Sling TV is a live TV streaming service that offers a more affordable alternative to traditional cable. It gives you access to popular channels like ESPN, CNN, AMC, and more without needing a cable box or a long-term contract. With a mix of live TV and on-demand content, it provides flexibility for users who want to cut the cord but still enjoy their favorite channels.
Unlike other streaming services that bundle everything into a single package, Sling TV allows users to pick from different base plans and add extra channels based on their interests. This makes it a cost-effective option for those who only want specific networks.
However, Sling TV is not perfect. While it offers lower prices compared to competitors like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV, it also comes with some trade-offs, such as limited local channels and occasional streaming issues.
In this review, we will closely look at everything you need to know about Sling TV, from its pricing, channel selection, streaming performance, and more, which shall help you decide if it is something worth subscribing to for Friday night binges.
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Sling TV Review: Stream Live TV, Sports and News
While we have a detailed review of all the aspects of Sling TV, we have curated a quick 1-minute review section for those who are always in a rush. This quick review is a summary of what we think about the platform through our review and if you should be subscribing to it.
1-Minute Quick Review
Sling TV is a budget-friendly live TV streaming service that offers flexibility in choosing channels. It provides two main plans: Sling Orange and Sling Blue, each catering to different types of viewers. You can also add extra channels based on your preferences. This makes it an attractive choice for people who want live TV without overpaying for unwanted networks.
However, Sling TV has some downsides. It does not offer as many local channels as competitors like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. Additionally, while its base price is low, add-ons can increase costs.
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to cable and don’t mind the limited local channel selection, Sling TV is a great option. But if you want an all-in-one package with a wider range of channels, there might be better options.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Starting Price | $40/month for Sling Orange or Sling Blue ($55/month for both) |
Number of Channels | 30+ (varies by plan) |
Key Channels | Sling Orange: ESPN, Disney, Freeform, CNN, TNT, TBS, AMC, Food Network, HGTV, Comedy Central. Sling Blue: NBC, Fox, FS1, FX, NFL Network, Bravo, SyFy, National Geographic. |
Local Channels | Limited (Mostly NBC and Fox in select cities; No ABC or CBS) |
DVR Storage | 50 hours included (can upgrade to 200 hours for $5/month) |
Simultaneous Streams | Sling Orange: 1 stream Sling Blue: Up to 3 streams Orange + Blue: Up to 4 streams |
On-Demand Library | Available, but varies by network |
Free Trial | No free trial, but it offers frequent promotional discounts |
Contract | No contract; cancel anytime |
Supported Devices | Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox, iOS, Android, web browsers |
Parental Controls | Yes, PIN-protected restrictions available |
Add-On Packages | Sports, Kids, News, Lifestyle, and more (starting at $6/month per add-on) |
Best For | Budget-conscious viewers who want a live TV service with flexible channel options |
Pros
- Sling TV’s base plans start at $40/month, which is cheaper than services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV.
- Unlike other streaming services that bundle everything, Sling TV allows you to choose between Sling Orange and Sling Blue and add specific channel packs based on your interests.
- You can cancel anytime without worrying about long-term commitments or unexpected charges.
- Comes with 50 hours of free DVR storage, which is better than some competitors that charge extra. You can upgrade to 200 hours for $5/month.
- Supports smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Xbox, Android, iOS, and web browsers, making it easy to watch anywhere.
COns
- Sling TV only offers NBC and Fox in select cities. There’s no ABC or CBS, which means you might miss out on local news and sports.
- The base price is low, but if you add premium channels or extra packages, your total cost can quickly add up to the same price as competitors.
- Most live TV services offer at least a 7-day free trial, but Sling TV does not. However, they sometimes offer discounted first-month pricing.
Pricing and Plans
Sling TV keeps things simple with two main plans: Sling Orange and Sling Blue. Each costs $40 per month, or you can combine both for $55 per month. While the pricing is lower than that of competitors like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, each plan comes with a different selection of channels.
If you enjoy sports and family-friendly content, Sling Orange includes channels like ESPN, Disney, and TNT. On the other hand, Sling Blue offers more news and entertainment channels, including Fox, NBC, NFL Network, and FX. A key difference is that Sling Orange allows only one stream at a time, while Sling Blue supports up to three simultaneous streams.
