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DISH to raise prices next month; is it time to cut the cord?

DISH to raise prices next month; is it time to cut the cord?

If the new price increase from DISH has you searching for the exit, we will show you the best live TV streaming alternatives.

Known for breaking major streaming stories, he’s covered everything from Netflix policy shifts to Peacock’s ad-tier changes. A sci-fi fan and Toshiba Fire TV user, he brings sharp analysis and a love for the genre to his reporting.
DISH is raising prices on Sept. 11, see alternatives to the satellite service here.

No one in the pay-TV ecosystem is safe from price increases. DISH, unfortunately, gave customers a reminder of that fact this week, when it announced that it was raising prices on a host of its English-language channel packages in the United States. We’ll give you the details on that, and show you alternatives for watching your favorite channels on live TV streaming services if you’re ready to cut the cord.

Key Details:

  • Cost you a fiver: DISH is raising prices on its packages by $5 per month.
  • Coming soon: Price increases will take effect as of Sept. 11.
  • Lots of alternatives: There are six top live TV streaming services that would serve as good alternatives for a DISH subscription.

DISH has announced that it is raising prices by $5 per month on a variety of packages. In a blog post, DISH explained that it was enacting this price hike because programming costs have continued to rise, and because programmers force customers to accept all of their owned channels to receive their content in channel bundles.

The price increases will take effect as of Sept. 11. Check out its new prices in the table below:

DISH package New monthly price
Welcome Pack $67
Smart Pack $71
Flex Pack $73
DISH America $88
America’s Top 120 $103
America’s Top 120+ $108
America’s Top 200 $118
America’s Top 250 $128
America’s Everything Pack $153
Local Channels $14

DISH is beset with issues these days, as its parent company, EchoStar, is just barely managing to stave off bankruptcy. The company has been losing pay-TV customers, and its Boost Mobile wireless service isn’t growing at a fast enough pace to keep up with losses on the TV side.

If you’re looking to cut the cord and leave DISH behind after this latest price jump, keep reading. We’ve got a number of great options for you to pick from if you want to go with a live TV streaming service to receive your favorite channels instead.

Which live TV streaming services can you use to replace DISH?

DIRECTV

DIRECTV has a huge selection of channel plans to pick from, and customers who choose to receive their package via streaming on their on device get a five-day free trial with this service as well.

Let’s start with DIRECTV Signature packages, which come with 90+ channels or more starting at $85 per month. These plans include local broadcast channels, as well as popular cable news, sports, and entertainment. You can get regional sports networks and other popular selections as you step up your channel package with DIRECTV, as well.

DIRECTV also sells Genre Packs, which have fewer channels in them and are built around themes like kids’ channels, news, sports, and more. Many of DIRECTV’s Genre Packs also include free access to on-demand streamers such as Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max, and they start at just $20 per month, but can vary in price somewhat widely.

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.

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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.

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Fubo

Fubo is the best alternative to DISH for sports fanatics. The streamer has channel packages starting at $85 per month after a free trial, but there is a bit of a trade-off with Fubo: a regional sports network (RSN) fee of up to $17 per month will bump the price higher for most subscribers, as this fee is not optional.

The upside of that fact is that Fubo subscribers get their local RSN in almost all American TV markets. For most, this means a large selection of NBA, NHL, and MLB games are available each year, in addition to all the national sports channels, as well as news and entertainment options that Fubo has to offer.

Fubo

Fubo is a live TV streaming service offering a robust lineup of approximately 150 premier channels, with plans starting at $63.99 per month. This entry-level package provides access to local broadcast affiliates 18 of the leading 35 cable channels channels, and valuable regional sports networks (RSNs).

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For many other sports enthusiasts, particularly those who prioritize access to local sports broadcasts, Fubo is a compelling choice in our view. Featuring FanDuel Sports RSNs in its channel lineup, Fubo stands out as the most budget-friendly option for RSN access across numerous markets, including Altitude, AT&T Sports, Fox Sports, Marquee, MSG, NBC Sports, and NESN. (Explore the comprehensive list of Fubo’s sports channels.) Fubo recently launched an add-on to their sports package, allowing subscribers access to local RSNs as well.

In September 2025, Fubo also launched its Sports package for $45.99 per month, featuring a variety of sports-oriented channels including ABC, CBS and FOX affiliates (in select markets) as well as ACC Network, Big 10 Network, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, ESPNU, Fox News, FS1, FS2, Fubo Sports Network, ION, NFL Network, SEC Network and Tennis Channel.

Fubo further enriches its sports offerings by including MLB Network, NBA TV, NFL Network, NFL RedZone , NHL Network and beIN Sports (a channel not commonly found on competing services). For expanded soccer coverage, you can opt for Fox Soccer Plus via the International Sports Plus add-on for an additional $7/month.

Additionally, you have the option to enhance your channel variety with the Fubo Extra ($8), which incorporates approximately ~38 channels more channels, featuring popular selections like GSN.

Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV is another good choice for viewers with diverse viewing tastes. It carries a balance of news, sports, and entertainment networks in its package, which has 90+ total channels in it and comes with a three-day free trial for all new subscribers.

The real bonus with Hulu + Live TV is that all plans starting at $83 per month include the Disney Bundle at no extra charge, giving audiences access to Disney+, Hulu, and the new ESPN streaming service without having to pay a dime extra every month.

