15 Ways to Watch HGTV Without Cable

I’ve meticulously researched and personally tested all of these streaming options to bring you reliable, up-to-date advice on watching HGTV without cable.

hgtv
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You can watch HGTV without cable on six live TV streaming services. 

DIRECTV STREAM, fubo, Hulu Live TV, Philo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV all stream HGTV live without a cable or satellite subscription. 

There are 13 plans that carry HGTV within those six live TV streaming services. You can also watch some older HGTV shows on Discovery+ or Max. I’ve meticulously researched and personally tested all of these streaming options to bring you reliable, up-to-date advice on watching HGTV without cable.

Subscribers to live TV streaming services, cable or satellite can activate the HGTV app and website. Activating the HGTV app and website allows you to watch live TV shows or on-demand programs. 

HGTV has been a cable network since 1994, creating hit shows “House Hunters”, “Fixer Upper”, and “My Lottery Dream Home.”

How to Watch HGTV Without Cable

Your favorite TV channels aren’t exclusive to cable or satellite TV companies anymore.

Thanks to millions of people cutting the cord from cable, you don’t need Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, or anything else that comes with a triple-digit bill every month. 

Live TV streaming services carry HGTV and other popular cable TV channels. These services offer more flexibility and don’t require anyone to install equipment. 

Streaming services have apps for supported Smart TVs, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast with Google TV. You can watch TV on an iPhone or iPad with current iOS. 

If you’re a fan of original TV shows on HGTV, you may want a live TV streaming service that carries other networks such as A&E, Discovery, History, Lifetime, Nickelodeon, SyFy and Paramount Network.

Some of these streaming services offer local channels such as ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX. But you should expect to pay more if you want them in your channel lineup. 

Here are all of your streaming services that carry HGTV.

Philo

PLANPRICECHANNELS
Philo$25/month72
Device support: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast with Google TV along with Smart TVs by Samsung, and Sony Bravia.

Philo is the cheapest way to watch HGTV live without cable. It keeps its price low by offering strictly entertainment channels such as HGTV, Hallmark channel, A&E, Discovery Family, MTV and History.

You will be able to stream the latest seasons of “My Lottery Dream Home”, “Flip or Flop”, and favorite shows from the “Property Brothers” era. A Philo subscription is $25 per month.

There is unlimited Cloud DVR to record shows and a huge catalog of TV shows and movies on-demand. You can watch TV on three screens at once.

If you miss a new episode of a favorite HGTV show, you can either set the DVR to record, or see if the episode is already available on-demand.

Philo stands out as the most budget-friendly option, priced at $25 per month.

It’s tailor-made for viewers who prioritize entertainment channels like HGTV and Hallmark, offering a plethora of lifestyle and reality shows.

However, for those who also seek comprehensive sports coverage or local news, Philo might fall short compared to a more inclusive service like fubo, which, albeit at a higher price point, delivers a broader range of channels, including sports and local networks.

Philo has no contracts or obligations. If you don’t like the service, you can easily cancel online whenever you want.

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 carries HGTV in its two channel bundles known as Sling Orange and Sling Blue.

The Orange bundle has 35 channels, including ESPN, AMC, CNN, TNT and Disney Channel.

Sling Blue has about 47 channels, including NBC, FOX, FX, NFL Network, USA, Bravo and Food Network.

You can subscribe to the Orange or Blue channel bundles for $40 per month. You can combine Sling Orange and Sling Blue for $55 per month. All subscribers get 50 hours of Cloud DVR to record shows, movies and sports.

There are a number of other add-ons for comedy, sports and news. You can start watching with a Roku, Fire TV, Smart TVs, Google Chromecast and smartphones. You can watch TV on gaming consoles, Android phones and web browsers.

Sling Orange subscribers can watch live TV on one screen at a time. Sling Blue subscribers can watch live TV on three screens at once.

Sling is offering half off for the first month of service. You can check the latest offer Sling TV is making to new and returning customers.

Sling TV, with its Orange and Blue bundles, offers a middle ground between affordability and channel diversity. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of entertainment and select sports or news channels without breaking the bank.

However, its limitation of streaming on one screen (Orange bundle) might be a deterrent for households with multiple viewers, something that isn’t an issue with YouTube TV, which offers streaming on three screens and a more extensive channel lineup, albeit at a higher cost.

There are no contracts, or extra fees like cable TV.

Fubo

  • Free trial
  • 1,000 hours Cloud DVR
  • 10 simultaneous streams
PLANPRICECHANNELS
Pro$74.99/month182
Elite $84.99/month248
Premier$94.99/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 (formerly fuboTV) has about 182 channels, including HGTV in its entry-level subscription.

The Pro bundle has entertainment and news networks, including A&E, CNN, Bravo, Oxygen Network, Food Network, AMC and two Hallmark Channels.

fubo has a free trial that lasts a week.

fubo has local NBC, CBS and FOX channels in most of the U.S. You can look over what local channels and regional sports channels are available in your area.

