Published December 24, 2023
You can get a free trial of ESPN on DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo and YouTube TV. But cord-cutters aren’t restricted to just those base-level plans.
Sports fans can watch NFL, NBA, MLB, college football, NCAA basketball, Tennis, and UFC Fight Night from ESPN on a regular basis through other plans such as DIRECTV STREAM Premier, DIRECTV STREAM Choice and Fubo Elite.
Key ESPN programs like ‘NFL Live,’ ‘SportsCenter,’ ’30 for 30,’ ‘College Football Live,’ and ‘Around the Horn’ are accessible through different subscription plans at no additional cost. I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of streaming services that offer brief free trials for watching ESPN without the hassles of cable.
Hulu Live TV no longer offers a free trial, but it’s a key option to get ESPN and ESPN+ as a bundle. Sling TV and Hulu are ones to consider when looking for a way to combine ESPN and ABC.
ESPN on DIRECTV STREAM
DIRECTV STREAM (formerly AT&T TV) subscribers can get ESPN as part of its entry-level channel bundle of cable networks.
The Entertainment plan offers more than 75 channels for $79.99 per month. Subscribers can watch live TV on unlimited screens within the home.
The DIRECTV STREAM Entertainment package includes a variety of channels. Some of these are A&E, AMC, Animal Planet, BBC America, BET, Cartoon Network, CMT, CNN, Comedy Central, Discovery, Disney Channel East, E!, ESPN, ESPN2, Food Network, FOX News Channel, Freeform, FX, FXX, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, History, HLN, Investigation Discovery, Lifetime, MSNBC, National Geographic Channel, Nickelodeon East, Paramount Network, Syfy, TBS, TLC, TNT, TruTV, USA Network, VH1, and WE tv.
You get unlimited Cloud DVR for recording sports and TV shows. There are more than 40,000 on-demand movies and shows. DIRECTV STREAM works on Roku, Android TV, Fire TV devices, Apple TV, smartphones, and tablets. Subscriptions run month to month, allowing you to cancel whenever you want.
- Price: $79.99/month
- Free trial: 5 days
- Unlimited Cloud DVR
- Unlimited Screens within household
- Device support: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast with Google TV along with Smart TVs by Samsung, Sony Bravia.
ESPN on Fubo
Fubo (formerly fuboTV) allows you to watch ESPN when you subscribe to its entry-level Pro bundle. The Pro bundle has approximately 189 live TV channels that emulates a cable-like bundle. A subscription to the Pro plan is $79.99 per month.
Sports fans, the Pro bundle’s got you covered with channels such as ESPN, NFL Network, beIN Sports, and Big Ten Network. You’ll also find FX, Bravo, Comedy Central, Food Network, Fox News Channel, MSNBC, and CNBC in the Pro bundle, offering a variety of movies, series, and lifestyle content.
ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC are available in most markets. There are numerous add-ons and channel options available with a Fubo subscription.
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.
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.
- Price: $79.99/month
- Free trial: 7 days
- 1,000 hours Cloud DVR
- 10 simultaneous streams
- 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.
ESPN on YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers more than 128 channels, including live streaming of ESPN on your TV, tablet, or smartphone.
A subscription is $72.99 per month. You can watch live TV on three screens at once. Subscribers get unlimited Cloud DVR.
YouTube TV’s Base plan includes 128 live TV channels, although the exact number of channels available to you may vary depending on your location.
Your location determines which local and regional sports channels are available in your plan.
The YouTube TV Base plan includes A&E, ABC, ACC Network, Adult Swim, AMC, Animal Planet, BBC America, BBC World News, BET, BET Her, Bravo, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, CNBC, CNBC World, CNN, Cartoon Network, Cheddar, Cheddar News, CMT, Comedy Central, Comedy TV, Comet, Court TV, Cozi TV, and Dabl.
In addition, the YouTube TV base plan has key sports channels like ACC Network, ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, TNT, TBS, SEC Network, NFL Network, and MLB Network. Plus, you’ll find entertainment networks like Bravo and Disney Junior.
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 has apps for Smart TVs, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Google TV. New customers can sign up for a free trial.
