For years, C-SPAN has provided an invaluable service by placing cameras in rooms that we, as citizens, can’t always access. If you want to watch Congressional hearings or even a presidential debate, C-SPAN delivers a live feed of the event with minimal commentary.
There are a few effective ways to watch C-SPAN without a cable plan. Whether you’re using your smart TV, Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV, you can rely on these methods to access C-SPAN programming live.
Currently, C-SPAN is not available on YouTube TV, Sling TV, or Hulu with Live TV. The only exception is DirecTV Stream, which carries C-SPAN and C-SPAN2 in the Entertainment plan.
YouTube
If you’re using a Smart TV or Roku, open the YouTube app and search for the C-SPAN channel. Often, you will find a live option for events that are being streamed.
While live events may not always be available, you can easily find recently streamed events.&x20;
If you’re on YouTube using a desktop or smartphone and don’t see a live event immediately, click on the “Live” tab within the C-SPAN YouTube channel to explore current broadcasts.
Another quick way to get C-SPAN streaming on your TV — especially if it has Chromecast support — is by opening the YouTube app on your smartphone and casting it to your TV or streaming device.
C-SPAN Now App: Free on iPhones & Android
C-SPAN provides a free simulcast of major events through the C-SPAN Now app, available on iPhones and Android smartphones.
However, based on our testing, casting from the C-SPAN Now app to your TV is not currently supported. It’s not clear if this might change in the future. I will definitely update this guide if things change.
If you’re comfortable watching on your phone or tablet, the app is a convenient option that doesn’t require a cable plan.
You can access major events through:
- – C-SPAN Radio
- – C-SPAN.org
- – C-SPAN Now app
For Amazon Fire TV users, you can access C-SPAN through the Silk web browser by visiting the C-SPAN website.
Alternatives to C-SPAN
If you’re seeking an alternative to C-SPAN, consider using the PBS app to watch a live feed of your local PBS station. You can also check out PBS NewsHour through the PBS app or the free Local Now app.
For those who want access to C-SPAN along with other cable news networks like CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC, DirecTV Stream offers all of these channels without requiring a cable subscription.
