save you money if you only need certain channels.
- Fubo: If you’re a huge sports fan, Fubo is probably your best bet. It has a massive number of sports channels, including many international ones.
- DirecTV Stream: This service is a bit more like traditional cable, offering different packages and even some sports-focused options. It can be pricier, but the channel variety is there.
- Philo: This is the cheapest option and focuses on entertainment and lifestyle channels. It’s great if you don’t care much about sports or local news.
Choosing the right live TV streaming service really comes down to balancing cost with the channels you want. Don’t just pick the cheapest one if it doesn’t have what you need, but also don’t pay for a ton of channels you’ll never watch.
2. YouTube TV
If you’re looking to ditch cable but still want a solid lineup of live channels, YouTube TV is a really strong contender. It’s often called the best live TV streaming service for most people, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. It manages to pack in a ton of features and channels without feeling overwhelming.
What’s the Deal with YouTube TV?
Think of YouTube TV as your all-in-one replacement for traditional cable. It streams live channels directly over the internet, so you can watch everything from live sports to your favorite sitcoms on pretty much any device. The real standout feature is its incredibly user-friendly interface. Seriously, it’s so clean and simple to navigate; you won’t find yourself scratching your head trying to figure out where to find something. It’s a breath of fresh air compared to some other services.
Key Features and Channels
YouTube TV boasts an impressive channel selection that rivals many cable packages. You get access to a wide variety of networks, including:
- Major broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox)
- Popular cable channels like AMC, HGTV, CNN, and ESPN
- A good mix of sports, news, and entertainment channels
They also offer add-on packages if you want even more specialized content, like premium movie channels or international sports. For a comprehensive look at their channel lineup, you might want to check out YouTube TV’s channel list.
Pricing and Value
As of 2025, YouTube TV typically costs around $72.99 per month. While that might sound like a lot, remember it includes unlimited cloud DVR storage and access for up to six accounts per household. This makes it a pretty good deal when you compare it to the rising costs of cable, especially when you factor in equipment rental fees and hidden charges that cable companies love to tack on.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick rundown:
Pros:
- Super intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage is a huge plus.
- Strong selection of live channels, including sports.
- Often has discounts for new subscribers.
Cons:
- Can be pricier than some other streaming options.
- Limited availability of certain regional sports networks (RSNs).
When you’re cutting the cord, finding a service that balances a great channel selection with a user experience that doesn’t make you want to pull your hair out is key. YouTube TV really hits that sweet spot for a lot of people, making it a top choice for a reason.
Who is YouTube TV For?
If you’re someone who wants to cut the cord, save money compared to cable, and just have a reliable, easy-to-use service that covers most of your viewing needs, YouTube TV is a fantastic option. It’s great for families who need multiple profiles and want a straightforward way to watch live TV without any fuss.
3. Hulu With Live TV
Hulu with Live TV is a pretty solid choice if you’re looking to ditch cable, especially if you’re already into the Disney ecosystem. The big draw here is that you get a bundle that includes Disney Plus, Hulu’s regular on-demand library, and ESPN Plus, all with ads, thrown in for free with your live TV subscription. That alone can save you a good chunk of change each month if you were planning on subscribing to those services anyway. It also boasts a really good channel selection, usually carrying almost all the popular channels you’d want, often missing fewer than other services.
The Good
- Bundled Streaming Services: Get Disney Plus, Hulu (on-demand), and ESPN Plus included (with ads).
- Extensive Channel Lineup: Typically offers 34 out of 35 popular channels, often missing only AMC.
- Great Value: The bundle makes it a cost-effective option if you use the included streaming services.
The Bad
- User Interface: The live TV part is integrated into the main Hulu app, which isn’t as straightforward as a dedicated live TV app. It can feel a bit clunky.
- Limited Simultaneous Streams: You only get two simultaneous streams, which might be an issue for larger households.
- No Dedicated Record Button: A small annoyance, but the lack of a simple record button in the player makes saving shows less convenient.
Pricing
- Hulu Live TV (With Ads): Starts at $82.99 per month.
