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Cutting the cord on traditional cable TV: Discover the top live streaming services that serve as the finest cable substitutes for you

Discovers top-tier online platforms for streaming live television, allowing you to access cable channels digitally.

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3 min read
Top-tier live TV streaming platforms: Discover optimal ways to abandon conventional cables in favor...
Top-tier live TV streaming platforms: Discover optimal ways to abandon conventional cables in favor of superior television alternatives for your preference

Cutting the cord on traditional cable TV: Discover the top live streaming services that serve as the finest cable substitutes for you

In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, finding the perfect live TV streaming service can be a daunting task. Each platform has its unique pros and cons, depending on your priorities such as channel selection, price, on-demand content, DVR, and usability. Here's a breakdown of some of the top options available in the US.

Hulu Plus Live TV

Hulu Plus Live TV offers a strong mix of live channels plus extensive on-demand content, including Disney Plus and ESPN Plus bundled in. Its user-friendly interface makes content discovery a breeze. However, it's pricier at $83-$96 monthly, and the experience for simultaneous live viewing and recording can be somewhat confusing [1][4].

YouTube TV

Considered the best overall, YouTube TV boasts over 100 channels, multiview, unlimited cloud DVR, and three simultaneous streams. It blends cable features affordably, but comes at a slightly higher price point compared to Hulu Plus Live TV [4].

DirecTV Stream

DirecTV Stream mimics the cable experience with extensive channel lineups and genre-specific packs, making it an appealing choice for those wanting variety and cable-like service. However, its cost can add up quickly [2].

Sling TV

Sling TV is a budget-friendly option, good for basic essential channels like ESPN. It offers customization possibilities to add channels. However, recent price increases have diminished its value, and adding popular extras can make it more expensive than competitors [3][4].

Philo

Philo is the cheapest option on the list, starting at around $28. It's simple and easy, and good for viewers without sports or local channels needs. However, it lacks local channels and sports networks, limiting its appeal for many viewers [3].

FuboTV

FuboTV is best for international sports fans, with a large selection of sports channels and over 80 channels total for about $85. However, it's missing Warner Bros.-owned networks, and its relatively high price may deter some users [3].

For those on a tight budget, Sling or Philo might be the best choices. Sports enthusiasts might lean toward FuboTV. If you want the best blend of live and on-demand content, Hulu Plus Live TV is recommended. For the widest channel selection and features, YouTube TV leads. DirecTV Stream suits those wanting a cable-like experience but expect higher costs [1][3][4].

It's worth noting that YouTube is rumored to be testing a FAST service (Free Ad-Supported TV), which may significantly change the platform in the future. Additionally, the absence of certain channels like FXX, PBS, Golf Channel, and ABC News Live in Sling TV's line-up is noteworthy.

FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television) services like Tubi, FreeVee, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, and Sling Free offer free live TV, but include ads and may not have as long a channel list as the main platforms.

[1] TechRadar [2] The Verge [3] Tom's Guide [4] CNET

  1. In the realm of live TV streaming services, the challenge lies in selecting one that aligns with your preferences for channel selection, price, on-demand content, DVR, and usability.
  2. Hulu Plus Live TV provides a blend of live channels and on-demand content, including Disney Plus and ESPN Plus, though its price ($83-$96 monthly) and congested live viewing/recording experience are points of contention.
  3. YouTube TV, known for offering more than 100 channels, multiview, unlimited cloud DVR, and three simultaneous streams, is tagged as the best overall, despite a slightly higher price point compared to Hulu Plus Live TV.
  4. DirecTV Stream mirrors the cable experience with an extensive channel lineup and genre-specific packs, making it a suitable option for those seeking variety and cable-like service, but at a higher cost.
  5. Sling TV, a budget-friendly choice, offers customization possibilities and essential channels like ESPN, but recent price rises and the omission of popular extras make it comparably expensive to competitors.
  6. Philo, starting at around $28, is the least expensive option, catering to viewers without sports or local channels needs, although its limited channel selection deters many due to the absence of local channels and sports networks.
  7. FuboTV is ideal for international sports fans, boasting a wide range of sports channels, but it's lacking Warner Bros.-owned networks and its relatively high price may deter potential users.
  8. As for those on a tight budget, Sling TV or Philo could be the preferred choices, while sports enthusiasts might find FuboTV more attractive. For a balanced mix of live and on-demand content, Hulu Plus Live TV is the recommended pick.
  9. If you're seeking the widest channel selection and features, YouTube TV leads, and for free live TV with ads, FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television) services like Tubi, FreeVee, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, and Sling Free are viable alternatives, though their channel lists may not match the main platforms.

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