So, you’re thinking about ditching DirecTV? Good call. In 2025, there are tons of great alternatives to DirecTV out there that let you cut the cord without missing out on your favorite shows or live sports. It’s not just about saving money anymore; it’s about getting exactly what you want, when you want it, without all the extra hassle. We’ve put together a list of the top options for cord-cutters like you.
Key Takeaways
- Many streaming services now offer live TV, making them solid alternatives to DirecTV.
- You can find options for almost any budget, from free services to those with lots of channels.
- Most alternatives to DirecTV let you watch on many different devices, like smart TVs and phones.
- Some services are really good for sports fans, while others focus more on movies and shows.
- Picking the right service often means looking at what channels you watch most and how much you want to spend.
1. YouTube TV
Okay, so you’re ditching DirecTV? Smart move! Let’s talk about YouTube TV. Honestly, it’s probably the best overall option for most people looking to cut the cord. It’s got a really user-friendly interface, which is a huge plus when you’re trying to navigate live TV without cable.
One of the biggest selling points is the unlimited DVR storage. Seriously, you can record basically everything and keep it for nine months. Plus, you can share your account with up to six people, and three can watch at the same time. That’s a pretty sweet deal if you’ve got a big family or want to split the cost with friends. If you enjoy using the DVR option, Youtube TV is arguably the best option in the market for you.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Unlimited DVR
- Good channel selection
- Cons:
- Pricey compared to some other options
- Limited regional sports networks (RSNs) – this can be a deal-breaker for some sports fans
- Occasional price hikes
Speaking of price, it’s sitting at $82.99/month as of today, July 1, 2025. They sometimes frequent discounts for new users, so keep an eye out for those. They also usually offer a 7-day free trial, so you can test the waters before committing. Overall, if you want a solid, reliable streaming service that feels the most like traditional cable, YouTube TV is a great choice. It has more top channels than any competitor at this price.
2. Hulu With Live TV
Hulu with Live TV is a solid option, especially if you’re already a Hulu subscriber. It keeps things simple by integrating live TV into the existing Hulu app. I mean, who wants to juggle multiple apps, right?
Hulu with Live TV offers excellent value, bundling over 100 channels with Disney Plus and Hulu’s on-demand library. It’s a pretty sweet deal if you’re looking to cut the cord and still have access to a ton of content. The base plan with ads will run you $82.99/month, while the ad-free version is $95.99/month.
One thing to keep in mind is that the interface isn’t the most intuitive. It can feel a bit clunky compared to dedicated live TV streaming apps. For example, finding the record button isn’t as straightforward as it should be. But, if you’re already used to the Hulu interface, it might not be a big deal. Plus, Hulu Live TV offers a pretty comprehensive channel selection, covering most of the popular networks.
Here’s a quick rundown of why you might consider Hulu with Live TV:
- Bundling Benefits: If you already pay for Disney Plus and Hulu, it’s a no-brainer. You’ll save money by combining everything into one subscription.
- Channel Variety: They offer a wide range of channels, so you’re likely to find something for everyone in the family.
- On-Demand Content: You get access to Hulu’s extensive on-demand library, which is a huge plus.
3. Sling TV
Sling TV is still kicking around as a solid option for cord-cutters in 2025, even with all the new streaming services popping up. It’s known for its customizable packages and relatively lower price point compared to some of the bigger players.
One of the things I like about Sling is that you can pick a base package – either Sling Orange or Sling Blue – and then add on extra channel bundles to get exactly what you want. This can be a real money-saver if you only watch a few specific channels. The base packages are around $40 a month, but that can quickly go up as you add more stuff. It’s worth checking out their channel lineup to see if they have what you’re looking for.
Here’s a quick rundown of why Sling TV might be a good fit for you:
- Customizable channel packages: Tailor your subscription to your viewing habits.
- Lower base price: Starts cheaper than many other live TV streaming services.
- Multi-stream options: Sling Blue lets you stream on multiple devices at once (Sling Orange is limited to one).
- Device compatibility: Works on pretty much everything – Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, smartphones, and more.
