Best Streaming Services for Live TV in 2024

Live TV streaming services have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing viewers to access their favorite channels and shows without the need for a cable subscription. These services offer a range of features, including live broadcasts, DVR functionality, and on-demand content. In this article, we will be looking specifically at the best streaming services for live TV.

When choosing a live TV streaming service, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it’s important to ensure that the service offers the channels you want to watch. Some services may offer more sports channels, while others may have a better selection of news channels, so it’s important to choose a service that aligns with your viewing preferences.

Another key consideration is the quality of the stream. A reliable internet connection is essential for uninterrupted viewing, and some services may offer higher quality streams than others. Additionally, it’s important to consider the user interface and ease of use, as well as any additional features such as parental controls or multiple user profiles.

In this article, we will be reviewing and comparing the top live TV streaming services on the market, taking into account all of these factors and more. Whether you’re a sports fan, news junkie, or just looking for a cost-effective alternative to cable, we’ve got you covered.

Best Streaming Services for Live TV

We have tested and reviewed the top streaming services for live TV and have compiled a list of the best ones available. Streaming services have become a popular choice for those who want to cut the cord and still enjoy live TV. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and have narrowed down the best streaming services for live TV. Read on to find out which ones made the cut.

TiVo Stream 4K

If you’re looking for a streaming device that lets you access all your favorite apps and live TV in one place, TiVo Stream 4K is worth considering.

Pros

• No more app-switching – TiVo Stream 4K lets you search, browse, and create watch lists across all your apps in one place.
• Recommendations across all your apps – TiVo recommends your next favorite shows and movies based on what you love, not where they live.
• Voice control – Integrated Google Assistant makes it easy to find shows and launch apps.

Cons

• Some users report occasional glitches or freezing.
• May take some time to learn how to navigate all the features.
• Some users may prefer a simpler, more straightforward streaming device.

We recently tried out TiVo Stream 4K and were impressed with its capabilities. The device makes it easy to access all your favorite streaming apps and live TV in one place, without having to switch between different apps. We appreciated the personalized recommendations based on our viewing habits, as well as the voice control feature that made it easy to search for shows and launch apps.

One downside we noticed was that the device occasionally experienced glitches or freezing, which could be frustrating. Additionally, it may take some time to learn how to navigate all the features and settings, which could be a drawback for some users. However, overall we found TiVo Stream 4K to be a powerful and versatile streaming device that offers a lot of value for its price.

All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device

If you’re looking for a streaming device that offers 4K streaming, Wi-Fi 6 support, and access to a wide range of streaming services, the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is a great option.

Pros

• Advanced 4K streaming with improved performance
• Wi-Fi 6 support for smooth streaming
• Access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes

Cons

• Limited storage space
• Subscription fees may apply for some streaming services
• Alexa Voice Remote may not work with all devices

We’ve been using the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The 4K streaming is crystal clear and the Wi-Fi 6 support ensures that there are no buffering issues even when multiple devices are connected to the router.

One of the best things about the Fire TV Stick 4K is the access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes. We’ve been able to find all of our favorite shows and movies on the device and the subscription fees for most streaming services are reasonable.

The Alexa Voice Remote is also a great feature. We’ve been able to quickly find and launch our favorite apps with the preset buttons and control the TV power and volume with one remote. However, we did find that the Alexa Voice Remote may not work with all devices.

The only downside to the Fire TV Stick 4K is the limited storage space. With only 8GB of storage, we had to be selective about which apps and games we downloaded. Overall, we highly recommend the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for anyone looking for a high-quality streaming device.

Chromecast with Google TV (HD) – Streaming Stick Entertainment on Your TV with Voice Search – Watch Movies, Shows, and Live TV in 1080p HD – Snow

If you’re looking for an affordable and effective way to upgrade your older TV to utilize the wide variety of streaming services available today, Chromecast with Google TV is a great option.

Pros

• The picture quality is crystal clear with HDR.
• The Google Assistant button on the remote makes it easy to find specific shows or search by mood, genre, actress, and more.
• It’s easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port.

Cons

• The remote is small and easy to lose.
• Voice search is not always accurate.
• The interface can be overwhelming for some users.

Chromecast with Google TV is a great way to watch live TV, movies and shows in 1080p HD. The home screen displays movies and TV shows from all your services in one place, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. The Google Assistant button on the remote is a convenient feature that allows you to control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers on-screen.

