If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Learn more >

How to watch live sports on DirecTV for free: Stream NFL, NBA, MLB, college basketball, football and more

Jordan Greer

How to watch live sports on DirecTV for free: Stream NFL, NBA, MLB, college basketball, football and more image

When you think about DirecTV, you probably imagine the hassle of finding a spot outside of your home for a satellite dish — not exactly ideal for the modern streamer.

But if you're a cord-cutter looking for a service that gives you as much sports coverage as possible, DirecTV is one of the best options on the market.

Here is everything you need to know about DirecTV, including the plans that are currently available for subscribers.

What is DirecTV?

DirecTV is a streaming service that gives customers the ability to watch TV channels offered as part of a typical cable or satellite package. Viewers can follow along with live games, stream on unlimited devices within their home network and record all of the action on Cloud DVR.

DirecTV also offers plenty of news and entertainment channels in its plans.

DirecTV subscription plans, prices

Here is a breakdown of each DirecTV plan:

Entertainment ($49.99 for first month)

  • 90-plus DirecTV channels
  • Local channels included
  • Unlimited Cloud DVR recording

Choice ($54.99 for first month)

  • Everything in Entertainment plan
  • Specialty sports channels like ACC Network, Big Ten Network, MLB Network, NBA TV, SEC Network and more
  • Regional Sports Networks to watch local teams

Ultimate ($79.99 for first month)

  • Everything in Choice plan
  • Even more sports and movie channels like CBS Sports Network, Discovery Family, FX Movie Channel, NHL Network, Starz Encore and more

Premier ($119.99 for first month)

  • Everything in Ultimate plan
  • Additional premium channels like HBO Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz and Cinemax

What sports channels are on DirecTV?

DirecTV features plenty of channels that broadcast live sports. (Note: Certain channels may only be available with specific plans.)

  • ABC
  • ACC Digital Network
  • ACC Network
  • Big Ten Network
  • CBS
  • CBS Sports Network
  • ESPN
  • ESPN2
  • ESPNews
  • ESPNU
  • Fox
  • FS1
  • FS2
  • Golf Channel
  • MLB Network
  • NBA TV
  • NBC
  • NFL Network
  • NHL Network
  • SEC Network
  • TNT
  • truTV

DirecTV sports add-ons

You can customize your DirecTV package by choosing from these add-on options if they are not already part of your plan:

  • ALLBLK
  • AMC+
  • Cinemax
  • DirecTV Sports Pack
  • Discovery+
  • Fox Nation
  • HBO Max
  • MGM+
  • MLS Season Pass
  • Movies Extra Pack
  • Paramount+ with Showtime
  • Peacock
  • Starz

What sports are available to watch on DirecTV?

DirecTV covers a variety of professional and collegiate sports. MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL games are shown on its channels, as well as the biggest college basketball and football matchups. It covers the biggest sporting events of the year, including the World Series, NBA Finals, Super Bowl and Stanley Cup Final.

DirecTV's coverage extends beyond the "Big Four," as it carries channels that air soccer matches, major golf and tennis tournaments, horse races and motorsports events.

Does DirecTV have a free trial?

Yes, DirecTV is currently offering a free trial. New subscribers can enjoy DirecTV for five days before making a payment.

Current DirecTV offers and promotions

New DirecTV customers can save $35 for their first month of service with the Entertainment and Choice plans. They can save even more by choosing the Ultimate or Premier plan. (Additional taxes and fees may apply.)

How do I sign up for DirecTV?

1. Go to the DirecTV website. You will be able to choose your preferred plan.

2. Select any preferred add-on options before proceeding to the next step.

3. Select how many DirecTV Gemini Air devices you would like to have.

4. Create an account by providing your name, email address and password. You will also enter your address for delivery service.

5. Provide your payment information in order to finalize your plan.

DirecTV pros and cons

Pros

  • Strong sports coverage: With a channel lineup similar to a typical cable or satellite package, you will be able to watch all kinds of sporting events.
  • Unlimited Cloud DVR: Storage space will never be a concern if you want to save entire games.
  • Customizable plans: You can go beyond the sports world by choosing your favorite add-on options.

Cons

  • Expensive plans: DirecTV packages can start at a higher price point than other streaming services, so some cord-cutters may prefer cheaper options.

Jordan Greer

Jordan Greer has been with The Sporting News since 2015. He previously worked for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He is a graduate of Westminster College and Syracuse University.