Finding the perfect live TV streaming service can be tricky, as each one offers unique features to stand out. Whether you love live sports, weekly shows, or a combination, there's almost certainly a service to match your habits. With so many choices, deciding which one is right for you can be a challenge. To help, we've compiled the best live TV streaming services offering free trials in 2025, allowing you to test them before subscribing.
Hulu + Live TV (3-Day Free Trial)
3-Day Free Trial
Hulu + Live TV (Free Trial)
Includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads) | See it at Hulu
Hulu + Live TV combines a robust live TV package of over 95 channels with the Disney Bundle, which includes full access to Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+, all for a single monthly fee. This means you can enjoy the best of Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more. You also get unlimited DVR storage to record and watch your favorite content whenever you like. By default, you can stream on two devices simultaneously, and you can upgrade to unlimited screens for family viewing without interruptions.
Hulu + Live TV provides a three-day free trial, so you can try the service before subscribing.
DirecTV Stream (5-Day Free Trial)
5-Day Free Trial
DirecTV Stream
See it at DirecTV
DirecTV Stream is a top cable TV alternative, especially if you want a smooth transition. Its new Genre Packs let you create a custom channel lineup based on your interests, giving you more control over what you pay. For a broader selection, DirecTV Stream offers three Signature Packages, each with an increasing number of channels to fit your needs. The Ultimate Package includes over 160 channels, covering live sports, news, and entertainment.
The service includes unlimited DVR storage, simultaneous recording, and the ability to stream on multiple devices at home. A great feature is the ability to watch shows up to 72 hours after they air, even if you forgot to record them, so you never miss a moment.
New subscribers can take advantage of a five-day free trial to test DirecTV Stream.
YouTube TV (Trial Length Varies)
Free Trial Available
YouTube TV
See it at YouTube
YouTube TV is the live TV counterpart to standard YouTube, delivering over 100 channels that include major live sports and family-friendly entertainment. It's ideal for families, as one subscription can be shared with up to five additional users, each with personalized recommendations and unlimited DVR storage. You can stream on up to three devices simultaneously or upgrade for unlimited streaming.
For NFL fans, YouTube TV is the exclusive home of NFL Sunday Ticket. With this add-on, you get access to every NFL game of the season and can watch up to four games at once using multiview. The service also enhances the sports viewing experience with real-time scores and stats, a "key plays" recap, and integration with fantasy sports to track your players.
YouTube TV does offer a free trial, but its duration depends on your Google account, currently ranging from 2 to 21 days.
Fubo (7-Day Free Trial)
7-Day Free Trial
Fubo
See it at Fubo
For live sports fans, Fubo is a premier choice, providing access to over 55,000 live events each year. Coverage spans the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA college sports, NASCAR, international soccer, golf, tennis, boxing, MMA, and more. The base plan includes over 200 channels, with more than 35 regional sports networks, so there's almost always a game on.
Due to its extensive coverage, Fubo's base plan has a higher price point than many competitors. Most plans allow streaming on up to 10 devices at home and three while on the go.
New subscribers can test Fubo with its generous seven-day free trial.
Philo (7-Day Free Trial)
7-Day Free Trial
Philo
See it at Philo
Philo might not be a household name, but it's a hidden gem in the streaming world. Like Sling TV, it offers a budget-friendly live TV service that meets most entertainment needs at a reasonable price. For less than $30 a month, Philo includes over 70 channels such as AMC, Comedy Central, MTV, and Paramount Network. If you don't watch live sports or news, Philo likely has everything you need.
Beyond live TV, a Philo subscription gives you access to over 75,000 on-demand movies and shows. You also get unlimited DVR storage, though recordings expire after one year.
Philo currently offers a seven-day free trial, perfect for testing the service before subscribing.
Are There Ways to Watch Free Live TV Without a Subscription?
While you won't have access to the same number of channels or live events, there are several ways to watch live TV without a paid subscription. Multiple free streaming services are available online, with options like Sling Freestream not even requiring a login to access free channels.
Alternatively, the simplest method to get live channels is with a TV antenna. You can receive free local broadcasts as long as you have the right equipment. An HDTV antenna is a relatively small investment and remains one of the best ways to watch at least some live sports without a subscription.
