Choosing the Best TV Streaming Services can be an exciting decision that opens up a new world of movies, TV shows, and live events. Streaming platforms allow you to watch television anytime on any device connected to the Internet, allowing you to choose and personalize the content you want.
If you're a fan of drama, sports, award-winning documentaries, or reality shows, you'll want to find the exemplary streaming service for you and your family's needs. This means choosing a service that not only offers your favorite TV shows but also one that fits your technical and budgetary needs.
But with so many choices, deciding which service or services you want can be confusing. To better understand what's on offer, we've rounded up 10 of the best streaming services on the market.
Our Top 10 Best TV Streaming Services in 2023:
- Honda TV: Best Overall TV Streaming Service
- Hulú: the best combination of network television and original content
- DirectTV Streaming: Best for Live TV Deals
- ESPN+ – Best for live sports
- Filón: the best economical TV option:
- Disney+. the best for exclusive Disney content
- fuboTV – The best for sports and Latin American content
- Video: Best for live sports on the go
- Starz: the best content focused on minority voices
- Supreme+. the best way to access Paramount+ compatible channels
Not sure which TV streaming service best suits your needs? Here's our roundup of the ten best TV streaming services available today and why you can join the army of cord-cutters who choose them.
A Closer Look at the Top 10 TV Streaming Services
Best for customizing your entertainment package
Base price $40-$55
Mobile App Yes
With three basic plans and a wide variety of customization options, Sling TV is an attractive option for those who want to tailor their streaming plan to their specific viewing tastes. After choosing your basic plan, you can upgrade your subscription with packages based on sports, news or comedy themes. Or add premium channels like Showtime, Epix and Starz. When you sign up for the plan, you'll get 50 hours of free DVR storage, which you can upgrade to 200 hours for $5 a month. While that's likely more than adequate for most viewers, some competitors offer unlimited DVR storage.
Regarding price, Sling TV is one of the more affordable options, with basic plans ranging from $35 to $50. Although the company has relatively poor reviews on Trustpilot, you can try its service for yourself with a 3-year free trial. Days or by subscribing to Sling Free.
- Over 200 channels and over 85,000 on-demand movies and shows
- 3-day free trial on paid plans
- Thousands of hours of free content
Cons - Bad reviews on Trustpilot
- Limited access to local channels.
Best for those looking for an affordable streaming service and a variety of add-ons
Introductory price $6.99/month
Mobile App Yes
Hulu is a streaming service available in the United States and parts of Japan. With plans starting at $6.99 per month, it's an excellent option for those who want to keep affordability in mind. It offers a lot of quality original programming and frequent updates of new network TV shows.
Without multiple shows or apps, Hulu offers many bundles and add-ons to stream from other platforms and channels like BET, Bravo, TBS, MTV, ESPN, Fox News and CNN. You can also add unlimited screens for $9.99 monthly, which is helpful if you live in a large home. Plus, bundling can save you money.
Hulu's biggest drawback seems to be the frequency of ads, but that can be remedied by opting for an ad-free plan. Support is pretty good, too, with live chat and 24/7 phone service. Finally, the Hulu apps for iOS and Android let you stream content from anywhere, even when you're not at home.
Pros
- Affordable price for basic plan
- Original quality programming.
- Various packages and plugins are available
Cons - Frequent ads (ad-free app available)
- Limited download availability
Best for dedicated TV, sports and movie fans
Base price from $69.99 to $149.99 per month (plus tax)
Mobile App Yes
DirecTV offers a comprehensive, high-tech package for viewers who spend much time watching TV, sports, and movies. You can watch over 140 live channels and over 65,000 on-demand shows with four plans available. With plans ranging from $69.99 to $149.99/month, the service may not be suitable for those on a tight budget. However, others may appreciate features like the ability to watch unlimited streams at home, a DirecTV voice remote, and the ability to record on the go. However, before you sign up for a plan, remember that the company has many negative reviews on Trustpilot.
