software
Sling TV vs YouTube TV 2026 | Pricing & Channels
YouTube TV offers more channels (100+ vs 30-50), better DVR storage (unlimited vs 50 hours), and includes YouTube Premium, while Sling TV costs $15-20/month less and provides more customizable channel packages for budget-conscious streamers.
Sling TV
Budget-friendly live TV streaming with customizable channel packages starting at $39.99/month.
Budget-focused streamers who want flexibility, cord-cutters who don't need 100+ channels, and viewers in markets seeking international content
Score63%
VS
YT
YouTube TV
Premium live TV streaming service with 100+ channels, unlimited DVR, and YouTube Premium included.
Households wanting extensive channel selection, sports and news enthusiasts, YouTube Premium subscribers, and families seeking shared access across multiple users
Score63%
199 attributes7 differences16 pros/cons
Quick Answer
AI SummaryYouTube TV offers more channels (100+ vs 30-50), better DVR storage (unlimited vs 50 hours), and includes YouTube Premium, while Sling TV costs $15-20/month less and provides more customizable channel packages for budget-conscious streamers.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose YouTube TV if you want maximum channel variety (100+ channels), unlimited DVR, YouTube Premium access, and don't mind paying $73/month for a comprehensive streaming solution. Choose Sling TV if you're budget-conscious, prefer customizable channel packages starting at $40/month, and don't need as many channels or unlimited recording.
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Sling TV
7.3/10
YouTube TV
7.7/10
Y
Choose Sling TV if
Budget-focused streamers who want flexibility, cord-cutters who don't need 100+ channels, and viewers in markets seeking international content
Y
Choose YouTube TV if
Best pickHouseholds wanting extensive channel selection, sports and news enthusiasts, YouTube Premium subscribers, and families seeking shared access across multiple users
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Base Monthly Price:✓ Sling TV wins($39.99/month vs $72.99/month)
- Live Channels Included:✓ YouTube TV wins(100+ channels vs 30-50 channels)
- DVR Storage Capacity:✓ YouTube TV wins(Unlimited vs 50 hours)
Key Facts & Figures
143 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | Sling TV | YouTube TV | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Starting Price(USD) | $40 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $20.00 | $72.99/month | |
| Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams) | Up to 3 | Up to 3 | |
| Household Accounts(accounts) | Up to 3 | Up to 6 | |
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.57 | $0.86 | |
| Total Channels(channels) | 30-50 channels | 70+ | |
| Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets) | Limited regional availability | 95% coverage | |
| DVR Storage (Standard)(hours) | 50 hours | Unlimited | — |
| Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) | $0 (baseline) | +$32.99 | |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 30-50 channels | 70+ | |
| On-Demand Titles(titles) | Minimal (DVR-dependent) | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 3 | 3 | |
| Free Trial Period(days) | 7 days | 7-day free trial | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(screens) | 3 | — | — |
| Cloud DVR Storage (Included)(hours) | 50 (upgradeable to 200) | — | — |
| Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $191.88 | $875.88 | |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $15.99 | $73.99 | |
| Live Channels (Base Plan)(channels) | 40 channels | — | — |
| Sports Channels(channels) | 20 sports channels | 40+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) | 1 stream | 3 streams | |
| On-Demand Content Library(titles) | Varies by package (limited) | None included | — |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 30-50 channels | 150+ | |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 3 (combo plan) | 3 screens | |
| Channel Customization Options(package types) | 3 options (Orange/Blue/Combo) | — | — |
| Cost Difference for Annual Service(USD per year) | $479.88/year | — | — |
| Live TV Channels (Base Plan)(channels) | 30-50 | — | — |
| Free Cloud DVR Storage(hours) | 50 hours | — | — |
| Major News Networks Included(count) | 3-4 networks (CNN, Fox News, MSNBC) | — | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | No free trial | |
| Max DVR Storage (Paid Upgrade)(hours) | 200 hours ($6.99/month) | — | — |
| Monthly Base Price(USD) | $40.99 | $72.99 | |
| Total Available Channels(channels) | 150+ | — | — |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | 7 days | |
| Package Customization Options(packages) | 2 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Price (Entry Plan)(USD) | $15.99 | — | — |
| Base Plan Channel Count(channels) | 30 channels | — | — |
