Best App for Streaming Live TV in 2024

Streaming live TV has become a popular way to watch television shows and movies. With the rise of streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, many people have cut the cord and turned to streaming live TV. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to find the best app for streaming live TV.

When it comes to choosing the best app for streaming live TV, there are a few things to consider. One of the most critical factors is the content available on the app. Some apps may offer a wide variety of channels, while others may only have a few. It’s essential to choose an app that has the channels you want to watch.

Another factor to consider is the app’s user interface. A good user interface can make it easier to find the content you want to watch and navigate the app. A poorly designed interface can be frustrating and make it challenging to find what you want to watch.

We spent countless hours researching and testing several apps to identify the best app for streaming live TV. In the next section, we will discuss our findings and recommend the app that we believe is the best for streaming live TV.

Best Apps for Streaming Live TV

We all love to watch our favorite TV shows and sports events live, but it’s not always possible to be in front of a TV. Luckily, there are many apps available that allow us to stream live TV on our smartphones, tablets, and other devices. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best apps for streaming live TV. These apps offer a variety of channels, including sports, news, and entertainment, and are easy to use. So, whether you’re on the go or at home, you can stay up-to-date with your favorite shows and events.

TiVo Stream 4K

If you’re looking for a streaming device that can handle all your favorite apps in one place, the TiVo Stream 4K might be just what you need.

Pros

• No more app-switching: With TiVo Stream 4K, you can search, browse, and create watch lists across all your apps from one centralized place.
• Personalized recommendations: TiVo recommends your next favorite shows and movies based on what you love, not where they live.
• Easy voice control: Integrated Google Assistant allows you to launch apps, dim the lights, and more.

Cons

• No Ethernet port: TiVo Stream 4K only supports Wi-Fi connectivity, which may not be ideal for those with spotty Wi-Fi.
• Limited storage: With only 8GB of storage, you may need to be mindful of how many apps you download.
• No USB port: You won’t be able to plug in external storage or other devices.

We recently got our hands on the TiVo Stream 4K, and we were impressed with its sleek design and user-friendly interface. The device is easy to set up and connects to your TV via HDMI. Once you’re up and running, you’ll have access to all your favorite streaming apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , and many more.

One of the standout features of the TiVo Stream 4K is its ability to recommend personalized content across all your apps. This means you won’t have to waste time scrolling through endless menus to find something to watch. Simply tell the device what you’re in the mood for, and it will pull up a list of recommendations tailored to your tastes.

We also appreciated the device’s voice control capabilities. With the integrated Google Assistant, you can launch apps, search for content, and control other smart devices in your home with ease. The remote is intuitive and easy to use, with dedicated buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix and Disney .

Overall, we think the TiVo Stream 4K is a solid choice for anyone looking to consolidate their streaming apps into one place. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some of its competitors, it gets the job done and does it well.

Roku Express | HD Roku Streaming Device with Standard Remote (no TV controls), Free -amp; Live TV

We highly recommend the Roku Express for anyone looking for a budget-friendly streaming device that delivers a seamless HD streaming experience.

Pros

• The setup process is quick and easy, and you can start streaming your favorite content in no time.
• The customizable home screen allows you to easily access your favorite channels like Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV .
• The included remote has only the buttons you need to stream, including shortcuts to popular channels.

Cons

• The Roku Express only supports up to 1080p resolution, which may not be sufficient for those who prefer 4K streaming.
• The standard remote does not have TV controls, so you will need to use your TV remote to adjust the volume or turn off your TV.
• Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues with the device.

We were impressed with the Roku Express’s fast and powerful streaming capabilities, which make it a great option for both new users and seasoned pros. The device’s customizable home screen allows you to easily access your favorite channels, and the included remote makes it easy to navigate and control your streaming experience. However, the device’s lack of 4K support and TV controls may not be ideal for some users. Overall, we believe that the Roku Express offers a great value for its price point.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

If you’re looking for a powerful streaming device that supports Wi-Fi 6E and offers free and live TV without cable or satellite, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a great option.

