Streaming Channels: How and where to watch them (Apr, 2024)
As you know, individual streaming channels aren't available with all providers and line-ups. If you want a specific channel, you'll need to do plenty of research to ensure the streaming package you choose has most of your target channels. On this page, we'll summarize the provider/line-up status for the most popular streaming channels. Keep in mind things are constantly in flux (channels drop out of line-ups due to licensing issues, cost cutting, etc) so be sure to check back for the latest.
Note: with each channel below, the streaming service in gold is our recommendation based on value vs price, free trial options, current promos, etc. All prices listed belong to the smallest plan that includes the particular channel.
CNN Streaming options
From Anderson Cooper 360° to the best election coverage on TV, CNN is a must-have for even the occassional news watcher. Since CNN is considered basic pay cable, it's nearly impossible to find for free (other than Tubi). They have a solid app and website and... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $79.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
Univision Streaming options
Univision is THE go-to channel for Spanish programming but, surprisingly, you can only watch it without cable on a few different streaming services. Those three are DIRECTV Stream, fuboTV and YouTube TV... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
ESPN Streaming options
If you're a big time sports junky or just a casual fan, ESPN is a must-have. From live coverage of the NFL, MLB and NBA to top-notch reporting, ESPN delivers a ton of value. Some of their more popular shows include... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
Fox Streaming options
FOX is technically considered a local channel and you'll always get a regional version of the broadcast. For example, when watching NFL games on FOX, halftimes and breaks between games usually transfer over to your local Fox affiliate for regional news, sports and updates. And, of course, mornings and primetime include your local news feed as well... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
TBS Streaming options
TBS launched in the late 1970s and revolutionized the industry. It was originally known for its nationwide coverage of the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks (the first time sports fans were given TV access to teams outside their area). In the 2000s, it shifted focus to comedy, both scripted and reality-based. Available on all cable plans and... [ read more ]
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $79.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
TNT Streaming options
One of the premier subscription TV channels around, TNT features a solid mix of sports, movies and family programming. From NBA and March Madness to hollywood thrillers, it's a favorite with just about everyone. Of all the streaming providers with TNT, we recommend three -- mainly for the price and value they offer... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $79.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
MLB Network Streaming options
You can stream MLB Network without cable on a few different services: fuboTV, DIRECTV Stream, Sling and Youtube TV. The only free way to watch MLB Network is during a trial period... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
CW Streaming options
CW is an over-the-air local channel, so the easiest and cheapest way to get CW is with an HD antenna. If that's not an option, you can watch CW without a cable or satellite TV subscription on a few different streaming services. We recommended Hulu Live, DIRECTV Stream and fuboTV... [ read more ]
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $79.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
Telemundo Streaming options
Telemundo is the second-largest Spanish language channel in the world (after Univision). With the exclusive rights to the World Cup, popular telenovelas and a loyal following, it's a perennial favorite.... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
beIN Sports Streaming options
beIN Sports is the place for unlimited soccer. While it hasn't been around for all that long, beIN Sports has become a quick favorite among fans of all types.... [ read more ]
- $76.99/mo
- Free Disney+
- $79.99/mo
- 5-day trial
- $40/mo
- 7-day trial
- $64.99/mo
- 7-day trial
- $25/mo
- 7-day trial
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a streaming provider that lets me add channels one by one?
Not really, The closest you'll get to ad hoc programming are providers that let you choose between smaller channel packs, often themed for different tastes. For example, packs includes 10-50 channels -- choose or add the packs that carry most of your favorite channels.
Are all these channels live or is on demand an option?
All the channels on this page are live TV feeds (the same you'll get with cable satellite TV). Some big networks offer snippets of their programming for free and on demand (via their website and/or YouTube) but if you want a 24-hour live feed, you'll need to subscribe to a plan or direct subscription.
Can't I order the channel I want directly from the network?
Absolutely. Unfortunately that's only an option from a handful of networks. The main reason for that is the apparent lack of profit when studios attempt to do so.
Can I stream my favorite channel for free?
In some cases, yes. If so, it's usually a major studios with an ad-supported outlet to live stream their channel. For example, the Fox-owned Tubi network steams CNN for free (you have to sit through a free ads every 10 minutes or so (similar to traditional cable).