| Cloud DVR Storage (Standard Plan)(hours) | 50 hours | — | — |
| Sports Channels in Base Plan(channels) | 15-20 channels | — | — |
| Annual Cost (Entry Plan)(USD) | $191.88 | — | — |
| Premium Add-On Channels(options) | Extensive | — | — |
| Customer Satisfaction Rating(out of 5) | 74% | — | — |
| Base Channel Count(channels) | 30-50 channels | 70+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base Tier)(devices) | 1 device | — | — |
| On-Demand Library(titles) | 3,000+ titles | — | — |
| Maximum Monthly Cost (All Tiers)(USD) | $75/month | — | — |
| Included Live TV Channels(channels) | 30-50 channels | 100+ channels | |
| Cloud DVR Storage (Free Tier)(hours) | 50 hours | Unlimited | — |
| Default Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 1 stream | 3 streams | |
| Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month) | $52.00 (base $40 + $12 add-on) | $72.99 (included) | |
| Sports Channel Count(channels) | 8-12 (varies) | 15+ channels | |
| Price-to-Channel Ratio($/channel) | $0.36 | — | — |
| Base Monthly Price(USD) | $39.99 | $72.99 | |
| Total Live Channels(channels) | 40 (Orange package) | 100+ | |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) | $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) | |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions) | 11.1 | 11.1 | |
| Family Sharing Accounts(profiles) | 6 accounts standard | 6 accounts standard | |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $82.99/month | $82.99/month | |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | 2,500+ | 2,500+ | |
| Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings) | 6 simultaneous | 6 simultaneous | |
| Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $95.99/month | $95.99/month | |
| Base Monthly Cost(USD) | $99.99 | $99.99 | |
| Sports Networks Included(count) | 20+ networks | 20+ networks | |
| Price per Channel(USD per channel) | $1.04 per channel | $1.04 per channel | |
| Simultaneous Home Streams(concurrent streams) | 3 streams | 3 streams | |
| 4K Channels Available(channels) | 50+ channels | 50+ channels | |
| Price Difference vs Competitor(USD per month) | 22% more expensive | 22% more expensive | |
| Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD) | $82.99 | $82.99 | |
| Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens) | 6 simultaneous streams | 6 simultaneous streams | |
| Sports Content Percentage(percent) | ~50% | ~50% | |
| Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent) | ~50% | ~50% | |
| AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | |
| Live TV Channel Count(channels) | 150+ channels | 150+ channels | |
| Base Monthly Price(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 6 | 6 | |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | 7 | |
| Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD) | $99.99 | $99.99 | |
| DVR Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | 270 days (9 months) | |
| Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams) | 3 streams | 3 streams | |
| Number of User Profiles(profiles) | 6 profiles | 6 profiles | |
| On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) | Minimal (YouTube originals only) | Minimal (YouTube originals only) | |
| Live Channels Included(channels) | 150+ channels | 150+ channels | |
| Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD) | $875.88 | $875.88 | |
| Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month) | None (unlimited included) | None (unlimited included) | |
| DVR Content Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | 270 days (9 months) | |
| Annual Cost (12-month)(USD) | $875.88 | $875.88 | |
| Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) | $839.88 | $839.88 | |
| Simultaneous Streams Allowed(devices) | 6 | 6 | |
| Original Content Library(titles) | Limited (under 50) | Limited (under 50) | |
| On-Demand Library Size(titles) | Minimal (originals only) | Minimal (originals only) | |
| DVR Recording Retention Period(months) | 9 months | 9 months | |
| Total Channels Available(channels) | 70+ channels | 70+ channels | |
| Live Sports Events Monthly(events) | 500+ | 500+ | |
| Original Content Hours Monthly(hours) | Minimal original content focus | Minimal original content focus | |
| Annual Cost (12 months)(USD) | $875.88 | $875.88 | |
| Monthly Subscription Price(USD) | $73.99 | $73.99 | |
| Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) | 6 | 6 | |
| Live Sporting Events Per Year(events) | 3,000+ (sports only) | 3,000+ (sports only) | |
| Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams) | 6 (1 in 4K) | 6 (1 in 4K) | |
| Original Sports Content Library(titles) | 0 | 0 | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Content Library Size(titles) | 150 channels | 150 channels | |
| Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) | 5 | 5 | |
| Annual Cost Difference(USD) | $995.88/year | $995.88/year | |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ channels | 100+ channels | |
