A new WIRED article evaluates the best live TV streaming options amid the shift from traditional cable. The review highlights Hulu Live TV as the top choice for most users, followed closely by YouTube TV. Services like Sling, DirecTV, and Fubo cater to specific needs such as budget, comprehensive channels, and sports.
Live TV streaming has evolved as cable alternatives, offering internet-based access to channels without hardware leases. WIRED's Jacob Roach tested major services for three weeks, focusing on channel lineups, DVR, apps, and pricing. Prices generally exceed $80 monthly, though free ad-supported options like Tubi and Pluto provide genre-specific content without major networks or live sports.
Hulu Live TV stands out for most people at $90 base or $100 premium monthly. It bundles ESPN Unlimited, Disney+, and Hulu on-demand with local affiliates like ABC, NBC, CBS, and regional sports networks. The lineup includes Discovery, Fox, CNN, and MSNBC, though secondary channels like Science require add-ons. Roach notes the cluttered interface and upcoming integration into Disney+ as drawbacks, but praises the value.
YouTube TV, at $83 monthly, is a close second with a simple plan, unlimited DVR, and broad national coverage including locals in most areas, such as Missouri's ABC, Fox, NBC, and CBS. Its fast app works across devices like Roku, Samsung, and Xbox. However, it recently dropped Disney channels including ESPN and ABC, and lacks bundled extras like YouTube Premium.
For budget users, Sling TV's Orange & Blue plan costs $61 monthly, 30% cheaper combined than separate. It covers news, entertainment, and ESPN but misses channels like Fox Sports 2, requiring $6-$15 add-ons. The app supports most devices but has a confusing structure.
DirecTV's Choice plan at $95 monthly offers the largest lineup, including top 100 channels, FanDuel, and NBC Sports, plus ESPN Unlimited and ad-supported Disney+/Hulu. It supports unlimited home streams but has a sluggish app without console support.
Fubo TV Pro, at $85 monthly, excels in sports with comprehensive regional networks like MASN and MSG, plus ESPN Unlimited. The Elite plan adds NFL Red Zone and 4K. It misses CNN and TBS but has a responsive app on Google TV and Roku.
Philo, at $33 monthly, suits entertainment fans without locals, offering unlimited DVR for a year and free channels. For locals, services like YouTube TV and Hulu are recommended over antennas for urban areas.