For those who want a mix of both, Sling Orange + Blue gives access to all available channels while allowing up to four simultaneous streams. However, local channels are still limited, and availability depends on your region.
Sling TV also offers add-on channel packs, allowing users to customize their experience. Popular add-ons include Sports Extra, News Extra, and Kids Extra, starting at $6 per month. Premium channels like SHOWTIME and STARZ are also available for an extra fee.
While Sling TV’s base pricing is competitive, additional costs can add up. The free plan includes 50 hours of DVR storage, but upgrading to 200 hours costs $5 per month. Also, since it lacks ABC and CBS, users may need an antenna or another service for local news.
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Content Library
Sling TV offers a mix of live TV and on-demand content, but its channel lineup depends on which plan you choose. Unlike services like YouTube TV, which includes a full range of networks, Sling TV splits its channels between Sling Orange and Sling Blue.
With Sling Orange, you get ESPN, Disney, TNT, and CNN, making it a good choice for sports fans and families. Sling Blue, on the other hand, includes Fox, NBC, NFL Network, FS1, and FX, catering more to news and entertainment viewers. If you want both sets of channels, you’ll need the Sling Orange + Blue plan.
One major limitation of Sling TV is its local channel availability. Unlike competitors that offer ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox nationwide, Sling TV only provides Fox and NBC in select cities. This means that if you rely on local news, sports, or regional programming, you may need an antenna or another streaming service to fill in the gaps.
In addition to live TV, Sling offers an on-demand library, but content availability varies by network. Some channels allow you to watch previously aired shows and movies, while others only offer live broadcasts. However, it does not provide the same extensive on-demand catalog as services like Hulu + Live TV.
For those looking for more variety, Sling TV allows you to customize your channel lineup with add-ons. These range from sports and kids’ channels to premium networks like SHOWTIME and STARZ, helping you tailor your experience based on your preferences.
While Sling TV is a solid option for budget-conscious viewers, its limited local channels and smaller on-demand library may not be ideal for those looking for a more complete streaming experience.
Also Read: Fubo TV Review: Watch Live Sports & TV
User Experience
Sling TV is designed to be easy to use, whether you’re watching on a smart TV, streaming device, or mobile app. The interface is simple and organized, making it easy to find live channels, on-demand content, and your saved DVR recordings.
The home screen presents a mix of live channels, recently watched content, and recommended shows, allowing quick access to what matters most. A channel guide is also available, making it feel similar to traditional cable but with the flexibility of a streaming service.
One standout feature is the customizable navigation, where you can rearrange favorite channels for quicker access. However, compared to competitors like YouTube TV, Sling TV’s menu can feel a bit cluttered, especially with ads and promotions for add-ons.
The DVR feature is useful but has limitations. Sling TV includes 50 hours of free DVR storage, but you’ll need to upgrade to 200 hours for $5/month if you record a lot of content. Additionally, some channels do not allow DVR functionality due to licensing restrictions.
Sling TV’s performance depends on internet speed. On a stable connection, streaming is smooth and reliable, but users with slower internet may experience occasional buffering or quality drops. Unlike some competitors, Sling TV does not support 4K streaming, which might be a drawback for viewers who want the highest resolution.
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Streaming Performance
Sling TV delivers consistent streaming quality, but its performance depends on internet speed and device compatibility. On a stable connection, it provides smooth playback with minimal buffering, making it a solid option for live TV streaming. However, it lacks 4K support, which might be a drawback for users looking for the highest video resolution.
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For most channels, Sling TV streams in HD (720p or 1080p), but the quality can drop if your internet connection is unstable. To stream without interruptions, Sling recommends at least 5 Mbps for a single stream and 25 Mbps for multiple devices. If your internet speed fluctuates, you might experience occasional buffering or resolution drops.
Compared to competitors like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV’s load times are generally fast, with minimal lag when switching between channels. However, some users report delays of 20-30 seconds when streaming live sports, which is common for most internet-based TV services.
The Cloud DVR performance is reliable, but some channels restrict recording due to licensing agreements. Additionally, Sling TV’s DVR does not allow fast-forwarding through ads on certain networks, which can be frustrating if you’re used to skipping commercials.
Sling TV works well on most devices, including smart TVs, Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV, and mobile apps. However, the mobile experience can be inconsistent, with occasional lag or crashes, especially on older devices.