| Bundle Customization Options(bundles) | 1 fixed lineup | 1 fixed lineup | |
| Device Compatibility(supported devices) | 200+ devices | 200+ devices | |
| Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) | 25+ | 25+ | |
| 4K Channel Availability(channels) | 10+ channels | 10+ channels | |
| Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $82.99 | $82.99 | |
| News Channel Count(channels) | 10+ channels | 10+ channels | |
| User Profiles Per Household(profiles) | 5 profiles | 5 profiles | |
| Live Channels Available(channels) | 150+ channels | 150+ channels | |
| Family Profiles(profiles) | 6 | 6 | |
| Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps) | 3 Mbps (HD) | 3 Mbps (HD) | |
| Sports Content Types(types) | All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.) | All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.) | |
| Included On-Demand Library(titles) | 0 (separate subscription required) | 0 (separate subscription required) | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams) | 3 (no upgrade needed) | 3 (no upgrade needed) | |
| Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month) | $10.99 | $10.99 | |
| HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month) | $15.99 (separate sub) | $15.99 (separate sub) | |
| Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Original Content Production (Annual)(titles) | 5-10 | 5-10 | |
| Global Availability(countries) | USA only | USA only | |
| Subscriber Base (2026)(millions) | 8 | 8 | |
| Concurrent Streams(streams) | 3 | 3 | |
| On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated)) | 0 (separate purchase) | 0 (separate purchase) | |
| Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD) | $887.88 | $887.88 | |
| Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month) | $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) | $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) | |
| Trial Period(days) | 3 months ($1/month) | 3 months ($1/month) | |
| Included Streaming Services(services) | YouTube Premium only (1) | YouTube Premium only (1) | |
| Additional Stream Cost(USD/month) | No additional cost | No additional cost | |
| Sports Channels Included(channels) | 12+ channels | 12+ channels | |
| Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served) | 150+ markets | 150+ markets | |
| Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens) | 6 screens | 6 screens | |
| Annual Sports Events(events) | 5,000+ | 5,000+ | |
| Total Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets) | 90% | 90% | |
| Live TV Channels Available(count) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Annual Commitment Option Savings(percent) | Up to 15% savings | Up to 15% savings | |
| Sports & News Channels(count) | 35+ channels | 35+ channels |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
YouTube TV leads
YT
4YouTube TVSling TV
Attribute
YouTube TV
- $39.99/month(winner)Base Monthly Price$72.99/month
- 30-50 channelsLive Channels Included100+ channels(winner)
- 50 hoursDVR Storage CapacityUnlimited(winner)
- 1-3 depending on packageSimultaneous Streams3 standard / 6 with YouTube TV Plus(winner)
- NoYouTube Premium IncludedYes(winner)
- Yes (Orange, Blue, Orange+Blue)(winner)Customizable PackagesSingle package only
- 7 days(winner)Free Trial PeriodNo free trial (as of 2024)
- Base Monthly Price
Sling TV
$39.99/month(winner)
YouTube TV
$72.99/month
- Live Channels Included
Sling TV
30-50 channels
YouTube TV
100+ channels(winner)
- DVR Storage Capacity
Sling TV
50 hours
YouTube TV
Unlimited(winner)
- Simultaneous Streams
Sling TV
1-3 depending on package
YouTube TV
3 standard / 6 with YouTube TV Plus(winner)
- YouTube Premium Included
Sling TV
No
YouTube TV
Yes(winner)
- Customizable Packages
Sling TV
Yes (Orange, Blue, Orange+Blue)(winner)
YouTube TV
Single package only
- Free Trial Period
Sling TV
7 days(winner)
YouTube TV
No free trial (as of 2024)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | Sling TV | YouTube TV |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Starting Price(USD) | $40 | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $20.00(winner) | $72.99/month |
| Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) | $0 (baseline)(winner) | +$32.99 |
| Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $191.88(winner) | $875.88 |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $15.99(winner) | $73.99 |
