There are several alternatives to traditional cable TV, and one of the most popular options is live TV streaming services. These services offer a wide range of channels, DVR capabilities, and no long-term commitments. They are often more affordable than traditional cable TV, and they offer the flexibility to watch on your laptop, phone, or tablet. However, choosing a live TV streaming service can be tricky, as there are many different options available, and the pricing and channel lineups can vary significantly. In this article, we will explore six main platforms to consider: Sling TV, DirecTV, YouTube TV, Hulu Plus Live TV, Fubo, and Philo.
Choosing the Right Channels
The main difference between these services is their channel selection. All of them offer different lineups of channels for various prices. To help you decide which one is best for your household, we have created a chart that shows the top 100 channels across all six services.
| Service | Top 100 Channels |
|---|---|
| Sling TV | Yes = available on the cheapest pricing tier, No = not available, $ = available for an extra fee |
| DirecTV | Yes = available on the cheapest pricing tier, No = not available, $ = available for an extra fee |
| YouTube TV | Yes = available on the cheapest pricing tier, No = not available, $ = available for an extra fee |
| Hulu Plus Live TV | Yes = available on the cheapest pricing tier, No = not available, $ = available for an extra fee |
| Fubo | Yes = available on the cheapest pricing tier, No = not available, $ = available for an extra fee |
| Philo | Yes = available on the cheapest pricing tier, No = not available, $ = available for an extra fee |
The Big Chart: Top 100 Channels Compared
The chart above shows the top 100 channels across all six services. Note that not every service has a worthy 100, and some channels are not included in the chart.
Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)
Regional sports networks are local channels that devote themselves to showing regular-season games of particular professional baseball, basketball, and hockey teams. These networks are not included in the chart, but they are available on some services, such as DirecTV’s $130 tier.
Local Channels
Local channels, such as ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, MyNetworkTV, and The CW, are available on some services, but their availability varies by region. You can check the service’s website to see which local channels are available in your area.
Availability of Local PBS Stations
Local PBS stations are only available on DirecTV Stream, Hulu Live, and YouTube TV.
Pricing and Plans
The pricing and plans for each service vary significantly. The cheapest plan for Sling TV is $46 per month, while the cheapest plan for DirecTV is $87 per month. The cheapest plan for YouTube TV is $83 per month, and the cheapest plan for Hulu Plus Live TV is also $83 per month.
Features and Benefits
Each service has its own unique features and benefits. For example, YouTube TV offers a 4K upgrade add-on, while Hulu Plus Live TV offers unlimited DVR. Sling TV offers local channels in some regions, while DirecTV offers a wide selection of PBS stations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right live TV streaming service can be overwhelming, but by considering the channels, pricing, and features, you can make an informed decision. We hope this article has helped you to narrow down your options and find the best service for your needs.