Of course, Sling isn’t perfect. The interface can feel a little clunky compared to some of the slicker streaming services out there. And depending on what channels you want, the price can creep up pretty quickly with add-ons. But if you’re looking for a way to save money and still get live TV, Sling TV is definitely worth considering.
4. Fubo
Fubo is really all about sports. Sure, it has over 150 channels and unlimited cloud DVR, plus a bunch of simultaneous streams, but you’re probably signing up for Fubo to get those regional sports networks (RSNs). If you’re a big sports fan, especially of football, it’s a solid choice. It’s up there with YouTube TV and Hulu in offering NFL Network and the optional RedZone. Plus, if you’re into NBA, NHL, or MLB and live where Fubo has RSNs, you’re in luck.
Fubo’s main draw is its extensive sports coverage. You get your local broadcasts and nationally televised games on the big networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. College and pro sports are covered with channels like ACC Network, ESPN, ESPN2, SEC Network, BTN, CBS Sports Network, FS1, FS2, and NFL Network. International sports? They’ve got beIN Sports. And if you go for the Fubo Elite plan, you get even more with MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network, ESPN U, and ESPNews.
One thing to keep in mind is the price. It starts at $85 a month and can go up from there. But you do get a lot for your money, especially if you’re a sports fanatic. They usually offer a 7 day free trial, so you can test the waters before committing. Device availability is pretty good too, with support for Amazon Fire TV, Android, Apple TV, Roku, and more. So, if you’re looking to cut the cord and still catch all your favorite games, Fubo is definitely worth considering. It’s a great way to stream sports without cable.
5. Philo
Philo is a solid choice if you’re mainly interested in entertainment, lifestyle, and reality TV. For a reasonable price, you get a good selection of channels. It’s a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank.
Philo includes an unlimited cloud DVR, which is a nice perk. You can also add on Epix and Starz if you want even more content. However, it’s worth noting that Philo doesn’t carry sports channels or local broadcast networks. So, if you’re a sports fan or need local news, you’ll have to look elsewhere. For example, Sling TV offers a more comprehensive channel lineup, even if it costs a bit more.
Here’s a quick rundown of what Philo offers:
- 70+ channels
- Unlimited DVR
- On-demand shows and movies
- Optional add-ons (Epix, Starz)
6. Frndly TV
Frndly TV is definitely a budget-friendly option if you’re okay with a more limited channel selection. It’s designed for families who want access to feel-good content without breaking the bank. The service focuses on family-friendly entertainment, offering channels like Hallmark, Game Show Network, and Dove Channel.
It’s worth noting that Frndly TV doesn’t carry major news or sports networks, so it’s not a comprehensive replacement for cable. But if your priority is affordable, family-oriented viewing, it’s a solid contender. Think of it as a supplement to your streaming setup, rather than a complete overhaul. If you are looking for a skinny service with more channels, you might want to consider other options.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Pros: Affordable price, family-friendly channel lineup, simple interface.
- Cons: Limited channel selection, no news or sports, limited local channels.
- Best For: Families on a budget who primarily watch family-friendly entertainment.
7. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is like a throwback to old-school cable, but with a modern twist. It’s got tons of channels streaming live, plus a big library of stuff you can watch whenever you want. The best part? It won’t cost you a dime. It’s totally free, supported by ads, of course.
I remember when I first heard about Pluto TV. I thought, "There’s gotta be a catch." But honestly, there isn’t. It’s just free TV. Sure, you’re gonna see some ads, but that’s how they keep the lights on. And with so many streaming services out there costing a fortune, a free option is a breath of fresh air. It’s available on pretty much every device you can think of, from your phone to your smart TV. If you’re looking to cut down on your monthly expenses, Pluto TV is definitely worth checking out.
8. Xumo Play
Okay, so you’re feeling overwhelmed by all these streaming services that cost a fortune? I get it. That’s where Xumo Play comes in. It’s a completely free, ad-supported streaming service, and honestly, it’s pretty decent for what it is. Think of it as a modern version of old-school broadcast TV, but on demand.
