12 Cable-Free Ways to Watch ESPNU Without Cable in 2024

The latest method for streaming ESPNU includes adding the DIRECTV STREAM Sports Pack to any plan. My recommendation for watching ESPNU without cable is Sling TV with the Sports Extra bundle at $51 per month. It is the most affordable option in the live TV streaming landscape in 2024.

ESPNU
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Published: July 20, 2023

You can watch ESPNU without cable across top streaming services, including DIRECTV STREAM, Sling TV, YouTube TV, Fubo, and Hulu Live TV. 

While ESPN+ offers a wealth of live sports and original programs, it’s important to note that ESPNU is not part of its lineup. Among the five streaming services, there are 12 plans that feature ESPNU, ensuring various options to suit your preferences.

Top pick for Watching ESPNU

Here is the latest on streaming ESPNU without cable:

  • My recommendation for watching ESPNU without cable is Sling TV with the Sports Extra bundle at $51 per month. It’s a wallet-friendly option, and currently the most affordable one in the live TV streaming landscape in 2024. 
  • DIRECTV STREAMfubo and YouTube TV are the three live streaming services that have ESPNU and offer a free trial. With most of these options, you can activate the ESPN app as with any pay TV provider to conveniently watch ESPNU online on a PC, Mac computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Watch ESPNU on Sling TV

PLANPRICECHANNELS
Orange$40/month32 (No locals)
Blue$40/month40 (Locals included)
Orange + Blue$55/month88

Device support: AirTV Mini, Amazon Echo Show, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast along with Smart TVs from LG, Samsung, Sony Bravia and VIZIO SmartCast.

Sling TV stands out as the most budget-friendly option for streaming ESPNU, starting at just $51 per month with the Sports Extra package added to either the Orange or Blue plan. 

You can enjoy a diverse channel lineup, including ESPN, ESPN2, and a variety of entertainment networks like AMC and A&E. Remember, the Sports Extra package is essential to access ESPNU and provides an additional 15 channels, including ACC Network and NFL RedZone. 

The Sling Orange plan includes 32 channels, including ESPN, ESPN2 and entertainment networks like AMC, A&E, Bravo, and History. A subscription to Sling Orange costs $40 per month.

The Sling Blue plan has 40 channels, including Discovery, NFL NetworkFOX Sports 1FOX Sports 2, MSNBC, and Stadium, but doesn’t include ESPN.

ESPNU 2024
(Photo credit: The Cord Cutting Report)

The Sports Extra package adds 15 channels, including ACC Network, ACCNX, NFL RedZone, SEC Network, SEC Network+, MLB Network, NBA TV, and ESPNU for $11 per month.

Subscribers can get half off for the first month of any plan.

You can combine Sling Orange and Sling Blue for $55 per month and add the Sports Extra package to maximize your channel lineup.

All subscribers get 50 hours of Cloud DVR storage.

Sling TV works on just about any streaming device: Roku, Firestick, Apple TV and even an Xbox. It is supported by Samsung Smart TVs and Smart TVs operating on Android TV or Google TV. Sling TV has mobile apps for iPhones and iPads (with current iOS) and Android smartphones.

There are no hidden fees or contracts if you decide to keep the service. You can even use your subscription to activate the ESPN app after you sign up for service.

Sling TV is an excellent choice for sports enthusiasts on a budget, focusing on affordability while providing essential sports channels. It’s a more cost-effective option than YouTube TV, particularly for those who prioritize sports content.

Stream ESPNU on Hulu + Live TV

  • Sign up & get Disney+ and ESPN+ included
  • Unlimited Cloud DVR (9 mos.)
  • Two simultaneous streams
PLANPRICECHANNELS
Hulu + Live TV$76.99/month90+

Device support: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast with Google TV along with Smart TVs by Samsung, VIZIO SmartCast, Sony Bravia, PlayStation, XBox, Xfinity Flex and Xumo TV.

Hulu + Live TV offers a comprehensive solution for sports fans, featuring ESPNU among its extensive channel selection. 

Priced at $76.99 per month, this service includes not just live sports but also a vast library of on-demand movies and shows. 

A key highlight is the inclusion of Disney+ and ESPN+ in your subscription, providing a well-rounded entertainment package. With unlimited DVR and support for two simultaneous streams, Hulu + Live TV caters to your flexible viewing needs. 

