ESPN used to be the main reason people kept cable. Not anymore. Today you can get ESPN several ways without a cable box — and the cheapest option depends on which ESPN channels you actually need and what else you want to watch.
Plans and prices change often. We compare what each option includes rather than exact prices. Check each service's website with your ZIP code before you sign up.
First: which ESPN do you need?
"ESPN" is really a family of channels and streams:
- ESPN and ESPN2 — the main channels with live games, SportsCenter and studio shows
- ESPNU, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPNews — college sports and news channels
- ESPN streaming-only events — extra games and events that stream exclusively in the ESPN app
- ABC — many big ESPN events air on ABC, which is free with an antenna
Knowing which of these you need tells you which option is cheapest.
Option 1: The ESPN app (direct subscription)
ESPN sells its full network directly through the ESPN app, with no cable login. There are different plan levels: a lower tier focused on streaming-only events, and a top tier that includes the live ESPN channels.
- Best for: people who only want ESPN, not a full channel lineup
- Watch out for: make sure the plan you pick includes the live ESPN channels, not just streaming-only events
Option 2: Sling Orange
Sling's Orange plan includes ESPN and ESPN2 plus a small set of popular cable channels, and it has historically been one of the lowest-cost ways to get ESPN alongside other channels. A sports add-on brings extra networks.
- Best for: budget viewers who want ESPN plus a few cable channels
- Watch out for: limited local channels — pair it with an antenna
Option 3: A full live TV service
YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream and Fubo include the ESPN networks along with local channels and big cable lineups. They cost more, but they're a full cable replacement.
- Best for: households that want ESPN plus locals, news and entertainment
- Watch out for: you pay for many channels you may not watch
We compare two of the budget options in Philo vs Sling.
Option 4: Don't forget ABC
Many major ESPN events — big college football games, NBA games and more — air on ABC, which you can watch free with an HD antenna. If most of the games you care about are on ABC, an antenna might be all you need.
Quick comparison
| Option | ESPN channels | Local channels | Other cable channels |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPN app (top plan) | Yes | No | No |
| Sling Orange | ESPN, ESPN2 | Limited | Some |
| Live TV services | All major ESPN networks | Yes, most markets | Many |
| Antenna | ABC games only | Yes | No |
Which is cheapest for you?
- You only care about ESPN: the ESPN app's top plan
- You want ESPN plus a few cable channels: Sling Orange + an antenna
- You want everything: a full live TV service
- You only watch the biggest games: an antenna for ABC
Save more by subscribing only in season
Everything above is month to month. If you mainly watch college football or the NBA, subscribe for those months and cancel the rest of the year.
Traveling for the big game? Our guide to watching TV while traveling explains how to use your subscriptions away from home.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get ESPN without cable?
Yes. You can subscribe to ESPN directly through its app, or get it through live TV streaming services such as Sling, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream and Fubo.
What is the cheapest way to get ESPN?
For ESPN alone, the ESPN app's plan that includes live channels is usually simplest. For ESPN plus other channels, Sling Orange with an antenna is often the lowest-cost combination.
Is ESPN on ABC free?
Yes. ESPN events that air on ABC can be watched free with an HD antenna if you're within range of your local ABC station.
Do I need a contract for ESPN streaming?
No. The ESPN app and live TV streaming services are month to month, so you can cancel anytime.
