In the ever-evolving world of digital entertainment, sports fans are increasingly turning to streaming services to catch their favorite games, matches, and tournaments. The convenience of watching live sports on various devices, along with access to a wide range of sports content, makes streaming an attractive option. This article explores the best streaming services for sports fans that offer free trials, allowing users to test the waters before committing to a subscription.
1. ESPN+
Overview
ESPN+ is a leading sports streaming service that offers a wide array of live sports, original content, and on-demand programming. It is a must-have for sports enthusiasts who want comprehensive coverage of various sports.
Trial Period
ESPN+ offers a 7-day free trial, allowing users to explore its extensive sports content.
Content and Features
- Live Sports: Covers a broad range of sports, including MLB, NHL, UFC, MLS, college sports, and more.
- Original Programming: Features exclusive shows like “Detail” by Kobe Bryant, “Peyton’s Places,” and “Ariel & The Bad Guy.”
- Documentaries: Access to the acclaimed “30 for 30” documentary series.
- Bundled Content: Often available as part of the Disney+ bundle, which includes Disney+ and Hulu.
Subscription Options
- Monthly Subscription: $9.99 per month.
- Annual Subscription: $99.99 per year.
2. fuboTV
Overview
fuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service that offers live sports, news, and entertainment channels. It is ideal for sports fans who want access to a wide range of live sports events and channels.
Trial Period
fuboTV offers a 7-day free trial, providing full access to its comprehensive channel lineup.
Content and Features
- Extensive Sports Coverage: Includes live coverage of NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer, golf, tennis, and more.
- International Sports: Offers a robust selection of international sports channels.
- DVR and Playback: Includes 250 hours of cloud DVR storage and the ability to watch previously aired content.
- Multiple Streams: Allows streaming on multiple devices simultaneously.
Subscription Options
- Pro Plan: $74.99 per month, includes over 100 channels.
- Elite Plan: $84.99 per month, includes over 150 channels and additional features.
3. Sling TV
Overview
Sling TV is a flexible and affordable live TV streaming service that offers a variety of sports channels as part of its customizable packages. It is known for its a la carte channel selection.
Trial Period
Sling TV offers a 7-day free trial for its new subscribers.
Content and Features
- Sports Channels: Includes ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, NFL Network, and more, depending on the package.
- Customizable Packages: Allows users to add specific sports channels and packages to their base subscription.
- On-Demand Content: Provides access to on-demand movies and TV shows.
- DVR Service: Offers 50 hours of cloud DVR storage.
Subscription Options
- Sling Orange: $40 per month, focuses on sports and family content.
- Sling Blue: $40 per month, offers a broader range of channels, including sports and entertainment.
- Sling Orange + Blue: $55 per month, combines both packages for a comprehensive channel lineup.
4. Hulu + Live TV
Overview
Hulu + Live TV combines Hulu’s extensive on-demand library with live TV streaming, including a variety of sports channels. It’s an excellent choice for viewers who want the best of both worlds.
Trial Period
Hulu + Live TV offers a 7-day free trial, allowing users to experience its full range of content.
Content and Features
- Live Sports: Includes channels like ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, NBC Sports, and more.
- On-Demand Library: Access to Hulu’s vast on-demand content, including original series, movies, and TV shows.
- DVR Service: Offers 50 hours of cloud DVR storage, with an option to upgrade to 200 hours.
- Multiple Profiles: Allows up to six user profiles per account.
Subscription Options
- Hulu + Live TV: $69.99 per month, includes both live TV and on-demand content.
- Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV: $82.99 per month, ad-free on-demand content with live TV.
5. YouTube TV
Overview
YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service that provides a broad selection of channels, including comprehensive sports coverage. It is known for its user-friendly interface and unlimited DVR.
Trial Period
YouTube TV offers a 7-day free trial, giving users access to its entire channel lineup.
Content and Features
- Extensive Sports Channels: Includes ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, NBC Sports, NBA TV, MLB Network, and more.
- Unlimited DVR: Offers unlimited cloud DVR storage with recordings saved for up to nine months.
- Multiple Streams: Allows up to three simultaneous streams per account.