We also tested streaming Sling TV across borders using NordVPN and ExpressVPN and found a seamless entertainment experience while traveling. Of course, not all VPNs work, and it also depends on your internet connection. We highly recommend NordVPN and ExpressVPN as they unblock geo content on most platforms and also offer secure private connections.
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Exclusive Features
Sling TV stands out with its customizable channel lineup and flexible add-ons, giving users more control over their viewing experience. Unlike traditional cable packages that bundle everything together, Sling TV allows you to pay only for the channels you actually want.
One of the most useful features is the Cloud DVR, which provides 50 hours of free storage. Users can upgrade to 200 hours for $5 per month. While DVR storage is helpful, some channels restrict recordings, and certain networks do not allow fast-forwarding through commercials, which can be frustrating for users who want to skip ads.
Another unique feature is Sling Freestream, a free streaming option that gives access to over 400 live and on-demand channels, including news, movies, and lifestyle content. It’s available to anyone, even without a Sling TV subscription, making it a great option for casual viewers.
Sling TV also offers Multi-Stream Support, but this varies by plan. Sling Orange allows only one stream at a time, which may not be ideal for families or households with multiple users. Sling Blue supports up to three simultaneous streams, while the Orange + Blue plan allows four streams.
For sports fans, Sling TV provides access to ESPN, NFL Network, FS1, and more, but it lacks many regional sports networks (RSNs), which are available on competitors like FuboTV.
While Sling TV does not offer 4K streaming, it supports HD quality (720p/1080p) on most channels. The service also integrates with over-the-air (OTA) antennas, allowing users to access local channels for free in supported regions.
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Device Compatibility
Sling TV is available on a wide range of devices, making it accessible for users who prefer streaming on different screens. Whether you’re watching on a smart TV, streaming stick, gaming console, or mobile device, Sling TV offers a smooth viewing experience on most platforms.
The service supports popular streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast. It also works on smart TVs from brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio, giving users the option to watch live TV without needing an external device. Additionally, Sling TV is compatible with Xbox, but it is not available on PlayStation consoles.
Google Chromecast
Roku
Amazon FireStick
For mobile users, the Sling TV app is available on iOS and Android, allowing viewers to stream on the go. The app offers a similar experience to the desktop and TV versions, but some users report occasional freezing or crashing, especially on older devices.
Sling TV also offers a web-based version, which works on most modern browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Safari. This is useful for users who want to watch on their laptops without downloading an app.
While Sling TV is available on many devices, there are some limitations. The service does not support 4K streaming, and some features, like DVR playback, may work differently depending on the device. Additionally, Sling Orange users can only stream on one device at a time, which can be a drawback for multi-user households.
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Parental Control
Sling TV offers basic parental control features that allow parents to restrict access to certain content. While not as advanced as some competitors, the controls are simple to set up and help create a safer viewing experience for children.
Parents can set up a PIN-protected restriction system, which blocks content based on ratings. This feature allows users to filter content by age group, including TV-Y (young children), TV-7, PG, TV-14, and TV-MA (mature audiences). Once enabled, viewers will need to enter their PIN to watch restricted content.
The parental controls apply to both live TV and on-demand content, meaning children cannot accidentally access mature programming. However, one downside is that each profile does not have its own settings; the controls apply to the entire account. This means if you enable restrictions, they will apply to all users on the account, which might be inconvenient for households with both kids and adults.
Sling TV does not offer kids’ profiles, which are available on platforms like YouTube TV and Netflix. However, parents can subscribe to the Kids Extra add-on for $6/month to access family-friendly channels like Nick Jr., Boomerang, and TeenNick.
Also Read: The Best Parental Control Apps for Android
Customer Support
Sling TV provides multiple ways to get customer support, including live chat, phone support, and a help center with troubleshooting guides. While the service generally works well, users may occasionally need assistance with billing issues, streaming problems, or account settings.
The live chat option is the fastest way to get help. It’s available directly on the Sling TV website and usually connects users to an agent within a few minutes. Phone support is also available, but wait times can vary, especially during major live events when more users may experience streaming issues.
Sling TV’s help center is well-organized and covers a variety of topics, including device setup, troubleshooting streaming issues, and managing subscriptions. The articles are easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions for common problems. However, some users might find that resolving issues requires multiple steps, which can be frustrating if they just want a quick fix.