Show 35 more attributesCost Difference for Annual Service(USD per year) $479.88/year — Monthly Base Price(USD) $40.99 $72.99 Monthly Subscription Price (Entry Plan)(USD) $15.99 — Annual Cost (Entry Plan)(USD) $191.88 — Maximum Monthly Cost (All Tiers)(USD) $75/month — Base Monthly Price(USD) $39.99 $72.99 Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) — Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) $82.99/month — Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) $95.99/month — Base Monthly Cost(USD) $99.99 — Price Difference vs Competitor(USD per month) 22% more expensive — Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD) $82.99 — Base Monthly Price(USD) $72.99 — Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD) $99.99 — Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD) $875.88 — Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD) $72.99 — DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month) None (unlimited included) — Bundle Discount Available(boolean) No official bundles — Annual Cost (12-month)(USD) $875.88 — Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) $839.88 — Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD) Not available — Annual Cost (12 months)(USD) $875.88 — Monthly Subscription Price(USD) $73.99 — Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD) $72.99 — Ad-Free Plan Availability Yes ($79.99/month) — Annual Cost Difference(USD) $995.88/year — Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) $72.99 — Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $82.99 — Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month) $10.99 — HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month) $15.99 (separate sub) — Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD) $72.99 — Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD) $887.88 — Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month) $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) — Additional Stream Cost(USD/month) No additional cost — Annual Commitment Option Savings(percent) Up to 15% savings — | ||
| Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams) | Up to 3 | Up to 3 |
| Household Accounts(accounts) | Up to 3 | Up to 6(winner) |
| DVR Storage (Standard)(hours) | 50 hours | Unlimited |
| Customizable Channel Selection(yes/no) | Full à la carte customization | Genre-based plans (2026) |
| No-Contract Cancellation(yes/no) | Yes, anytime | Yes, anytime |
Show 44 more attributesSimultaneous Streams(streams) 3 3 Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(screens) 3 — Cloud DVR Storage (Included)(hours) 50 (upgradeable to 200) — Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) 1 stream 3 streams Cloud DVR Storage(hours) 50 hours Unlimited (9-month retention) Live TV Channels Included(channels) 30-50 channels 150+ Maximum Simultaneous Streams(streams) 3 (combo plan) 3 screens DVR Storage Capacity(hours) 50 hours Unlimited Package Customization Options(packages) 2 — Cloud DVR Storage (Standard Plan)(hours) 50 hours — Cloud DVR Storage (Free Tier)(hours) 50 hours Unlimited Default Simultaneous Streams(streams) 1 stream 3 streams Unlimited DVR All plans included — Family Sharing Accounts(profiles) 6 accounts standard — Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings) 6 simultaneous — Multiview Sports Feature Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026) — Cloud DVR Storage Limit(hours) Unlimited — Simultaneous Home Streams(concurrent streams) 3 streams — DVR Recording Storage(hours) Unlimited — Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens) 6 simultaneous streams — Cloud DVR Storage(hours) Unlimited — Simultaneous Streams(streams) 6 — Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams) 3 streams — Number of User Profiles(profiles) 6 profiles — Disney Bundle Eligible(yes/no) No — Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited — DVR Content Retention Period(days) 270 days (9 months) — Simultaneous Streams Allowed(devices) 6 — Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited — DVR Recording Retention Period(months) 9 months — Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) 6 — Offline Download Capability No — Bundle Customization Options(bundles) 1 fixed lineup — DVR Storage Limit(hours or unlimited) Unlimited — Cloud DVR Retention(days) Unlimited days — 4K Channel Availability(channels) 10+ channels — User Profiles Per Household(profiles) 5 profiles — Family Profiles(profiles) 6 — Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams) 3 (no upgrade needed) — Cloud DVR Storage Standard Tier(hours) Unlimited — Concurrent Streams(streams) 3 — 4K Live Streaming Available (select channels) — Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens) 6 screens — DVR Content Retention(months) 9 months standard (5 years select) — | ||
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.57(winner) | $0.86 |
| Bundled Premium Services(services) | None | None included |
| Price-to-Channel Ratio($/channel) | $0.36 | — |
| Price per Channel(USD per channel) | $1.04 per channel | — |
| 4K Streaming Available | No (1080p max) | Yes ($9.99/month add-on) |
| 4K Streaming | Not supported | Yes, included |
| 4K Channels Available(channels) | 50+ channels | — |
| 4K Streaming Support | Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo) | — |