- On-Demand Content: Provides access to a vast library of on-demand movies and TV shows.
Subscription Options
- Monthly Subscription: $72.99 per month, includes over 85 channels.
6. DAZN
Overview
DAZN is a sports streaming service focused on providing live and on-demand coverage of various sports, particularly combat sports. It is a top choice for fans of boxing and MMA.
Trial Period
DAZN offers a 30-day free trial, giving users ample time to explore its sports content.
Content and Features
- Combat Sports: Extensive coverage of boxing, MMA, and other combat sports, including exclusive fights and events.
- Live and On-Demand: Offers live streaming of events as well as on-demand replays.
- Original Programming: Features exclusive documentaries, series, and analysis shows related to combat sports.
Subscription Options
- Monthly Subscription: $19.99 per month.
- Annual Subscription: $99.99 per year.
7. Peacock
Overview
Peacock, launched by NBCUniversal, offers a mix of live sports, on-demand content, and original programming. It includes access to a variety of sports events and channels.
Trial Period
Peacock offers a 7-day free trial for its Premium and Premium Plus plans.
Content and Features
- Live Sports: Includes coverage of NFL, Premier League, WWE, rugby, and more.
- Sports Talk Shows: Features sports talk and analysis programs like “The Dan Patrick Show” and “Pro Football Talk.”
- On-Demand Content: Access to a vast library of on-demand movies, TV shows, and original series.
- Tiers of Service: Offers free, Premium, and Premium Plus tiers with varying levels of content access.
Subscription Options
- Peacock Free: $0, with limited content and ads.
- Peacock Premium: $4.99 per month, with ads and more content.
- Peacock Premium Plus: $9.99 per month, ad-free.
8. Paramount+
Overview
Paramount+, formerly known as CBS All Access, offers a wide range of content from CBS, including live sports, news, and entertainment. It’s a solid choice for sports fans looking for both live and on-demand content.
Trial Period
Paramount+ provides a 7-day free trial, allowing users to explore its offerings.
Content and Features
- Live Sports: Covers NFL, NCAA basketball, PGA Tour, and other major sports events.
- Original Programming: Features exclusive originals and a vast library of CBS shows.
- Live TV: Access to live CBS broadcasts, including sports, news, and special events.
Subscription Options
- Essential Plan: $4.99 per month, with ads.
- Premium Plan: $9.99 per month, ad-free and includes local live CBS stations.
9. AT&T TV Now
Overview
AT&T TV Now is a live TV streaming service that offers a wide range of channels, including extensive sports coverage. It’s known for its robust channel lineup and premium options.
Trial Period
AT&T TV Now offers a 7-day free trial, providing full access to its channel packages.
Content and Features
- Sports Channels: Includes ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, NBC Sports, and regional sports networks.
- On-Demand Content: Provides access to a large library of on-demand movies and TV shows.
- DVR Service: Offers 20 hours of cloud DVR storage, with an option to upgrade.
Subscription Options
- Entertainment Package: $69.99 per month, includes over 65 channels.
- Choice Package: $84.99 per month, includes over 90 channels and regional sports.
10. CBS Sports Network
Overview
CBS Sports Network is a dedicated sports channel offering live events, sports news, and analysis. It’s available as part of various streaming services.
Trial Period
CBS Sports Network is available through platforms like fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV, each offering a 7-day free trial.
Content and Features
- Live Sports: Covers a range of sports, including college football, basketball, and more.
- Sports News and Analysis: Features sports talk shows and expert analysis.
- On-Demand Content: Provides replays and highlights of major sports events.
Subscription Options
Available through various streaming platforms with differing subscription costs.
Conclusion
For sports fans, the shift to streaming services has opened up a world of possibilities, offering flexibility and comprehensive coverage of their favorite sports. Whether you’re a fan of mainstream sports like football and basketball or niche sports like MMA and rugby, there’s a streaming service tailored to your preferences. With generous free trial periods ranging from 7 to 30 days, these platforms allow you to explore their offerings and determine the best fit for your sports viewing needs. Take advantage of these trials to ensure you never miss a game, match, or tournament again.
