What Is Streaming TV?

Live TV streaming services offer a hassle-free experience compared to cable TV. You don't need the additional equipment or special installation that cable and satellite tv services. Many live TV streaming services offer free trials, so you can test them out before committing.

Canceling later is also easy, as live streaming services usually bill you month to month and don't require commitment contracts like cable TV does. Lastly, streaming services don’t charge hidden fees that can increase the final cost of a cable TV bill.

You will need the following to watch a TV streaming service:

A constant internet connection. Few live TV services let you download content to watch later offline like you can with a video streaming service.
A streaming device. You can typically use a computer to stream live TV right from a streaming service's website. If you want to watch on a larger screen, you'll need a smart TV or a streaming device such as an Apple TV, Roku, or Amazon Fire TV. You can also sometimes use a game console, such as an Xbox or PlayStation (PS4 or PS5). Make sure your preferred streaming method is compatible with the streaming service you choose.

Streaming Services on this list are Favorites

Philo TV is the cheapest live-TV app we've found. It's perfect for my MTV reality-show binges. There are 61 channels in its lineup, and it's available on Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, the web, iOS, and Android. We think the other options are worth the extra cash for most folks, though. Philo's interface isn't as easy to use, and it lacks features (and some major channels).
Peacock Premium from NBC and CBS All Access aren't quite live-TV services, but they offer some live sports and news alongside access to on-demand shows and movies. CBS's service is supported on many of the platforms we mentioned above, but Peacock is far more limited. It doesn't support Roku or Amazon Fire TV, for example.
A digital antenna may be the cheapest option to get a few broadcast channels if you live within range of some local stations. You can likely pick up most (or all) of the major network TV channels like ABC, Fox, NBC, and CBS over the air, and they are totally free. The Winegard FL5500A has a 50-mile range and is a quality indoor antenna to try first. You can place it near a window, so there's no need to climb up on your roof. Be sure to look up your local stations to see your coverage.

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