As with any streaming solution, it's worth carefully researching your plan options before deciding.
Pros
- Up to 65,000 on-demand titles and over 140 live TV channels
- A free trial is available
- Unlimited streams available
Cons - Relatively high monthly fees
- Bad reviews on Trustpilot
Best for live sports fans
Base price $10.99/month
Mobile App Yes
If you're a sports fan, there's much to love about ESPN+. You can watch thousands of live sports events, watch original sports TV content and talk shows, and read premium sports journalism. Because it's a separate service from the traditional ESPN networks, you don't need an expensive TV plan to access this content. And with simultaneous streaming on three devices, your whole family can enjoy the subscription.
EPSN+ may be particularly interesting to UFC fans, who can watch exclusive pay-per-view events through the service. You can even watch via the ESPN app. While there's no free trial, the lack of a contract means you can try out ESPN+ without committing to an expensive package. While there are some negative customer reviews, if you're a big sports fan, ESPN+ is worth checking out.
Pros
- Exclusive live events
- Original content such as sports documentaries.
- Stream on three devices simultaneously
Cons - There is no free trial
- Standard ESPN networks are not included.
Best for affordable live and on-demand viewing
Introductory price $25/month
Mobile App Yes
At just $25 per month, Philo is an excellent option for viewers looking for a low-cost deal on their streaming services. Although the company has only one plan, its package offers access to popular entertainment channels, such as AMC, Nickelodeon, MTV and Lifetime.
In another attractive feature, Philo provides 24/7 access to customer support via phone and online chat, which can be highly beneficial for those who enjoy streaming at odd hours.
Pros
- 24/7 customer service
- 7-day free trial
- Unlimited DVR recordings
Cons - Only one plan is available
- A limited selection of news and sports programs.
Best for Disney and Pixar movies.
Base price from $7.99 per month
Mobile App Yes
Disney+ is new to the streaming market but has already become one of the most popular platforms. The base subscription price of $7.99 a month offers one of the best values we've seen, and there are plenty of titles from the Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic libraries.
In addition, Disney+ has excellent mobile apps, and we found their customer support to be responsive, although some customers reported less-than-positive experiences. As you can imagine, their library is heavily weighted towards family-friendly content, which is something to keep in mind. But if you're looking for a streaming service that lets you watch your favourite Disney movies, Disney+ is the place to be.
Pros
- Access to tons of Disney content
- Offline downloads on up to 10 devices
- Fairly affordable
- Limited original content
- Premier Access is very expensive
Best for sports lovers
Base price $64.99/month
Mobile App Yes
FuboTV is a TV subscription service that provides a wide variety of content without a cable subscription. It's perfect for sports fans, with various premium and international sports channels, so you never miss a game. It even offers a quarterly plan focused on content from the Latino community. Streaming to 3 to 10 devices, depending on your plan, helps avoid remote control disputes. You can record to cloud storage for later viewing if needed.
If FuboTV's existing plans don't meet your needs, you can easily add additional channels with a wide variety of paid add-ons. So, while FuboTV has a fairly high monthly fee (though it's still generally cheaper than cable), you're sure to find content your whole family will enjoy.
- Pros
- Many optional extras
- 24/7 email support
- Channels specialized in sports.
Cons - High prices
- Not all events are available in 4K/HDR
Best for an affordable television service that prioritizes the voices of women and minorities.
Introductory price $8.99/month
Mobile App Yes
STARZ is a premium subscription service owned by Lionsgate. It is an excellent alternative for those who have already watched most of the exciting content offered by streaming giants like HBO or Netflix. For $8.99 a month, you get 20 channels and over 1,400 movies, plus you can stream to up to 5 devices at once.
STARZ is worth it if you wait for new content to be released. You can always try the free trial if you're not interested in joining STARZ from scratch. Within seven days, you should have all the information you need to decide if a STARZ subscription is for you.
