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YouTube TV Is Only Live TV Service on Cable or Streaming to Add Users in Q2, but Is It the Best Live Streamer?

YouTube TV Is Only Live TV Service on Cable or Streaming to Add Users in Q2, but Is It the Best Live Streamer?

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.

YouTube TV appears to have been the only major live TV streaming service to gain subscribers in the last quarter. That’s according to data from Leichtman Research Group, which released a survey focused on cable and live TV streaming service customers earlier this week.

Leichtman’s data shows that YouTube TV grew to 5.9 million subscribers in the second quarter of 2023, an addition of 200,000 customers. In contrast, DIRECTV lost 400,000 customers between its traditional satellite plans, DIRECTV STREAM, and AT&T U-Verse. Hulu + Live TV and Sling TV both lost roughly 100,000 users and Fubo dropped 118,000.

These types of services still lost users at a slower rate than traditional cable, which dropped around 1.6 million customers between the major providers like Comcast, Charter, DISH, Verizon, etc. It should also be noted that Leichtman’s customer count for YouTube TV is just an estimate since Google — the streamer’s parent company — does not report its subscriber numbers publicly.

“Pay-TV net losses of about 1.73 million in 2Q 2023 were similar to the losses in last year’s second quarter,” said Leichtman’s president and principal analyst Bruce Leichtman said. “Over the past year, top pay-TV providers had a net loss of about 5,360,000 subscribers, compared to a net loss of about 4,235,000 over the prior year.”

But is YouTube TV really the best live TV streamer available? We compare each of the top providers of live TV streaming below, so new cord-cutters who want to replace their cable experience can see exactly what they’re potentially getting into before signing up.

How Does YouTube TV Stack Up Against the Competition?

YouTube TV is a good, middle-of-the-road type service. It’s less expensive than some live TV streamers, but it doesn’t have the full channel offerings of some of its largest competitors, nor does it have as many customer-friendly bonuses. One big advantage YouTube TV offers is unlimited DVR storage for up to nine months.

Service Monthly Price Free Trial? Channel Count Local Broadcast Channels? DVR Storage Last Price Increase Current Promotions
YouTube TV $72.99 Depends on user 100+ Yes, for $9.99 Unlimited storage for up to 9 months April 18, 2023 $10 off per month for 3 months
3 Months Free access to Max, STARZ, SHOWTIME, MGM+, and Cinemax

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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How Does DIRECTV STREAM Compare With YouTube TV?

DIRECTV STREAM offers more of the highest-demand cable channels on its plans than any other service. It offers all new users a five-day free trial, after which its base Entertainment plan starts at $74.99. There are four plans to choose from, and users can decide to upgrade to the Choice plan or above if they want to get regional sports networks (RSNs) from major providers like Bally Sports. DIRECTV STREAM frequently runs great promotions, as well.

Service Monthly Price Free Trial? Channel Count Local Broadcast Channels? DVR Storage Last Price Increase Current Promotions
DIRECTV STREAM $74.99 - $154.99 5 Days 75-150+ Yes, apart from Nexstar outage Unlimited storage for up to 9 months January 2023 $10 off per month for 3 months

3 Months Free access to Max, STARZ, SHOWTIME, MGM+, and Cinemax

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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How Does Fubo Compare to YouTube TV?

Fubo is the top live TV service on the market for sports fans. It’s a bit more expensive when you factor in the regional sports network fee 98% of users have to pay, which brings prices for its base Pro plan to $85.98 per month. But users will get to see their favorite local MLB, NHL, and NBA teams in many markets, as well as an extensive lineup of entertainment and news channels.

Service Monthly Price Free Trial? Channel Count Local Broadcast Channels? DVR Storage Last Price Increase Current Promotions
Fubo $85.98-$110.98 7 Days 168-288 Yes, for Elite-level users and above 1000 Hours Aug. 2023 for Elite plan, February 2023 for other plans No

How Does Hulu + Live TV Compare with YouTube TV?

Hulu + Live TV is an excellent service for users who love to get a little more entertainment out of their subscription. It doesn’t offer free trials, but it does come with access to the Disney Bundle built into the monthly price. Hulu + Live TV is rising in price to $76.99 per month in October, but considering users will get Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ included in that cost, it’s still a pretty good value.

Service Monthly Price Free Trial? Channel Count Local Broadcast Channels? DVR Storage Last Price Increase Current Promotions
Hulu + Live TV $69.99 (until Oct. 12) No 90+ Yes Unlimted, storage up to nine months Rising to $76.99 on Oct. 12 No

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.

How Does Sling TV Compare to YouTube TV?

Sling TV is more oriented toward budget-conscious TV watchers who don’t need a huge list of channels they’ll never end up watching anyway. It’s got two plans: Sling Orange and Sling Blue, each with around 40 channels that can be combined if users purchase Sling Orange and Blue. Sling Blue offers ABC, Fox, and NBC in some markets, but users who want their local broadcast channels will find in many instances they’re not available with Sling. The tradeoff for this is price: Sling comes in at around half the cost of other live TV services.

Service Monthly Price Free Trial? Channel Count Local Broadcast Channels? DVR Storage Last Price Increase Current Promotions
Sling TV $40-$55 No ~40 Yes, in some markets 50 Hours November 2022 50% off first month's subscription for new customers

Save 22% off Sling Orange and Blue plus Sports Extra channel pack with Season Pass

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.

How Does Philo Compare with YouTube TV?

Philo is an even skinnier channel bundle than Sling, and it comes in at an even skinnier price. Local channels are unavailable with the service, but users can still enjoy top cable networks like A&E, AMC, HGTV, Paramount Network, and more. This service may be due for a price increase soon, as its last rate increase was all the way back in 2021.

Service Monthly Price Free Trial? Channel Count Local Broadcast Channels? DVR Storage Last Price Increase Current Promotions
Philo $25 7 Days 70+ No Unlimited storage for up to a year May 2021 No

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.

How Does Now TV Compare with YouTube TV?

Now TV is the new live TV service from Xfinity, meant to serve users who are exhausted with bloated cable bills. Now TV is available only to Xfinity internet customers. Its sole plan is just $20 per month and includes free access to Peacock Premium. It also offers live cable channels like Discovery, Hallmark Channel, TLC, and more.

Service Monthly Price Free Trial? Channel Count Local Broadcast Channels? DVR Storage Last Price Increase Current Promotions
Now TV $20 No 40+ No 20 Hours N/A No

NOW TV

NOW TV is a live TV streaming service exclusively available to Xfinity Internet customers that comes with over 40 channels for $20/month. The “skinny bundle” is some of the more popular channels (like A&E, Discovery Channel, HGTV, TLC) at an easy-to-afford price and will appeal most to fans of NBC & lifestyle channels. It does not offer news, sports, or local channels, but you get access to NBC and some live sports through Peacock which NOW TV users get for free.


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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