- Hulu + Live TV (No Ads): Starts at $95.99 per month.
If you don’t mind a slightly less polished interface for the live TV part and can live with just two streams at a time, Hulu with Live TV is a really strong contender. The value you get from the bundled streaming services is hard to beat if you’re already a fan of Disney, Hulu, and ESPN.
If you’re already subscribed to or planning to subscribe to Hulu + Live TV, the bundled streaming services are a major plus. It’s a good way to consolidate your subscriptions and save money.
4. Sling TV
Sling TV is a pretty interesting option if you like to mix and match channels. It’s not like the all-in-one packages some other services offer. Instead, you pick a base plan, either Sling Orange or Sling Blue, and then you can add on extra channel packs. This makes it really flexible, especially if you’re on a budget or only care about a few specific channels.
The base plans themselves are pretty affordable, but remember that adding extras can increase the cost. For example, Sling Orange is geared more towards families and has channels like Disney Channel and ESPN. Sling Blue is better for sports fans and news junkies, with channels like NFL Network and CNN. You can even get both if you want, though it costs more.
Here’s a quick look at what they offer:
- Sling Orange: Focuses on ESPN, Disney Channel, and other family-friendly networks. It’s good for one stream at a time.
- Sling Blue: Includes channels like Fox Sports, NFL Network, and news channels. You get multiple streams with this one.
- Sling Orange + Blue: Combines channels from both and allows more simultaneous streams.
They also have add-on packs like the "Sports Extra" or "News Extra" which let you really tailor your channel lineup. It’s a smart way to avoid paying for channels you’ll never watch.
One thing to note is how they handle local channels. In some areas, you can get ABC, FOX, and NBC with Sling Blue, but it depends on your location. If you’re not in one of those markets, they suggest using an antenna to catch local stations for free. They also have a free tier called Sling Freestream, which offers live news and other content without a subscription.
Sling TV has been known to offer deals, like 50% off your first month, which can be a nice way to try it out without committing to a full price. It’s worth checking their current promotions.
For sports fans, Sling TV has started offering some select sports in 4K. You’ll need a compatible device and TV, but there’s no extra charge for this higher resolution. It’s a small perk, but nice if you’re into that.
If you’re looking for a way to customize your live TV experience, Sling TV is definitely worth a look.
5. Fubo
Fubo: The Sports Fanatic’s Choice
Fubo started with a focus on sports, and honestly, that’s still its main draw. If you’re all about catching live games, especially local ones, this service is worth a look. It boasts a massive channel lineup, often exceeding 150 channels in its Pro plan and even more in the Elite tier. Plus, you get unlimited cloud DVR storage and more simultaneous streams than you’d likely need.
The biggest reason to consider Fubo is its access to regional sports networks (RSNs). These are the channels that broadcast games for your local MLB, NBA, and NHL teams, and they’re hard to find elsewhere.
Here’s a quick look at what Fubo offers:
- Extensive Sports Coverage: Get national channels like ESPN, NFL Network, and beIN Sports. The Elite plan adds MLB Network, NBA TV, and NHL Network.
- Local Broadcasts: Access ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC for major games.
- 4K Streaming: Some events are available in 4K, particularly with the Fubo Elite plan.
- Unlimited DVR: Record all the games you can’t watch live.
However, Fubo isn’t perfect. A significant downside is the absence of channels owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, such as TBS, TNT, and the Food Network. Many people consider these channels pretty important. Also, while some events are in 4K, most live streams are in 720p HD, which isn’t as sharp as what you can get with other services like YouTube TV, and Fubo can be more expensive.
Fubo’s pricing has seen increases, making it one of the pricier options. While it excels in sports, especially RSNs, the lack of certain popular channels and the resolution limitations on most streams are definite drawbacks to consider before signing up.
If your absolute priority is sports, and you need those RSNs, Fubo is a strong contender. For general live TV viewing, other services might offer a better balance of channels and price. You can check out the Fubo Elite plan for a more detailed look at its channel count and features.