| 4K Content Available(yes/no) | Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on) | — |
Show 1 more attribute4K Content Support(boolean) No — | ||
| Total Channels(channels) | 30-50 channels | 70+(winner) |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 30-50 channels | 70+(winner) |
| On-Demand Titles(titles) | Minimal (DVR-dependent) | — |
| Live Channels (Base Plan)(channels) | 40 channels | — |
| On-Demand Content Library(titles) | Varies by package (limited) | None included |
Show 42 more attributesSports Network Coverage(major networks) Limited (ESPN, Fox Sports not in base tier) — Live TV Channels (Base Plan)(channels) 30-50 — Total Available Channels(channels) 150+ — ESPN/Sports Channels(availability) Yes (ESPN, Fox Sports) — Base Plan Channel Count(channels) 30 channels — Premium Add-On Channels(options) Extensive — Base Channel Count(channels) 30-50 channels 70+ On-Demand Library(titles) 3,000+ titles — Included Live TV Channels(channels) 30-50 channels 100+ channels Major Sports Channel Inclusion(channels) Requires Sports Extra add-on ($11/month for 10 sports channels) Included (ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports, MLB Network, Pac-12, others) Total Live Channels(channels) 40 (Orange package) 100+ Content Library Size(titles) 100+ live channels — Live TV Channels(channels) 100+ — Original Content Focus (2026) Moderate (licensed dominant) — Sports Networks Included(count) 20+ networks — News Networks Included(major networks) CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News — Sports Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Live TV Channel Count(channels) 150+ channels — Live Channels(channels) 100+ — On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) Minimal (YouTube originals only) — Live Channels Included(channels) 150+ channels — Regional Sports Networks Standard coverage only — Original Content Library(titles) Limited (under 50) — On-Demand Library Size(titles) Minimal (originals only) — Total Channels Available(channels) 70+ channels — Content Library Size(titles) 150 channels — Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) 5 — Live Channels(channels) 100+ channels — Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) 25+ — News Channel Count(channels) 10+ channels — Included On-Demand Streaming No (separate subscriptions needed) — Live Channels Available(channels) 150+ channels — Sports Content Types(types) All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.) — Included On-Demand Library(titles) 0 (separate subscription required) — Original Content Production (Annual)(titles) 5-10 — On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated)) 0 (separate purchase) — Included Streaming Services(services) YouTube Premium only (1) — Sports Channels Included(channels) 12+ channels — Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served) 150+ markets — Live TV Channels Available(count) 100+ — Sports & News Channels(count) 35+ channels — | ||
| Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets) | Limited regional availability | 95% coverage(winner) |
| Global Availability(countries) | USA only | — |
| Free Trial Period(days) | 7 days | 7-day free trial |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days(winner) | No free trial |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | 7 days |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | — |
| Trial Period(days) | 3 months ($1/month) | — |
| Supported Devices(count) | 50+ devices(winner) | 40+ devices |
| Streaming Device Compatibility | All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile) | — |
| ESPN Included | Yes (Orange tier) | — |
| Sports Channels(channels) | 20 sports channels | 40+(winner) |
| Major Sports Networks Included(networks) | Most major networks | — |
| NFL RedZone Access | Not included | — |
| Sports Channels in Base Plan(channels) | 15-20 channels | — |
| Sports League Coverage Breadth(primary leagues) | NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports across ABC/Fox/ESPN | — |
| Contract Requirement | Month-to-month | — |
| Contract Length(years) | Month-to-month | — |
| Contract Length Required(months) | Month-to-month | — |
| Contract Required | No | — |
| Channel Customization Options(package types) | 3 options (Orange/Blue/Combo) | — |
| Free Cloud DVR Storage(hours) | 50 hours | — |
| Max DVR Storage (Paid Upgrade)(hours) | 200 hours ($6.99/month) | — |
| Major News Networks Included(count) | 3-4 networks (CNN, Fox News, MSNBC) | — |
| 4K Streaming Support(availability) | No | Available (select channels + $10.99/mo add-on) |
| Customer Satisfaction Rating(out of 5) | 74% | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base Tier)(devices) | 1 device | — |
| Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month) | $52.00 (base $40 + $12 add-on)(winner) | $72.99 (included) |
