Cord-cutting is the new norm today and people want to learn how to watch sports without cable. In fact, there are a lot of options for that. Gone are the days when you had to sit in front of your TV for entertainment. High-speed internet and mobile devices have made it accessible at your fingertips. Streaming services allow you to watch sports on the go.
There are options to watch sports without cable on your TV. Below is our take on how to watch live sports without cable using different methods.
How to Watch Sports without Cable: Using Over-the-Air Antenna
You can watch live sports without cable using a digital TV antenna. This is one of the best ways to catch local games broadcasting on TV. You can watch NBA, NHL, MLB, and many other sports events using an over-the-air antenna. It even allows you to watch college football on your TV without a cable subscription. You just need to buy the best digital TV antenna and tune in to watch your favorite sports.
There are many different types of over-the-air antennas to choose from. Here are some of the top ones that offer you the best value for money.
Clearstream 1MAX
Clearstream 1MAX is the most preferred choice for many cord-cutters in the US. It comes with great features and sports a simple and nice design. The TV antenna also has an amplifier, which adds to its overall value. Clearstream 1MAX will not take much space when you install at in your home.
The price of Clearstream 1MAX is very reasonable considering its added features. It delivers good quality for live sports broadcasts. However, the accuracy and speed may not be the same in all regions. For the best results, you will have to be in the location where the sports events are broadcasted.
Key Features:
- 40 miles range
- Supports full-HD broadcasts
- Access to ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, CW, Univision, PBS, MeTV, and more
- Tested for UHF and VHF reception
- Integrated diplexer
Pros:
- Compact build
- Simple and sleek design
- Inbuilt amplifier
Cons:
- Range accuracy not up to the mark
- Difficult to assemble
- Limited channels
Channel Master CM-4221
Channel Master CM-4221 can be the ideal choice for those looking for a mid-range antenna. It offers up to 180 degrees of range, which gives you access to high-quality TV broadcasts. The accuracy of the CM-4221 depends upon your location. Still, it lets you watch multiple local sports channels as well as popular networks. The design of Channel Master CM-4221 may seem a bit outdated. However, it comes pre-assembled, which makes it easy to install at your home. It is designed for UHF and HDTV signal reception. This assures you great video quality. The CM-4221 can be great for people who ask how to watch live sports without cable.-OLD: B000FVTPX2
Key Features:
- 60 miles range
- 180-degree multi-directional functionality
- Access to ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, CW, PBS, MeTV, ION, Univision, Telemundo and more
- Quick and easy installation
- Tested for 4K and UHF reception
Pros:
- Powerful reception
- Supports Ultra HD quality
- Pre-assembled
Cons:
- Outdated design
- Range may not be accurate
- High price
Bikuu Indoor Amplified Digital HDTV Antenna
Bikuu Digital HDTV Antenna is one of the cheapest quality antennas out there. Despite its low price, it offers great range coverage of up to around 120 miles. The indoor HDTV antenna sports a strong built and design. It comes with an inbuilt amplifier too, which adds to its overall worth.
The signal reception of Bikuu Indoor Antenna will greatly depend upon your location. You can get hundreds of free channels using the new generation antenna. However, the channel lineup may vary in different regions. Still, it is a great choice for those asking how to watch FOX sports without cable.
Key Features:
- 120 miles range
- Supports 4K Ultra HD broadcasts
- Compatible with TV converter boxes
- Access to ABC, NBC, CBS, PBC, FOX, and more
- Optimized 360-degree omnidirectional signal reception
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Great build and design
- Inbuilt amplifier
Cons:
- Bulky
- Inaccurate range at times
- Missing channels
Mohu Sky 60 TV Antenna
Mohu Sky 60 TV Antenna is a high-end device that sports unmatched features. It offers you the best picture quality in the industry. What’s more, the Mohu Sky 60 comes with a 30-foot detachable cable, which makes moving it easier as required. The HDTV antenna has a range of up to 75 miles, which gives you crystal-clear video output.
