US TV Now Competitors: A Complete Overview of Streaming Alternatives
The world of live streaming TV providers has significantly revolutionised the way we watch television. Gone are the days when we were confined to regular cable or satellite TV. Services like US TV Now have led the trend in delivering affordable and flexible options. However, the streaming scene is saturated, and US TV Now faces fierce competition from other providers.
In this article, we’ll review the major US TV Now competitors, their features, pricing, and what makes each one special. Whether you are considering switching providers or just curious, this guide will provide all the insights you need.
1. What is US TV Now?
Before digging into its competitors, it’s crucial to understand what US TV Now offers. US TV Now is a live TV streaming service that provides access to major American networks, including news, entertainment, sports, and more. It’s meant for cord-cutters who want to watch live TV on numerous devices without a regular cable subscription.
1.1 Key Features of US TV Now
- Live TV Streaming: Access to prominent networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and more.
- Affordable Plans: Offers a selection of budget-friendly membership plans.
- Cloud DVR: Record live TV episodes and movies for later watching.
2. Overview of US TV Now Competitors
Several live TV streaming services compete with US TV Now, each offering unique features. These competitors provide identical content, but with distinct pricing schemes and other features. Let’s investigate some of the top possibilities.
2.1 Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is one of the most popular alternatives to US TV Now Competitors. It mixes Hulu’s large on-demand library with live TV streaming.
2.1.1 Key Features of Hulu + Live TV
- Extensive Channel Lineup: Includes major networks such as ABC, NBC, FOX, and ESPN.
- On-Demand Content: Access to Hulu’s popular on-demand streaming library.
- Cloud DVR: 50 hours of cloud DVR storage for recorded content.
2.1.2 Pricing Plans
- Basic Plan: Around $64.99 per month.
- Ad-Free Plan: $70.99 per month (removes advertisements from on-demand content).
2.2 YouTube TV
YouTube TV is another significant contender in the live TV streaming business. It’s noted for its clear UI and reliable streaming.
2.2.1 Key Features of YouTube TV
- Unlimited DVR: Record live TV shows and movies with unlimited cloud DVR storage.
- Major Channel Selection: Includes sports, entertainment, and news channels like ABC, NBC, ESPN, and more.
- No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing without additional costs.
2.2.2 Pricing Plans
- Standard Plan: Around $72.99 per month.
2.3 Sling TV
Sling TV offers a more flexible and cost-effective choice compared to other competitors. It offers customisable bundles to appeal to diverse viewing preferences.
2.3.1 Key Features of Sling TV
- Affordable Plans: Sling TV is one of the most budget-friendly live TV services.
- Customizable Packages: Users can choose from Sling Orange, Sling Blue, or a combination of both.
- Cloud DVR: 50 hours of DVR storage (with an extra cost for more).
2.3.2 Pricing Plans
- Sling Orange Plan: $35 per month.
- Sling Blue Plan: $35 per month.
- Combined Sling Orange + Blue Plan: $50 per month.
2.4 FuboTV
FuboTV is a prominent challenger in the sports streaming sector, offering a large choice of sports channels combined with general entertainment possibilities.
2.4.1 Key Features of FuboTV
- Sports-Centric: Focused largely on sports channels including ESPN, NFL Network, and more.
- Cloud DVR: 1,000 hours of DVR storage for recording games and shows.
- Broad Channel Selection: Offers major networks and entertainment channels.
2.4.2 Pricing Plans
- Pro Plan: $74.99 per month.
- Elite Plan: $84.99 per month.
- Premier Plan: $94.99 per month.
2.5 DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream (previously AT&T TV) is a well-known competitor that provides traditional TV programs to streaming. It’s perfect for people seeking a comprehensive TV experience.
2.5.1 Key Features of DirecTV Stream
- Channel Variety: Offers major networks, including CNN, TNT, and HGTV.
- Cloud DVR: 20 hours of DVR storage included.
- Multiple Streams: Stream on up to 20 devices concurrently (depending on the plan).
2.5.2 Pricing Plans
- Entertainment Plan: $64.99 per month.
- Choice Plan: $84.99 per month.
- Ultimate Plan: $94.99 per month.
3. Comparing Content and Channel Lineups
One of the biggest differences among US TV Now competitors is the content and channel choices. Let’s break down the channel lineups offered by these competitors.
3.1 Major Channels Offered by US TV Now Competitors
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes ABC, NBC, FOX, ESPN, CNN, and HGTV.
- YouTube TV: Major networks like ABC, NBC, FOX, ESPN, and TBS.
- Sling TV: Offers ESPN, CNN, AMC, FOX, and more.
- FuboTV: Sports channels such as NFL Network, FS1, and ESPN.
- DirecTV Stream: Provides networks like CNN, Fox News, TNT, and National Geographic.
3.2 Sports Coverage
If you are a sports enthusiast, FuboTV might be the top contender with its dedicated sports coverage. Sling TV and YouTube TV also appeal to sports aficionados but with fewer extensive sports channels than FuboTV.