One downside is that Sling TV does not offer 24/7 customer support. Support hours are limited, so if you run into issues late at night, you may have to wait until the next day for assistance.
Users generally find Sling TV’s customer support helpful but not always the fastest. While the help center and live chat offer good solutions, longer response times and limited support hours can be a drawback compared to services that offerround-the-clock assistance.
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Competition: How Does Sling TV Compare?
Sling TV is one of the most budget-friendly live TV streaming options, but it competes with platforms like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV. Each service has its strengths, whether it’s more channels, better DVR, or exclusive features.
Let’s closely compare Sling TV with its similar alternatives in detail,
Feature | Sling TV | YouTube TV | Hulu+Live TV | Fubo TV |
---|---|---|---|---|
Starting Price | $40/month | $72.99/month | $76.99/month | $79.99/month |
Local Channels | NBC, Fox (in select cities) | ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox | ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox | ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox |
Total Channels | 30+ (varies by plan) | 100+ | 90+ | 180+ |
Sports Coverage | ESPN, NFL Network, FS1 | ESPN, NFL Network, MLB, NBA | ESPN, FS1, NFL Network | RSNs, international sports, major leagues |
DVR Storage | 50 hours free (200 hours for $5/month) | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1,000 hours |
Simultaneous Streams | Orange: 1, Blue: 3, Orange + Blue: 4 | 3 (Unlimited at home with upgrade) | 2 (Unlimited with upgrade) | 10 at home |
On-Demand Library | Limited (varies by channel) | Yes | Full Hulu library included | Limited (varies by channel) |
4K Streaming | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Best For | Budget-conscious users who want live TV | Users who want local channels & unlimited DVR | Viewers who want live TV & on-demand content | Sports fans who need RSNs & international leagues |
Sling TV vs. YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a more feature-rich live TV streaming service that offers a comprehensive cable replacement experience. Unlike Sling TV, which requires users to choose between different channel bundles, YouTube TV provides over 100 channels in its base plan, including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, which are channels that Sling TV lacks.
One of YouTube TV’s biggest advantages is its unlimited DVR storage, allowing users to record as much content as they want without extra fees. In contrast, Sling TV offers only 50 hours of free DVR storage, with an option to upgrade to 200 hours for $5 per month.
Another area where YouTube TV excels is simultaneous streaming. While Sling Orange restricts users to just one stream at a time, YouTube TV allows streaming on three devices simultaneously with its base plan and offers unlimited streams at home for an additional fee.
However, YouTube TV’s biggest downside is its cost. At $72.99 per month, it is nearly double the price of Sling TV. While it offers a better overall selection of channels and features, budget-conscious users may prefer Sling TV’s lower starting price.
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Sling TV vs. Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is a unique service that combines live TV with an extensive on-demand library, offering users the best of both worlds. Unlike Sling TV, which focuses primarily on live channels, Hulu + Live TV includes access to Hulu’s full streaming library, giving subscribers thousands of on-demand shows and movies.
With over 90 channels, Hulu + Live TV includes ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, ESPN, FX, and Disney-owned channels, making it a stronger option for sports and local content compared to Sling TV. Additionally, Hulu + Live TV offers ESPN+ and Disney+ bundled at no extra cost, adding more value for users who enjoy sports and family-friendly content.
Another advantage is Hulu’s DVR storage. The service provides unlimited DVR storage, whereas Sling TV offers only 50 hours for free and 200 hours for an extra $5 per month. This makes Hulu a better option for users who frequently record live content.
However, Hulu + Live TV costs $76.99 per month, which is significantly more expensive than Sling TV. While it includes more features, users who are only looking for live TV without the extra on-demand content may find Sling TV’s lower pricing more attractive.
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Sling TV vs. Fubo TV
Fubo TV is one of the best streaming services for sports fans, offering regional sports networks (RSNs), international sports, and niche sports channels that Sling TV lacks. If you’re looking for the most comprehensive sports coverage, FuboTV is a superior choice.
One of Fubo TV’s biggest strengths is its local channel lineup. Unlike Sling TV, which only offers NBC and Fox in select cities, Fubo TV includes ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox nationwide, making it a better option for users who rely on local networks for news and sports.