The Clean Peak Filter technology in Mohu Sky 60 filters out cellular and FM signals. This guarantees that you can watch your favorite sports in your location without any disruptions. It also features dual powering options that make it easy to install on your RV as well.
Key Features:
- 75 miles range
- Access to ABC, FOX, CBS, PBS, NBC, Univision, and more
- Clean Peak Filter technology
- Dual power options
- 1-year warranty included
Pros:
- Supports 1080 HD quality
- Low noise and clearer picture
- Quality build
Cons:
- Expensive
- Strange design
- Low range considering its high price
ViewTV UHD-3942A Antenna
ViewTV UHD-3942A Antenna promises the best range in the market. It can reach up to 150 miles to give you access to your favorite broadcasts. The UHD-3942A is also designed to be weather resistant and deliver high performance. ViewTV UHD-3942A Antenna comes partially pre-assembled. This makes its installation at your home much simpler.
The design of the UHD-3942A HDTV antenna is old-school. It seems to have some unnecessary elements too. However, the ViewTV antenna does give you excellent performance even when installed indoors. There is a built-in motor in ViewTV UHD-3942A as well, which turns it 360 degrees. This gives you the best signal reception. It also has an inbuilt high gain amplifier to let you watch live sports in your location.
Key Features:
- 150 miles range
- ATSC compatible
- Access to ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, FOX, and more
- Superior reception
- Wireless remote controller
Pros:
- Reasonable pricing
- Weather resistant
- Roof mounting pole included
Cons:
- Outdated design
- Cheap build quality
- Minor assembly required
McDuory Digital HDTV Outdoor Amplified Antenna
McDuory Digital HDTV Antenna offers you superior signal reception under any environment. It is a 4-bay phased array multi-directional TV antenna that gives you a superior 150 miles range. The McDuory antenna gives you crystal-clear picture quality with uncompressed HD support. The sound quality offered by the HDTV antenna is also one of the best in the industry.
You can catch all the local sports, news, TV shows, and movies using McDuory Digital HDTV Antenna. The channel lineup is amazing, but it may vary depending upon your location. This makes it the ideal solution for people asking how to watch FOX sports without cable. The McDuory antenna sports an easy unfolded system that makes it simple to assemble.
Key Features:
- 150 miles range
- 180-degree multi-directional reception
- Access to ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and more
- Supports full-HD, 4K, and 3D
- High picture and sound quality
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Mounting pole included
- Sturdy build and design
Cons:
- Signal reception can be weak at times
- High price
- Bulky
Editor’s Note: These are just a few of the best antenna you can use to watch live sports. If you want more options in indoor over-the-air antenna, check out Best Indoor TV Antennas for HD Channels
How to Watch Sports without Cable: Using Streaming Devices
Sports is one of the TV genres that must be watched live. That is why many cord-cutters ask how to watch live sports without cable. Earlier, the options were limited to an over-the-air antenna. Yet today, you can also use streaming devices for watching live sports. You just need a high-speed internet connection at your home. This way, you can ensure that you do not miss any intense moments during the game.
There are a lot of streaming devices that you can use for your entertainment needs. Here are some of the best ones for watching live sports.
Roku Express
Roku Express is one of the simplest and budget-friendly streaming devices. It gives you access to free and premium content as per your needs. Roku Express is very easy to use as well, and comes with a simple user interface. The minimalist remote of Roku Express further makes it easier to access your favorite channels instantly.
The streaming stick can be the best for those who want a small device that fits everywhere. Roku Express does not offer 4K or HDR support though. If you want those features, you will need to go for Roku Streaming Stick+ instead. Still, Roku Express can deliver full-HD 1080p video quality. This will be enough for most sports fans.
