Skip to Content

Add The Streamable as a preferred source on Google to see more streaming news and deals.

DIRECTV STREAM, YouTube TV Offer Free Previews of HBO Max, Cinemax

DIRECTV STREAM, YouTube TV Offer Free Previews of HBO Max, Cinemax

With a background in sports and entertainment reporting, he’s covered everything from Broadway to college football. He cut the cord in 2014 and has a sharp eye for streaming trends and a soft spot for Hallmark movies.

It looks like subscribers to a couple different live TV streaming services are going to get some additional premium content over the next few days. Both DIRECTV STREAM and YouTube TV have announced that they will be making HBO Max and Cinemax available to subscribers through Sept. 10. The best part about the offer is that when the preview is over, there is nothing you have to do — you don’t have to remember to cancel the offer, you don’t have to send an email, you don’t have to change your payment information.

The free preview comes at a perfect time as HBO has recently launched its long-anticipated, highly acclaimed “Game of Thrones” prequel series “House of the Dragon.” In addition, with the NFL season starting later this week, you can catch. upon all of the behind-the-scenes action with the Detroit Lions in this year’s preseason version of “Hard Knocks.”

Other HBO highlights available during the preview include the Emmy-darling series “The White Lotus,” critically acclaimed drama “Industry,” one of the buzziest shows on TV “Euphoria,” and much more.

Cinemax also offers a host of cult-favorite movies including “The Bourne Identity,” “I, Robot,” “Harlem Nights,” and more.

For DIRECTV STREAM customers, will have access to seven HBO channels and 6 Cinemax channels, plus the entire on-demand libraries of both services. The HBO channels are 501-511, while Cinemax can be found on channels 515-522.

For YouTube TV subscribers, Cinemax and HBO channels will be available in the YouTube TV grid guide, but if you use a “Custom Guide,” you must go to “Settings” and then to “Live Guide” in order to add them.

While HBO and some HBO Max content is already available in the YouTube TV interface, to access all episodes of HBO Max originals, you need access to the HBO Max App, which isn’t available during the free preview.

Both streamers announced similar free preview periods earlier this year as well.

  • DIRECTV

    DIRECTV is one of The Streamable’s top choices for the best live TV streaming service overall in 2026, especially for users who want the most channels or want to watch the most live sports. With an unbeatable lineup of local, news, sports, and entertainment channels, three main signature packages, an unlimited DVR, and 20 simultaneous streams at home, DIRECTV remains a premier choice for any cord-cutter.

    …

    Following the launch of several genre-specific Genre Packs, there are now even more flexible ways to watch DIRECTV. Options like MySports, MyEntertainment, MyNews, and MiEspañol provide affordable, targeted alternatives to larger bundles, allowing viewers to subscribe to a specific set of channels that match their interests without the cost of a full lineup.

    DIRECTV starts at $59.99 / month for its Entertainment package. You can access your local regional sports network with the Choice package, which begins at $64.99 / month, as well as the MySports Pack $44.99 / month. At the top end, they also have an Ultimate ($94.99) for 218 channels. Slimmer Genre Packs for entertainment and news are MyEntertainment for $42.99 / month and MyNews $39.99 / month. There is no contract or broadcast TV fees with this DIRECTV streaming option.

    The service was previously called DIRECTV STREAM, preceded by AT&T TV.

    How much does DIRECTV cost in 2026?

    DIRECTV now offers flexible entry points starting at $19.99/month for the MyKids Genre Pack, while full Signature Packages like Entertainment start at $84.99/month. See the full list: DIRECTV Pricing & Plans

    Does DIRECTV have a free trial?

    Yes, DIRECTV offers a 5-Day Free Trial for new customers, which includes access to your chosen package and any added Genre Packs.

    What are DIRECTV Genre Packs?

    Genre Packs are targeted, contract-free plans introduced in 2025. They include MySports ($69.99/mo), MyEntertainment ($34.99/mo), MyNews ($39.99/mo), and MiEspañol ($34.99/mo), often bundling apps like Max, Disney+, or Hulu.

    How many channels does DIRECTV have?

    The channel count varies by plan: the Entertainment package starts with 90+ channels, while the Premier package offers over 185+ channels. See the full list: DIRECTV Channels.

