There is no shortage of legal ways to watch. The apps below are offered by licensed providers through official app stores. Availability, prices and channel lineups change, so always confirm the details on the provider’s website.
Live TV streaming apps
These services stream cable-style channels, often including local broadcast stations, over the internet. They are the most direct replacement for a cable or satellite package.
| Service | Known for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | Broad channel lineup and unlimited DVR storage | Recordings are kept for a limited time |
| Hulu + Live TV | Live channels plus Hulu’s on-demand library | Bundled with additional Disney streaming content |
| Sling TV | Lower-cost, customizable base packages | Local channel availability is limited |
| Fubo | Sports-focused live TV | Regional sports availability varies by area |
| DirecTV Stream | Lineup closest to traditional cable | Includes regional sports networks in many areas |
Compare them side by side in our live TV streaming comparison.
On-demand subscription apps
Subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services focus on series and movies you can watch any time. Popular options include Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Prime Video, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+ and Apple TV. Many offer cheaper ad-supported plans and some bundle together.
Free, ad-supported apps
Free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) apps such as Pluto TV, Tubi, The Roku Channel, Plex and Samsung TV Plus offer hundreds of live-style channels and large on-demand libraries at no cost. Our free streaming apps guide explains what each one does best.
Library and public media apps
With a participating US library card, apps such as Kanopy and Hoopla let you stream films and documentaries free of charge. The PBS app offers many public television programs, with more available through local station memberships.
What about “IPTV player” apps?
Some apps are simply players: they play streams from a source you provide, such as your own media server or a provider that gives you an authorized playlist. The player itself can be legal, but it doesn’t make an unlicensed source legal. Only use player apps with content you have the right to watch.
How to verify an app before installing
- Install only from the official store for your device.
- Check the developer name matches the company behind the service.
- Read recent reviews and look at the number of downloads.
- Review the permissions and the store’s privacy or data-safety label.
- Avoid apps that ask you to enter a code from a website selling cheap channel packages.
Unsure about an app? Use our illegal IPTV checklist — it takes two minutes.