Key Features:
- Supports full-HD
- High-speed HDMI cable included
- Access to Netflix, Prime Video, HBO NOW, SHOWTIME, and more
- Allows watching live sports on Sling, YouTube TV, and ESPN
- Free Roku mobile app
Pros:
- Minimalist design
- Simple setup
- Reasonable pricing
Cons:
- No 4K or HDR support
- No USB or microSD card slots
- Voice command features not available
Amazon Fire TV Stick
Amazon Fire TV Stick is one of the best voice-controlled streaming devices today. It comes with Alexa Voice Remote, which makes it very easy to control your TV. The built-in Alexa support also allows you to use your Echo Dot to access live sports using the streaming device.
Amazon Fire TV Stick supports 4K and HDR-10, as well as Dolby Vision. This allows you to get superior picture and sound quality. You can watch all the shows on Amazon Prime using the streaming device. Moreover, it also supports Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, YouTube, and other streaming services. There are different variants of Amazon Fire TV Stick as well. This makes it easier to choose one as per your needs.
Key Features:
- Alexa Voice Remote
- Access to Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, HBO, and more
- Allows watching live sports on Hulu, Sling, YouTube TV, NBC, and PBS
- Stream free with Pluto, IMDB TV, and more
- Dedicated storage for apps and games
Pros:
- Simple to set up and use
- Unlimited access to Amazon Prime content
- Compatible with Bluetooth headphones
Cons:
- Complicated user interface
- Voice search shows results only from Amazon.com
- Needs an Amazon Prime subscription for the best experience
Related: 9 Best Fire TV Stick Tricks & Tips You Need to Know
Apple TV 4K
Apple TV 4K is the ideal choice for users who are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem. It provides a seamless TV experience on your all Apple devices. The streaming device offers inbuilt DVR and comes in 32GB and 64GB variants. Besides, Apple TV 4K also sports many cool features that make it an excellent choice for sports fans.
Apple TV 4K delivers ultra-fast performance with its A10X Fusion processor. Yet it may vary depending upon the speed of your internet connection. The streaming device can automatically sync your TV OS layout if you have a 3rd or 4th generation Apple TV. This makes it much simpler to use Apple TV 4K.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Siri voice
- Supports Dolby Vision, 4K, and HDR10
- Allows sending files via AirPlay 2 from supported iOS devices
- Access to Netflix, Hulu, Sling, and Prime Video
- Better OS integration with Apple TV
Apple TV 4K Latest Model
Pros:
- Great picture and sound quality
- Superfast performance
- iTunes support
Cons:
- Limited content library
- May need ultra-high-speed connections for the best performance
- Best suited to all-Apple users
Google Chromecast
Google Chromecast is one of the simplest streaming media devices. It is very affordable and works along with your phone or tablet. You can easily cast videos on your TV using Google Chromecast. You can use a streaming service on your phone to control and search for content. This makes watching live sports an exciting experience for fans.
The newer models of Google Chromecast offer faster framerate. This ensures that the streaming device delivers good picture quality. However, Google Chromecast does not support 4K quality. You will need to buy Google Chromecast Ultra for HDR10 and Dolby Vision support.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Access to Netflix, YouTube, YouTube TV, Prime Video, HBO NOW, and Disney+
- Works with Google Home
- Allows using your phone’s apps for controlling TV
- Supports all wireless networks
Google Chromecast Ultra
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use
- Reasonable pricing
- Fast performance
Cons:
- Connection between phone and Chromecast may fail at times
- Limited number of apps
- No 4K support
NVIDIA Shield TV Pro
NVIDIA Shield TV Pro may be on the pricey end, but it does offer some amazing features. It is considered the world’s most powerful Android TV streaming device. The Shield TV Pro comes with NVIDIA Tegra X1+ chip. Besides, it also supports Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus. This gives you the best picture and sound quality in the industry.
You can play more than 200 games using the streaming media player via Android TV. It also allows you to stream PC games on your TV and enjoy them on the big screen. This makes NVIDIA Shield TV Pro a great option for gamers as well as sports fans.