Pros
- Monthly and annual subscriptions are available
- Great streaming options for kids
- Plans to produce more original content shortly.
Cons - Lacks a robust interface
- A small TV library
Best for accessing Paramount+ compatible channels
Base price $4.99 per month
Mobile App Yes
At first glance, Paramount+ seems attractive, with competitive pricing, a large selection of unique titles, and beautiful mobile and desktop apps. It's relatively inexpensive, starting at just $4.99 monthly for an ad-supported subscription. Customer service seems average at best. But if you're looking for the titles that Paramount+ has to offer, a 7-day free trial will let you try it out without committing to a subscription.
The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, and the mobile apps are neat and functional. If you can look past the downside, you'll find a unique selection of media on Paramount+ that might pique your interest.
Pros
- Large multimedia library
- Full 7-day free trial
- Easy-to-use mobile and desktop apps
Cons - Performance issues are common
- Customer service is average
- Ideal for families with preschoolers
Base price $7.99/month
Mobile App Yes
Noggin brings together a rich content library, including over 1,000 episodes of Nick JR. TV shows featuring beloved characters such as Dora the Explorer, PAW Patrol and Peppa Pig. You can also access videos, educational games, and e-books created by education experts, which you can read together.
The Noggin can be a great option if you have children between 2 and 6. With so much to explore together, it's more than just a TV streaming service. While it may not be suitable for older children, with an ongoing monthly subscription, you're not tied to a long contract and can move on when your family is ready. A noggin can support your children's development and can also be a great way to entertain them.
Pros
- It was created to support children's learning.
- Combine TV, books, games and activities.
- One account works on multiple devices.
Cons - Users are experiencing technical issues with the app
- It applies only to the preschool age group.
What is TV Streaming?
Streaming is a process that allows you to watch TV through Internet-connected devices such as smart TVs, laptops, smartphones, and game consoles. It can project pre-recorded or on-demand content, such as movies and TV shows, and live events, including sports games and award shows.
Before you can stream TV, you usually have to subscribe to a subscription service that provides access to its content for a monthly fee.
While dozens of streaming services are available, providers like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney Plus, and Sling TV are some of the biggest. Since the rise in popularity of streaming in the mid-2010s, many of the best TV shows and documentaries are now exclusively on these services. After the streaming service premieres, some shows will also be released through other media, such as DVD.
Unlike scheduled programming, on-demand streaming doesn't require you to watch at a specific time of day, making it a more convenient option for many viewers. And unlike network or cable television, much of the live and on-demand content available through streaming services is ad-free.
In addition to TV shows and movies, you can use streaming to watch or listen to music videos, podcasts, and webcasts.
How Does TV Streaming Work?
You are streaming works by transmitting video and audio data over a computer network or Internet connection, which your device will display in real time.
As with any file sent over the Internet, audio and video files transmitted for television streaming are divided into data packets, each containing a portion of the file. When your device receives the information from these files, it will represent this data as images and sounds that appear on your screen.
Because the stream runs continuously, you may start watching some content while the rest is in gis still streaming. The rest of the file will be sent while you're watching, which means there shouldn't be any interruptions.
Although many people confuse streaming and TV streaming, there are some critical differences between the two. Unlike streaming, downloading requires you to get a full file before you can play it, which often makes streaming faster and more efficient. And unlike downloaded files, your stream content won't be stored on your device.
What Do I Need to Use TV Streaming?
To get started with streaming TV, you generally need a stable Internet connection, access to a streaming service, and an online device.
If you plan to watch on TV, you'll need a smart TV or streaming device. Almost all TVs sold today are smart TVs, meaning they can connect to the Internet and have streaming service apps already installed.
A streaming device connects to your home theater or TV and allows you to watch content through a streaming service. Popular streaming devices include Amazon Fire TV Sticks and Roku Streaming Sticks.