- Price: $72.99
- Free trial: 7 days
- Unlimited Cloud DVR
- Three simultaneous streams
- 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.
ESPN on DIRECTV STREAM Choice
The DIRECTV STREAM Choice package is a versatile option for those looking to enjoy a wide range of entertainment along with comprehensive sports coverage.
Priced at $108.99 per month, it includes a free trial of ESPN, making it a go-to choice for sports enthusiasts keen on catching the latest games and sports talk shows.
Alongside ESPN, the package boasts a selection of cable sports networks including the MLB Network, NBA TV, and regional sports networks, ensuring fans can follow their favorite teams and sports from college basketball to Major League Baseball.
In the Choice bundle, several channels are included that are not available in the Entertainment bundle. These are ACC Network, Big Ten Network, Cooking Channel, ESPNEWS, ESPNU, MLB Network, NBA TV, NFL Network, and Travel Channel.
What sets the Choice package apart is its well-rounded selection of channels catering to all members of the family.
Not only does it provide an extensive sports lineup, but it also offers a variety of popular entertainment channels like TBS, TNT, and USA Network, alongside educational and kid-friendly content from networks like National Geographic and Cartoon Network.
The DIRECTV STREAM Choice package presents a compelling mix of sports, entertainment, and premium content, making it a preferred choice for households looking for both variety and value.
- Price: $108.99/month
- Free trial: 5 days
- Unlimited Cloud DVR
- Unlimited Screens within household
- Device support: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast with Google TV along with Smart TVs by Samsung, Sony Bravia.
ESPN on Fubo Elite
The Fubo Elite package, a premium offer from FuboTV, comes with ESPN, a must-have for sports fans. In this bundle, ESPN joins a broad range of channels, perfect for everyone, from avid sports enthusiasts to those seeking diverse entertainment.
Included in the Fubo Elite package are key sports networks like NFL Network, NBA TV, NHL Network, and MLB Network, covering major leagues and events. You’ll also find ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPNews for sports news, documentaries, and live events. Soccer fans can enjoy beIN SPORTS for international matches. Golf Channel and Tennis Channel ensure plenty of tournament action.
But the Elite package isn’t just about sports. It offers a variety of entertainment and news channels, including FX, FXX, Paramount Network, and AMC for movies, series, and classic TV. For specialized interests, there’s National Geographic, Discovery Channel, and Animal Planet for educational content. Plus, Comedy Central, Bravo, and Syfy cater to different tastes.
In summary, the Fubo Elite package, with ESPN, delivers a diverse range of channels for various interests. Whether you crave live sports, movies, news, or documentaries, this package has you covered. It’s a great choice for households seeking variety and depth in their TV lineup, promising a rich entertainment experience.
The Elite plan includes 255 channels and costs $89.99 per month. It offers approximately 65 additional sports, news, and entertainment channels. Elite subscribers enjoy all channels from the Pro subscription, along with Fubo Extra and the News Extra add-ons.
- Price: $89.99/month
- Free trial: 7 days
- 1,000 hours Cloud DVR
- 10 simultaneous streams
- 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.
ESPN on DIRECTV STREAM Ultimate
The DIRECTV STREAM Ultimate package is a one-stop solution for viewers who want a diverse content selection without the hefty price tag of traditional cable.
Designed to cater to a wide audience, this package offers an extensive mix of sports, entertainment, news, and lifestyle channels. With ESPN as a focal point, the Ultimate package ensures subscribers won’t miss any major sports events or commentary.
Beyond ESPN, the Ultimate package boasts a robust lineup of sports channels, covering all major sports. NFL Network, NBA TV, MLB Network, and NHL Network provide non-stop access to pro football, basketball, baseball, and hockey games and analysis.
Regional sports networks offer localized event and team coverage. Other sports-focused channels like the Golf Channel, Tennis Channel, and CBS Sports Network serve specific sports fans with live events, tournaments, and deep-dive content.
But the Ultimate package isn’t confined to sports; it serves up a diverse menu of entertainment options. Premium networks like FX, FXX, and Paramount Network deliver everything from blockbuster movies to critically acclaimed series. AMC, TCM, and SundanceTV cater to cinephiles with classic and indie films.