Pros

• Lightning-fast processor for smooth streaming and gaming
• 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and Dolby Atmos audio for an immersive viewing experience
• Fire TV Ambient Experience lets you display over 2,000 pieces of museum-quality art and photography

Cons

• The remote can be unresponsive at times
• The Fire TV Ambient Experience can be a bit laggy
• Some users have reported issues with Wi-Fi connectivity

We’ve been using the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The lightning-fast processor ensures smooth streaming and gaming, and the 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and Dolby Atmos audio provides an immersive viewing experience.

One of the standout features of the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is the Fire TV Ambient Experience, which lets you display over 2,000 pieces of museum-quality art and photography. It’s a great way to add some style to your living room when you’re not watching TV.

However, we have experienced some issues with the remote being unresponsive at times, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the Fire TV Ambient Experience can be a bit laggy, which detracts from the overall experience. Some users have also reported issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, so keep that in mind if you have a spotty connection.

Overall, we think the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a great streaming device that offers a lot of value for the price. If you’re looking for a powerful streaming device that supports Wi-Fi 6E and offers free and live TV without cable or satellite, this is definitely a product worth considering.

All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device

If you’re looking for a streaming device that offers advanced 4K streaming, Wi-Fi 6 support, and a cinematic experience, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is a great option.

Pros

• Elevate your entertainment with improved streaming performance
• Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even with other devices connected to your router
• Watch in vibrant 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio

Cons

• Subscription fees may apply to access some content
• Some users may find the design of the remote to be less intuitive
• Certain apps and services may not be available in all areas and languages

We recently upgraded to the all-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and were blown away by the improved streaming performance. The device offers advanced 4K streaming and Wi-Fi 6 support, which means you can enjoy smooth streaming even when other devices are connected to your router.

One of the standout features of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is its support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio. Watching movies and TV shows in vibrant 4K Ultra HD is a cinematic experience that truly elevates your entertainment.

While the device offers access to more than 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, some subscription fees may apply to access certain content. Additionally, some users may find the design of the remote to be less intuitive than previous versions.

Overall, we highly recommend the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for anyone looking for a streaming device that offers advanced 4K streaming, Wi-Fi 6 support, and a cinematic experience.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

If you’re looking for a streaming device that offers fast, high-quality streaming and easy access to a variety of content, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a solid choice.

Pros

• The device is 50% more powerful than previous models, which means you’ll experience fast streaming in Full HD.
• The Alexa Voice Remote with power and volume buttons makes it easy to control your TV and soundbar with a single remote.
• With over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes available from popular streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , and more, plus access to millions of songs, you’ll never be bored.

Cons

• While the device is great for streaming content from popular services, it may not have as many options for live TV as other devices.
• Some users have reported difficulty with the device connecting to their WiFi network, which can be frustrating.
• The device only has 8GB of internal storage, which may not be enough for users who plan to download a lot of content.

We’ve been using the Amazon Fire TV Stick for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its speed and ease of use. The device is incredibly easy to set up – all you need to do is plug it in behind your TV and connect it to the internet. Once you’re set up, you’ll have access to a wide range of streaming services, including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , and more.

One of the standout features of the Amazon Fire TV Stick is the Alexa Voice Remote. With this remote, you can use your voice to search for shows and movies, launch apps, and control your TV and soundbar. The remote also has preset buttons that make it easy to access your favorite apps quickly.

While the Amazon Fire TV Stick is great for streaming content from popular services, it may not have as many options for live TV as other devices. However, you can still watch live TV with subscriptions to services like SLING TV and YouTube TV. The Guide button on the remote makes it easy to see what’s available and when.

Overall, we think the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great choice for anyone who wants fast, high-quality streaming and easy access to a variety of content. If you’re looking for a streaming device that’s easy to use and offers a wide range of options, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is definitely worth considering.

Roku Express 4K | Roku Streaming Device 4K/HDR, Roku Voice Remote, Free -amp; Live TV

If you’re looking for an affordable streaming device that offers a wide selection of free and premium channels, the Roku Express 4K is a great option. With its 4K and HDR capabilities, you can enjoy high-quality streaming on your TV.

Pros

• Brilliant 4K picture quality: Stream in HD, 4K, and HDR with sharp resolution and vivid color optimized for your TV.
• Seamless streaming: Enjoy a smooth streaming experience with a faster wireless network connection.
• Voice search -amp; control: Quickly search, play entertainment, and control your streaming device with the voice remote.