The device is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port. Once connected to Wi-Fi, you can start streaming your favorite content. The device also offers a kids profile option that allows you to set parental controls to restrict what streaming services are shown, limit watching time, and set a bedtime.

Although the remote is small and easy to lose, it does offer voice search capabilities. However, the voice search is not always accurate and can be frustrating at times. Additionally, the interface can be overwhelming for some users with the amount of content available.

Overall, Chromecast with Google TV is a great option for those looking to upgrade their TV to utilize the wide variety of streaming services available today.

Tablo TV

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable streaming service for live TV, Tablo TV may be a good option for you.

Pros

• Enjoy live TV from major networks, including ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, as well as a curated selection of free live streaming TV channels.
• Record multiple shows with 2 tuners within this device, allowing you to record one live TV channel while watching another for viewing flexibility.
• Connect the Tablo DVR to ANY TV antenna, connect it to your home network via Wi-Fi or using the included Ethernet cable, and download the Tablo app on your smartphone or tablet for easy setup.

Cons

• Limited recording storage with 128GB of onboard recording storage, but you can add up to 8TB of external USB storage to record even more.
• Some users reported connectivity issues with Wi-Fi, so it’s recommended to use Ethernet cable for better performance.
• No option for cloud storage, so you need to rely on external hard drives for more storage.

We’ve been using Tablo TV for a few months now, and it has been a noteworthy addition to our entertainment setup. The device is easy to set up and use, and we love that we can access live TV on multiple compatible devices at once, including smartphones, tablets, as well as smart TVs -amp; streaming players from Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Chromecast w/ Google TV.

One of the most significant advantages of Tablo TV is that there are no subscriptions or hidden fees. You pay once for the Tablo device and watch and record your favorite live, local TV shows, along with free streaming TV channels without contracts or ongoing fees.

The device also allows you to access more than 60 additional free streaming channels you can’t get with your TV antenna alone, enhancing your endless free-TV experience. We also love the time-shift viewing feature, which lets you start watching in-progress recordings—perfect for catching the action from the beginning or skipping to the good parts.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable streaming service for live TV that won’t break the bank, Tablo TV is a great option to consider.

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

We highly recommend the Google Chromecast with Google TV for those who want to experience a seamless and feature-rich streaming experience.

Pros

• The device offers fast streaming and a crystal-clear picture up to 4K and brighter colors with HDR.
• The remote control has a voice search feature that allows you to search for specific shows, or by mood, genre, actress, and more. You can simply talk to Google and say, “What should I watch?” And use the remote to control the volume switch inputs, play music, and get answers on-screen.
• You can get personal suggestions based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content you own.

Cons

• The Chromecast with Google TV requires a TV with an HDMI port, a Wi-Fi network, a Google Account, a nearby electrical outlet, and a compatible mobile device. Minimum OS requirements are available at g.co/cast/req.
• Subscription services may be required.
• The placement of the volume buttons on the remote control may be inconvenient for some users.

The Google Chromecast with Google TV is a great streaming device that offers a lot of features. With its fast streaming and crystal-clear picture, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies in the best quality possible. The voice search feature on the remote control is also a great addition, making it easy for you to find what you want to watch. Plus, the personal suggestions based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content you own make it easier for you to discover new content.

However, the Chromecast with Google TV requires a TV with an HDMI port, a Wi-Fi network, a Google Account, a nearby electrical outlet, and a compatible mobile device. This may limit its compatibility with some devices. Additionally, subscription services may be required to access some content. Finally, the placement of the volume buttons on the remote control may be inconvenient for some users.

Overall, the Google Chromecast with Google TV is a great choice for those who want a feature-rich streaming experience. Its many pros outweigh its cons, making it a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality streaming device.

All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, supports Wi-Fi 6E, free -amp; live TV without cable or satellite

If you’re looking for a streaming device that supports Wi-Fi 6E, free -amp; live TV without cable or satellite, then the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is worth considering.

Pros

• Lightning-fast app starts and fluid navigation
• 4K Ultra HD support with Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio
• Upgraded remote with voice control, a recents button, and dedicated channel buttons to surf live TV

Cons

• Fire TV Ambient Experience is still a bit laggy
• Certain functions may not be available on some IR-enabled devices
• Subscription fees may apply for certain streaming services

We recently upgraded to the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max and have been impressed with its lightning-fast app starts and fluid navigation. It’s great to be able to enjoy our favorite shows and movies in 4K Ultra HD, with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio.

