Streaming services have taken the world by storm. From movies to TV shows, there are so many different platforms out there that you can use to watch your favorite content. With the advent of live streaming services, it’s possible to watch television shows and sports events in real-time – no longer do you have to worry about missing out on a live event or show!
In this guide, we’ll explain what live TV streaming services are, how they work, and help you choose the best service for your needs. We’ll also look at some of the biggest players in the live TV streaming industry so you can make an informed decision when selecting a service.
What Is Live TV Streaming?
Live streaming is the process of broadcasting real-time video content over the internet. This streaming video is viewable in real time, meaning that it’s happening right now. Live TV streaming services make it possible to watch television shows, sports events, and other live events on your computer or mobile device.
How Does Live TV Streaming Work?
Live TV streaming works by taking a signal from a live event and sending it over the internet. This signal is then received by the user’s device and displayed on the screen. The process is similar to how a traditional TV works, except that it’s done over the internet instead of through an antenna. So, fast home internet is necessary if you plan to switch from cable TV to live TV streaming.
Live Streaming TV vs. On-Demand Video Streaming
Most people are more familiar with on-demand video streaming than live streaming TV. On-demand streaming includes streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and many more. These services offer movies and TV shows that have already been released.
On the other hand, live TV streaming offers access to content that’s being broadcast in real-time. This includes live sports, news, and other live events. Some of the most popular live TV streaming services are Sling TV, Dish TV, DirecTV, and Hulu + Live TV.
Choosing the Right Live TV Streaming Service
When choosing a live TV streaming service, there are several factors to consider. Let’s dig deeper into these factors to ensure you choose the right service for your needs.
Price
Most live TV streaming services offer different plans and pricing tiers. Consider your budget when selecting a service, as some are more affordable than others. The best part of these platforms is that it’s more affordable than paying for cable, and you can cancel most of the services anytime you want without worrying about early termination fees.
Content
What content do you like to watch? Different services offer different types of programming. For example, if you prefer sports channels, then opting for a streaming service like fuboTV is your best choice. However, Dish TV is a better option if you’re looking for an all-around service with live channels and on-demand content. Make sure the service you choose offers the content you’re looking for.
Contract Terms
Live TV streaming services are typically offered on a month-to-month basis, meaning you can cancel at any time. But as mentioned earlier, some services have minimum contract terms, so make sure to read the fine print before signing up for a particular service.
Device Compatibility
Does your device work with the live TV streaming service? Most services offer an app that you can download on your device. However, not all streaming services are compatible with every device. So make sure to check if the app is available on the device you want to watch before subscribing.
Video Quality
Most live TV streaming services offer 1080p or 4K resolution for their streams. However, some services may not provide as high-quality streaming as others. So make sure to check out the highest resolution available on the service you’re considering before signing up.
Best Live TV Streaming Services in the US
Now that you have a good understanding of live TV streaming, let’s dive into some of the best live streaming services available in the market right now.
- Sling TV
Sling TV is by far the most popular live TV streaming right now. The service offers three tiers with different channel lineups and prices. Sling Orange offers more than 32 channels with 50 hours of DVR storage and a one-screen stream for $35 a month. Sling Orange comes with 43+ channels and three screens for simultaneous streaming — also with 50 hours of DVR storage for the same price.
These two plans offer different content, so if you want to get them both, you can do so for a discounted price. Sling’s third plan is the Sling Orange & Blue, which combines the two plans for only $50 per month instead of $70 per month.
- Dish TV
Dish TV is a satellite TV service that offers both live channels and on-demand content. You can access 190 live channels and more than 80,000 on-demand titles for only $79.99. This service comes with a free DVR, a free voice remote, and a $100 gift card. You should know that Dish TV comes with a 2-year contract and a 3-year price guarantee. If your household is a heavy TV watcher, then this service is excellent for you and your family.
- fuboTV
fuboTV is one of the best streaming services to have if you’re an avid sports fan. It currently offers three plans: Pro comes with more than 130 channels for $69.99 per month, while Elite offers more than 190 channels for $79.99 a month. Ultimate contains more than 230 channels for $99.99 a month. All plans come with 1,000 hours of DVR, making it an excellent option for many. The service also offers a free 7-day trial for new subscribers.
- Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is one of the most popular streaming services in the market right now. The service offers more than 85 live channels, plus access to Hulu’s library of on-demand content for only $69.99 per month. You also get unlimited DVR storage and up to two screens for simultaneous streaming with this plan. Channels offered include ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, Bloomberg, Cartoon Network, Disney, ESPN, and many more.
- YouTube TV
YouTube TV is one of the newer services to enter the live TV streaming market. It currently offers more than 100 channels and all of YouTube’s video-on-demand content. The price of its base plan is $64.99, but YouTube is currently offering $30 off your first three months. It also offers a Spanish Plan for only $34.99, allowing you to access more than 28 Spanish channels, including telenovelas, sports, and news.
All plans come with an unlimited DVR and allow you to share six accounts within your household. YTTV is also offering a 14-day and a 30-day free trial, so you can try if it’s for you or not.
Final Thoughts
Live TV streaming is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to watch television. With so many live TV streaming services available, it can be hard to know which one to choose according to your needs and preferences. However, this guide should give you a good idea of what each service offers and help you make an informed decision. So no matter if you’re looking for inexpensive or premium content, there’s a live TV streaming service for you.