In terms of DVR storage, Fubo TV provides 1,000 hours of cloud DVR storage, far surpassing Sling TV’s 50-hour free limit. Fubo TV also supports multiple simultaneous streams, allowing up to 10 devices at home, whereas Sling TV’s Orange plan only allows one stream at a time.
The biggest downside of Fubo TV is its pricing. The base plan starts at $79.99 per month, making it one of the most expensive live TV streaming services. While it offers excellent sports coverage, users who are looking for a budget-friendly option for general entertainment may prefer Sling TV’s lower cost and flexible add-ons.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Sling TV does not provide a traditional free trial, but it frequently offers promotional discounts for new subscribers. Sometimes, select channels or add-ons are available for free for a limited period, giving users a chance to explore the service.
Sling TV includes NBC and Fox in select cities, but ABC, CBS, and many regional networks are not available. If local channels are important to you, using an HD antenna or another streaming service may be necessary to fill the gap.
The number of simultaneous streams depends on the plan. Sling Orange allows only one stream at a time, while Sling Blue supports up to three devices. If you subscribe to both plans, you can stream on four devices, though Sling Orange channels still remain limited to a single stream.
Sling TV does not currently offer 4K streaming. All content is delivered in HD (720p or 1080p), depending on the channel and internet speed. While some competitors provide 4K support, Sling focuses on offering a budget-friendly live TV experience.
Sling TV includes 50 hours of free DVR storage, with an option to upgrade to 200 hours for $5 per month. However, some channels restrict recording or prevent fast-forwarding through commercials, which can limit the flexibility of recorded content.
Yes, Sling TV does not require a long-term contract. You can cancel anytime through your account settings, and the service continues until the end of the billing cycle. There are no penalties or hidden fees for canceling.
Sling TV offers more flexibility than cable, allowing users to subscribe without long-term commitments. It is generally cheaper but does not include as many channels, especially local networks. While cable provides a more traditional viewing experience with fewer buffering concerns, Sling TV gives users more control over their channel lineup and pricing.
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Wrapping up: Sling TV Review | Stream Live TV, Sports & News
Sling TV is a budget-friendly live TV streaming service that offers flexibility with its channel lineup and pricing. Unlike traditional cable, it allows users to choose between Sling Orange and Sling Blue or combine both for a more complete selection. Its affordable pricing and customizable add-ons make it a great choice for viewers who want to pay only for the channels they watch.
However, Sling TV does have some limitations. It lacks ABC and CBS, and while NBC and Fox are available, they are limited to select cities. The DVR storage is capped at 50 hours unless upgraded, and some channels restrict fast-forwarding through recorded content. Additionally, 4K streaming is not available, and Sling Orange users are limited to only one stream at a time.
For those looking for a low-cost alternative to cable with a decent mix of live and on-demand content, Sling TV remains a solid option. But if you need more local channels, unlimited DVR, or sports coverage, competitors like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV might be worth considering.
Ultimately, Sling TV is best suited for budget-conscious users who want a customizable and flexible live TV experience without overpaying for channels they don’t need.
Sling TV Review: Stream Live TV, Games and News
Sling TV Review: Stream Live TV, Games and News-
Pricing and Value8/10 Very goodSling TV is one of the cheapest live TV streaming services, offering flexible plans at nearly half the cost of competitors. However, add-ons can increase the total price quickly.
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Channel Selection6/10 NormalThe lineup includes popular news, sports, and entertainment channels, but the lack of ABC, CBS, and regional sports networks is a downside. Customization helps, but some users may find it incomplete.
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User Experience7/10 GoodThe interface is simple and easy to navigate, but ads and limited multi-streaming on Sling Orange can be frustrating. It works well across devices, though the mobile app could be smoother.
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Streaming Performance6/10 NormalStreams are stable in HD (720p/1080p), but there is no 4K support. Occasional buffering and slight delays in live sports streaming may affect the viewing experience.
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DVR & On-Demand6/10 NormalThe free DVR storage is limited to 50 hours, with some recording restrictions. On-demand content varies by network and isn't as strong as competitors like Hulu.
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Device Compatibility8/10 Very goodWorks on smart TVs, streaming devices, and Xbox but lacks PlayStation support. The integration with OTA antennas helps make up for missing local channels.
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Competition Value7/10 GoodSling TV is cheaper than YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV but lacks local channels and unlimited DVR. It's a great budget option, but not a full cable replacement.