The channel lineup also includes ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN College Extra, ACC Network, CBS Sports Network and SEC Network.

Hulu Live TV channels 2024
(Photo credit: Jim Kimble / The Cord Cutting Report)

Hulu with Live TV comes with unlimited DVR storage so you can record sports, news, movies or whatever else you want. Hulu carries local ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC across the U.S.

College football fans will be able to watch a lot more conferences and games with ESPN Plus.

There are more than 300 live college football games on ESPN Plus throughout the season. Southeastern Conference, LSU, Auburn, Kentucky, Missouri, Ole Miss and Tennessee are among the teams with select live games.

With a Hulu Live TV subscription, you can activate the ESPN app for ESPNU, ESPN3, and unlock all live sports on ESPN Plus.

Hulu Live TV is great for those who value a mix of sports and on-demand content, including access to ESPN+ and Disney+. It offers a more diverse viewing experience compared to the more sports-focused Sling TV.

Watch ESPNU on DIRECTV STREAM

PLANPRICECHANNELS
Entertainment$79.99/month75+
Choice$108.99/month105+
Ultimate$119.99/month140+
Premier$164.99/month150+

Device support: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast with Google TV along with Smart TVs by Samsung, Sony Bravia

DIRECTV STREAM brings a traditional TV feel to streaming, featuring ESPNU in its Choice package and above. 

With plans starting at $108.99 per month, you can enjoy a broad selection of over 105 channels. The service is known for its extensive regional sports network coverage, making it an ideal choice for MLB, NBA and NHL fans. It also has key channels for college football and NCAA basketball fans. 

New customers can get a 5-day free trial, unlimited cloud DVR, and streaming on unlimited screens within the household makes DIRECTV STREAM a compelling choice for families and sports fans alike.

The Ultimate package has more than 140 channels, including locals, and sports channels such as NHL Network. The Ultimate package is $119.99 per month.

directv stream local channels
(Photo credit: Jim Kimble / The Cord Cutting Report)

The Premier Package has over 150 channels, including premium channels such as HBO, Cinemax and Showtime. A subscription is $164.99 per month.

Subscribers can watch live TV on unlimited screens within your home. Subscriptions run month to month and so you can cancel whenever you want. You can expand your collegiate sports coverage with the DIRECTV STREAM Sports Pack, featuring ESPNU among its robust lineup of channels. 

For just $14.99 per month, dive into the diverse world of college sports, ensuring you never miss a play, with the convenience of adding this pack to any DIRECTV STREAM plan.

DIRECTV STREAM is perfect for viewers who seek a broad range of channels, including sports, news, and entertainment. It offers a more extensive lineup than Sling TV, ideal for those who don’t mind a higher subscription cost for a more complete package.

Watch ESPNU on YouTube TV

  • Free trial
  • Unlimited Cloud DVR
  • Three simultaneous streams
PLANPRICECHANNELS
YouTube TV$72.99/month128

Device support: Android TV, Google TV, Smart TVs by Samsung, LG, VIZIO, Hisense, Sharp and Sony; Chromecast, Google TV, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox, PlayStation and Google Nest Hub; Android and iOS devices.

YouTube TV is a prime choice for streaming ESPNU, offering a comprehensive channel lineup at $72.99 per month. 

It’s not just the number of channels that makes YouTube TV attractive but also features like unlimited cloud DVR storage and the ability to stream on three devices simultaneously. With a wide range of sports and entertainment channels, YouTube TV ensures you won’t miss any of the action. 

(Photo credit: Jim Kimble / The Cord Cutting Report)

The YouTube TV base plan carries other key sports channels for fans such as TNTTBS, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPNews, FS1, FS2, NFL Network, and MLB Network. YouTube TV carries entertainment networks such as Bravo and Disney Junior.

You’ll be able to watch CNNGolf Channel and FX. Unlimited Cloud DVR is included with a subscription. And you can create up to 6 profiles for a household per account.

The service works with Chromecast, Roku, Fire TV, NVIDIA Shield TV, Apple TV and Chromecast. You can get a free 7-day trial, or look over the channel lineup for your area.

YouTube TV suits households desiring an extensive channel range with a single, comprehensive plan. While its cost is higher than Sling TV, it offers a wider variety of channels without the need for additional packages.