| Sports Channel Count(channels) | 8-12 (varies) | 15+ channels(winner) |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | 2,500+ | — |
| Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions) | 11.1 | — |
| Ad-Free Viewing | Standard feature (no ads) | — |
| AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | — |
| Included Premium Services | YouTube Premium, YouTube Music | — |
| Mobile App Quality | Excellent with quick guide navigation | — |
| DVR Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | — |
| Live Events Per Year(events) | Varies (included in channels) | — |
| Live Sporting Events Per Year(events) | 3,000+ (sports only) | — |
| Annual Sports Events(events) | 5,000+ | — |
| NFL Regular Season Games (Annual)(games) | Included via ESPN networks | — |
| Live Sports Events Monthly(events) | 500+ | — |
| NFL Game Broadcasts Available(percent) | All major broadcasts (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, ABC) | — |
| Local Broadcast Network Access(markets covered) | 90% of U.S. markets | — |
| Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets) | 90% | — |
| Original Content Hours Monthly(hours) | Minimal original content focus | — |
| Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams) | 6 (1 in 4K) | — |
| Original Sports Content Library(titles) | 0 | — |
| Device Compatibility(supported devices) | 200+ devices | — |
| 4K Content Availability(% of library) | Yes | — |
| Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps) | 3 Mbps (HD) | — |
| User Interface Rating(out of 5 stars) | 4.3 stars | — |
| Live Sports Coverage | All major (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS) | — |
| Subscriber Base (2026)(millions) | 8 | — |
| Total Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | — |
Sling TVYYouTube TV
Monthly Starting Price(USD)
$40
—
Monthly Subscription Cost(USD)
$20.00
$72.99/month
Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month)
$0 (baseline)
+$32.99
Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD)
$191.88
$875.88
Starting Monthly Price(USD)
$15.99
$73.99
Show 35 more attributes
Cost Difference for Annual Service(USD per year)
$479.88/year
—
Monthly Base Price(USD)
$40.99
$72.99
Monthly Subscription Price (Entry Plan)(USD)
$15.99
—
Annual Cost (Entry Plan)(USD)
$191.88
—
Maximum Monthly Cost (All Tiers)(USD)
$75/month
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$39.99
$72.99
Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$60 (intro) / $83 (standard)
—
Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$82.99/month
—
Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD)
$95.99/month
—
Base Monthly Cost(USD)
$99.99
—
Price Difference vs Competitor(USD per month)
22% more expensive
—
Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD)
$82.99
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$72.99
—
Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD)
$99.99
—
Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD)
$875.88
—
Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD)
$72.99
—
DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month)
None (unlimited included)
—
Bundle Discount Available(boolean)
No official bundles
—
Annual Cost (12-month)(USD)
$875.88
—
Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD)
$839.88
—
Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD)
Not available
—
Annual Cost (12 months)(USD)
$875.88
—
Monthly Subscription Price(USD)
$73.99
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD)
$72.99
—
Ad-Free Plan Availability
Yes ($79.99/month)
—
Annual Cost Difference(USD)
$995.88/year
—
Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD)
$72.99
—
Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$82.99
—
Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month)
$10.99
—
HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month)
$15.99 (separate sub)
—
Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD)
$72.99
—
Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD)
$887.88
—
Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month)
$14.99 (Sports+ add-on)
—
Additional Stream Cost(USD/month)
No additional cost
—
Annual Commitment Option Savings(percent)
Up to 15% savings
—
Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams)
Up to 3
Up to 3
Household Accounts(accounts)
Up to 3
Up to 6
DVR Storage (Standard)(hours)
50 hours
Unlimited
Customizable Channel Selection(yes/no)
Full à la carte customization
Genre-based plans (2026)
No-Contract Cancellation(yes/no)
Yes, anytime
Yes, anytime
Show 44 more attributes
Simultaneous Streams(streams)
3
3
Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(screens)
3
—
Cloud DVR Storage (Included)(hours)
50 (upgradeable to 200)
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams)
1 stream
3 streams
Cloud DVR Storage(hours)
50 hours
Unlimited (9-month retention)
Live TV Channels Included(channels)
30-50 channels
150+
Maximum Simultaneous Streams(streams)
3 (combo plan)
