Crave alternatives 2026: licensed services to switch to and free options
Bell Media · crave.ca
If Crave is missing a channel, costs too much or caps your streams, these are the licensed alternatives in the same market: TSN+ (TSN direct), Sportsnet+. Each entry says when switching makes sense, and the free public-broadcaster apps cover the basics at no cost. No unlicensed service is listed here.
Alternatives compared
| Plan | Monthly price | Simultaneous streams | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| TSN+ (TSN direct) | CA$24.99/month | 2 | None |
| Sportsnet+ | from CA$24.99/month | 2 | None |
| Crave | from CA$9.99/month | 4 | Varies by promotion |
When to switch
TSN+ (TSN direct)
Switch to TSN+ (TSN direct) if: Best for CFL, NFL and tennis fans; hockey fans should check the regional blackout rules for their team first.
Sportsnet+
Switch to Sportsnet+ if: Best for NHL and Blue Jays viewers; Premium only pays off if you follow a team outside your region.
Free legal alternatives
- CBC Gem: CBC and CBC News Network live, Hockey Night in Canada on CBC, free with ads.
- CTV app: CTV live and on demand, free with a Bell or TV-provider login for some content.
- Global TV: Global live stream and catch-up.
- Pluto TV Canada: 100+ free live channels tailored to Canada.
- Tubi Canada: Free films and live channels.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best alternative to Crave?
TSN+ (TSN direct) for most people; the right one depends on the channel or sport you are switching for, which the table shows per service.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Crave?
The table lists the entry price of every licensed rival in Canada; the public-broadcaster apps are free.
Can I run two services at once?
Yes; monthly plans without a contract make it easy to keep one all year and add another for a season.
Are cheap IPTV subscriptions an alternative?
No. Services offering thousands of channels for a few units of currency are unlicensed; the legality page for Canada explains the risks.
Will I lose recordings if I switch?
Yes, cloud recordings stay with the old service. Watch or note anything you need before cancelling.