Key Features:
- Superfast performance
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Access to Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, HBO NOW, Sling, and more
- Dolby Vision and HDR support
- High-resolution audio and surround sound support
Pros:
- Elegant and stylish design
- Inbuilt storage for media
- Supports voice control via built-in Google Assistant
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited content
- Netflix button on the remote requires third-party app to allocate
How to Watch Sports without Cable: Using Over-the-Internet Streaming Services
Streaming services are the most preferred way these days to catch live sports action. There are many streaming platforms, which allow you to stay up to date with your favorite sports. You can watch all the live games you want using these services on your TV, computer, or phone. This means that you can watch live sports on the go, whenever you want.
There are numerous streaming services that will answer your question, how to watch live sports without cable. Here are some of the best sports streaming services that you can choose today.
fuboTV
fuboTV is one of the best sports streaming services out there. It allows you to watch live sports as well as TV shows without a cable subscription. You can watch over 100 channels using fuboTV including FOX, CBS, NBC, and more. It also covers NFL, NBA, MLB, and all other popular sports.
fuboTV allows you to watch live sports and TV on multiple devices at the same time. However, the number of shared screens will depend upon the monthly plan you choose. You will also get cloud DVR storage with your fuboTV subscription. fuboTV allows you to customize your subscription packages with many attractive add-ons as well.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $54.99 per month
- Wide array of local and national channels
- Cloud DVR storage up to 500 hours with premium plans
- Allows watching live sports and TV on multiple screens
- 7-day free trial
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage of sports
- Entertainment channels included
- DVR storage
Cons:
- No ESPN channels
- Not compatible with game consoles
- Some live streams do not support full-HD quality
Sling TV
Sling TV is a subsidiary owned by Dish Network. The streaming service gives you access to live sports as well as on-demand content. You can watch TV shows and movies using Sling TV whenever you want. There is a Sports Extras a la carte plan too.
You can get access to football, baseball, basketball, and hockey coverage using Sling TV. Their sports channels lineup includes ESPNU, NHL Network, NBA TV, beIN Sports, and more. Sling TV also allows you to watch many local channels using an HD antenna. You can also get cloud DVR storage with your Sling TV subscription for a small additional cost.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $20 per month
- Attractive a la carte add-ons
- Cloud DVR storage option
- International channels from Europe, China, Brazil, India, and the Middle East available
- Multiple streams supported
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- ESPN included in base plans
- No contracts
Cons:
- Sports channels catalog not that extensive
- DVR storage costs extra
- Antenna required for watching local channels
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu is one of the most popular streaming services today. The Hulu + Live TV plan gives you access to live sports, news, and more. You can also get unlimited access to thousands of shows and movies with Hulu + Live TV. They offer cloud DVR storage as well for an additional cost.
You can get access to almost all the popular sports channels with a Hulu + Live TV subscription. Their lineup includes FOX, NBC, CBS, ESPN, and more. You can also stream live games from NCAA, NBA, NHL, NFL, and more using Hulu + Live TV. You can also get access to premium networks like SHOWTIME, STARZ, and HBO using their add-ons.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $54.99 per month
- Massive library of TV shows and movies
- More than 60 popular local and national channels
- Access to major college and pro leagues
- 7-day free trial
Pros:
- Simple and user-friendly interface
- Original content
- Allows watching live sports on multiple screens
Cons:
- Limited number of local channels
- Cloud DVR storage costs extra
- Not available outside the US
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a relatively new streaming service. Yet it has already become a crowd favorite. YouTube TV allows you to enjoy live sports, news, and TV shows without a cable subscription. It also offers unlimited cloud DVR storage for free. This makes it one of the best options for people asking how to watch live sports without cable.
You can activate your YouTube TV for up to six accounts. It allows you to watch live sports on up to three screens at the same time. Their channels lineup includes ABC, CBS, FOX, ESPN, TNT, and more. You can also watch NBC streams, regional sports networks, and more using YouTube TV. Premium networks like SHOWTIME, STARZ, and FOX Soccer Plus will cost extra.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $49.99 per month
- Free DVR storage option
- Supports simultaneous streams
- Includes YouTube Red originals
- 14-day free trial
Pros:
- Attractive interface
- Easy to set up and use
- No contracts
Cons:
- Limited number of local channels
- Original shows not that popular
- Basic parental control options
Related: How to Install YouTube TV on FireStick
Prime Video
Prime Video by Amazon is one of the newest streaming services for watching live sports. It may not have a huge catalog of sports channels, but it still offers a decent lineup. You can watch most of the live NFL games using Prime Video. There are also many sports shows and documentaries in the catalog.
