For sports fans, ESPN is a familiar name. But ESPN+, its streaming service launched in 2018, still confuses many. While ESPN+ *does* offer live sports, it's best understood as a complement to, not a replacement for, traditional ESPN channels. It fills in gaps, providing a broader sports experience.
This guide covers ESPN+ in detail, including its features, live sports offerings, pricing (as of March 2025), and more.
What Is ESPN+? A Deep Dive into the Streaming Service
ESPN+
ESPN+ is a subscription streaming service. It offers live sporting events, exclusive ESPN films and series (not found on regular ESPN), premium articles, and more. Crucially, however, ESPN+ does not include access to standard ESPN channels like ESPN, ESPN2, or ESPNEWS. To watch SportsCenter, for example, you'll still need cable or a live TV streaming service.
ESPN+ boasts a growing library of original programming, including shows like Man in the Arena with Tom Brady, Peyton's Places, and ESPN FC. Since 2019, it's been the exclusive streaming home for NFL Primetime, offering Sunday night highlights and analysis. The complete archive of ESPN's acclaimed 30 For 30 documentaries is also available.
Furthermore, ESPN+ subscribers get access to ESPN+ Premium Articles on ESPN's website. This provides in-depth analysis, rankings, mock drafts, and more from renowned sportswriters.
ESPN+ Plans and Prices (March 2025)
Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ Bundle
A bundled subscription including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ (with ads) is available for $16.99 per month. Alternatively, ESPN+ can be purchased independently for $11.99 per month, or $119.99 annually (a 15% discount).
Does ESPN+ Have a Free Trial?
Currently, ESPN+ does not offer a free trial. While there are no current promotions directly from ESPN, the website mentions that some third-party offers might exist.
What Channels Does ESPN+ Include?
ESPN+ doesn't include traditional channels. Instead, it provides a rotating selection of live sporting events, a vast archive of past events, and exclusive on-demand ESPN shows and series unavailable on other ESPN platforms.
Can You Watch Live Sports on ESPN+?
Yes! ESPN+ streams thousands of live sporting events. This includes select NFL, MLB, and NHL games, various international soccer leagues, F1 racing, golf, boxing, numerous college sports, and more. Availability depends on your location and may be subject to regional blackouts.
Importantly, ESPN+ is the exclusive streaming home for UFC events, including [ttpp]Pay-Per-View (PPV) fights[/ttpp], Fight Nights, and archived fights. While PPV events have an additional $79.99 fee, Fight Nights and other content are included in the subscription.
Don't expect ESPN+ to replace services like NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB.TV; most live games won't be on ESPN+. However, it offers a strong selection for UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports fans.
How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms
ESPN+ is available on numerous devices in HD, supporting up to three simultaneous streams. If you have the Disney Bundle (including Hulu and ESPN+), you can access it through the Disney+ app (in the US). It's also available via the ESPN app, Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, Google Chromecast, select smart TVs, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
