Top TV Services for Live TV 2026
Better prices than YouTube TV

Hulu - The best mix of network TV and original content

Hulu is a streaming service available in the United States and select parts of Japan. With plans starting at $6.99/month, it’s a great option for those looking to keep affordability in mind. It offers plenty of quality original programming along with frequent updates on new network TV shows.

Hulu also offers plenty of bundle and add-on options, so you can stream from other platforms and channels, like BET, Bravo, TBS, MTV, ESPN, Fox News, and CNN, without needing multiple programs or apps. You can also add unlimited screens for $9.99/month—helpful if you live in a big household. Plus, bundling can save you money.

Hulu’s biggest drawback seems to be its frequency of commercials, but this can be remedied by opting for a no-ads plan. The support is also quite good, with 24/7 live chat and phone service. Finally, the Hulu apps for iOS and Android mean you can stream content from anywhere, even when you’re not at home. 

Sling TV - Best TV Streaming Service overall

With 3 base plans and a wide array of customization options, Sling TV is an appealing option for those wishing to tailor their streaming plan around their specific viewing tastes. Once you have chosen your core plan, you can upgrade your subscription with packages based around themes such as sports, news, or comedy. Or, add on premium channels such as Showtime, Epix, and Starz. When you sign up for a plan, you’ll receive 50 hours of free DVR storage, which you can upgrade to 200 hours for a $5 monthly fee. Although this is likely to be more than adequate for most viewers, some competitors do offer unlimited DVR storage.

When it comes to pricing, Sling TV is among the more affordable options, with its base plans ranging from $40 to $60. Although the company has relatively poor reviews on Trustpilot, you can test its service for yourself with a 3-day free trial or by subscribing to Sling Free. As one of the company’s most impressive features, Sling Free provides access to thousands of hours of free content without any obligation to subscribe.

DIRECTV - Best for live TV offerings

DIRECTV offers a high-tech, comprehensive package for viewers who spend lots of time watching TV, sports, and movies. With 4 plans available, you can watch 140+ live channels and 65,000+ on-demand shows. With plans ranging in price from $79.99 to $149.99/month, the service may not be suitable for those on a small budget. However, others may appreciate features such as the ability to watch unlimited streams at home, DIRECTV's voice-enabled remote control, and the ability to record on the go. Before taking out a plan, however, be aware that the company has a high number of poor reviews on Trustpilot.

As with any streaming solution, it’s worth examining all plan choices carefully before making a decision. While the range of channels available on the most expensive plans is among the most attractive on the market, you may find DIRECTV's cheaper packages are more than adequate for your needs. And if you’re still not certain whether the service is right for you, sign up for a 5-day free trial on any of its streaming plans to get a taste of the service.