Sling TV may not be as well-known as giants like Netflix or Hulu, but it has carved out a significant niche in the streaming wars. Launched in 2015, it was the first service to offer live TV streaming, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional cable subscriptions. With a variety of popular channels, a DVR service, and the flexibility to watch on up to three devices at home or on the go, Sling TV is an attractive option for many. Below, we delve into what Sling TV offers, including its channel lineup, sports coverage (such as MLB games), and 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 delivers a wide array of popular channels, live sports, news, and more without the need for a long-term commitment. It's often the go-to choice for cord-cutters looking for a more budget-friendly option compared to larger services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Sling TV offers various plans tailored to specific interests, rather than a generic content package. Each plan comes with 50 hours of DVR storage, enabling you to record and watch your favorite programs at your convenience.
One key difference, and part of why Sling TV is more affordable, is its exclusion of local channels like ABC, CBS, and NBC. To access these, Sling suggests complementing your subscription with an HD antenna, which is sold separately.
Sling TV is compatible with a vast range 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 platforms such as Fubo, Sling TV does not provide a free trial for new subscribers. However, they do offer a free streaming service called Sling Freestream, which provides a wealth 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. Each plan costs $45.99 per month but offers distinct channel selections tailored to different viewer preferences. If you're looking for the complete package, you can merge the Orange and Blue plans for $60.99 per month, giving you access to the full 46-channel lineup, including all 22 exclusive channels.
The Orange plan is ideal for sports enthusiasts and families, featuring channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Food Network, Lifetime, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, TBS, and more. It includes 35 channels, with eight being exclusive to this plan, and allows streaming on one device at a time, with the option to add more.
The Blue plan caters to football fans and news junkies, offering 43 channels, 16 of which are exclusive news and entertainment channels. Key channels include CNN, Bloomberg TV, Fox (in select markets), FS1, Fox News, MSNBC, and the NFL Network. The Blue plan supports streaming on up to three devices simultaneously.
Can You Watch Live Sports on Sling TV?
Yes, Sling TV offers live sports viewing, though most local games require an additional HD antenna (sold separately). With channels divided between the Orange and Blue plans, you'll need to choose which sports networks matter most to you.
The Orange plan includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3, while the Blue plan swaps these for NFL Network and FS1. These channels broadcast a variety of live sporting events, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and more. For avid sports fans, consider adding Sling's sports bundle, which ranges from $11-15 per month depending on your base plan, and provides access to additional channels such as NCAA networks, NFL Redzone, MLB Network, NBA TV, NBC Golf, and the Tennis Channel. This setup also allows you to watch March Madness games.
How Much Does Sling TV Cost?
As mentioned, Sling TV's Orange or Blue plans are priced at $45.99 per month, or you can combine them for $60.99 per month to access all channels. Currently, there's a limited-time offer of 50% off your first month. For further savings, you can prepay for three months starting at $99.
Additional features can be added to your subscription. For frequent recorders, there's an Unlimited Cloud DVR upgrade for an extra $5 per month, which can store all your live sports events for up to three days using the Auto Record feature.
Sports enthusiasts can add a sports bundle for $11-15 per month, depending on your base plan, to access even more live sports. For comprehensive NFL coverage, explore how to watch NFL games online.
For more insights into streaming platforms, check out guides on 2024 Hulu Subscriptions, Netflix Plans, ESPN+ Plans, and Disney+ Plans.