Known best for its science, history, and tech content, Discovery Channel has been educating viewers about the world around them since 1985. The channel has delved deep into different biomes in Planet Earth, experimented on popular adages in Mythbusters, and explored man’s survival in Man vs Wild.
After captivating us on cable, Discovery has made their content available on-demand on Discovery Plus, available for no charge in a seven-day free trial. However, viewers might be interested to know that the channel itself is available in the following live TV streaming services, which also happen to have free trials for viewers new to streaming.
DirecTV Stream offers more local channels than any other streaming service out there, likely because the AT&T owned service doubles as a satellite television provider. Because of this, as well as its solid list of features, it’s our top choice for watching local channels. Although it’s one of the pricier options on this list when it comes to streaming services, DirecTV Stream also has the most local channels available, and the least location restrictions. Regardless of which plan you subscribe to, you’ll get access to all the affiliate stations available in your region—however, if you want access to watch Regional Sports Networks, you’ll need to subscribe to at least the Choice plan. (DirecTV Stream also has the highest number of RSNs, too!) DirecTV Stream also has a stellar support team offering quick help and sometimes even remuneration in response to issues that come up for their viewers.
$79.99/month • 5 days free trial • ESPN, TNT, TBS, Fox Sports 1, TLC, Bravo, CNBC, NBC, and 77 other channels.
Hulu + Live TV offers a pretty good base package of channels for sports fans, including local networks, ESPN, Fox Sports, Golf Channel, TBS, SEC Network, BTN, and more. It also has a great sports add-on and comes bundled with ESPN+ and Disney+ for no extra fee – which makes it a great option for big sports fans who need to please the whole family. You can watch Hulu + Live TV on every popular streaming device, and stream on up to two screens at once, upgradeable to unlimited screens for an extra fee. It also has a free unlimited DVR, with your oldest recordings only being deleted after nine months.
$75.99/month • ABC, ESPN, TNT, TBS, Lifetime, Fox Sports 1, TLC, Bravo, CNBC, NBC, and 94 other channels.
One of the best online streamers for live channels would be YouTube TV. YouTube TV only offers one base plan, which removes all the confusion of complicated subscriptions models. The service has broadcasting rights to many local networks, including: ABC, CBS, FOX, The CW, MyNetworkTV, NBC, PBS (select regions), Telemundo, Univision, and Unimas, though availability varies by region. You can stream on up to 3 devices at a time, and create up to 6 different user profiles. You get over 100+ channels with your base subscription, and have the option to add individual channel packages like Showtime, MGM+, or HBO. The features don’t disappoint, either. YouTube TV’s 4K Plus add-on lets you watch certain live and on-demand content in ultra 4K HD. Unlimited DVR is included in your plan, with recordings saved for up to 9 months.
$72.99/month • 7 days free trial • ESPN, TNT, TBS, Fox Sports 1, TLC, Bravo, CNBC, NBC, and 129 other channels.
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