4. Streaming Quality and Performance
Streaming quality may make or destroy a service. The main US TV Now competitors provide HD quality streaming, but how do they compare in terms of performance?
4.1 HD and 4K Streaming Quality
- Hulu + Live TV: Streams most programming in HD with some 4K possibilities.
- YouTube TV: HD streaming quality, with 4K capabilities on select programs.
- Sling TV: Streams in HD but lacks 4K content.
- FuboTV: Offers HD streaming, with certain channels accessible in 4K.
- DirecTV Stream: HD quality with occasional 4K options.
4.2 Device Compatibility
All of these services function across a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, computers, and streaming boxes.
5. User Interface and Experience
A sleek, easy-to-navigate interface is vital for a nice streaming experience. Let’s analyse the user interface of each service.
5.1 Hulu + Live TV
Hulu offers a user-friendly design with distinct categories and recommendations. It works effectively with the main Hulu app, allowing for smooth transitions between live TV and on-demand programming.
5.2 YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers a basic, easy-to-use interface with a configurable home page. It’s noted for its rapid channel switching and search features.
5.3 Sling TV
Sling TV’s UI is somewhat basic but functional. It features easy-to-navigate menus and adjustable choices based on the user’s viewing preferences.
5.4 FuboTV
FuboTV’s interface is slick and modern, with fast access to live sports events and a simple layout for moving between live and recorded programs.
5.5 DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream’s interface is sleek but can be a touch intimidating for beginning users. It does offer comprehensive channel listings and on-demand content possibilities.
Buy now6. Customer Support & Service
Reliable customer assistance is vital when it comes to streaming services. Let’s evaluate the assistance solutions supplied by each of the US TV Now competitors.
6.1 Support Channels
- Hulu + Live TV: Offers live chat, email support, and a vast knowledge base.
- YouTube TV: Provides email support and a user forum for problems.
- Sling TV: Available customer assistance through live chat and phone support.
- FuboTV: Offers email assistance, phone support, and a help center.
- DirecTV Stream: 24/7 support via phone and online chat.
7. Pricing and Value for Money
Price is a crucial aspect when picking a live TV streaming service. Here’s how the costs compare for each of the services.
7.1 Value for Money Comparison
- Hulu Plus Live TV: One of the higher-priced options but includes access to Hulu’s on-demand entertainment.
- YouTube TV: Fairly priced for the number of channels and features, including unlimited DVR.
- Sling TV: The most economical choice, especially if you only need a few channels.
- FuboTV: Expensive but perfect for sports fanatics.
- DirecTV Stream: Similar to Hulu in terms of pricing, but with additional regional sports networks.
8. Pros and Cons of US TV Now Competitors
Each service has its pros and cons. Here’s a basic summary of each:
8.1 Hulu + Live TV
- Pros: Comprehensive channel lineup, access to Hulu’s on-demand programming.
- Cons: Higher pricing compared to certain competitors.
8.2 YouTube TV
- Pros: Unlimited DVR, high-quality streaming.
- Cons: Relatively hefty subscription cost.
8.3 Sling TV
- Pros: Affordable, customised packages.
- Cons: Limited DVR storage on base subscriptions.
8.4 FuboTV
- Pros: Excellent sports coverage.
- Cons: Expensive plans.
8.5 DirecTV Stream
- Pros: Wide channel diversity.
- Cons: Pricey with limited DVR capacity on base subscriptions.
9. Conclusion: Which Service is Right for You?
Choosing the best US TV Now competition relies on your tastes. If you’re seeking for economical solutions, Sling TV is a terrific choice. If sports are your major interest, FuboTV might be the finest. For those who want the full streaming experience with a number of channels, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV provide extensive packages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
9.1 What is the cheapest option to US TV Now?
Sling TV offers one of the most cheap pricing systems for live TV streaming.
9.2 Can I watch sports on US TV Now competitors?
Yes, several competitors like FuboTV and YouTube TV offer sports channels.
9.3 Does YouTube TV offer DVR storage?
Yes, YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage.
9.4 Is Sling TV useful for families?
Sling TV is inexpensive and customizable, making it a terrific alternative for families.
9.5 Which service offers the finest sports channels?
FuboTV is the finest alternative for sports aficionados with its broad sports channel roster.
9.6 Does Hulu + Live TV have 4K streaming?
Hulu + Live TV offers limited 4K streaming options on select content.
9.7 Can I stream US TV Now competitors on mobile devices?
Yes, all competitors offer mobile apps for both Android and iOS devices.
9.8 What is the greatest live TV service for news channels?
YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV give outstanding news channel coverage.
9.9 How much is FuboTV per month?
FuboTV’s pricing start at $74.99 per month.
9.10 Are US TV Now competitors available outside the US?
Most competitors like YouTube TV are only available within the US due to geographical constraints.