Fubo

  • Free trial
  • 1,000 hours Cloud DVR
  • 10 simultaneous streams
PLANPRICECHANNELS
Pro$79.99/month189
Elite$89.99/month248
Premier$99.99/month257 & Showtime

Device support: Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast with Google TV, Xbox One, along with Smart TVs by Hisense, Samsung, LG, Sony Bravia and VIZIO SmartCast TV. Android, iPhones and iPads with current iOS.

Fubo positions itself as a sports-centric streaming service, making it a go-to platform for sports fans, especially with options like ESPNU in the channel lineup. 

ESPNU is available to Elite and Premium subscribers. But you can add ESPNU to the entry-level Pro plan with the Fubo Extra, or Sports Plus add-on. The Pro plan, starting at $79.99 per month, offers an extensive lineup of 182 channels, including a comprehensive sports channel lineup. 

With features like 1,000 hours of cloud DVR and the ability to stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously, there will be plenty of recording space for college basketball, football fans and more.

ESPN and ABC
(Photo credit: Jim Kimble / The Cord Cutting Report)

Fubo subscribers get access to local ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX in most areas of the U.S. ESPN, ESPN2, Food network, Fox News, HGTV, Big Ten Network, Disney Junior, and Comedy Central are available across all Fubo plans.

The Fubo Extra bundle adds 59 more channels for $7.99 per month. It includes NBA TV, INSP, Tennis Channel, MTV Live, MTV Classic, FXM, Pac 12 Networks, and ESPNews.

The Sports Plus bundle adds 32 more channels and costs $10.99 per month. It includes NFL RedZone, all four Stadium networks, Sports Illustrated TV, Golf TV English, Golf TV Spanish, PAC 12 Arizona, PAC 12 Bay Area, PAC 12 Los Angeles, PAC 12 Mountain, PAC 12 Oregon, PAC 12 Washington, FOX College Sports Atlantic, FOX College Sports Pacific, FNTSY, Fight Network and TyC Sports.

All subscribers get 1,000 hours of Cloud DVR storage. You can watch live TV on 10 screens at once. If you miss a game, you can use Fubo’s “look back” feature to watch sporting events that aired in the last 72 hours

The Elite plan is $89.99 per month, and has 65 more sports, news and entertainment channels. The Premier plan has 231 channels, including Showtime, for $99.99 per month

Fubo has a library of on-demand content, including movies and TV shows. Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV and Smart TVs all carry the Fubo app.

The fuboTV Elite package adds 60 more channels, including the Pac-12 Network.

Fubo has mobile apps for iPhone and Android so you can watch ESPN live on your smartphone. Subscribers can watch live TV through their web browser.

Fubo is ideal for hardcore sports fans, offering unique features like ‘lookback’ and a sports-centric channel lineup. Compared to DIRECTV STREAM, it provides a similar sports focus but with additional features for avid sports viewers.

How to Watch ESPNU without cable FAQs

Here are some questions that sports fans ask when searching for ways to watch ESPNU online without cable.

How to watch ESPNU for free

DIRECTV STREAMFubo, and YouTube TV all stream ESPNU, and offer a free trial that lasts up to a week.

During the trial period, you can watch ESPNU on a supported Smart TV or streaming device along with other local channels and cable TV networks.

You will need to cancel service before the free trial ends so you won’t get billed. Be sure to check each streaming service for details.

Can you watch ESPNU on ESPN Plus?

No. ESPN+ is a standalone streaming service that has daily MLB and NHL games and other programs for $10.99 per month. The service does not get you the ESPNU cable network. ESPN+ likewise does not include ESPN, ESPN3, ESPNews or its sibling networks.

The caveat is that ESPN+ subscribers can occasionally watch some simulcasts from ESPN, including Golf, MMA fights, NFL and NBA games.

ESPN+ subscribers get hundreds of exclusive college football, NCAA basketball games and UFC fights. A subscription to ESPN Plus costs $10.99 per month, or get it with Hulu and Disney+ for $14.99 per month as part of the Disney Plus bundle.

ESPN+ streams live games and on-demand shows through the ESPN app. Once you sign up to ESPN+, you can stream live sports and popular series such as “30 for 30” and “The Captain” in the ESPN app.