You should also check your data allowance before watching TV online, as streaming can consume a good chunk of your usage allowance. According to Netflix, one hour of standard-definition video streaming uses about 1GB of data, HD streaming can use up to 3GB, and Ultra HD can use up to 7GB.
How to Choose The Right TV Streaming Service for Your Needs?
With so many excellent streaming services, finding the right one will ultimately be a personal decision. However, there are some key factors you may want to consider.
When choosing a subscription service, your top priority should be finding a provider that offers the shows or TV genres that interest you. If you prefer to stream live TV content, you should also look for a provider that offers your preferred networks and channels. The chart above provides more information about which services are best for each type of display.
Although several free streaming services exist, they tend to offer very limited content, which may not be suitable for more dedicated viewers. For many, ease of use is another important consideration when choosing a streaming service.
If you're not tech-savvy, you don't want to waste time searching the service's directory for the show or stream you want. While more established services have plenty of experience creating user-friendly viewing experiences, some of the interfaces on newer streaming services may be easier to navigate.
If you like watching TV on the go, you may opt for a streaming service with a reliable mobile app that allows you to stream content to your phone, no matter where you are.
It would be best to consider whether you need a provider that offers simulcasting. As the name suggests, this feature allows you and other family members to view multiple pieces of content simultaneously with a single account.
If you and your family have different tastes in television, the freedom to watch multiple broadcasts can be important for family harmony. Although each service is different, some providers allow you to watch up to four streams at a time.
Is TV Streaming Cheaper Than Cable?
Streaming TV is typically cheaper than cable, although this varies depending on where you live and the content you watch.
If you choose to stream without live TV, it will undoubtedly be cheaper than cable, even if you subscribe to multiple streaming services. Live TV tends to be more affordable than cable, even when you include the cost of your Internet service.
The only time cable might be cheaper is if you want to stream many sports from regional sports networks.
Which Streaming Service Is Best for Live Sports?
ESPN+ is a popular option. It provides access to thousands of live sporting events and is a standalone service that can be added to your existing TV package.
ESPN+ covers a wide range of live events, both nationally and internationally. It offers an on-demand replay option for matches you miss and is especially great for UFC fans as they can get exclusive access to pay-per-view events.
FuboTV is another great option. You can choose the channel packages that interest you the most. Sports Plus with NFL RedZone includes 25 specialty sports channels, and International Sports Plus offers 11 sports channels focused on international events.
Can I Watch Local Channels Without Cable?
Many people stick with their traditional cable service because they don't want to lose their local channels, but many streaming services now let you watch these channels as well. DirectTV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV are streaming services offering local TV channels.
Other services, such as Sling TV and Vidgo, offer more extensive local broadcast networks, but availability varies by location.
How Did We Choose These Live TV Streaming Services?
We recorded and tested live TV programs from each live TV streaming service offered in the United States. Some of the metrics we consider most important for an excellent live-streaming service include:
- Number of channels included
- Local channel coverage
- Premium channel lineup (Food Network, Fox Sports, HBO Max, Apple TV, MLB Network, etc.)
- Value
- Mobile applications
- Customization of the plan
- Reliability
- User interface
- User reviews
- Additional features, such as stream recording
More TV Streaming Services We Reviewed:
- DAZN:
- Noggin
- Showtime:
Our Related TV Streaming Services Articles:
- 10 Reasons Why Streaming TV is the Future of TV
- Ten tips for choosing a TV streaming service for the whole family
- 10 Reasons to Switch to Live TV
The Bottom Line
With some great on-demand and live-streaming options, streaming services have never been more competitive. Now, replacing your traditional cable service with a streaming TV service is easier than ever, saving you money in the long run.
Our picks for the top 10 streaming TV services are Sling TV, DirecTV Stream, ESPN+, Philo, Disney+, fuboTV, Hulu, Vidgo, Prime Video, and Starz.
Choosing the exemplary TV streaming service for you largely depends on the channels you watch and how much you're willing to pay. The ten streaming services listed above represent the best options available today.