Finding the perfect live TV streaming service can be a daunting task, with each platform offering unique features to set itself apart from the competition. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a fan of weekly TV shows, or looking for a bit of everything, there's likely a service tailored to your preferences. With numerous options available, deciding which one suits you best can be challenging. Fortunately, we've compiled a list of the top live TV streaming services offering free trials in 2025, allowing you to explore them before making a long-term commitment.
Hulu + Live TV (3-Day Free Trial)
3-Day Free Trial### Hulu + Live TV (Free Trial)
0Includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads)See it at Hulu
Hulu + Live TV provides a comprehensive package that blends a robust live TV selection with over 95 channels, alongside the Disney Bundle, which encompasses Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+. This bundle offers access to an extensive library including Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, and more, all within a single subscription. Additionally, subscribers enjoy unlimited DVR storage, enabling them to record and watch their favorite shows and movies at their convenience. By default, streaming is available on two devices simultaneously, with an option to upgrade to unlimited screens for uninterrupted family viewing.
Hulu + Live TV also offers a three-day free trial, giving you an opportunity to test the service before deciding on a subscription.
DirecTV Stream (5-Day Free Trial)
5-Day Free Trial### DirecTV Stream
0See it at DirecTV
For those looking to transition away from traditional cable without missing out, DirecTV Stream stands out as a top cable alternative. With its new Genre Packs, you can customize your channel lineup according to your preferences, giving you greater control over your spending. For those seeking a more extensive selection, DirecTV Stream offers three Signature Packages with varying channel counts to meet different needs. The Ultimate pack, for instance, provides over 160 channels, encompassing live sports, news, and more.
DirecTV Stream includes unlimited DVR storage, simultaneous recording, and streaming on multiple devices within your home. Additionally, you can watch your favorite shows up to 72 hours after they air, ensuring you never miss out, even if you forget to record. DirecTV Stream currently offers a five-day free trial, allowing you to experience the service firsthand before committing.
YouTube TV (Trial Length Varies)
Free Trial Available### YouTube TV
0See it at YouTube
YouTube TV serves as the live TV extension of the familiar YouTube platform, offering over 100 channels that cater to a wide range of interests, from major live sports to family-friendly entertainment. It's an ideal choice for families, as a single subscription can be shared with up to five additional users, each receiving personalized recommendations and unlimited DVR storage. The service allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously, with an option to pay extra for unlimited device streaming.
NFL fans will find YouTube TV indispensable as it's the exclusive home of NFL Sunday Ticket. With this feature, you can access every NFL game of the season and watch up to four games at once with multiview. YouTube TV also offers specialized features for live sports, such as real-time scores and stats, a "key plays" view for quick catch-ups, and integration with fantasy sports to monitor your teams and players.
YouTube TV provides a free trial, but the duration can vary based on your Google account, ranging from 2 to 21 days.
Fubo (7-Day Free Trial)
7-Day Free Trial### Fubo
0See it at Fubo
Fubo is a top pick for sports aficionados, providing access to over 55,000 live events annually, covering a broad spectrum including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA college sports, NASCAR, international soccer, golf, tennis, boxing, MMA, and more. Its base plan includes over 200 channels, with more than 35 regional sports networks, ensuring there's always a game to watch.
While Fubo's extensive sports coverage and wide range of channels come at a higher price, most plans allow streaming on up to 10 devices at home and three devices on the go. New subscribers can take advantage of a seven-day free trial to test the service before committing to a subscription.
Philo (7-Day Free Trial)
7-Day Free Trial### Philo
0See it at Philo
Philo, though less known, is a hidden gem in the world of TV streaming. Similar to Sling TV, it offers a budget-friendly live TV service that caters to entertainment needs at a reasonable monthly cost. For under $30 a month, Philo provides over 70 channels, including AMC, Comedy Central, MTV, Paramount Network, and more, making it a perfect fit if you're not into live sports or news.
Alongside live TV, a Philo subscription grants access to over 75,000 on-demand movies and shows, ensuring a vast selection for viewing. Subscribers also benefit from unlimited DVR storage, though recordings expire after 12 months. Philo currently offers a generous seven-day free trial, allowing you to explore the service before subscribing.
Are There Ways to Watch Free Live TV Without a Subscription?
While subscription-based services offer a broader range of channels and live events, there are alternative ways to access free live TV. Several free TV streaming services are available online, such as Sling Freestream, which doesn't even require a login to access its free channels.
Another simple and cost-effective option is using a TV antenna. With the right equipment, you can receive free local channels over the air. A quality HDTV antenna is a relatively inexpensive investment and one of the best ways to watch live sports and other programming without a subscription.