Cons

• It buffers a lot: Some users report that the device buffers frequently, which can be frustrating when trying to watch a show or movie.
• Sound delay: A few users have noted that the sound is off by one second, which can be distracting.
• No power adaptor needed: While it’s convenient that the device doesn’t require a power adapter, some users have reported issues with the device not powering on.

The Roku Express 4K is easy to set up and use, with a quick guided setup that gets you streaming in no time. The customizable home screen puts your channels front and center, making it easy to find your favorite shows and movies. Plus, with automatic updates, you’ll always have the latest features and content.

One of the standout features of the Roku Express 4K is the voice remote, which allows you to search and control your streaming device with your voice. This makes it easy to find what you’re looking for without having to type on a keyboard or navigate through menus.

While the device does have some drawbacks, such as buffering and sound delay, overall it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable streaming device with 4K and HDR capabilities. With its wide selection of free and premium channels, you’ll never run out of things to watch.

Chromecast with Google TV

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly streaming device with advanced features, Chromecast with Google TV is a great option.

Pros

• With up to 1080p HDR, you can watch your favorite shows and movies in stunning detail.
• The Google Assistant button on the remote is a game-changer. You can find specific shows, control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers on-screen with voice search.
• Chromecast with Google TV is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port.

Cons

• While Chromecast with Google TV has plenty of features, it may not have as many apps as other streaming devices.
• The remote doesn’t have dedicated buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video.
• The interface may take some getting used to if you’re not familiar with Google TV.

Chromecast with Google TV is a great choice if you’re looking for a streaming device that won’t break the bank. With voice search, fast streaming, and a variety of apps to choose from, you’ll have plenty of entertainment options at your fingertips.

One thing we love about Chromecast with Google TV is the Google Assistant button on the remote. It’s incredibly convenient to be able to search for shows and movies with your voice, and you can even control other smart devices in your home.

While Chromecast with Google TV may not have as many apps as other streaming devices, it still has plenty of options to choose from. Plus, the interface is easy to navigate once you get the hang of it.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a budget-friendly streaming device with advanced features, Chromecast with Google TV is a great choice.

Airy TV – Free TV -amp; Movies

If you’re looking for a streaming app that offers a wide variety of classic TV shows and movies, Airy TV might be worth considering. However, it’s not without its flaws.

Pros

• Airy TV offers a large selection of classic TV shows and movies.
• The app is easy to use and navigate.
• Airy TV is free to download and use.

Cons

• The app is ad-supported, which can be frustrating for some users.
• Some users have reported that the app has removed certain channels and shows.
• The video quality can be hit or miss, depending on the channel or show.

We found that Airy TV was a good option for those who enjoy classic TV shows and movies. The app offers a wide selection of programming, and it’s easy to find something to watch. However, the ads can be a bit annoying, and the video quality isn’t always the best.

If you’re looking for a free streaming app that offers a lot of classic content, Airy TV is definitely worth checking out. However, if you’re looking for more current programming or higher video quality, you might want to look elsewhere.

Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)- Streaming Stick Entertainment with Voice Search – Watch Movies, Shows, and Live TV in 4K HDR – Snow

If you’re looking for a streaming stick that offers a great user experience and a range of features, the Google Chromecast with Google TV is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The Chromecast with Google TV is incredibly easy to set up and use. Simply plug it into an HDMI port on your TV, connect to Wi-Fi, and you’re ready to start streaming.
• With 4K HDR support, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning picture quality and brighter colors.
• The remote control is a great feature, allowing you to search for shows using your voice, control the volume, and switch inputs.

Cons

• The Chromecast with Google TV requires a Google account and a compatible mobile device to set up, which may be a turnoff for some users.
• While the built-in Google Assistant is a nice feature, it may not be as accurate as other voice assistants on the market.
• Some users may find the price of the Chromecast with Google TV to be a bit steep, especially when compared to other streaming sticks on the market.

