Although it may not be as well-known as Netflix or Hulu, Sling TV has carved out a significant niche in the streaming industry since its launch in 2015. As the pioneer of live TV streaming, it offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional cable subscriptions. With a variety of popular channels, a DVR service, and the flexibility to watch on up to three devices, Sling TV appeals to a wide range of viewers. Dive into the details below to discover more about Sling TV, including its channel offerings, sports coverage, and monthly pricing.
What Is Sling TV?
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Sling TV is a subscription-based service that provides access to live TV, sports, news, and more without the need for a long-term commitment. It's a go-to option for cord cutters looking for a more affordable alternative to services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Sling TV's unique approach involves offering different plans tailored to specific interests rather than a generic content package. Each plan comes with 50 hours of DVR storage, allowing you to record and watch your favorite shows and movies at your convenience.
A key differentiator—and part of the reason for its lower cost—is that Sling TV does not include local channels like ABC, CBS, and NBC. To access these, Sling recommends pairing your subscription with an HD antenna, which is sold separately.
Sling TV is compatible with a wide array of devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, PS5, PS4, Xbox consoles, select Samsung, LG, and Vizio smart TVs, Google TV, Xfinity devices, TiVo, and more.
Does Sling TV Have a Free Trial?
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Unlike other live TV streaming services such as Fubo, Sling TV does not offer a free trial for new subscribers. However, they do provide Sling Freestream, a free streaming service featuring numerous ad-supported channels and content at no cost.
What Channels Does Sling TV Include?
Sling TV offers two primary plans: Orange and Blue, both priced at $45.99 per month but with different channel lineups. For those wanting the full experience, you can combine the Orange and Blue plans for $60.99 per month, accessing a comprehensive 46-channel lineup, including all 22 exclusive channels.
The Orange plan, ideal for sports fans and families, includes channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Food Network, Lifetime, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, TBS, and more. It offers 35 channels (with eight exclusive to this plan) and supports streaming on one device at a time, with the option to add more.
The Blue plan, designed for pro football enthusiasts and news aficionados, provides 43 channels (with 16 exclusive news and entertainment channels). Notable channels include CNN, Bloomberg TV, Fox (in select markets), FS1, Fox News, MSNBC, NFL Network, and more. This plan allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously.
Can You Watch Live Sports on Sling TV?
Yes, Sling TV offers live sports coverage, although most local games require an HD antenna (sold separately). With channels split between the Orange and Blue plans, you'll need to choose which sports networks are essential for you.
The Orange plan includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3, while the Blue plan features NFL Network and FS1. These channels broadcast a variety of live sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and more. For avid sports fans, adding the sports bundle for an additional $11-15 per month (depending on your base plan) unlocks even more channels, such as NCAA-specific networks, NFL Redzone, MLB Network, NBA TV, NBC Golf, and the Tennis Channel. This service also enables you to watch March Madness games.
How Much Does Sling TV Cost?
Sling TV's Orange and Blue plans are priced at $45.99 per month each, with the combined package costing $60.99 per month. New subscribers can take advantage of a limited-time offer of 50% off the first month. For further savings, you can prepay for three months for as low as $99.
Additional upgrades are available, such as the Unlimited Cloud DVR for an extra $5 per month, which includes an Auto Record feature to save live sporting events for up to three days. Sports enthusiasts can also add a sports bundle for $11-15 per month, depending on the base plan, to access more live sports. For comprehensive NFL coverage, learn how to watch NFL games online.
For more information on streaming services, explore guides on 2024 Hulu Subscriptions, Netflix Plans, ESPN+ Plans, and Disney+ Plans.