Hulu Live TV

Hulu Live TV is a live TV streaming service with more than 70 channels for $89.99 per month. Hulu + Live TV base plan includes local channels 32 of the top 35 cable channels, and regional sports networks (RSNs). Subscribers get free access to Disney+ and ESPN Select at no extra charge.

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Where it really separates itself is value. Your subscription doesn’t just cover live TV — it also includes full access to Hulu’s on-demand library, plus bundled subscriptions to Disney+ and ESPN Select content at no extra cost. That means you’re getting everything from next-day network TV episodes and Hulu Originals, to Marvel, Star Wars, and live sports content all in one place without juggling multiple bills.

For sports fans, Hulu + Live TV also includes regional sports networks (RSNs) in select areas, a feature many competing services have dropped. That can be a big deal if you’re trying to follow local MLB, NBA, or NHL teams.

The DVR experience is another strong point. Subscribers get unlimited cloud DVR storage and the ability to fast-forward through commercials on recorded content — a feature that used to cost extra but is now standard. It’s designed to feel closer to a traditional cable DVR, just without the box.

If you want to customize further, several add-ons are available. You can upgrade to premium channels like HBO, Showtime, or Starz, add an unlimited streams option for households with lots of viewers, or go ad-free on Hulu’s on-demand content (live TV will still include ads).

Overall, Hulu + Live TV is less about being the cheapest option and more about being the most comprehensive. It’s built for people who want live TV, on-demand shows, and bundled streaming services all under one roof — without having to piece everything together themselves.

Philo

Philo doesn’t have some of the channel options that other streamers on this list offer; namely, there are no live sports channels or local broadcast networks that come with a subscription. But the Philo package does include nearly 20 of The Streamable’s top entertainment channels, including AMC, Nickelodeon, Paramount Network, and more, plus access to on-demand entertainment from AMC+ at no extra cost.

In exchange for fewer premier programming options, Philo has a base price of just $28 per month for its channel package. If you don’t need a huge lineup of live sports or cable news networks, this is a great way to replace your DISH subscription and save big money.

Philo

Philo is a live TV streaming service designed for entertainment lovers, offering flexible ways to watch without the high price of traditional TV bundles. The service now features two paid plans — Essential and Bundle+ — alongside its existing free streaming offering, giving customers a range of options depending on how much live and premium content they want.

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The Essential plan costs $25 per month and includes 70+ live TV channels focused on entertainment and lifestyle programming, such as AMC, HGTV, Hallmark Channel, Nickelodeon, and Food Network. Subscribers also get access to 120+ free streaming channels, more than 80,000 movies and shows on demand, and unlimited DVR with one-year storage. Essential also includes a 7-day free trial for new customers.

For viewers who want more premium content, Philo offers the Bundle+ plan for $33 per month (formerly the Philo Core plan). Bundle+ includes everything in Essential, plus ad-supported AMC+ and access to the HBO Max (Basic with Ads) app. Users can also access discovery+ content directly within the Philo app. While Bundle+ adds a full premium streaming bundle for just $8 more per month, it does not include a free trial.

The service is available on most major devices, including Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, smart TVs, mobile devices, and web browsers. In addition to its paid plans, Philo also offers a free ad-supported streaming experience, allowing users to explore content before deciding whether to upgrade to a live TV subscription.

While it doesn’t include local broadcast stations or sports networks like ESPN, FS1 or NBC Sports Network, Philo remains one of the most affordable live TV streaming options for entertainment-focused viewers. With a simple lineup, generous DVR storage, and a clear path from free streaming to live TV and premium bundles, Philo is an appealing choice for cord-cutters who want to keep costs down while still enjoying a wide range of popular programming.

Sling TV

Let’s say you want to stay in the DISH pond, even if you’re ready to ditch your DISH satellite plan. Check out Sling TV, which comes with two base channel packages for $46 per month each: Sling Orange, which focuses more on kids and sports programming, and Sling Blue, which has more news and entertainment options. Sling Orange has 30+ channels, and Sling Blue offers around 40.

Customers can also combine the plans into one with Sling Orange and Blue for $61 per month. In addition, Sling has a new Select plan with 10 of the most popular channels from Sling Blue for $20 per month, or customers can sign up for Sling TV Passes and watch Sling Orange programming for as little as $5 for one day of service.

Sling TV

Sling TV is The Streamable’s choice for cord-cutters on a budget. Sling is a live TV streaming service with multiple channel packages. The $45.99/month Sling Orange plan offers about 30 channels, including Disney Channel and ESPN. The $45.99/month Sling Blue plan offers about 40 channels, including ABC, Fox, and NBC in major markets.

You can combine Orange+Blue for a total of $60.99 / month. Sling also offers many channel add-on packages starting at $6/month.

YouTube TV

Our last alternative to DISH is YouTube TV, which has a good channel package that sprinkles in something of everything, totaling up to 90+ networks in all. It starts at $83 per month, and comes with a free trial of between two and 14 days, depending on various factors like what time of month you subscribe.

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.

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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.

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


David Satin has been a dedicated News Writer at The Streamable since 2022, covering a wide range of stories in the entertainment and streaming industries. With years of experience writing online, David previously worked as a list writer for Screen Rant, where he gained recognition for his extensive coverage of sci-fi and fantasy genres. His ability to break and analyze major stories has made him a trusted voice in the streaming world. Over the course of his career, Satin has become an integral part of The Streamable team, contributing to some of the most impactful stories in the industry.

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