For those into science and nature, National Geographic and Discovery Channel offer educational and inspiring content. Rounding out the lineup are favorites like Comedy Central, Syfy, and Bravo, ensuring something for everyone.
In essence, the DIRECTV STREAM Ultimate package with ESPN is an all-encompassing entertainment solution. It’s perfect for households seeking depth and variety in their TV experience, providing a wide range of options to please every family member. Whether it’s live sports, breaking news, cinematic journeys, or reality TV adventures, the Ultimate package promises a premium viewing experience.
- Price: $119.99/month
- Free trial: 5 days
- Unlimited Cloud DVR
- Unlimited Screens within household
- Device support: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast with Google TV along with Smart TVs by Samsung, Sony Bravia.
ESPN on Fubo Premier
The Fubo Premier package is a robust offering tailored for sports enthusiasts and a diverse range of entertainment preferences, with ESPN taking a prominent place in its lineup. This package aims to provide a comprehensive viewing experience, ensuring subscribers access a wide range of content, from live sports and analysis to movies, series, and more.
In the sports realm, the Fubo Premier package means business, offering exclusive channels for sports aficionados. Alongside ESPN, subscribers can enjoy various other sports networks like NFL Network, MLB Network, NBA TV, and NHL Network, providing extensive coverage of major American sports leagues. Additional sports channels may include Golf Channel, Tennis Channel, and Soccer Plus.
The Premier package also boasts a wealth of entertainment and lifestyle channels, ensuring something for every family member to enjoy. Channels may encompass FX, FXX, and AMC for mainstream movies and series, while networks like National Geographic and the History Channel offer educational and documentary-style content. For niche interests, there are channels like IFC and SundanceTV, catering to fans of independent films and critically acclaimed productions.
It’s worth noting that while Fubo is known for its sports focus, the precise channel offerings, including those exclusive to the Premier package, can vary due to agreements and regional availability.
- Price: $99.99/month
- Free trial: 7 days
- 1,000 hours Cloud DVR
- 10 simultaneous streams
- 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.
ESPN on DIRECTV STREAM Premier
The DIRECTV STREAM Premier package stands out as the top-tier offering in the DIRECTV STREAM lineup.
It prominently features ESPN alongside a vast selection of cable and broadcast networks. This package is designed for viewers who crave a wide and diverse range of sports coverage, premium entertainment, and everything in between.
In addition to ESPN, the Premier package offers an array of sports channels catering to various interests. This includes comprehensive coverage of major leagues and sports through channels like NFL Network, MLB Network, NBA TV, and NHL Network. Often, the Premier package includes regional sports networks, providing localized coverage for dedicated fans. For those with a taste for niche or international sports, channels like Tennis Channel and Golf Channel offer specialized sports coverage.
Beyond its sports offerings, the Premier package boasts an extensive lineup of entertainment channels. Premium networks such as HBO, SHOWTIME, Cinemax, and STARZ offer a wide selection of movies, original series, and exclusive content. The package also includes a diverse range of other popular networks, including AMC, FX, USA, and Comedy Central, ensuring that all preferences for movies, series, and general entertainment are well catered to.
The DIRECTV STREAM Premier package is tailored for households seeking the ultimate television experience, combining top-tier sports action with the best in movies and TV series.
It’s a comprehensive solution for those who desire extensive options and access to premium content all in one place.
- Price: $164.99/month
- Free trial: 5 days
- Unlimited Cloud DVR
- Unlimited Screens within household
- Device support: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast with Google TV along with Smart TVs by Samsung, Sony Bravia.
Update: Fubo raised its prices by $5 per month on its three main bundles; Pro, Elite and Premium as of January 10.
Methodology
I spend hundreds of hours throughout the year conducting hands-on testing of streaming services, including Peacock, DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Sling TV, YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV. I do the same rigorous testing for TV antennas and TV-related hardware. Check out the review policy to see how I compare products and services.The Cord Cutting Report is a reader-supported publication, and may earn affiliate commissions when you pick a streaming service through a recommendation. Read our affiliate policy for more information.