3 screens
DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
50 hours
Unlimited
Package Customization Options(packages)
2
—
Cloud DVR Storage (Standard Plan)(hours)
50 hours
—
Cloud DVR Storage (Free Tier)(hours)
50 hours
Unlimited
Default Simultaneous Streams(streams)
1 stream
3 streams
Unlimited DVR
All plans included
—
Family Sharing Accounts(profiles)
6 accounts standard
—
Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings)
6 simultaneous
—
Multiview Sports Feature
Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026)
—
Cloud DVR Storage Limit(hours)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Home Streams(concurrent streams)
3 streams
—
DVR Recording Storage(hours)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens)
6 simultaneous streams
—
Cloud DVR Storage(hours)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Streams(streams)
6
—
Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams)
3 streams
—
Number of User Profiles(profiles)
6 profiles
—
Disney Bundle Eligible(yes/no)
No
—
Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
—
DVR Content Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
—
Simultaneous Streams Allowed(devices)
6
—
Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
—
DVR Recording Retention Period(months)
9 months
—
Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts)
6
—
Offline Download Capability
No
—
Bundle Customization Options(bundles)
1 fixed lineup
—
DVR Storage Limit(hours or unlimited)
Unlimited
—
Cloud DVR Retention(days)
Unlimited days
—
4K Channel Availability(channels)
10+ channels
—
User Profiles Per Household(profiles)
5 profiles
—
Family Profiles(profiles)
6
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams)
3 (no upgrade needed)
—
Cloud DVR Storage Standard Tier(hours)
Unlimited
—
Concurrent Streams(streams)
3
—
4K Live Streaming
Available (select channels)
—
Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens)
6 screens
—
DVR Content Retention(months)
9 months standard (5 years select)
—
Cost Per Channel(USD per channel)
$0.57
$0.86
Bundled Premium Services(services)
None
None included
Price-to-Channel Ratio($/channel)
$0.36
—
Price per Channel(USD per channel)
$1.04 per channel
—
4K Streaming Available
No (1080p max)
Yes ($9.99/month add-on)
4K Streaming
Not supported
Yes, included
4K Channels Available(channels)
50+ channels
—
4K Streaming Support
Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo)
—
4K Content Available(yes/no)
Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on)
—
Show 1 more attribute
4K Content Support(boolean)
No
—
Total Channels(channels)
30-50 channels
70+
Live TV Channels(channels)
30-50 channels
70+
On-Demand Titles(titles)
Minimal (DVR-dependent)
—
Live Channels (Base Plan)(channels)
40 channels
—
On-Demand Content Library(titles)
Varies by package (limited)
None included
Show 42 more attributes
Sports Network Coverage(major networks)
Limited (ESPN, Fox Sports not in base tier)
—
Live TV Channels (Base Plan)(channels)
30-50
—
Total Available Channels(channels)
150+
—
ESPN/Sports Channels(availability)
Yes (ESPN, Fox Sports)
—
Base Plan Channel Count(channels)
30 channels
—
Premium Add-On Channels(options)
Extensive
—
Base Channel Count(channels)
30-50 channels
70+
On-Demand Library(titles)
3,000+ titles
—
Included Live TV Channels(channels)
30-50 channels
100+ channels
Major Sports Channel Inclusion(channels)
Requires Sports Extra add-on ($11/month for 10 sports channels)
Included (ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports, MLB Network, Pac-12, others)
Total Live Channels(channels)
40 (Orange package)
100+
Content Library Size(titles)
100+ live channels
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
100+
—
Original Content Focus (2026)
Moderate (licensed dominant)
—
Sports Networks Included(count)
20+ networks
—
News Networks Included(major networks)
CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News
—
Sports Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Live TV Channel Count(channels)
150+ channels
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+
—
On-Demand Content Library Size(titles)
Minimal (YouTube originals only)
—
Live Channels Included(channels)
150+ channels
—
Regional Sports Networks
Standard coverage only
—
Original Content Library(titles)
Limited (under 50)
—
On-Demand Library Size(titles)
Minimal (originals only)
—
Total Channels Available(channels)
70+ channels
—
Content Library Size(titles)
150 channels
—
Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations)
5
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+ channels
—
Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels)
25+
—
News Channel Count(channels)
10+ channels
—
Included On-Demand Streaming
No (separate subscriptions needed)
—
Live Channels Available(channels)
150+ channels
—
Sports Content Types(types)
All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.)