Why isn’t ESPNU available on ESPN+?

While ESPN+ is celebrated for its extensive sports coverage and a rich array of original programming, it’s essential to understand that ESPNU is not part of the ESPN+ lineup. 

As a standalone streaming service, ESPN+ is available for $10.99 per month, offering an extensive range of sports content and original series. It’s also included in the Disney bundle and as an add-on with Hulu + Live TV, providing diverse entertainment options.

However, if you’re specifically looking to stream ESPNU, exploring other streaming services like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV is recommended. These platforms offer a comprehensive sports viewing experience, ensuring you don’t miss out on your favorite college sports action.”

Can you watch ESPNU on the ESPN app?

DIRECTV STREAM, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu Live TV and fubo support activating the ESPN app so you can watch ESPNU live.

The only requirement is that ESPNU is in the channel lineup of your live TV plan.

You can use the ESPN app on your Smart TV, tablet, smartphone, and iPad (current iOS) to live stream ESPN.

Pay-TV subscribers can use your TV provider to watch ESPNU on a PC or Mac through a web browser. Click on the “Watch” tab on the ESPN website, and sign in using your pay TV provider.

Is ESPNU on Amazon Prime?

No. ESPNU is not on Amazon Prime. ESPNU is only available only through a cable TV, satellite service or a live TV streaming service. DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Hulu Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV all include ESPNU in their channel lineups.

How to watch ESPNU on Roku

You can subscribe to DIRECTV STREAM, Sling TV, Fubo, or Hulu Live TV and start watching ESPNU on any Roku device or Roku TV.

But prices and channel lineups for each live TV streaming service varies.

Can I watch ESPNU on my computer?

Yes. You can watch ESPNU on a PC or Mac by subscribing to DIRECTV STREAM, Sling TV, YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu Live TV, or the Spectrum TV app.

Can I watch ESPNU on my phone?

You can use a live TV streaming service to watch ESPNU on your iPhone or Android smartphone.

DIRECTV STREAM, Sling TV, YouTube TV, Fubo, and Hulu Live TV all have mobile apps for their live TV service. You can likewise use the ESPN app, and activate the app through your pay TV provider.

Where to stream ESPNU Live Now Without Cable

After exploring the myriad of options to stream ESPNU without cable, the ball is now in your court. 

Whether it’s the comprehensive coverage of Hulu + Live TV, the budget-friendly plans of Sling TV, the expansive channel lineup of YouTube TV, the sports-centric approach of Fubo, or the traditional TV experience of DIRECTV STREAM, your perfect sports streaming service is just a click away. 

STREAMING SERVICEPROSCONS
DIRECTV STREAMExtensive channel variety, unlimited DVR, free trialHigher price, more suitable for comprehensive viewership
Sling TVMost affordable for ESPNU, customizable packagesRequires Sports Extra for full sports coverage, limited DVR
YouTube TVBroad channel selection, unlimited DVR, free trialSingle plan option, higher monthly cost
fuboBroad sports focus, “lookback” feature, multiple plan optionsAdditional cost for sports add-ons, higher base price
Hulu Live TVIncludes ESPN+ and Disney+, unlimited DVRHigher cost, only one plan option

Sling TV is the cheapest way to watch ESPNU and it is an overall solid budget option at $51 per month. You need to add the Sports Extra bundle to any plan you choose to stream ESPNU. Subscribers get half off for the first month of service.

Hulu + Live TV is the second cheapest option at $76.99 per month, and includes ESPN Plus and Disney Plus.

For budget-conscious sports fans, Sling TV stands out as the most affordable option to stream ESPNU, especially when combined with the Sports Extra package. However, for a more comprehensive sports and entertainment experience, DIRECTV STREAM offers a wider array of channels, albeit at a higher cost.

Jim Kimble is a seasoned industry expert with over two decades of journalism experience. He has been at the forefront of the cord-cutting movement since 2016, testing and writing about TV-related products and services. He founded The Cord Cutting Report in 2016, and serves as the editor.

Major publications, including MarketWatch, Forbes, and South Florida Sun Sentinel, have interviewed Kimble for his years of expertise. He gives advice on the complexities consumers are navigating with streaming options, and over-the-air TV. Kimble has been a staff writer or correspondent for several award-winning, daily newspapers, including The Boston Globe.