You can also subscribe to NBA League Pass, MLB.TV, and PGA Tour Live using your Prime Video account. Yet those asking how to watch FOX sports without cable may not find an answer here. So Prime Video by Amazon may not be ideal for all kinds of sports fans. Still, it can be a good choice for general home entertainment needs.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $12.99 per month
- Great collection of movies and TV shows
- Access to CBS All Access, Sports Illustrated TV, PBS, and more
- Allows bundling Amazon Prime membership for faster delivery times and exclusive deals
- 30-day free trial
Pros:
- Premium content from networks like HBO, SHOWTIME, and STARZ
- Original shows
- 4K and HDR support
Cons:
- Confusing interface
- Limited sports channels
- Can experience glitches at times
AT&T TV Now
AT&T TV Now is the reformed take on DirecTV Now. The streaming service allows you to watch live and on-demand content as required. AT&T TV Now offers seven different plans catered to the needs of different viewers. You can also get cloud DVR capabilities with your AT&T TV Now subscription.
The channel lineup of AT&T TV Now is amazing. It includes CNBC, CNN, Disney Channel, ESPN, FOX Sports, HBO, and more. So people asking how to watch FOX sports without cable can rely on AT&T TV Now. You can also get regional sports networks with AT&T TV Now. This makes it suited for sports fans as well as for home entertainment.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $65 per month
- Includes HBO in all subscription packages
- Cloud DVR storage up to 500 hours
- Allows watching live sports on multiple devices
- 7-day free trial
Pros:
- Massive channel library
- Reliable performance
- No contracts
Cons:
- Expensive
- Confusing packages
- Not compatible with all streaming devices
Editor’s Note: The above streaming services allow watching cable TV over-the-internet. They do not require you to have a cable TV subscription. So, these over-the-internet services answer how to watch FOX sports without cable. However, you will need to subscribe to their plans to access TV content. If you want to stream sports free, check out 20 Best Free Sites to Watch Live Sports Streaming
How to Watch Sports without Cable: Standalone Streaming Services
Most of the streaming services include local sports channels in their lineup. This ensures that you can enjoy all your favorite sports events under a hood. NHL, NBA, MLB, and even college games are now available on popular streaming services. Yet some of them may require an additional fee to grant you access to local sports.
There are options to watch local sports using dedicated standalone packs as well. The availability may vary depending upon your location. Yet they generally cover all major sports events in their category. Here is how to watch sports without cable using such options.
NFL Game Pass
NFL Game Pass is designed for die-hard NFL fans. You can easily add this pack with most of the streaming services. Else, watch sports using NFL Game Pass as a standalone service. It is available across all streaming devices and has an app for smartphones as well. This makes it easy to watch all your favorite NFL matches on the go.
You cannot watch live games using NFL Game Pass. So it may not be suited to those asking how to watch live sports without cable. You can watch the condensed replays of all matches during the regular season and playoffs. This can be a great way to stay updated with the progress of your favorite team.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $24.95 per month
- Allows watching replays of every game
- Compatible with Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Amazon Fire TV
- Localized radio feed support
- 7-day free trial
Pros:
- Full replays of all matches
- Access to out-of-market preseason games
- NFL originals
Cons:
- No live matches
- No Super Bowl game broadcasts
- Audio feeds subject to availability
UFC Fight Pass
UFC Fight Pass is the way to go for MMA fans. It allows you to watch all live fights as well as past matches. You can also get access to exclusive UFC content using the UFC Fight Pass. It is available in most countries around the world. This means that you will never miss any important UFC match when traveling abroad.