    How many streams are allowed at once on DIRECTV?

    DIRECTV allows for unlimited simultaneous streams on your home network and up to 3 streams while on the go. See more details: DIRECTV Simultaneous Streams

    Does DIRECTV include local channels?

    Yes, local affiliates like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC are included in all Signature Packages and the MySports Genre Pack in most markets. See the full list: DIRECTV Local Channels.

    Does DIRECTV have live sports?

    DIRECTV is a leader in sports, offering ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, and MLB Network, plus Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) in the Choice plan and above. See the full list: DIRECTV Sports Channels.

    Does DIRECTV offer premium channels?

    Yes, you can add Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax. Many 2026 Genre Packs now include these services as part of the base price. See the full list: DIRECTV Premium Channels.

    Does DIRECTV offer 4K streaming?

    DIRECTV provides dedicated 4K channels (104-106) for live sports and special events at no extra cost, provided you have a compatible 4K device.

    Does DIRECTV have a DVR?

    Every DIRECTV plan includes Unlimited Cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record and save shows for up to 9 months.

    Is there a Regional Sports Network (RSN) fee on DIRECTV?

    An RSN fee of up to $15.99/month applies to the Choice package and above, as these plans include local sports coverage. This fee is determined by your zip code and the number of Regional Sports Networks available in your area.

    Can I avoid the RSN fee on DIRECTV?

    Yes. To avoid the RSN fee, you can subscribe to the Entertainment package or the MySports Genre Pack ($69.99/mo), which bundles sports content without a separate itemized RSN charge. See the breakdown: DIRECTV RSN Fees & Locations.

    5-Day Trial

    Start streaming DIRECTV & save up to $30 off your 1st mo. of service! Learn how.

  • YouTube TV

    YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service with more than 60 channels for $82.99/month. This plan includes local channels 32 of the top 35 cable channels, and regional sports networks (RSNs) in select markets. The base plan includes more than 100 live channels, including major broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, as well as popular cable channels such as ESPN, CNN, FX, USA Network, and TNT. Local channels are included in most markets, making YouTube TV a full replacement for traditional cable for many viewers.

    …

    Sports are a major focus for YouTube TV, with access to national and regional coverage, league networks, and marquee events. The service also serves as the exclusive home of NFL Sunday Ticket, available as an add-on, giving fans access to out-of-market Sunday afternoon games. YouTube TV also offers a smaller sports plan, allowing subscribers access to 30+ sports-oriented channels, including local networks in select markets.

    YouTube TV includes unlimited cloud DVR storage at no extra cost, allowing subscribers to record as many shows as they want and keep recordings for up to nine months. The service is available across a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming players, mobile devices, and web browsers. New subscribers can typically start with a free trial, though the trial length may vary by promotion.

    With its broad channel lineup, strong sports offerings, unlimited DVR, and wide device support, YouTube TV remains one of the most comprehensive live TV streaming services for viewers who want a traditional TV experience without a cable contract.

    Free Trial

    New customers can save $15 per month for 5 months.


Matt Tamanini is the News Editor at The Streamable, where he oversees daily news coverage and editorial strategy, with a particular focus on breaking stories, streaming comparisons, and major industry events. A well-rounded journalist with a diverse background, Matt joined The Streamable in 2022 after holding key editorial roles at several high-profile outlets. He has an extensive career in sports and entertainment journalism, having served as a senior editor for BroadwayWorld, the world’s largest theater website, and as managing editor for Land-Grant Holy Land, which covers Ohio State sports.

Add The Streamable as a preferred source on Google to see more streaming news and deals.

DIRECTV Cash Back

Let us know your e-mail address to send your $50 Amazon Gift Card when you sign up for DIRECTV STREAM.

You will receive it ~2 weeks after you complete your first month of service.

Sling TV Cash Back

Let us know your e-mail address to send your $25 Uber Eats Gift Card when you sign up for Sling TV.

You will receive it ~2 weeks after you complete your first month of service.

Hulu Live TV Cash Back

Let us know your e-mail address to send your $35 Amazon Gift Card when you sign up for Hulu Live TV.

You will receive it ~2 weeks after you complete your first month of service.