In our experience, the Chromecast with Google TV is a great choice for anyone looking for a streaming stick that offers a range of features and an easy-to-use interface. The 4K HDR support and remote control are both great features that make it easy to enjoy your favorite shows and movies. While the setup process may be a bit more involved than some other streaming sticks, we found it to be well worth the effort.

One of the standout features of the Chromecast with Google TV is the personalized recommendations it offers. Based on your viewing habits and subscriptions, the Chromecast will suggest content that you’re likely to enjoy. This is a great feature for anyone who spends a lot of time searching for something to watch.

Another great feature of the Chromecast with Google TV is the ability to create a kids profile. This allows you to set up an area for your children to access a collection of family-friendly movies and shows. You can even set parental controls to restrict what content can be seen, limit watching time, and set a bedtime.

Overall, we highly recommend the Chromecast with Google TV for anyone looking for a streaming stick that offers a great user experience and a range of features. With its 4K HDR support, remote control, and personalized recommendations, it’s a great choice for anyone who loves to stream their favorite shows and movies.

Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite

If you’re looking for an affordable way to stream live TV, the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite is a solid choice.

Pros

• Easy to set up and use
• Access to a wide variety of streaming apps and channels
• Comes with Alexa Voice Remote Lite for convenient voice control

Cons

• No power or volume buttons on remote
• May not pair with all TV models
• Subscription fees may apply for some content

We found the Fire TV Stick Lite to be incredibly easy to set up and use. Simply plug it in behind your TV, connect to the internet, and you’re ready to start streaming. With access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from ad-supported streaming apps like Amazon Freevee, Tubi, Pluto TV, and more, there’s no shortage of content to watch. Plus, with the included Alexa Voice Remote Lite, you can easily search and launch shows across multiple apps using your voice.

However, one downside is that the remote does not have power or volume buttons, which may be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, the Fire TV Stick Lite may not pair with all TV models, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing. Finally, while there is a lot of free content available, some streaming services and channels may require a subscription fee.

Overall, we would recommend the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use streaming device with access to a wide variety of content.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best app for streaming live TV, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when choosing a streaming app:

Content Selection

The first thing to consider is the selection of content available on the app. A good streaming app should have a wide variety of channels and shows, including popular networks and local channels. Look for an app that offers live TV, on-demand shows, and movies.

User Interface

A user-friendly interface is also important when choosing a streaming app. The app should be easy to navigate and use, with clear menus and options. Look for an app that allows you to customize your viewing preferences and offers personalized recommendations.

Quality and Reliability

The quality and reliability of the app are also important factors to consider. Look for an app that offers high-quality video and audio streaming, with minimal buffering or lag time. The app should also be reliable and stable, with minimal downtime or technical issues.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another important consideration when choosing a streaming app. Look for an app that is compatible with your device, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or smart TV. The app should also be compatible with your internet connection and offer options for adjusting video quality based on your connection speed.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best app for streaming live TV that meets your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top live TV streaming apps available?

There are many live TV streaming apps available, but some of the most popular ones include Sling TV, Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, and fuboTV. Each of these apps offers a variety of channels and features, so it’s important to compare them to find the one that best fits your needs.

How can I stream live TV without any cost?

If you’re looking to stream live TV without any cost, there are a few options available. Some free live TV streaming services include Pluto TV, Crackle, and Tubi TV. However, keep in mind that these services may not offer as many channels or features as paid services.

Which streaming services offer local live TV channels?

Many streaming services offer local live TV channels, including Sling TV, Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, and fuboTV. However, the availability of local channels may vary depending on your location, so it’s important to check with each service to see what channels are available in your area.

What is the most affordable live TV streaming service?

The most affordable live TV streaming service may vary depending on your needs and budget. Sling TV and Philo are two options that offer lower-priced plans, while Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV may be more expensive but offer more channels and features.

Are there any free live TV streaming services that include premium channels?

While most free live TV streaming services don’t include premium channels, some may offer a limited selection of premium content. For example, Pluto TV offers a few premium channels such as MTV and Comedy Central.

How does Hulu Live TV compare to other live TV streaming options?

Hulu Live TV offers a wide selection of channels and features, including access to Hulu’s extensive on-demand library. However, it may be more expensive than some other options and doesn’t offer as many channels as YouTube TV. It’s important to compare different services to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.