It’s got both live channels and on-demand stuff, so there’s always something to watch. Plus, it’s available on a bunch of devices. I’ve used it on my Roku and my phone without any problems. If you’re looking for a way to cut the cord without adding another monthly bill, Xumo Play is worth checking out. It’s not going to replace your premium services, but it’s great for background noise or when you just want to flip through channels without thinking too much. You can find it on Roku devices and other streaming platforms.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Free to use
- Ad-supported (obviously)
- Live and on-demand content
- Available on various devices like Amazon Fire TV, Android, and Samsung TV
9. Plex
Plex is a bit of a different beast compared to the other options on this list. It’s primarily a media server software that lets you organize and stream your own collection of movies, TV shows, music, and photos. But it also offers a free, ad-supported streaming service with a surprisingly large library of content. I’ve been testing lots of gadgets and services, and Plex feels like one of those rarities that will stick around in my off-hours life. The search function is great. It not only lets you hunt for shows and movies on its own platform, it also tells you which streaming services have the content you’re looking for.
Think of it as a central hub for all your media, both local and streaming. The FAST service has around 800 live TV channels that are organized fairly granularly, and you can have up to 15 profiles. Recently, Plex added movie and show reviews culled from other Plex users and professional critics — users can even share their reviews with friends on the service, creating a collaboration.
Here’s a quick rundown of what Plex offers:
- Organize your personal media library.
- Stream your content to any device.
- Access a free, ad-supported streaming service.
- Share your library with friends and family.
While it doesn’t offer local channels or live sports coverage (beyond replays), Plex is a solid option if you have a large collection of digital media and want a way to easily access it on all your devices. Plus, the free streaming service is a nice bonus. If you’re tired of Nomad Internet and Spectrum, give Plex a try.
10. Peacock
Peacock is NBCUniversal’s streaming service, and it’s trying to make a splash in the streaming world. One of its biggest draws is that it offers a free tier with a decent amount of content. It’s a good option if you want to watch some shows and movies without paying anything upfront.
Of course, the free tier has ads. If you want to get rid of those and unlock more content, you’ll need to subscribe to one of their premium plans. It’s another option to consider if you’re looking to cut the cord and still get access to a lot of content. The smart television market revenue growth by 2030 is expected to be significant, so having access to streaming services on your TV will become even more important.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Peacock plans:
- Peacock Free: Free with ads, limited content.
- Peacock Premium: More content, fewer ads.
- Peacock Premium Plus: No ads (for most content), even more content.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Ditching DirecTV in 2025 doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on your favorite shows or live sports. There are a bunch of good options out there, each with its own good points and not-so-good points. It really just comes down to what you watch most, how much you want to spend, and what features matter to you. Take some time to look at a few, maybe even try a free trial or two. You’ll probably find something that works way better for your wallet and your viewing habits. Happy streaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DirecTV Stream?
DirecTV Stream used to be called AT&T TV. It’s a service that lets you watch live TV over the internet, much like regular cable. It offers a lot of channels, especially for sports, even local ones that other services might not have.
Why are people looking for alternatives to DirecTV Stream?
While DirecTV Stream was made for people who want to stop using traditional cable, many users feel it’s still pretty similar to cable. It has a huge number of channels and can be quite expensive. Some people also notice that it loads slowly and has delays, especially for certain channels. This makes many look for other, often cheaper, options.
Does DirecTV Stream require a contract?
Yes, you can watch DirecTV Stream without signing a long-term contract. However, if you choose their satellite service, there might be a fee if you end your service early, usually around $20 per month.
Is DirecTV Stream expensive?
DirecTV Stream can be quite pricey, especially for their top-tier packages. For example, their Premier plan, which has over 185 channels and includes services like Max and Paramount Plus with Showtime, can cost as much as $172.98 a month. At that price, regular cable might even be cheaper for some people.
What are the main reasons someone might choose DirecTV Stream?
One big reason to pick DirecTV Stream is if you really want to watch specific local sports channels that other streaming services don’t offer. It’s also a good choice if money isn’t a problem for you, as their most expensive plan gives you almost everything you could want from a TV service.
What are the good things about DirecTV Stream?
DirecTV Stream offers some good things, like unlimited DVR to record shows and movies, and you can watch on many devices at home at the same time. They also have some channels that show live TV in super clear 4K quality. Plus, they offer more regional sports channels than most other live TV services.
