Although it may not be as widely recognized as Netflix or Hulu, Sling TV has carved out a significant niche in the streaming wars since its launch in 2015 as the first service to offer live TV streaming. Positioned as a cost-effective alternative to traditional cable, Sling TV provides subscribers with access to numerous popular channels, a DVR service, and the flexibility to watch on up to three devices simultaneously, whether at home or on the go. Dive into the details below to discover more about Sling TV, including its channel lineup, sports offerings, such as MLB games, and its 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 streaming service that offers a diverse range of popular channels, live sports, news, and more, without the need for a long-term commitment. It's an attractive option for those cutting the cord, being more budget-friendly than larger competitors like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Sling TV's unique approach involves different plans tailored to specific interests, rather than a one-size-fits-all package. All plans come equipped with 50 hours of DVR storage, enabling you to record live TV, favorite shows, and movies for later viewing.
A key distinction—and a reason for its lower cost—is the absence of local channels like ABC, CBS, and NBC. Sling suggests complementing your subscription with an HD antenna (sold separately) to access these local broadcasts.
Sling TV is compatible with an extensive 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, they do provide a related free streaming service called Sling Freestream, which offers a plethora of free channels and ad-supported content at no cost.
What Channels Does Sling TV Include?
Sling TV offers two main plans: Orange and Blue, both priced at $45.99 per month, but with different channel selections to cater to different viewer interests. For those wanting the complete experience, you can opt for a combined Orange and Blue package, accessing all 46 channels (including 22 exclusive channels) for $60.99 per month.
The Orange plan is ideal for sports fans and families, featuring channels such as 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 supports streaming on one device at a time, with the option to add more.
The Blue plan targets pro football enthusiasts and news aficionados, offering 43 channels (16 exclusive news and entertainment channels), including CNN, Bloomberg TV, Fox (in select markets), FS1, Fox News, MSNBC, NFL Network, and more. This plan allows for simultaneous streaming on up to three devices.
Can You Watch Live Sports on Sling TV?
Yes, Sling TV offers live sports viewing, though most local games require an HD antenna (sold separately) for access. With channels divided between the Orange and Blue plans, you'll need to choose which sports networks align best with your interests.
The Orange plan includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3, while the Blue plan features NFL Network and FS1. These channels cover a range of live sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and more. For avid sports fans, adding Sling's sports bundle unlocks additional channels such as NCAA-specific networks, NFL Redzone, MLB Network, NBA TV, NBC Golf, and the Tennis Channel. This also means you can watch March Madness games with this service.
How Much Does Sling TV Cost?
As mentioned, Sling TV's Orange or Blue plans are priced at $45.99 per month, with the combined package available for $60.99 per month. Currently, there's a promotional offer allowing new subscribers to get 50% off their first month. For further savings, you can prepay for three months of service starting at $99.
To enhance your experience, you can add various upgrades to your Sling TV subscription. For avid recorders, the Unlimited Cloud DVR upgrade costs an additional $5 per month and includes an Auto Record feature to save live sports events for up to three days.
Sports enthusiasts can opt for the sports bundle, priced at $11-15 per month depending on your base plan, to access even more live sports. For comprehensive coverage of NFL games, explore how to watch NFL games online.
For more insights into other streaming platforms, check out guides on 2024 Hulu Subscriptions, Netflix Plans, ESPN+ Plans, and Disney+ Plans.
