If you want to cut cable but still keep live channels for sports, news, and event TV, a live TV streaming service is the natural replacement. YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling are three of the most popular options, and they suit very different viewers. Here is how they compare.
Price
Sling is generally the most affordable of the three because it offers smaller, more focused channel packages. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV sit at a higher price point closer to a full cable replacement, but they include far more channels. Always check the current rate before signing up, since promotional pricing and bundles change often.
Channel lineups
YouTube TV offers one large channel package that covers most major networks, sports, and news. Hulu + Live TV bundles a similar live lineup with the full Hulu on-demand library, which is great value if you already stream Hulu. Sling splits its channels into Orange and Blue packages, so you pay mainly for the genres you actually watch.
DVR and simultaneous streams
YouTube TV includes generous unlimited DVR and lets several people watch at once, which suits busy households. Hulu + Live TV also includes a large DVR and family-friendly stream counts. Sling’s DVR and simultaneous-stream limits are smaller by default, though they can be expanded, which fits solo viewers or couples.
Who each service is best for
Best all-round cable replacement
YouTube TV is the easiest one-package choice for a household that wants a lot of channels, strong sports coverage, and unlimited DVR without thinking too hard about add-ons.
Best for on-demand fans
Hulu + Live TV makes the most sense if you already love Hulu’s on-demand shows, because you get live TV and that full library together.
Best for a tight budget
Sling is the pick for viewers who only want specific channels and would rather keep the monthly bill as low as possible.
The bottom line
There is no single winner, only the best fit for how you watch. Pick YouTube TV for a complete cable-style experience, Hulu + Live TV for live plus on-demand in one bill, and Sling to keep costs down. Whichever you choose, you can cancel and switch any month, which is exactly the freedom cord cutting is about.