6. DirecTV
DirecTV is a bit of a different beast when it comes to cutting the cord. It’s not exactly a streaming-first service like some of the others we’ve talked about. Think of it more like traditional cable, but with a satellite dish. They do have streaming options, though, which is how it fits into the cord-cutting conversation.
What You Get with DirecTV
DirecTV offers a few different packages, and they tend to be on the pricier side compared to pure streaming services. You’re looking at plans that start around $84.99 per month and can go up to $164.99 or more, depending on what channels you want. They do have a pretty good selection of channels, including a lot of regional sports networks, which is something other services might not carry. Some plans even bundle in premium channels like Max.
- Entertainment Package: This is their entry-level option, usually around $84.99/month.
- Choice Package: A step up, offering more channels.
- Ultimate Package: This one gets you even more, often around $89.99/month.
- Premier Package: Their top-tier plan, loaded with channels and premium content.
The Downsides of DirecTV
Now, here’s where it gets a little tricky. DirecTV is pretty much cable TV, just delivered differently. You’ll find that most of their advertised prices require a contract, and you might have to rent equipment. There are also extra fees and taxes that can sneak up on you, making the final bill higher than you initially expected. The app interface, while usable, isn’t the most intuitive thing out there. It takes some getting used to.
The biggest hurdle with DirecTV is that it often feels like you’re just signing up for cable again, complete with contracts and equipment rental. It’s not the flexible, no-strings-attached experience many people seek when cutting the cord.
When DirecTV Might Make Sense
So, why would anyone choose DirecTV in 2025? Well, there are a couple of specific situations. First, if you absolutely need to watch a specific regional sports network and no other streaming service carries it, DirecTV might be your only option. Second, if cost isn’t a major concern for you and you want a wide array of channels, including premium ones, DirecTV’s higher-tier packages could be appealing. They do offer some free 4K streaming, which is a nice perk if you have the right setup.
7. Philo
Philo is a pretty straightforward option if you’re mostly interested in entertainment channels and don’t need a ton of sports or news. It’s one of the more affordable choices out there, which is a big plus for many people trying to save money.
What You Get with Philo
Philo offers a solid lineup of over 70 channels, focusing heavily on lifestyle, entertainment, and popular networks. Think channels like AMC, HGTV, Food Network, Discovery, TLC, and many more. It’s a good fit if you enjoy shows from these types of networks.
- Entertainment Focus: Great for reality TV, cooking shows, home improvement, and general entertainment.
- Unlimited DVR: You can record as much as you want and keep it for a whole year. That’s way longer than some other services.
- On-Demand Library: Plenty of movies and shows are available to watch whenever you feel like it.
What Philo Lacks
Now, it’s not perfect for everyone. If you’re a big sports fan or need access to major news networks, Philo might not cut it. You won’t find channels like ESPN, Fox News, CNN, or MSNBC here. Also, some popular entertainment channels like Bravo or Freeform are missing.
Philo is a budget-friendly choice that really shines for entertainment lovers. However, if your viewing habits lean heavily towards live sports or a wide range of news channels, you might need to consider other options or supplement Philo with another service.
Pricing
Philo keeps things simple with one main package. It costs $28 per month. This price includes all the channels and features, so there aren’t a lot of confusing tiers to sort through. It’s a really competitive price point compared to other live TV streaming services, especially if you don’t need the extra sports or news channels that drive up the cost elsewhere. For a basic entertainment package, Philo is hard to beat on price.
8. What You Need to Get Started
So, you’re ready to ditch the cable box and embrace the streaming life. That’s awesome! But what do you actually need to make it happen? It’s probably less than you think.
Internet Connection
This is the big one. You absolutely need a stable internet connection. Most live TV streaming services recommend a download speed of at least 25 Mbps for a smooth experience, especially if you’re streaming in HD or 4K. If you’ve got multiple people watching or other devices using the internet at the same time, you might want to bump that up a bit. Check with your internet provider to see what speeds are available in your area. You can often find good deals on home internet plans if you bundle or switch providers. Home internet plans are key to a good streaming setup.