—
Included On-Demand Library(titles)
0 (separate subscription required)
—
Original Content Production (Annual)(titles)
5-10
—
On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated))
0 (separate purchase)
—
Included Streaming Services(services)
YouTube Premium only (1)
—
Sports Channels Included(channels)
12+ channels
—
Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served)
150+ markets
—
Live TV Channels Available(count)
100+
—
Sports & News Channels(count)
35+ channels
—
Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets)
Limited regional availability
95% coverage
Global Availability(countries)
USA only
—
Free Trial Period(days)
7 days
7-day free trial
Free Trial Duration(days)
7 days
No free trial
Free Trial Length(days)
7
7 days
Free Trial Length(days)
7
—
Trial Period(days)
3 months ($1/month)
—
Supported Devices(count)
50+ devices
40+ devices
Streaming Device Compatibility
All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile)
—
ESPN Included
Yes (Orange tier)
—
Sports Channels(channels)
20 sports channels
40+
Major Sports Networks Included(networks)
Most major networks
—
NFL RedZone Access
Not included
—
Sports Channels in Base Plan(channels)
15-20 channels
—
Sports League Coverage Breadth(primary leagues)
NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports across ABC/Fox/ESPN
—
Contract Requirement
Month-to-month
—
Contract Length(years)
Month-to-month
—
Contract Length Required(months)
Month-to-month
—
Contract Required
No
—
Channel Customization Options(package types)
3 options (Orange/Blue/Combo)
—
Free Cloud DVR Storage(hours)
50 hours
—
Max DVR Storage (Paid Upgrade)(hours)
200 hours ($6.99/month)
—
Major News Networks Included(count)
3-4 networks (CNN, Fox News, MSNBC)
—
4K Streaming Support(availability)
No
Available (select channels + $10.99/mo add-on)
Customer Satisfaction Rating(out of 5)
74%
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base Tier)(devices)
1 device
—
Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month)
$52.00 (base $40 + $12 add-on)
$72.99 (included)
Sports Channel Count(channels)
8-12 (varies)
15+ channels
On-Demand Content Titles(titles)
2,500+
—
Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions)
11.1
—
Ad-Free Viewing
Standard feature (no ads)
—
AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year)
2026 (multiview, interactive features)
—
Included Premium Services
YouTube Premium, YouTube Music
—
Mobile App Quality
Excellent with quick guide navigation
—
DVR Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
—
Live Events Per Year(events)
Varies (included in channels)
—
Live Sporting Events Per Year(events)
3,000+ (sports only)
—
Annual Sports Events(events)
5,000+
—
NFL Regular Season Games (Annual)(games)
Included via ESPN networks
—
Live Sports Events Monthly(events)
500+
—
NFL Game Broadcasts Available(percent)
All major broadcasts (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, ABC)
—
Local Broadcast Network Access(markets covered)
90% of U.S. markets
—
Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets)
90%
—
Original Content Hours Monthly(hours)
Minimal original content focus
—
Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams)
6 (1 in 4K)
—
Original Sports Content Library(titles)
0
—
Device Compatibility(supported devices)
200+ devices
—
4K Content Availability(% of library)
Yes
—
Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps)
3 Mbps (HD)
—
User Interface Rating(out of 5 stars)
4.3 stars
—
Live Sports Coverage
All major (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS)
—
Subscriber Base (2026)(millions)
8
—
Total Live TV Channels(channels)
100+
—
Pros & Cons
10 pros·6 cons across both
YT
Sling TV
+5-3
Pros
- Starting price of $39.99/month is 45% cheaper than YouTube TV
- Customizable Orange, Blue, and Orange+Blue packages let users pick what they want
- 7-day free trial available for new users
- Cloud DVR with rollover hours unused month to month
- International content available in Spanish, Portuguese, and other languages
Cons
- Limited to 50 hours DVR storage compared to unlimited alternatives
- Only 1-3 simultaneous streams depending on package tier
- Smaller channel selection with fewer premium networks included
YT
YouTube TV
+5-3
Pros
- Includes 100+ live channels covering news, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage with no expiration dates on recordings
- Bundled YouTube Premium (ad-free YouTube, YouTube Music) valued at $13.99/month separately
- Up to 3 simultaneous streams standard (6 with YouTube TV Plus tier)
- Family Sharing allows 6 family members with independent profiles and recordings
Cons
- Premium pricing at $72.99/month makes it 83% more expensive than Sling TV's base package
- No free trial available to test service before committing
- Single package option with no customization to reduce costs
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
YouTube TV offers significantly more sports coverage with 100+ channels including ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports, MLB Network, NFL Network, NBA TV, and regional sports networks. Sling TV's sports offering varies by package but typically includes fewer dedicated sports channels, making YouTube TV the better choice for sports enthusiasts.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
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Wikipedia
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