While it may not be as widely recognized as giants like Netflix or Hulu, Sling TV has carved out a significant niche in the streaming wars. Launched in 2015, it was the pioneering service to offer live TV streaming, positioning itself as a cost-effective alternative to traditional cable subscriptions. Sling TV provides subscribers with a variety of popular channels, a DVR service, and the flexibility to watch on up to three devices, whether at home or on the go. Dive into the details below to discover more about Sling TV, including its channel offerings, sports coverage (such as MLB games), and monthly pricing.
What Is Sling TV?
### Sling TV
250% off your first month!$45.99 save 50%$23.00 at Sling TVSling TV is a subscription-based live TV service that offers a diverse range of popular channels, live sports, news, and more, without the need for a long-term commitment. It's a top choice for those cutting the cord, offering a more budget-friendly option compared to larger live TV streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Sling TV's unique approach features different plans tailored to specific interests, rather than a one-size-fits-all content lineup. All plans come with 50 hours of DVR storage, enabling you to record live TV and your favorite shows and movies for later viewing.
A key distinction—and a major reason for its affordability—is that Sling TV does not include local channels like ABC, CBS, and NBC. Instead, it suggests pairing your subscription with an HD antenna (sold separately) to access these local channels.
Sling TV is compatible with a wide array of devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV devices, PS5, PS4, Xbox consoles, select Samsung, LG, and Vizio smart TVs, Google TV, Xfinity devices, TiVo, and more.
Does Sling TV Have a Free Trial?
### Sling TV Freestream
16See it at Sling TVUnlike other live TV streaming services such as Fubo, Sling TV does not offer a free trial for new subscribers. However, it does provide a related free streaming service called Sling Freestream, which offers numerous free channels and ad-supported content at no cost.
What Channels Does Sling TV Include?
Sling TV offers two primary plans: Orange and Blue. Both plans are priced at $45.99 per month but cater to different viewer preferences. For those wanting the full experience, you can combine the Orange and Blue plans to access the entire 46-channel lineup, including all 22 exclusive channels, for a combined rate of $60.99 per month.
The Orange plan is ideal for sports enthusiasts and families, featuring channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Food Network, Lifetime, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, TBS, and more. It includes 35 channels, with eight exclusive to this plan, and allows streaming on one device at a time, with the option to add more.
The Blue plan targets pro football fans and news aficionados, offering 43 channels, 16 of which are exclusive news and entertainment channels. Highlights include CNN, Bloomberg TV, Fox (in select markets), FS1, Fox News, MSNBC, NFL Network, and more. This plan supports streaming on up to three devices simultaneously.
Can You Watch Live Sports on Sling TV?
Yes, Sling TV offers live sports viewing, though most local games require an additional HD antenna (sold separately). With channels split between the Orange and Blue plans, you'll need to choose which sports networks are most important to you.
The Orange plan includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3, while the Blue plan features NFL Network and FS1. These channels cover a range of live sporting events, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and more. For avid sports fans, adding Sling's sports bundle can provide access to additional channels like NCAA-specific networks, NFL Redzone, MLB Network, NBA TV, NBC Golf, and the Tennis Channel. This service also allows you to watch March Madness games.
How Much Does Sling TV Cost?
As mentioned, Sling TV's Orange or Blue plans are priced at $45.99 per month, with the option to combine them for $60.99 per month to access all channels. Currently, there's a limited-time offer providing 50% off your first month, regardless of the plan you choose. For further savings, you can prepay for three months of Sling TV for as low as $99.
Additional upgrades are available to enhance your Sling TV experience. For frequent recorders, you can upgrade to Sling's Unlimited Cloud DVR for an extra $5/month, which includes an Auto Record feature that saves live sporting events for up to three days.
Sports enthusiasts can add a sports bundle for $11-15/mo (depending on your base plan) to access even more live sports. For comprehensive NFL coverage, explore how to watch NFL games online.
For more insights into streaming platforms, check out guides on 2024 Hulu Subscriptions, Netflix Plans, ESPN+ Plans, and Disney+ Plans.