Streaming Device
While many newer TVs are
9. Cost Comparison: Cable vs. Streaming
So, let’s talk about the big question: what’s actually cheaper, sticking with cable or making the switch to streaming? It’s not always as straightforward as you might think, and honestly, it really depends on what you watch and how you watch it.
Breaking Down the Average Costs in 2025
Back in the day, cable was the undisputed king of TV, but its prices have really climbed. In 2025, you’re looking at anywhere from $75 to $150 a month for a typical cable package. And that’s before you add on premium channels, DVR rental fees, or those pesky regional sports surcharges that seem to pop up out of nowhere. Streaming services, on the other hand, offer a lot more flexibility. You can piece together a live TV streaming setup for around $40 to $100 a month, depending on which services you pick. If you’re just into on-demand stuff like Netflix or Disney+, you’re probably looking at $10 to $20 per service.
Here’s a rough idea of what things can cost monthly:
- Basic Cable Package: $75–$90
- Premium Cable Package (with sports and movies): $120–$150
- Internet-Only Plan (Required for Streaming): $50–$100
- Streaming Services (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, etc.): $10–$20 per service
- Live TV Streaming (YouTube TV, Sling, Hulu + Live TV): $40–$75
It’s easy to see how combining a few streaming services can get you close to cable prices, but with streaming, you usually get to pick exactly what you want.
Hidden Costs and Savings to Consider
Beyond the monthly bill, there are other things to think about. Cable companies often charge extra for equipment like DVRs or extra TV boxes, which can add $10–$15 per month per device. Plus, installation fees can sometimes catch you by surprise. Streaming services don’t have these equipment rental fees, but you do need a solid internet connection, which is its own monthly cost ($50–$100). If your internet plan has data caps, streaming a lot could lead to extra charges, though that’s becoming less common.
The real advantage of streaming is the freedom. You can cancel or switch services whenever you want, unlike cable contracts that can hit you with hefty early termination fees, sometimes $100 to $300. While cable prices tend to creep up annually, streaming services usually have smaller, more predictable price adjustments.
For live TV needs, services like Sling TV offer channel bundles that are generally cheaper than traditional cable. Some people even save money by sharing accounts with family members, which is usually allowed under their terms.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your viewing habits. If you’re happy with on-demand content and curated channel packages, streaming often comes out cheaper. But if you absolutely need every live channel, all the sports, and all the premium movie networks, cable might still offer more for the money, even if it costs more upfront. For a user-friendly, comprehensive package that acts as a great cable replacement, you might look into services like the one reviewed at $82.99.
Combining Services for the Perfect Entertainment Experience
Lots of people find that mixing and matching works best. You could have a subscription to a service like Netflix for constant entertainment options and then rent movies on demand when something new comes out that you really want to see. It’s a way to get exactly what you want without paying for channels you’ll never watch.
- If you subscribe to Netflix or Hulu, you can rent new movie releases from services like Apple TV or Google Play if they aren’t in your subscription library yet.
- Don’t forget about free streaming options like Pluto TV or Tubi. They can be great additions to your paid subscriptions and help keep overall costs down.
- Amazon Prime Video is another good example, offering a mix of included content and rental options, giving you a lot of flexibility.
Different households have different needs, of course. Sports fans might grab an ESPN+ subscription and then rent pay-per-view boxing matches separately. Movie buffs might pair their HBO Max subscription with rentals of the latest theater releases.
By thinking about what you actually watch and planning your subscriptions accordingly, you can make sure you’re getting the most entertainment for your money. It’s all about figuring out what works for your specific viewing habits.
10. The Role of Streaming Platforms like Netflix in the Cord-Cutting Movement
It’s pretty wild how much things have changed, right? Back in the day, if you wanted to watch anything, you were pretty much stuck with cable. Now, it feels like everyone’s ditching it. And a huge part of that is thanks to streaming platforms like Netflix. They really changed the game.
The Rise of Streaming Services
Streaming services are basically running the show when it comes to home entertainment these days. Traditional cable companies have lost millions of customers to services that offer way more flexibility with pricing, huge libraries of shows and movies, and just better quality streams overall. All this competition and new tech means there are tons of options out there now, fitting pretty much everyone’s taste.
