If a full live TV service feels too expensive, two options keep coming up: Philo and Sling TV. Both cost far less than cable or the big streaming bundles. But they're built for very different viewers — and picking the wrong one means missing the channels you care about.
Lineups and prices change. Check each service's current channel list before you subscribe.
The short answer
- Choose Philo if you mostly watch entertainment, lifestyle and reality TV and don't need sports or local news.
- Choose Sling if you want ESPN, news channels or a more flexible "build your own" lineup.
What Philo offers
Philo focuses on popular entertainment channels — think home improvement, food, reality, lifestyle, movies and classic TV networks — at one of the lowest prices of any live TV service.
Why people like it
- Very low monthly price
- Lots of the channels families actually watch in the evening
- Generous cloud DVR
- Simple: one main package
What it doesn't have
- No ESPN or major sports networks
- No local ABC, CBS, FOX or NBC
- Little or no cable news
What Sling offers
Sling lets you pick a base plan — Orange (ESPN and family channels) or Blue (news and entertainment, with some locals in select cities) — or combine both, then add small channel packs.
Why people like it
- ESPN on Sling Orange
- Cable news and more entertainment on Sling Blue
- Add-ons for sports, kids, news and more
- Pay only for what you watch
What to watch out for
- Limited local channels
- Smaller base DVR, with an upgrade available
- Add-ons can raise the price quickly
Side-by-side
| Philo | Sling TV | |
|---|---|---|
| Price level | Lowest | Low (base plans) |
| Sports (ESPN) | No | Yes (Orange) |
| Cable news | Minimal | Yes (Blue) |
| Local channels | No | Some markets (Blue) |
| DVR | Generous | Basic, upgrade available |
| Flexibility | One package | Mix-and-match add-ons |
Who should choose which
- Home, cooking and reality fans: Philo
- Sports fans on a budget: Sling Orange — see the cheapest way to watch ESPN
- News watchers: Sling Blue
- Families who want a bit of everything: Sling with one add-on
Add an antenna for local channels
Neither service is great for local stations. An HD antenna fixes that for free and gives you local news, network shows and big sports events. Combined with Philo or Sling, it covers what most households watch.
Try before you commit
Both services are month to month with no contract. Use a free trial when one is offered, and test during a normal week of viewing. Make sure the apps work well on your TV — if your screen is small or old, see our guide to the best TV size for your room before upgrading.
Frequently asked questions
Does Philo have sports?
No. Philo focuses on entertainment and lifestyle channels and doesn't include ESPN or major sports networks.
Does Sling include local channels?
Sling Blue includes some local channels in select markets. Most viewers add an HD antenna for local stations.
Which is cheaper, Philo or Sling?
Philo is usually the lowest-priced live TV service. Sling's base plans cost a bit more but include sports or news depending on the plan.
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. Both Philo and Sling are month to month with no contract.