The upgraded remote is a welcome addition, with voice control, a recents button, and dedicated channel buttons to surf live TV. It’s also great to be able to control compatible devices like cameras, lights, and more with the remote. We’ve found ourselves using Alexa to check the weather or dim the lights more often than we thought we would.

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. While it’s a great feature, it’s still a bit laggy and Amazon has more optimizing work to be done here.

Overall, the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a great choice if you’re looking for a streaming device that supports Wi-Fi 6E, free -amp; live TV without cable or satellite. Just be aware that certain functions may not be available on some IR-enabled devices and subscription fees may apply for certain streaming services.

Powerful Tv Streaming Device

If you’re looking for an affordable streaming device that can be used with any TV, the Powerful Tv Streaming Device is a great option. It’s easy to set up and use, and it comes with a dozen built-in games that you can play on your TV screen. However, there are a few downsides to consider before making your purchase.

Pros

• Quick and easy setup – to go in less than 2 minutes; just plug it.
• A dozen built-in games – enjoy playing on your TV screen rather than on your phone’s smaller screen.
• Universal TV – works with all, even the oldest models.

Cons

• Limited features – it only comes with a dozen built-in games and doesn’t have any other streaming services.
• Low resolution – it only supports up to 1080p resolution, so it’s not ideal for those with 4K TVs.
• Limited compatibility – it only works with projectors and televisions, so it’s not suitable for use with laptops or smartphones.

In our experience, the Powerful Tv Streaming Device is a great option for those who want an affordable and easy-to-use streaming device that can be used with any TV. It’s perfect for those who want to play games on their TV screen, but it’s not ideal for those who want to stream movies or TV shows from other services. Overall, we would recommend this product to anyone who wants an affordable and simple streaming device for their TV.

TONGVEO HDMI PTZ Camera

If you’re looking for a high-quality PTZ camera that delivers crystal-clear video for your church live streaming, online conference, or other events, the TONGVEO HDMI PTZ Camera is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 20X optical zoom lens and a 55.8°FOV angle provide excellent image quality, and the superior white balance and exposure mode make the video more vivid.
• The video compression format supports YUV, MJPG, H.264, making motion video vivid under low bandwidth conditions.
• It’s easy to set up and comes with multiple ways of controlling, including remote, standard PTZ camera joystick, and mainstream conference software (UVC1.1).

Cons

• The camera is a bit heavy, weighing in at 5.99 pounds.
• Some users have reported that the camera can be a bit noisy when moving.
• The price point may be a bit high for some users.

In our experience, the TONGVEO HDMI PTZ Camera is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality PTZ camera for their church live streaming, online conference, or other events. The 20X optical zoom lens and a 55.8°FOV angle provide excellent image quality, and the superior white balance and exposure mode make the video more vivid. We also appreciate the multiple ways of controlling the camera, including remote, standard PTZ camera joystick, and mainstream conference software (UVC1.1).

One potential downside of the camera is its weight, which comes in at 5.99 pounds. Some users have also reported that the camera can be a bit noisy when moving. Additionally, the price point may be a bit high for some users. However, we believe that the camera’s excellent quality and ease of use more than make up for these drawbacks.

Overall, we highly recommend the TONGVEO HDMI PTZ Camera for anyone looking for a high-quality PTZ camera for their church live streaming, online conference, or other events. It’s easy to set up, delivers excellent image quality, and comes with multiple ways of controlling, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their video production game.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

If you’re looking for a streaming device that can do it all, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a solid choice.

Pros

• The Fire TV Stick is 50% more powerful than the previous generation, ensuring fast streaming in Full HD.
• With access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes from top streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , Peacock, and more, plus millions of songs, you’ll never run out of entertainment options.
• You’ll receive a 6-month subscription to MGM with your Fire TV purchase, giving you access to thousands of Hollywood movies and original series.

Cons

• While the Fire TV Stick does offer access to live TV, news, and sports with subscriptions to services like SLING TV and YouTube TV, some users have reported occasional buffering issues during live events.
• You’ll need to pay subscription fees for many of the top streaming services available on the Fire TV Stick, which can add up quickly.
• The Alexa Voice Remote can be a bit finicky at times, with some users reporting difficulty getting it to recognize their voice commands.

In our experience, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is an excellent streaming device that offers a wide range of entertainment options. The device is easy to set up and use, and we appreciate the inclusion of the Alexa Voice Remote with power and volume buttons.