Popular Streaming Services in 2025
The streaming world in 2025 is packed with big names and some newer players. Companies keep adding more stuff, grabbing exclusive content, and using smart tech to suggest things you might like. The biggest ones you’ll see everywhere are:
- Netflix: Still a major player, they keep pouring money into original shows and movies, plus their user experience is pretty slick.
- Disney+: They’re adding more from their big franchises, plus live sports and stuff they’ve bought.
- Amazon Prime Video: It’s getting more connected with things like Alexa and Fire TV, and they’re making big moves in sports.
Ad-Supported Streaming Growth
Lots of people are choosing the cheaper, ad-supported plans from places like Netflix and Disney+. It’s a good way to save money but still get access to all that premium content. It’s a smart move for a lot of households trying to keep costs down.
Sports Streaming Expansion
Watching sports has gotten way easier for cord-cutters too. ESPN is offering more direct options, and Amazon Prime has snagged some exclusive sports deals. This makes it much simpler to catch games without a cable subscription. You can even watch through official league apps or sometimes catch free streams on services like Paramount+ or Peacock.
Content Consolidation
Companies are merging and sharing content, which is changing up what’s available. It means less scattered content, but the competition is still pretty fierce.
Deciding Between On-Demand Content or a Recurring Subscription
When you look at streaming, there are mainly two types: services where you buy or rent specific shows or movies, and subscription services that give you unlimited access for a monthly fee. What’s best really depends on how much you watch and what you can spend.
Services like Amazon Prime Video (for rentals), Apple TV, and Vudu let you pay per item. This works well if you only watch occasionally. Prices usually run from about $3.99 to $19.99, depending on if you want standard, high definition, or 4K, and how new the release is. For frequent viewers, subscription services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ are often the way to go. These give you access to huge libraries for one monthly price. In 2025, Netflix’s ad-free plan is around $15.49 a month, Hulu’s no-ads is $17.99, and Disney+ is $13.99.
The shift to streaming is more than just a trend; it’s a fundamental change in how people consume media. With more content, better prices, and more flexibility than cable ever offered, it’s easy to see why so many are making the switch. Plus, with faster internet speeds and smart devices everywhere, it’s just easier than ever.
Streaming now accounts for over 36% of all US TV viewing, surpassing cable, which holds 27.9%. This indicates a significant shift in entertainment consumption habits. The number of U.S. households without traditional pay-TV subscriptions continues to increase. According to eMarketer, an estimated 87.7 million people in the U.S. will have cut the cord by the end of 2025, up from 71.2 million in 2023. This shift reflects a decline in cable and satellite TV penetration, falling below 40% of households. With the right mix of streaming services, DVR options, and league-specific subscriptions, cord-cutters can watch live sports without missing a game. Faster internet speeds and widespread smart device adoption further simplify the transition.
So, What’s Next for Your TV Bill?
It’s pretty clear that ditching cable for streaming in 2025 makes a lot of sense for most people. You get more control over what you watch and, usually, save some cash too. We’ve looked at the big players, the costs, and what you actually need to get started. It might seem like a lot of options at first, but once you figure out what you like to watch, picking the right services gets a lot easier. Think about your favorite shows, sports, or news, and build your perfect TV setup from there. You’re in charge now, and that’s a good thing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘cutting the cord’ actually mean?
Cutting the cord means canceling your regular cable or satellite TV subscription. Instead, you use the internet to watch TV shows and movies through streaming services. It’s a popular way to save money and choose only the channels and shows you really want to watch.
What do I need to start streaming TV?
To start streaming, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and a device that can connect to the internet, like a smart TV, streaming stick (like a Roku or Fire Stick), game console, or computer. Many people also use devices like a Fire TV Stick or Google Chromecast.
Can I still watch live TV and sports with streaming services?
Yes, many streaming services offer live TV channels, just like cable. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo let you watch live sports, news, and your favorite shows as they happen, without needing a traditional cable box.
