Getting Started: Your First Steps to Streaming Freedom

Best For: Die-hard sports fans seeking extensive Regional Sports Network (RSN) coverage for local team games.

Key Features: Vast array of sports channels (ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, etc.), often includes local RSNs like Bally Sports and AT&T SportsNet, 1000 hours of Cloud DVR, and a good mix of entertainment.

Consider If: Your priority is live sports, particularly local team coverage, and you're willing to pay a premium for it.

Best For: Complementing an existing live TV service for exclusive ESPN content, college sports, and a deep library of sports documentaries.

Key Features: Exclusive UFC Fight Nights, NHL games, MLS matches, college sports, and ESPN Originals.

Consider If: You want more sports content beyond what's on traditional ESPN channels, especially if you're a fan of specific leagues not fully covered elsewhere.

Best For: Households seeking a true cable replacement with a balanced channel lineup and unparalleled DVR.

Key Features: 100+ top channels (including locals), truly unlimited Cloud DVR (recordings kept for 9 months), intuitive Google-powered search, and the exclusive home of NFL Sunday Ticket.

Consider If: You want a wide variety of live TV, love sports (especially NFL), and value unlimited recording space and a user-friendly interface.

Best For: Viewers who want a robust live TV experience seamlessly integrated with a massive on-demand library (Hulu Originals, movies, TV shows).

Key Features: Live TV channels, full access to Hulu's on-demand library, Disney+ and ESPN+ often bundled, 50 hours of Cloud DVR (upgradable).

Consider If: You enjoy both live events and binge-watching, and want a single platform for all your entertainment needs.

Best For: Users who want a premium, cable-like experience with a strong emphasis on Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) and a wide array of channels.

Key Features: Comprehensive channel packages, often includes many hard-to-find RSNs, unlimited Cloud DVR (with Entertainment package and above).

Consider If: RSN coverage is your top priority for local team sports, and you're comfortable with a higher price point for a premium experience.

Best For: Cord-cutters looking for an affordable and customizable live TV experience.

Key Features: Two base packages (Orange for sports/family, Blue for news/entertainment), various add-on bundles, 50 hours of Cloud DVR.

Consider If: You want to keep costs down and only pay for the channels you truly want, with options to add more as needed.

Best For: Fans of Premier League soccer, WWE, and NBCUniversal content.

Key Features: Exclusive live sports, next-day access to current NBC hits, and a growing library of movies and originals.

Consider If: You follow specific sports or shows exclusive to NBCUniversal and want an affordable way to access them.

Best For: Fans of CBS, live sports (NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League), and a vast library of movies and original series from Paramount.

Key Features: Live local CBS channel, NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League, NWSL, and a huge on-demand library.

Consider If: You want a cost-effective way to get live CBS and specific sports, plus a strong on-demand catalog.

Best For: Existing Amazon Prime members looking for added value, especially for exclusive NFL Thursday Night Football.

Key Features: Included with Prime membership, vast movie/TV library, and exclusive live sports content.

Consider If: You're already a Prime member and want to leverage its streaming benefits, particularly for NFL.

Best For: Viewers interested in critically acclaimed original series and films, plus exclusive live sports like MLS Season Pass.

Key Features: High-quality original programming, MLS Season Pass (separate subscription), 4K HDR content.

Consider If: You prioritize premium, ad-free original content and are interested in specific sports offerings like Major League Soccer.