Subscribers get 1,000 hours of Cloud DVR. You can watch live TV on three screens at once.

A subscription costs $74.99 per month. A regional sports fee is included, and costs between $10.99 to $13.99 per month. 

The Elite plan is $84.99 per month, and has 65 more sports, news and entertainment channels. The Premier plan has 231 channels, including Showtime, for $94.99 per month.

fubo, known for its robust channel selection (around 182 channels), is a haven for sports enthusiasts who don’t want to miss out on lifestyle content like HGTV.

The service’s higher cost is justified by its comprehensive sports, news, and entertainment offerings, making it ideal for a sports-loving household that also enjoys lifestyle programming. However, budget-conscious viewers or those less interested in sports might find better value in Philo or Sling TV.

fubo is available on Smart TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV and Android TV devices. The service has a solid mobile app for iPhone and Android smartphones. And you can watch live TV on your PC.

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 has more than 75 TV channels, including Discovery, ID, HGTV, ESPN, FS1, TBS and A&E.

A subscription costs $76.99 per month. You get unlimited access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu’s on-demand library.

Subscribers get unlimited Cloud DVR. Hulu’s channel lineup has local NBC ABC and FOX stations across the U.S.

You can watch live TV on two screens at once.

Hulu Live TV resonates with subscribers who are looking for a rich blend of live TV and a vast on-demand library.

This service is particularly appealing to families and entertainment enthusiasts who enjoy a wide range of content from current TV shows to classic movies and kid-friendly programming. Hulu Live TV is also a strong contender for those who don’t want to miss out on local network coverage, providing local NBC, ABC, and FOX stations across the U.S.

The unlimited Cloud DVR feature is a significant draw for those who like to record and watch shows on their own schedule. While Hulu Live TV’s cost is on the higher side, it justifies the price with its extensive content offerings and the added value of Disney+ and ESPN+. It’s an excellent choice for viewers who value a comprehensive entertainment package and don’t mind paying a bit extra for quality and variety.

You can stream Hulu with Live TV on a Roku, Apple TV, Fire Stick or Smart TV.

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 has HGTV and 128 live TV channels. 

A subscription costs $72.99 per month. You can watch live TV on three screens at once.

You’ll be able to watch CMT, Discovery, FS1, CNN, Golf Channel and FX. Unlimited Cloud DVR is included with a subscription. And you can create up to 6 profiles for a household per account.

YouTube TV works with Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV devices such as the new Google Chromecast. YouTube TV has a free 7-day trial for new customers.

YouTube TV appeals to the subscriber who seeks an all-encompassing streaming experience. It’s perfect for families or individuals who don’t want to compromise on channel variety, offering over 128 channels including popular networks like HGTV, CNN, and FS1.

This service is particularly attractive for those who value sports and news coverage alongside their lifestyle and entertainment content.

With features like unlimited Cloud DVR and the ability to create up to six profiles per account, YouTube TV caters to households with diverse viewing preferences, ensuring everyone gets their personalized space. The service’s support for streaming on three screens simultaneously makes it an excellent choice for busy homes where multiple programs are often watched at the same time.

However, its higher monthly fee of $72.99 might be a consideration for budget-conscious viewers, who may lean towards more affordable options like Philo or Sling TV. Overall, YouTube TV is ideal for those who are looking for a comprehensive, cable-like package without the actual cable.

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 (formerly AT&T TV) includes HGTV in its entry-level subscription. 

The Entertainment plan has 75+ channels for $79.99 per month. Subscribers can watch live TV on unlimited screens in your home. 

DIRECTV STREAM has a free 5-day trial.

A&E, ACC Network, ESPN, ESPN2, CNN, FOX News, and USA Network are included in the Entertainment package’s channel lineup. You get unlimited Cloud DVR and 40,000 on-demand movies and shows.

The Choice package has a wide selection of 40 regional sports channels. Bally Sports networks, NBC Sports and Marquee Sports Network are among them. Choice subscribers get more than 105 channels for $108.99 per month. 

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. 

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

Subscribers can get three months of Showtime, STARZ, and HBO for free before the monthly rates kick in.

DIRECTV STREAM works on Roku, Android TV, Fire TV devices, Apple TV and smartphones and tablets. Subscriptions run month to month and so you can cancel whenever you want.

DIRECTV STREAM is for those who are looking for a premium experience, offering a wide array of channels, including premium options in higher-tier plans, and the ability to watch on unlimited screens at home. This service is ideal for large households or those who value having a wide selection, including regional sports channels.

However, its higher price point might be a barrier for budget-conscious viewers, who might prefer the affordability of Philo or the flexible packages of Sling TV.