You can watch kickboxing, boxing, submission grappling, Thai boxing, and more using UFC Fight Pass. It also gives you access to original programming related to all types of combat sports. Moreover, UFC Fight Pass also allows you to stream many other live events. This includes PRIDE, Invicta FC, Strikeforce, WEC, and more.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $28.99 per month
- Access to live fights from various networks
- Over 1,000 hours of live combat sports action
- Compatible with Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, Xbox, and more
- Can be bundled with other streaming services
Pros:
- Available for iOS and Android devices
- Exclusive UFC content
- Allowing streaming on multiple devices
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited to a single sports genre
- Does not work if you are using a VPN
NBA League Pass
NBA League Pass is an excellent option to watch games outside of your local area. It gives you access to events that are not available on your usual NBA-viewing channels like ABC and ESPN. You can also watch classic games using NBA League Pass. It also gives you free radio stream access.
You can also integrate Amazon Alexa and Echo Dot with NBA League Pass. This allows you to control your sports entertainment needs using voice commands. Note that live broadcasts on NBA TV will not be available on NBA League Pass. You can access that 3 hours after the games have ended.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $6.99 per month
- Access to out-of-market games
- Free radio streams
- Compatible with Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, PS4, Xbox One, and more
- Allows bundling with other streaming services
Pros:
- Flexible pricing plans
- Allows watching live games in VR
- Supports Amazon Alexa and Echo integration
Cons:
- Out-of-market games availability may vary depending upon your region
- Live NBA TV games not included
- Archives available only 3 hours after the live matches
Related: 10 Best Sports Channels for Fire Stick to Watch Live Sports
NHL.TV
NHL.TV offers pretty robust content for sports fans. It allows you to watch live games and highlights on the go. You can stream live and on-demand NHL content on TV, PC, smartphones, and tablets. It gives you stunning picture quality and DVR controls. NHL.TV also allows you to analyze the game using different camera angles.
You can also get audio feeds for the live matches. This allows you to stay updated with how your team is performing when you are on the road. You can watch the highlights or full replays of the games using NHL.TV as well. There is an option to watch the games from earlier seasons as well.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $24.99 per month
- Access to out-of-market games
- Additional camera angles
- Compatible with Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox, and more
- Can be used with NHL Center Ice subscription
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use
- Allows streaming on multiple platforms
- No contracts
Cons:
- Audio-only feeds subject to availability
- Does not support pairing TV video with radio audio
- Replays of past seasons not available on mobile devices
MLB.TV
MLB.TV allows you to access live and on-demand games on your favorite supported devices. They have two subscription options: Single Team and Yearly Access. Single Team subscription allows you to choose your favorite team and catch all the home and away broadcasts. The Yearly Access allows you to watch all the games of the season whenever you want.
You can also integrate Alexa-enabled devices with your MLB.TV subscription. This allows you to listen to every live game using the smart device. MLB.TV also gives you access to full game archives without any local or national blackout restrictions. It also supports DVR controls to give you an immersive experience.
Key Features:
- Pricing starts at $93.99 for the entire season
- Access to out-of-market games
- Around 300 Spring Training games
- Compatible with PS4, Xbox One, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and more
- 7-day free trial
Pros:
- Allows integration with Alexa
- In-game support
- Live game DVR controls
Cons:
- Live audio of games subject to the blackout restrictions
- Certain nationally broadcasted games and events may not be available to all MLB.TV users
- No in-market games
Still Wondering How to Watch Sports without Cable?
The above are the easiest ways to watch sports without a cable subscription. Most users prefer going the streaming service route because of their massive channel lineup. Besides, it is also easy to cast live sports using a streaming service on your smart TVs. Some cable networks also offer dedicated streaming services for live sports.
However, in most cases, you will need to link your cable subscription plan to use that. There are free alternatives to watch live sports too. Yet those are generally tailored to mobile viewing only. So, the best answers to how to watch sports without cable on your TV will be the ones discussed here.
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