Best Streaming Services for Watching Sports: The Ultimate Guide for Cord-Cutters
If you’re a sports fan looking to cut the cord and say goodbye to traditional cable, you're in luck. The rise of streaming services has revolutionized the way we watch sports, offering more options than ever for catching your favorite games without being tied to an expensive cable package. Whether you’re into the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, soccer, or combat sports, there’s a streaming service that caters to your needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best streaming services for sports lovers, with a focus on both "cable replacement" services and "standalone" sports platforms. We’ll help you find the right option based on what sports you enjoy watching, your budget, and your streaming preferences.
Cable Replacement Sports Streaming Services
Cable replacement streaming services are internet-based platforms that mimic the experience of traditional TV, offering a range of sports channels through a monthly subscription. These services typically don’t lock you into long-term contracts, making it easy to cancel and switch if necessary. Here are the top options for sports fans:
1. Sling TV – Best for Budget-Conscious Sports Fans
Sling TV offers excellent value for sports fans on a budget. It provides access to essential sports channels like ESPN, ESPN2, and Fox Sports. Sling TV has two primary packages: Sling Orange and Sling Blue, each offering different channel lineups. You can combine both for a more comprehensive sports experience. It’s great for those who want a low-cost option without sacrificing too much content.
- Sling Orange – Includes ESPN, ESPN2, and more. $40/month.
- Sling Blue – Includes Fox Sports, USA Network, and more. $45/month.
- Sling Orange + Blue – A combo plan with both channel lineups. $60/month.
Sling TV is compatible with most streaming devices, supports multi-screen streaming, and includes a free 50-hour DVR.
2. fuboTV – Best for International Sports Coverage
If you’re looking for a streaming service with extensive international sports coverage, fuboTV is a top contender. With over 100 channels, fuboTV includes ESPN, Fox Sports, Golf Channel, and beIN Sports, making it a great choice for global sports fans. It’s especially useful for expats or those who enjoy sports like soccer and rugby from around the world.
- Fubo Pro – 180+ channels, 1000 hours of cloud DVR, $79.99/month.
- Fubo Elite – 250+ channels, HD and 4K support, $99.99/month.
fuboTV supports streaming on up to 10 devices simultaneously, making it a great choice for large households.
3. Hulu + Live TV – Best for Bundling and Add-ons
Hulu + Live TV is a strong all-around option for sports fans, offering a wide range of channels, including ESPN, Fox Sports, and regional sports networks. What sets Hulu apart is its bundle with ESPN+ and Disney+, making it an excellent value for those who want more than just live TV. The service also has a solid sports add-on.
- Hulu + Live TV (with ads) – Includes ESPN+ and Disney+ at no extra cost. $82.99/month.
- Hulu + Live TV (no ads) – Same great features, but no ads. $95.99/month.
Hulu + Live TV is compatible with all major streaming devices and offers unlimited DVR storage.
4. DirecTV Stream – Best for Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)
DirecTV Stream is the best option for fans of local sports leagues like the NHL, NBA, and MLB. Its Choice package includes Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) like Bally Sports and NBC Sports, which are essential for following regional teams and games. DirecTV Stream also supports ESPN, Fox Sports, and more.
- DirecTV Stream Choice – 105+ channels, unlimited DVR, $114.99/month.
With the ability to stream on unlimited devices at home, DirecTV Stream is ideal for sports households.
5. Vidgo – Best for Value and Sports Mix
Vidgo offers a nice balance between price and sports content. With over 110 channels, Vidgo covers major sports networks like ESPN, Fox Sports, and SEC Network. It’s perfect for fans who want a mix of mainstream and regional sports at an affordable price.
- Vidgo Plus – 110+ channels, cloud DVR, $69.99/month.
Vidgo allows streaming on up to three devices at once and supports a wide range of devices.
6. YouTube TV – Best for Local Broadcast Networks
YouTube TV stands out for its extensive lineup of local broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. This makes it an excellent option for NFL fans who want to catch games on local channels. YouTube TV also offers ESPN, MLB Network, and more than 85 other channels.
- YouTube TV – 100+ channels, unlimited DVR, $72.99/month.
With its DVR feature and compatibility with multiple devices, YouTube TV offers a comprehensive sports streaming experience.
Standalone Sports Streaming Services
These services are more specialized, focusing on particular sports or leagues, making them ideal for sports fans who are looking for supplemental coverage.
1. ESPN+ – Best for UFC and Niche Sports
ESPN+ is a must-have for UFC fans, as it broadcasts exclusive MMA events. It also covers sports like soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and rugby. While ESPN+ doesn’t carry the biggest sports leagues, it’s a great low-cost service for sports enthusiasts.
- ESPN+ – $9.99/month, includes access to UFC, live sports, and original content.
It’s also available as a bundle with Hulu and Disney+, offering additional entertainment and sports options.
2. Paramount+ – Best for CBS Sports and Champions League Soccer
Paramount+ is perfect for fans of CBS sports and European soccer. It broadcasts the NFL on CBS and is home to Champions League soccer, featuring top-tier teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Liverpool.
- Paramount+ – $5.99/month (Essential), $11.99/month (With Showtime).
With access to CBS’s sports coverage and a rich library of movies and TV shows, Paramount+ is a solid value.
3. Peacock – Best for WWE and Premier League Soccer
Peacock is the exclusive home for WWE content and broadcasts a significant portion of the Premier League soccer games. For wrestling and soccer fans, Peacock is a top pick.
- Peacock Premium – $5.99/month, includes WWE, Premier League soccer, and other sports.
Peacock also offers a free plan, though you’ll need to upgrade to access the premium sports content.
4. DAZN – Best for Combat Sports
DAZN is a streaming service focused on combat sports, including boxing and MMA. It broadcasts a wide variety of events and promotions, making it a top choice for combat sports enthusiasts.
- DAZN – Varies by region, $19.99/month (in the U.S.).
DAZN is compatible with most modern streaming devices, offering a great way to watch live combat sports.
Conclusion: Which Sports Streaming Service is Right for You?
Choosing the best sports streaming service ultimately depends on your viewing preferences, budget, and the sports you love.
- For general sports coverage, Hulu + Live TV offers a robust channel lineup with sports add-ons and an excellent value with bundled access to Disney+ and ESPN+.
- If you’re a budget-conscious viewer, Sling TV provides great sports coverage at a fraction of the cost of some competitors.
- For international sports fans, fuboTV is a great option with global sports coverage.
- ESPN+ is unbeatable if you’re passionate about UFC, MMA, and niche sports.
All of these services are contract-free, so you can try them out and cancel at any time. Whichever service you choose, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of cord-cutting with access to top-tier sports content.