Max with Discovery+

  • Price: $9.99 – $19.99
  • Free trial: Available to Amazon Prime subscribers
  • DVR: No
  • Simultaneous Streams: 2 to 4 devices (depending on plan)
PLANPRICECHANNELS
With Ads$9..99/monthSports from TBS, TNT and TruTV (with B/R Add-on)
Ad-Free$15.99/monthSports from TBS, TNT and TruTV (with B/R Add-on)
Ultimate Ad-Free$19.99/monthSports from TBS, TNT and TruTV (with B/R Add-on)
Device support: Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Cox device, LG Smart TV, PlayStation, Roku, Samsung TV, VIZIO Smart TV, Xbox, XClass TV/Xumo TV, Xfinity X1 and Flex

Max is the new streaming iteration from Warner Bros. Discovery that weaves HBO and Discovery+ together with shows from HGTV.

Max has a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original programming from HBO, as well as additional content from Warner Bro. Discovery (WBD). Much of what you will find on Discovery Plus is now part of a Max subscription. 

Shows from HGTV, Food Network, TLC, ID, Animal Planet, and the Discovery Channel are on Max.

Discovery+ is an affordable way on its own to get a huge library of HGTV shows, and some originals you won’t find on cable TV. A subscription costs $4.99 per month. But the service does not carry a live TV feed of HGTV or its latest episodes of new shows.  

Max combines the HBO and Discovery+ catalog while adding roughly 40 new titles and TV shows per month. The combined streaming service debuts on May 23. An Ad-Lite subscription costs $9.99 per month. The ad-free costs $15.99 per month.

HGTV Go app

You can activate the HGTV Go app with DIRECTV STREAM, fubo, Hulu Live TV, Philo, Vidgo and YouTube TV. Sling TV currently does not have TV Everywhere support for the HGTV Go app.

You can start watching a number of live TV channels from your subscription, including HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Discovery, Travel Channel, ID, Cooking Channel, Animal Planet, OWN and others. 

There is a library of on-demand shows with the HGTV Go app. 

Is HGTV free on Amazon Prime?

No. HGTV is part of the Warner Bros. Discovery family of cable TV networks. The network can be found on live TV streaming services. HGTV shows can be found on-demand through two streaming services, Discovery Plus, and Max. 

Where to watch HGTV for free

Philo, DIRECTV STREAM and fubo all have HGTV in their channel lineups and offer free trials that last up to a week. The exact time span of each free trial varies from service to service.

How can I watch HGTV on my Smart TV?

You can sign up for a live TV streaming service and start watching HGTV as a live TV channel.

DIRECTV STREAM, fubo, Hulu Live TV, Philo, Sling TV, Vidgo and YouTube TV all offer HGTV as a live TV channel. Supported Smart TVs include sets made by Samsung, LG and Sony. Roku TVs and sets that run on Android TV or Google TV support most major streaming apps.

What is the Best Way to Watch HGTV Without Cable?

After considering the price, number of channels, and features mentioned in the article, Philo and Sling TV stand out as the top choices for watching HGTV without cable.

STREAMING SERVICEPROSCONS
PhiloMost affordable ($25/month), unlimited Cloud DVR, streams on three screens, entertainment-focused channelsLacks local and sports channels
Sling TVFlexible packages (Orange and Blue), first-month discount, 50 hours of Cloud DVR, free streaming device on prepaid subscriptionsSingle screen for Orange, higher combined package cost, limited local channel access
fuboExtensive channel selection (182 channels), 1,000 hours Cloud DVR, includes local and sports channels, one-week free trialHigher cost ($74.99/month), additional regional sports fee
Hulu Live TVOver 75 channels including local stations, unlimited Cloud DVR, access to Disney+ and ESPN+, on-demand libraryHigher cost ($76.99/month), no free trial for live TV
YouTube TVBroad channel lineup (128 channels), unlimited Cloud DVR, up to 6 profiles, free 7-day trial, streams on three screensHigher cost ($72.99/month)
DIRECTV STREAMVariety of plans with extensive channels, free 5-day trial, unlimited screens at home, premium channels in higher plansHigher cost (starts at $79.99/month), additional cost for sports and premium channels
Discovery+Affordable access to a vast library of HGTV shows, including originalsNo live TV feed of HGTV, latest episodes may not be available immediately
MaxCombines HBO and Discovery+ catalog, frequent addition of new titles and showsHigher cost for ad-free version, no live TV feed of HGTV

Philo is the most economical option at $25 per month, offering unlimited Cloud DVR, streaming on three devices simultaneously, and a focus on entertainment channels, including HGTV and Hallmark Channel. However, it lacks local and sports channels.

Sling TV provides flexibility with its Orange and Blue bundles at $40 per month each, or combined for $55. It includes 50 hours of Cloud DVR and a first-month discount. However, Sling Orange limits users to one screen, and the combined package can be pricier.

Note: This article was published on November 27, 2018, and has been updated. 

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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.