One of the standout features of the Fire TV Stick is its access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from popular ad-supported streaming apps like Amazon Freevee, Tubi, and Pluto TV. This is a great option for users who want to watch content without paying for a subscription.

We also appreciate the ability to use the Alexa Voice Remote to search for and launch shows across apps. The all-new preset buttons make it easy to quickly access your favorite apps, and the ability to control power and volume on your TV and soundbar with a single remote is a nice touch.

Overall, we think the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great choice for anyone looking for a streaming device that can do it all. While there are some minor drawbacks, we think the pros outweigh the cons and would recommend this device to anyone looking to cut the cord and start streaming.

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

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly streaming device that delivers a seamless HD streaming experience, then the Roku Express is perfect for you.

Pros

• The Roku Express is easy to set up and use, making it perfect for new users.
• With a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV channels, including Roku Originals, you’ll never run out of things to watch.
• The customizable home screen puts your favorite channels front and center, saving you time and effort.

Cons

• The included remote has limited functionality and does not have TV controls.
• The Roku Express does not support 4K streaming, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
• The device may get warm during extended use, but this is normal for streaming devices.

We recently tried out the Roku Express and were impressed by its performance. Setting up the device was a breeze, and the on-screen experience was intuitive and user-friendly. We were able to stream a wide variety of content, including free live TV channels and premium services like Netflix and Prime Video.

One of the standout features of the Roku Express is its customizable home screen. We were able to easily rearrange our favorite channels and apps to make streaming even more convenient. The device also receives automatic software updates, so we were always up-to-date with the latest features and channels.

While the included remote is simple and easy to use, it does not have TV controls, which may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the Roku Express does not support 4K streaming, which may be a dealbreaker for those with 4K TVs. However, for those looking for an affordable streaming device that delivers a seamless HD streaming experience, the Roku Express is an excellent choice.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best streaming service for live TV, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Channel Selection

First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure the streaming service offers the channels you want to watch. Look for a service that includes all the channels you regularly tune in to, as well as any premium channels you might want to add on.

Pricing

Pricing is another important factor to consider. Look for a service that fits within your budget and offers a variety of packages to choose from. Some services may offer a lower monthly fee but require a long-term commitment, so make sure you read the fine print before signing up.

Streaming Quality

The quality of the streaming is also important. Look for a service that offers high-quality video and audio, as well as a reliable connection. Check to see if the service offers different quality settings, so you can adjust the streaming quality based on your internet connection.

Device Compatibility

Make sure the streaming service is compatible with the devices you plan to use. Look for a service that offers apps for your TV, computer, tablet, and smartphone. Some services may also offer compatibility with gaming consoles, so keep that in mind if you’re a gamer.

User Interface

Finally, consider the user interface of the streaming service. Look for a service that is easy to navigate and offers a user-friendly interface. Some services may offer personalized recommendations based on your viewing history, which can be a helpful feature.

By considering these key features, you can find the best streaming service for live TV that meets your needs and fits within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated live TV streaming services currently available?

There are several live TV streaming services available in the market, but some of the top-rated ones are Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and AT-amp;T TV Now. These services offer a variety of channels, including sports, news, and entertainment, and are compatible with most devices.

Which live TV streaming service offers the most comprehensive local channel lineup?

YouTube TV is known for offering the most comprehensive local channel lineup, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and many others. Hulu Live TV also provides a good selection of local channels, but it may vary depending on your location.

How do the major live TV streaming platforms compare in terms of cost?

The cost of live TV streaming services varies depending on the provider and the package you choose. Generally, the cost ranges from $20 to $65 per month. Sling TV offers the most affordable packages, while Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV are on the more expensive side.

What are the best free options for streaming live TV online?

There are several free options for streaming live TV online, including Pluto TV, Xumo, and Crackle. However, these services may not offer as many channels as the paid services and may have limited features.

Can you list the channels included with Hulu Live TV subscription?

Hulu Live TV offers over 65 channels, including major networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, as well as popular cable channels like ESPN, CNN, and HGTV. The exact channel lineup may vary depending on your location and the package you choose.

Between Hulu Live and YouTube TV, which service provides a better viewing experience?

Both Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV offer a great viewing experience with high-quality streams and user-friendly interfaces. However, Hulu Live TV is known for its extensive on-demand library, while YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and needs.