ESPN initially emerged as "The Worldwide Leader in Sports" because of its TV coverage of live events and signature shows like "SportsCenter" and "Pardon the Interruption." But as viewing habits have evolved, so, too, has ESPN.
With the creation of ESPN+ in 2018, the Disney-owned company threw its hat into the streaming ring. Seven years later, ESPN upped the ante with its revamped app, bringing all of its programming to one direct-to-consumer platform.
What makes the ESPN app a great option for sports fans?
Here is everything you need to know about the service, including the plans that are currently available for subscribers.
What is the ESPN streaming service?
The streaming service, simply called "ESPN," places all of ESPN's coverage under one umbrella for sports fans. It allows subscribers to follow along with live sporting events and catch their favorite ESPN shows like "SportsCenter," "College GameDay" and "First Take."
ESPN subscription plans, prices
ESPN offers two basic plans. Here is a breakdown of each:
Select plan
- $12.99 per month or $129.99 per year
- Access to ESPN+ content
- More than 32,000 live sporting events each year
- Studio shows, on-demand replays and original content
Unlimited plan
- $29.99 per month or $299.99 per year
- Access to all of ESPN's linear networks (see full list below) and other services, including ESPN+
- 47,000 live sporting events each year
- Studio shows, on-demand replays and original content
Current ESPN offers and promotions
Through Jan. 5, 2026, new subscribers can purchase the Disney+, Hulu and Unlimited bundle for $29.99 per month over the first 12 months of service.
Does ESPN have a free trial?
No, ESPN is not currently offering a free trial. However, ESPN does not require you to sign a contract or commit to a specific plan, so you can start or stop your service at any time.
What channels are on the ESPN streaming service?
While the Select plan only features ESPN+ content, the Unlimited plan gives viewers the ability to watch all of ESPN's networks:
- ESPN
- ESPN2
- ESPNU
- ACC Network
- SEC Network
- ESPNews
- ESPN Deportes
- ESPN on ABC
- ESPN+
- ESPN3
- SEC Network+
- ACC Network Extra
What shows and movies are on ESPN?
In addition to live sports, ESPN subscribers can watch several original series and movies.
The award-winning Last Dance chronicles Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls' quest for a championship in 1998. The complete 30 for 30 library, including You Don't Know Bo: The Legend of Bo Jackson, Bad Boys, The Two Escobars, Long Gone Summer and more are all at your fingertips on-demand whenever you want to watch them.
- Complete 30 for 30 library
- Detail
- Eli's Places with Eli Manning
- ESPN FC
- Man in the Arena: Tom Brady
- NFL Primetime with Chris Berman and Booger McFarland
- Peyton's Places with Peyton Manning
- The Breakdown with Peyton Manning and Bill Belichick
- The Last Dance
What sports are available to watch on ESPN?
- NFL
- NBA
- College sports, including football, basketball, gymnastics, soccer and volleyball
- MLB
- NFL
- International soccer, including Bundesliga, Carabao Cup, FA Cup and La Liga
- PGA Tour golf
- Grand Slam tennis
- Top Rank Boxing
- UFC
How do I sign up for the ESPN streaming service?
If you are interested in becoming a subscriber, you can visit stream.espn.com.
ESPN pros and cons
Pros
- The ultimate sports fan experience: Whether you want to watch a live sporting event or an award-winning documentary, ESPN has you covered.
- The ability to bundle: The ESPN, Disney+, Hulu Bundle is one of the best deals on the streaming market, as it gives subscribers a terrific combination of sports and entertainment content.
Cons
- Some coverage limitations: While ESPN is undoubtedly the industry leader in sports programming and live game coverage, there are some notable gaps, including the NCAA men's basketball tournament and most of the MLB postseason.