Best Live TV Streaming Services (2025) — Quick Guide
Here’s a concise summary of the latest live TV streaming developments, pricing changes and how to watch NFL games in 2025.
TL;DR
- YouTube TV — still the most well-rounded option; offers NFL Sunday Ticket as an add-on.
- Hulu+ Live TV — base plan rose to $90/month.
- Philo — +$5/month; now includes HBO Max and Discovery+ content.
- 4K live streaming — available selectively on YouTube TV, FuboTV, and DirecTV.
NFL Rights & How to Watch
In 2025, NFL broadcast rights remain split across multiple networks: CBS and Fox carry most Sunday afternoon games, NBC airs Sunday Night Football, ESPN has Monday Night Football, and Amazon Prime Video streams Thursday Night Football. Out-of-market Sunday daytime games are available via NFL Sunday Ticket (YouTube TV offers this add-on). Local CBS/Fox/ABC/NBC affiliates are typically provided by most major live-TV streamers in most areas.
Official info on NFL Sunday Ticket and YouTube TV offerings: YouTube TV NFL Sunday Ticket
Free & Low-Cost Options
If you want to avoid subscription fees, a digital antenna is the cheapest way to get local CBS, Fox, NBC and ABC broadcasts (one-time antenna cost typically $20–$60). Many FAST (free ad-supported) services like PlutoTV, Tubi and Freevee also offer live channels.
Shop digital antennas: Digital antennas on Amazon
4K & DVR
4K live coverage is limited and selective — check each provider for specific events and device compatibility. Most services include cloud DVR (limits vary from unlimited-with-expiration to set-hour caps).
Which Should You Choose?
Pick based on priorities: sports & local channels (YouTube TV, FuboTV, Hulu+ Live TV, DirecTV), cheapest lineup (Philo, Sling), or strictly free FAST services (PlutoTV, Tubi). Want sports only? Consider sports-focused packages and standalone services like ESPN’s direct offering or Fubo Sports.
Questions?
Which service are you considering and what matters most — price, sports, local channels, or 4K? Reply below and I’ll help match a plan to your needs.
Sources include official provider pages and industry reporting (YouTube TV product pages, official support docs, and recent service announcements).